|
|||
|
In this update:
Reminder: Farmers Appreciation Breakfast Is Next Week
Our Farmers Appreciation Breakfast is happening next week, and the deadline to register is Monday, Feb. 9. I’m especially looking forward to this year’s breakfast as we welcome U.S. Senator Dave McCormick as our special guest. It will be a great morning of conversation, connection, and a shared appreciation for the farmers who are the backbone of our community. Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding will also be in attendance. This annual breakfast is one of my favorite events because it brings together the people who live and work the land with leaders who understand the importance of agriculture to Pennsylvania’s future. It’s an opportunity to talk about challenges, share ideas, and strengthen the relationships that keep our agricultural community strong. Please note: This event is only for citizens of the 28th Senatorial District. You must be registered to attend. Event Details: Friday, Feb. 13 The deadline to register is approaching. We hope to see you there! Gov. Shapiro’s Budget Proposal Spends Too Much
The process of enacting a state budget for fiscal year 2026-27 began on Tuesday, and one thing is certain: The $53.3 billion plan presented by Gov. Josh Shapiro would spend too much. Shapiro’s proposal would increase state spending by $2.7 billion (a 5.4% increase) which would set up the commonwealth for massive tax increases in the future. In fact, Senate Republicans’ work to limit spending increases and enact pro-growth policies over the past three years was the reason the governor’s budget did not include a broad-based tax increase this year. As I said this week, Pennsylvania cannot afford to spend billions more than we bring in. Taxpayers shouldn’t be asked to shoulder the burden of a budget that relies on unrealistic assumptions or future tax hikes to balance the books. The governor’s budget proposal spends over $6 billion more than the state receives in tax revenue. This will result in either massive tax hikes or bankruptcy. At our press conference this week, we took a stand and emphasized our ongoing commitment to protecting Pennsylvania families and taxpayers. My Senate colleagues and I will be working to reduce spending and produce a fiscally responsible 2026-27 state budget. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll be involved with the in-depth public hearings that start on Feb. 23, where we’ll dig into agency spending and ask the tough questions taxpayers expect us to ask. I’ll be sharing updates throughout the process and will continue pushing for a responsible budget that controls spending growth, protects essential services, and puts Pennsylvania taxpayers first. As we begin our work on this year’s budget, looking for more government efficiencies and respecting taxpayers by controlling the growth of state spending are key priorities. You can watch my reaction to the proposal here. Senate Approves Measure to Prohibit Student Cellphone Use in PA Schools
To curb classroom distractions and improve academic performance and social development, the Senate passed bipartisan legislation to give Pennsylvania public schools the tools to adopt policies prohibiting student cellphone use during the school day. Senate Bill 1014 ensures districts retain local control by giving them the flexibility to choose how to implement and enforce the standard in a way that works best for their communities, including deciding where phones must be stored. School administrators, teachers, and parents across Pennsylvania have increasingly expressed concern about the proven link between smartphones and anxiety, depression, cyberbullying and reduced classroom engagement. Students and taxpayers are shortchanged when students aren’t fully engaged in learning in their classrooms. The measure was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. A Day in Harrisburg for Senator for a Day Essay Contest Winner Caleb Ross
It was a pleasure to welcome Caleb Ross to the Senate as this year’s Senator for a Day essay contest winner. Selected from more than 260 students, Caleb spent the day shadowing me and gaining a firsthand look at how state government works, from committee meetings to the legislative process on the Senate floor. Caleb is a student leader and athlete at Susquehannock High School, where he has distinguished himself both in and out of the classroom. He plans to continue his education by studying public relations or international relations, building on his interest in public service. I introduced him during Senate session, which you can watch here. ICYMI: Live from the PA Farm Show
There is no better place to talk about the future of Pennsylvania agriculture than the Pennsylvania Farm Show. Surrounded by farmers, families, and the industries that keep our state fed and thriving, I recorded a new podcast episode with Russell Redding, Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Agriculture. The Farm Show is a celebration, but it’s also a reminder of our shared responsibility. Agriculture is our economy, our food supply, and a core part of Pennsylvania’s heritage. That’s exactly what we discussed, how to preserve what makes our agricultural industry strong while planning responsibly for the future. I’m looking forward to hosting Secretary Redding at my Farmers Appreciation Breakfast next week! You can listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. And stay tuned! Later in this update, I’ll be sharing who my next podcast guest will be! Remembering the Four Chaplains
Each year on February 3, we observe Four Chaplains Day, honoring an extraordinary act of courage and selflessness that took place during World War II. On February 3, 1943, the USAT Dorchester was struck by a German submarine in the icy waters of the North Atlantic. As chaos and fear spread among the soldiers on board, four U.S. Army chaplains, George L. Fox, Alexander D. Goode, John P. Washington, and Clark V. Poling, moved calmly among the frightened troops, offering prayers, guidance, and comfort. When life jackets ran out, the four chaplains gave theirs away, knowingly sacrificing their own lives so others might live. Their actions transcended faith, background, and belief, leaving behind a powerful legacy of courage, unity, and compassion. Four Chaplains Day serves as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, selfless service and shared humanity can shine through. Thirty-Three Years of Service: Chief William Sleeger
