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In this update:
Senate Acts to Protect Workers’ Compensation for First Responders
The Senate approved legislation to ensure volunteer fire and EMS personnel are covered by workers’ compensation if injured participating in the fundraising activities essential for covering the costs of providing public safety. A 1980 court decision held that firefighters injured at their annual fundraising picnic were eligible for workers’ compensation because members were covered for all activities authorized by a municipality. However, current law does not provide the same coverage for the full scope of fundraising activities. Senate Bill 1053 would fill the gap, expressly providing workers’ compensation for volunteers’ participation in fundraising activities. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Legislation Giving Farmers More Vehicle Flexibility Approved by Senate
Cutting outdated regulations for farmers, the Senate approved a measure giving them greater flexibility to safely drive more farm vehicles on roadways at night, reflecting the real-world demands of modern farming. Current state law prohibits certain farm vehicles from driving on Pennsylvania roadways between sunset and sunrise. Senate Bill 203 would allow farmers to operate their vehicles, ranging from small cars to larger trucks, when their work demands it. The vehicles already maintain equipment required by the state to safely operate at night. Senate Bill 203 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. A New K-9 Joins the York County Sheriff’s Office
Not all heroes wear capes. While they all wear a badge, some walk on four legs. The York County Sheriff’s Office recently welcomed its newest K-9 officer, K-9 Mason, during a press conference led by Sheriff Richard Keuerleber and representatives from partnering agencies. K-9 Mason joins the department as a critical partner in protecting deputies and strengthening public safety across York County. K-9 units play a vital role in modern law enforcement from tracking suspects to assisting in high-risk situations, and Mason will be no exception. This addition was made possible through strong community support and collaboration. The York County District Attorney’s Office partnered with Zeredatha–White Rose Lodge No. 451, F&AM to lead a successful fundraising campaign, with additional contributions from local lodges across the county. K-9 Mason’s arrival is a testament to what can be achieved when community organizations and law enforcement come together with a shared goal: keeping our neighborhoods safe. I am grateful to everyone who helped make this possible and look forward to seeing K-9 Mason in action, serving alongside the dedicated men and women of the York County Sheriff’s Office. Protecting Student Data in the Digital Age
As cyberattacks targeting schools continue to rise, the Senate Education Committee recently advanced legislation I introduced to strengthen protections for student data and digital privacy. Senate Bill 378 establishes clear rules for how student information is collected, stored, and shared while also increasing transparency for parents and accountability for schools and third-party vendors. This issue is no longer hypothetical. In 2025, a major student information system used by districts nationwide was hacked, exposing sensitive student data and leading to extortion attempts. The U.S. Department of Education has also warned that K-12 schools face at least five cyber incidents per week. The bill now heads to the full Senate for consideration. You can learn more about this legislation here. Recognizing Eagle Scout Reese Heitzenrater
Congratulations to Reese Heitzenrater of Troop 54 in York for earning the rank of Eagle Scout, an accomplishment that reflects years of dedication, leadership, and service. Reese, the son of David and Jennifer Heitzenrater, reached this milestone through hard work and a strong commitment to his community. For his Eagle Scout project, he designed and constructed footbridges at William H. Kain County Park, helping hikers safely navigate a natural spring area and enhancing accessibility for all who enjoy the park. Projects like Reese’s leave a lasting impact and improve our shared spaces while serving others in a meaningful way. Well done, Reese! Your leadership and initiative make our community stronger. Strengthening the Fight Against Human Trafficking
This week, I joined my colleagues for the launch of the bipartisan, bicameral Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus, an important step forward in addressing one of the most serious and evolving challenges facing our communities. This effort is focused on bringing partners together, strengthening coordination across all levels of government, and ensuring we are keeping pace with how human trafficking continues to change. Just as importantly, it reinforces our commitment to supporting victims while holding traffickers accountable. While meaningful progress has been made in recent years, there is still more work to do. This caucus is about staying ahead of the issue. You can find my full remarks from the event on my YouTube channel. Starting National Ag Day with Pennsylvania FFA
There was no better way to kick off National Ag Day and a busy session day than with the Pennsylvania FFA Legislative Breakfast. It was great to connect with student leaders from across the commonwealth, especially our York County FFA members, and hear firsthand about the impact of agricultural education and FFA programs in our communities. I always appreciate the opportunity to listen and learn from the next generation of leaders. Guest Chaplains Invited to Open Senate Session with a Prayer
When the Senate gathers in Harrisburg to consider legislation, we open session with a non-denominational prayer delivered by a guest chaplain. Religious leaders from across the commonwealth have offered messages of peace, reflection and hope in this role for many years. If you are interested in visiting the state Capitol when the Senate convenes for a session day to take part in this time-honored tradition, please contact my office for more details. Religious leaders of all faiths are welcome to reach out about this opportunity. Interested in Law Enforcement? Check Out This State Police Program
If you are thinking about a future in law enforcement, consider participating in the Pennsylvania State Police Law and Leadership Academy, which offers a 15-week program to experience the process of becoming a cadet. Applicants age 18 and over with a high school diploma or GED can apply. The program covers:
The program runs from early May to early August at six locations statewide. Cadets meet twice a week, with occasional Saturday sessions. You can learn more here. Promoting Reading for Lifelong Success
March is National Reading Month – a time to encourage children, families and communities to make reading a daily habit. Studies show childhood reading difficulties often lead to long-term, negative effects throughout life. Working with our schools to help improve literacy is vital as we help the next generation build a strong educational foundation. As part of the current state budget, we established important evidence-based reading instruction requirements. With a concerted effort, we can dramatically improve students’ chances of success and instill the excitement that comes with fostering a love of reading from a young age. Get Outdoors Saturday for Mentored Youth Trout Day
Mentored Youth Trout Day returns Saturday, March 28 and is a great opportunity for families across Pennsylvania to spend time outdoors and introduce young anglers to fishing. This statewide event allows kids ages 15 and under to fish alongside a licensed adult mentor on stocked waters across all 67 counties. It’s designed to be a more relaxed, hands-on experience that focuses on learning the basics, building confidence, and enjoying the day. Held ahead of the statewide trout season opener on April 4, it’s a chance for younger anglers to get started before the crowds and create memories that can last a lifetime. If you’re planning to participate, be sure youth anglers have a Mentored Youth Permit or Voluntary Youth Fishing License, and that adult mentors have a valid fishing license and trout permit. Learn more information on the Fish and Boat Commission’s website here. It’s always great to see opportunities like this that connect the next generation to the outdoors. Join for Coffee and Conversation
I’ll be joining Rep. Kate Klunk for a Coffee with Kate on April 8 from 9:30-11 a.m. at Ghouls and Grinds in Hanover. Because of space limitations at that location, registration will be encouraged in advance. You can RSVP by calling Rep. Klunk’s office at 717-630-8942 or clicking here. Hope to see you there! 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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