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In this update:
Senate Budget Hearings Examine Spending Details, Transportation Issues and More
The Senate Appropriations Committee concluded two weeks of hearings earlier today examining Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed $53.3 billion state budget. I used these hearings to ask questions on issues that directly impact taxpayers, economic growth, and the future of our region and state. One of my major focuses was broadband expansion. Pennsylvania has the opportunity to receive $700 million in federal funding through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. I asked both the Department of Community and Economic Development and the Secretary of the Budget, whether the administration plans to move forward with the federal requirements necessary to secure this funding and bring high-speed internet access to underserved communities across the Commonwealth. I also raised concerns about energy policy and reliability. Pennsylvania produces significant amounts of energy, yet our ratepayers often subsidize the lack of electricity generation by our neighboring states. I questioned the Public Utility Commission about how current policies are affecting reliability, affordability, and our ability to attract and retain jobs here in Pennsylvania. Another topic was higher education costs and accountability. During the hearing with the Department of Education, I asked when the State Board of Higher Education plans to implement its proposed $6 million improvement plan and why the proposal did not address the need to right-size Pennsylvania’s higher education system. Finally, with energy demand growing, I questioned the Department of Transportation about whether they would work with the legislature to explore placing high-voltage transmission lines within interstate rights-of-way, a potential way to expand energy infrastructure without cutting through preserved farmland and open space. These hearings are an important part of ensuring transparency and accountability as we review the governor’s budget proposal and work toward responsible spending that supports Pennsylvania’s future. You can find all my lines of questioning here. You can find complete recaps and videos of each hearing here. Survey Results: What Our Community Said About the State Budget
Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete my recent survey on the Governor’s proposed state budget. From those neighbors who participated, here is the feedback I received on the governor’s budget proposal:
Many respondents emphasized the importance of living within our means and ensuring the state follows basic budgeting principles, including reducing spending, building reserves, and avoiding tax increases until our fiscal house is in order. Others stressed the need for stronger oversight of taxpayer dollars and suggested the state should identify and eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse before increasing spending. At the same time, some of our neighbors highlighted the importance of continuing to invest in key priorities such as support for seniors and individuals with disabilities, education, and infrastructure. Your feedback helps guide my work in Harrisburg as discussions continue on how to responsibly fund state government operations. School Property Tax Elimination Town Hall
For many homeowners across Pennsylvania, rising school property taxes continue to place a growing strain on household budgets. Throughout my time in public service, I have consistently worked to advance policies that provide meaningful property tax relief for families and seniors who are increasingly being taxed out of their homes. The effort to eliminate school property taxes has been debated in Harrisburg for many years. In fact, the last time legislation to eliminate school property taxes came before the Pennsylvania Senate, prior to my time in office, the vote ended in a 24–24 tie and ultimately failed when the lieutenant governor cast the deciding vote. Since then, lawmakers have continued working to refine proposals and build the bipartisan support needed to reach an agreement that will deliver meaningful relief to homeowners while ensuring stable funding for our schools. I have long supported a proposed constitutional amendment to ELIMINATE school property taxes by way of a constitutional amendment. You can read more about that plan here. As part of that ongoing effort, Sen. Dawn Keefer introduced Senate Bill 962, alongside House Bill 1649 introduced by Rep. Wendy Fink, which proposes eliminating school property taxes and replacing the lost revenue with increased and expanded income and sales taxes. You can learn more here. The Pennsylvania Independent Fiscal Office recently reviewed the proposal and showed it generates enough revenue for the tax shift to work. You can read the report here. To help citizens learn more and ask questions, I will be co-hosting a School Property Tax Elimination Town Hall with Sen. Dawn Keefer, Rep. Wendy Fink, and Rep. Mike Jones. Saturday, March 28 Citizens are encouraged to RSVP by calling 717-244-9232 or visiting the registration link. This event is an opportunity to learn more about the proposal, understand how it could affect your household, and share your thoughts as we continue working toward meaningful property tax relief for Pennsylvania homeowners. ICYMI: Conversation with PA FFA Secretary Leah Flinchbaugh