I was honored to join Senator Dawn Keefer in recognizing the retirement of William Sleeger, who concludes more than three decades of dedicated service with the York City Department of Fire/Rescue Services. Chief Sleeger’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to service. Before protecting the health, safety, and property of the people of York, he proudly served our nation in the United States Navy. After completing his training at the Harrisburg Area Community College Fire Academy, he began a career that would leave a lasting impact on both the department and the community he served. Thank you, Chief Sleeger, for answering the call to serve and for a career defined by honor and dedication. I wish you a well-earned and meaningful retirement. Coffee Stop: Bill’s Famous Coffee Tour
Before a busy session day this week, I had the opportunity to stop by Denim Coffee with Bill as part of his Bill’s Famous Coffee Tour. Spending time with Bill is always a great start to the day. His positivity and passion for connecting with others are infectious, and his coffee tour has become a wonderful way to bring people together while highlighting local businesses and accessibility in our community. You can follow along with Bill’s coffee adventures and reviews by visiting Bill’s Famous Coffee Tour on Facebook. Welcoming Pennsylvania FFA State Officers to the Senate Floor
This week we had the chance to welcome the Pennsylvania FFA State Officers to the Senate It was especially great to spend time with Leah Flinchbaugh, York County’s own, who is serving as Secretary. Seeing young people who care deeply about agriculture, leadership, and public service is always encouraging, and Leah represents the best of what’s ahead for our community. You’ll be hearing more from Leah soon, she’ll be joining me on the podcast! Stay tuned for that conversation. York College of Pennsylvania Continues to Lead in Higher Education
York College of Pennsylvania continues to buck statewide and national higher education trends by delivering strong outcomes for students and the broader community. During a recent update from Thomas Burns and his administration, I had the opportunity to learn more about how York College is growing and positioning students for success in south central Pennsylvania. York College stands out by offering a lower cost than other private colleges, while also growing enrollment by more than 2%. Private colleges’ enrollment across Pennsylvania is down approximately 1.5% and national enrollment continues to decline. This growth reflects a clear focus on programs and degrees that prepare graduates to be employment-ready for the region’s workforce needs. The college is also expanding opportunities for older and nontraditional learners through its Lifelong Learning Program, helping individuals at every stage of life gain new skills and advance their careers. York College of Pennsylvania remains a world-class institution right in our own backyard. One that continues to adapt, grow, and deliver real value to students, employers, and the entire community. 2026 Adult Trout Stocking Schedule Available
Looking forward to trout season? The 2026 adult trout stocking schedule is now available online from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. It’s searchable by county, lists the waterways in alphabetical order, and indicates stocking dates, meeting locations for volunteers and the species of trout that are planned to be stocked at each location. In 2026, Pennsylvania’s statewide Opening Day of Trout Season will be held on Saturday, April 4. A single, statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day will take place on Saturday, March 28. The commission will stock approximately 3.2 million adult trout in 684 streams and 130 lakes open to public angling, about the same number as previously. Grants to Help Preserve History Ahead of America’s 250th
Communities across our district can apply now for state grants to help preserve historic places, strengthen local revitalization efforts and prepare for the nation’s 250th anniversary this year. The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission will award Keystone Historic Preservation Grants to support projects that identify, preserve, promote and protect historic and archaeological resources. This year’s program prioritizes projects that align with the themes of America250, ensuring Pennsylvania’s rich history is preserved as the nation marks its semiquincentennial. More information is available at Keystone Planning Projects and Keystone Constructions Projects. Career and Technical Education Month with York Tech Spartans
Career and technical education (CTE) prepares students for high-demand careers in health care, manufacturing, public safety, information technology, skilled trades, and more. More than 75,000 students across Pennsylvania are enrolled in CTE programs, gaining essential skills through a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on learning that connects academics to real-world problem solving. That’s why Career and Technical Education Month matters and why it was great to welcome the York County School of Technology to the Capitol this week. Students were advocating for CTE and proudly showcased the skills they’re developing for tomorrow’s workforce. CTE programs like York Tech play a critical role in strengthening our economy and ensuring Pennsylvania remains a place where young people can build successful careers and put down roots. Mobile Office Hours with York County Area Agency on Aging
Thank you to everyone who stopped by our mobile office hours in Springettsbury! Citizens received great information from the York County Area Agency on Aging representatives. Up next is Penn Township on Thursday, Feb. 19 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Stop in the Penn Township Municipal Building, located at 20 Wayne Ave. in Hanover for assistance with Property Tax/Rent Rebate applications and the many programs and services the York County Area Agency on Aging offers to support older adults and their families. Upcoming PennDOT Maintenance Projects
Most weeks, PennDOT provides me with its upcoming maintenance schedule. While my team and I aim to keep this information up to date, please note that the page may not always reflect the latest changes. For the most accurate details, I recommend checking back on Friday afternoons or over the weekend, as we usually receive updates from PennDOT on Fridays. You can view the full list here to see if any roadwork might impact you and your family.
|
|||
|
|||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2026 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorkristin.com | Privacy Policy |
