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In this update:
Budget Passed!
After trimming excessive spending sought by the governor, the Senate approved a fiscally responsible state budget that stands up for taxpayers, doesn’t raise taxes on Pennsylvania families, and supports affordability and job growth. Above all, when adjusting for inflation, this budget is effectively a spending cut. You can watch my speech during the debate on the state budget here. Gov. Josh Shapiro originally proposed a budget that would have increased spending by $2.7 billion (5.4% increase) and taken approximately $4.6 billion from the state’s emergency reserves in the Rainy Day Fund. His plan would have required massive tax increases as soon as next year. The final agreement negotiated by Senate Republicans cut more than $1.1 billion from the governor’s spending request and will not require any withdrawals from the Rainy Day Fund, setting the state on a more sustainable path and avoiding potential bond downgrades and higher debt costs. Senate Republicans have pushed to reclaim $4.5 billion from prior-year budgets, special funds, and other accounts, ensuring this money can be utilized to support state government programs instead of sitting idle in government accounts. An additional $565 million is included for the Ready to Learn Block Grant program, and Basic Education Funding will see a $58 million increase. Funding for Special Education will also increase by $55 million. The plan maintains funding for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program to empower parents looking for the best education option for their children. Read more about the 2026-27 state budget, including initiatives to create jobs and strengthen healthcare, here. Local Road Improvements Coming Soon!
Recognizing the need to support local roads, more than an additional $23 million will be directed to three- and four-digit road projects throughout southern York County communities to quickly improve our highway infrastructure. As part of our budget negotiations, PennDOT agreed to release an additional $500 million in the 2026-27 fiscal year and $275 million in 2027-28 from the commonwealth’s Motor License Fund. The funds will be for local road projects only, not interstates, which are funded separately. I’m excited about the impact this funding will have within our region, allowing for the paving and rehabilitation of roadways used by so many area residents on a daily basis. UPCOMING EVENT: SCAM-JAM!
Join me at the Chanceford Township Community Building in the Brogue for Scam Jam, a free, interactive event to help you identify and avoid fraud and scams. You’ll hear directly from:
This event will feature valuable resources, refreshments, fraud prevention games, and even prizes, all designed to help protect you and your loved ones from scams. Space is limited, so registration is strongly encouraged. Register by clicking here or calling 717-787-7085. WHEN: Friday, July 31, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fun at the Snack Town Street Fair
I had a wonderful time seeing everyone at the Hanover Snack Town Street Fair this past weekend, with my colleague, Rep. Kate Klunk! I hope you all enjoyed this great event and would like to thank the Hanover Chamber of Commerce for doing such a great job putting it all together! Murderers Could Walk Free Without House Action
Nearly 1,200 people convicted of second-degree murder in Pennsylvania could be released if the state House of Representatives doesn’t act by Friday, July 24. In March, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled that the current sentencing structure for second-degree murder is unconstitutional and gave the General Assembly 120 days to enact legislation correcting the situation. The Senate has successfully passed bipartisan legislation to address this issue – legislation supported by Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, Pennsylvania District Attorneys and the Pennsylvania State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police. In Pennsylvania, second-degree murder (also known as felony murder) involves a homicide committed when the defendant engaged as a principal or an accomplice in the perpetration of a felony. In other words, homicides committed while the defendant was also committing another crime such as rape, arson, robbery, burglary or kidnapping. These are serious and horrific crimes, and the safety of our communities is at stake. It’s time for the House to join us in taking urgent action. Camping Reservations Available at State Parks
State Park campsites are open and ready to reserve, with options for tents, cabins, and RVs. The commonwealth manages 125 parks covering more than 300,000 acres, so you’re bound to find one that has what you’re looking for. Available activities include picnicking, swimming, boating, and other outdoor recreation. Prices vary for specific park accommodations and activities. Visit the Pennsylvania State Parks website to find a list of parks and features and to reserve accommodations. CALLING ALL VETS!
If you or someone you know is a Veteran and would like to receive related information and updates, please consider signing up for my monthly e-newsletter for Veterans. Sign up by clicking here and checking the “News for Veterans” Box! 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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