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In this update:
Fighting to Protect Pennsylvania’s Preserved Farmland
Preserved farmland should be just that, preserved. Recent cases in our community, including the proposed Cuffs Run pumped storage project, show these lands are still vulnerable to eminent domain. I am drafting a bill to ensure any government or agency that takes preserved farmland must repay the full investment made to preserve it. These lands were protected for future generations, and it’s time our laws reflected that. My colleague, Sen. Cris Dush, had a similar bill unanimously approved by the Senate earlier this summer. His bill would require agencies to factor in “goodwill” during eminent domain seizures. I recently spoke with CBS 21 to discuss how agencies are taking preserved farms for infrastructure projects, often for pennies on the dollar. That’s wrong for farmers and taxpayers. You can find the story here. See You Next Week at the License Plate Replacement Event Wrightsville
If your license plate is hard to read because it is peeling, blistering, fading, or discolored, you may qualify for a free replacement. To make the process as simple as possible, I’m hosting a license plate replacement event on Wednesday, Aug. 13, from 5 – 7 p.m. at Wrightsville Elementary School, located at 320 Chestnut Street in Wrightsville. Local law enforcement officers will be on-site to inspect license plates and determine if they meet PennDOT’s criteria for replacement. If your plate qualifies, a new one will be mailed directly to your home. My team will be available to assist residents with completing the necessary PennDOT forms during the event. You do not need to mail anything as we will take care of the paperwork for you. Personalized plates will be replaced with the same letters and numbers at no cost. If you have a specialty plate, such as a Wildlife Resource or alumni plate, you will receive the same plate unless it has been discontinued. For example, owl plates are no longer available, and otter plates are being replaced with Eastern hellbender plates. In these cases, a standard plate will be issued at no charge. If you currently have a standard plate but wish to keep the same number, you will need to apply and pay for a personalized plate. This is the only situation in which a fee applies. All attendees must bring a valid driver’s license and current vehicle registration. If more than one person is listed on the registration, each individual must be present with their own license to complete the process and avoid delays. Please note, the traditional blue, white, and yellow Pennsylvania plate has officially been retired and the new standard “Let Freedom Ring” plates will be provided during this event. This event is open to all residents, and I encourage everyone with a worn or damaged plate to take advantage of this convenient opportunity. ICYMI: How Golf is Driving Real Impact Across PA
Last week, I released a new podcast episode featuring Ken Phillips, president of the Golf Association of Philadelphia. We talked about how golf is more than just a game. It’s creating jobs, boosting tourism, and bringing national attention to Pennsylvania. It’s a conversation that highlights just how much this sport is contributing to our local economy. If you missed it, you can still catch the full episode on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple! Watch a preview of our conversation here. Celebrating Community at National Night Out
I had a great time joining families, first responders, and community leaders at this year’s National Night Out in Penn Township. Events like these bring our community together and strengthen the connection between neighbors and those who work every day to keep us safe. Local police departments from Penn Township, Hanover Borough, and West Manheim Township were out in full force alongside fire and emergency services, offering fun, safety tips, and a chance for families to engage with public safety officials. One highlight was the bike raffle, which put big smiles on the faces of our youngest attendees! Check out more photos on my Facebook page. Thank you to all the departments, volunteers, and organizations across the district who hosted events! These efforts help build safer, stronger communities for all of us. New Law Extends PA Guard Family Education Benefit
The Military Family Education Program (MFEP) covers the cost of a state college education for dependents of Pennsylvania National Guard members in return for a six-year service obligation. We passed a new law ensuring additional dependents are covered each time the member commits to an additional service obligation. The benefit is an incentive to encourage talented Guard members to continue their service to the commonwealth and nation. Many Guard members who benefited from the MFEP are deciding whether to commit to another six years. Act 32 of 2025 clarifies that a Guard member can receive a new MFEP assistance grant – helping an additional dependent – with each new service obligation. I was proud to support this family benefit for our men and women in uniform. If you found this update helpful, please feel free to sign up for my monthly Veterans e-newsletter. There will be a new one sent out this weekend! Senate Acts to Ensure More Efficient Government Spending
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission would be able to spend funds more efficiently under legislation passed by the Senate. The aim is to keep costs as low as possible for anglers and boaters. Currently, commission revenues are directed into either the Fish Fund or the Boat Fund, with no crossover permitted. This rigidity has led to inefficiencies and higher costs. Senate Bill 800 permits Fish Fund dollars to be used for expenditures and programs that benefit boaters and Boat Fund dollars to be used for expenditures and programs that benefit anglers, as long as they also benefit the original intent of the respective funds. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. How to Avoid Heat-Related Illnesses
Summer is the time for outdoor fun, but heat can cause serious and potentially fatal health problems such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. When it’s sweltering out, avoid heat-related illnesses by limiting activity to mornings and evenings when possible, drinking plenty of fluids and getting out of the sun when necessary. You can learn about spotting symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion here. Planning a PA Capitol Visit
Your Pennsylvania Capitol is not only the seat of state government, it is also an architectural and artistic treasure to be experienced by citizens from across the commonwealth. Visitors are welcome to explore the building at their leisure on regular weekdays. You can also schedule a tour with a guide. Tours take about 30 to 45 minutes. You can plan a visit and book a tour of this 119-year-old National Historic Landmark here. Farmers Markets: A Great Source of Fresh, Healthy Food
This is National Farmers Market Week. Now’s a great time to visit a farmers market for fresh fruits, vegetables and specialty products. These markets support farmers and provide access to healthy food and flavors you may have never before experienced. Find the best farmers markets near and far at VisitPA or the U.S. Department of Agriculture. For York County Farmers Markets, check out Explore York’s list. Mobile Office Hours in Springettsbury
Due to a scheduling conflict, my team will now be in Springettsbury Township on Wednesday, Aug. 13, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. to assist residents during mobile office hours. If you need help with PennDOT issues, Property Tax/Rent Rebate applications, birth or death certificates, or any other state-related matter, we’re here to help. Mobile office hours will be held at the York Area United Fire & Rescue Station located at 50 Commons Drive in Springettsbury. No appointment is necessary, but you’re welcome to call 717-741-4648 or email me if you’d like to schedule a specific time. Red Lion Street Fair
In an effort to bring your state government to YOU, my team and I will be stationed at various fairs and carnivals throughout the summer. My team and I will be at the Red Lion Street Fair this Saturday ready to assist you on state issues, and just to say hello! You can find more details on the website here. Event Details Stay tuned for more upcoming events where we’ll be participating. We look forward to seeing you and connecting with each one of you! 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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