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In this update:
Senate Votes to Combat OverregulationTo address overregulation that stifles business growth and drives jobs to other states, the Senate passed two regulatory reform bills. The Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act, Senate Bill 333, would establish an enhanced legislative review process for costly new regulations. It is designed to address concerns about unchecked regulatory burdens on businesses, communities and taxpayers. Senate Bill 444 would establish a one-time automatic review process for regulations that impose a fiscal impact exceeding $1 million annually on taxpayers or employers. The review would ensure regulations remain effective, efficient and in the public interest. Both bills now move to the House of Representatives for consideration. Have thoughts on how we can further cut red tape and improve government accountability? I want your feedback! Take my short survey on Pennsylvania’s permitting process. Bill Targeting Rise of Deepfake Scams Approved by SenateThe Senate unanimously voted to stem the rise of “deepfakes” and other forms of digital impersonation by treating them as forgeries punishable by law. Technology enables individuals to create convincing images, audio and video of others – often without consent – that are nearly indistinguishable from reality. These digital forgeries have been used to commit financial scams and injure personal reputations. Senate Bill 649 would enact penalties for anyone who creates a digital representation of a real person without their consent and distributes it as genuine to defraud or injure. The measure would protect First Amendment rights and preserve valid expressions of parody, satire and other forms of free speech. Senate Bill 649 is now before the House of Representatives for consideration. PA Now Has Concealed Carry Reciprocity with VirginiaA new reciprocity agreement allows holders of Pennsylvania Licenses to Carry Firearms to do so in Virginia, making it the 30th state that has a concealed carry reciprocity agreement with Pennsylvania. The agreement resulted from efforts of Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday to maximize reciprocity agreements while protecting standing law and constitutional rights. The agreement is only applicable to handguns and requires permit holders to:
Senate Honors Young Hero for Remarkable BraveryLast week, 10-year-old Andre “Trey” Howard III was recognized in the Senate of Pennsylvania as a special guest of Sen. Joe Picozzi. Earlier this year, Trey was seriously injured while shielding his younger sister during a tragic plane crash in Philadelphia. His selfless act, diving on top of her to protect her from falling debris, likely saved her life. It was an honor to meet Trey and recognize his extraordinary courage and strength on the Senate floor. His story is a powerful reminder that true bravery knows no age. Thank You for Joining Me at Phat CatThank you to everyone who joined me this week at Phat Cat Coffee for Coffee and Conversation! It was a pleasure to connect with so many of you, hear your thoughts, and answer your questions about state and local issues. I always appreciate the opportunity to listen and bring your ideas and concerns back to Harrisburg. If you could not attend, please stay tuned! More Coffee and Conversation events will be popping up throughout our community soon! Honoring York County’s New Citizens at Naturalization CeremonyI had the honor of speaking at York County’s naturalization ceremony, where individuals from all walks of life officially became United States citizens. It was a particularly meaningful occasion, as President Judge Maria Musti Cook administered the Oath of Citizenship for the first, and final, time before her retirement later this year. In my remarks, I shared the story of Irving Berlin, who came to America as a child and went on to write “God Bless America” as a heartfelt tribute to the country that gave him opportunity. Today, his words are sung across our nation, from ballparks to parades, as a reminder of the pride we take in being American. To our newest citizens: your journey, like Berlin’s, is now part of the American story. May you carry this new chapter with pride, purpose, and the same spirit of hope that has guided generations before you. Former NFL Player Comes to Harrisburg Sharing His Story of Overcoming DyslexiaIt was a pleasure speaking with former NFL wide receiver Deon Butler about his powerful journey with dyslexia and his ongoing advocacy for literacy. Deon’s story, shared in his book The Gift & Curse, is a moving reminder that adversity can be a springboard to purpose. Despite the challenges he faced, he learned to read at age 27 and has since dedicated himself to helping others find their voice and confidence through literacy. His message is clear: it’s never too late to learn, grow, and lead. Hanover Chamber’s Annual Community Golf OutingLast week, I had the pleasure of helping send off participants at the 56th Annual Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing. It was a great way to start the day and connect with so many members of the Hanover community who work alongside the Chamber to make this region a place where businesses grow, families flourish, and opportunities continue to expand. Thank you to the Chamber for hosting and for all you do to support economic growth and community development in Hanover! Funding Available for Community Groups Providing Veteran Suicide Prevention ServicesCommunity-based organizations that provide suicide prevention or emergency clinical services to Veterans can apply now for grants to support their vital mission. Organizations can apply for grants worth up to $750,000 and may apply to renew awards from year to year. Grant applications must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs by July 18 at 5 p.m. Learn more about eligibility and apply here. Veterans in crisis are encouraged to call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing one to speak with responders trained in crisis intervention and military culture. All calls are free and confidential. Additionally, Pennsylvania provides many programs and services to support Veterans. If you are a Veteran or know Veteran that would be interested in updates like this, please check out my monthly Veterans Newsletter. Celebrating National Dairy Month in JunePennsylvania’s dairy farmers work hard to provide families with common dairy staples, including cheese and yogurt, that are part of healthy diets. Consuming dairy products contributes to strong bones, muscle function and immune support. Senate Republicans highlighted the role dairy plays in making agriculture the state’s top industry. It generates more than $11 billion in revenue and supports 47,000 jobs. Checking out PA’s Ice Cream Trail is a fun way to celebrate and support dairy farmers. At more than 50 spots across the state, you can enjoy homemade ice cream and other delicious treats. On DeckThe Senate of Pennsylvania reconvenes on Monday, June 23, at 1 p.m. Follow me on X for all of the latest updates on session convening times. You can watch all of the Senate votes and view our agenda here. Upcoming PennDOT Maintenance ProjectsMost 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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