I recently sat down with York County’s own Leah Flinchbaugh, the current Pennsylvania FFA Secretary, to talk about her journey in agriculture and the role FFA is playing in developing the next generation of leaders. During our conversation, Leah shared what inspired her to get involved in FFA and how the organization helps students build leadership skills, gain confidence, and explore careers that are critical to Pennsylvania’s future. From public speaking to hands-on learning, FFA continues to open doors for young people across our communities. Agriculture remains one of Pennsylvania’s top industries, and organizations like FFA play an essential role in ensuring its continued success. It was great hearing directly from Leah about the passion and dedication shaping the future of our agricultural community. You can find our conversation on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Bill to Ease Shortage in Long-Term Care Workers Approved by Senate
To help alleviate Pennsylvania’s serious shortage of long-term care workers, the Senate approved legislation to allow high school juniors and seniors to earn graduation credit by working or volunteering in these settings so they can consider a career in this crucial field. Health care leaders and senior advocates strongly support Senate Bill 116 because while Pennsylvania’s population over the age of 65 is expected to nearly double by 2040, the number of long-term care professionals declined by 14% from 2019 to 2022. This bill is part of a bipartisan package aimed at strengthening the long-term care workforce. Along with Senate Bill 114 and Senate Bill 115, it awaits action in the House of Representatives. Family Caregivers Can Find Help Through State Support Program
Caring for a loved one is rewarding but also challenging. If you or someone you know could use some help, the state Caregiver Support Program could be the answer. The state Caregiver Support Program provides relief through respite care, education and financial assistance for eligible unpaid caregivers. Each caregiver is assigned a care manager who will come to the home, conduct a comprehensive assessment of the needs of the caregiver, provide support and work with them to develop a care plan. Find out more about eligibility and how to apply, and find other caregiver resources, from the Department of Aging. Celebrating Music in Our Schools Month with Southern Elementary School
In recognition of Music in Our Schools Month, it was a pleasure to welcome students from Southern Elementary in the Southern York County School District to the Pennsylvania Capitol. During their visit, students had the opportunity to tour the Capitol and learn more about Pennsylvania’s history and government before taking part in a special musical performance in the Capitol’s main rotunda. Their performance showcased the incredible talent and hard work of both the students and their teachers. You can find more photos and clips from their performance here. Thank you to the students and educators from Southern Elementary for sharing your talents and helping us celebrate the important role music plays in education. Online Filing Option Available for PA Personal Income Taxes
If you’re working on your taxes, keep in mind you can file your Pennsylvania Personal Income Tax return online for free through the myPATH portal. It includes automatic calculators, instant confirmation and secure payment options. You can access many features directly from the myPATH homepage without needing to create a username or password. Additional options are offered exclusively to users who opt to create an account. Learn more from the state Department of Revenue. Honoring Tammy Miller’s Legacy at Windy Hill
It was a pleasure to join Windy Hill on the Campus Senior Center for the dedication of the Tammy L. Miller Conference Room. After 18 years of dedicated service as Director, Tammy’s impact on the organization and the community is truly lasting. The newly dedicated conference room will serve as a meaningful tribute to her leadership, compassion, and commitment to the individuals and families Windy Hill serves each day. Thank you to everyone who came together to celebrate this special occasion and thank you to Tammy for the lasting difference you have made in so many lives. Local Student Earns Statewide Recognition for Drug-Free Artwork
It was a pleasure to join colleagues in recognizing Stella Siegrist of Our Lady of the Angels Catholic School for being named a winner in the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s 29th Annual Drug-Free Calendar Contest. Stella’s artwork was selected from more than 1,300 submissions from students in 44 counties and will be featured for the month of April in the 2026 calendar, helping share an important message about making healthy, drug-free choices. Congratulations to Stella on this outstanding achievement and for using her creativity to promote such a positive message. Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses
Pennsylvania is one of the top states in the nation for Veteran-owned small businesses and Invest in Veterans Week (March 1-7) helps focus attention on these patriotic entrepreneurs. These men and women served our nation and are now providing jobs and economic vitality in our communities. Please keep an eye out for Veteran-owned businesses in our area. If you’re a Veteran looking to start or expand a business, you can find state and federal resources here. If you or a Veteran you know would benefit from receiving Veteran specific email updates, sign up for my Veteran’s e-newsletter here. 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. |
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