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In this update:
Senate Approves State Budget that Funds Essential Services Without Raising Taxes
For the second time this year, the Senate approved a state budget that respects taxpayers and protects the financial stability of our commonwealth while ensuring that counties, school districts and other state government partners receive needed funding. The amended budget bill, Senate Bill 160, totals $47.9 billion, a responsible spending level that continues to meet the Senate Republican requirement of imposing no tax hikes on Pennsylvania families and ensuring Pennsylvania’s credit rating remains strong. Leading by example, the Senate budget plan includes a 5% cut in spending for the General Assembly, reflecting the Senate Republican priority of right-sizing legislative spending. It’s past time for the House of Representatives to follow suit and bring this impasse to an end. Landmark Bill to Modernize PA’s Broken Permitting Process Approved by Senate
A sweeping permitting reform measure I championed to bring greater accountability, transparency and efficiency to how state agencies handle permit applications was approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 6 sets clear timelines for state agencies to review permit applications, creates a permit tracking system and ensures applicants receive timely, consistent answers not endless delays. The measure, which passed with bipartisan support, also requires regular performance reporting so Pennsylvanians can hold their government accountable. The bill builds on the Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED) program that required the Department of Environmental Protection to implement a permit tracking system. This legislation expands those transparency and accountability measures to all state agencies. The measure was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. You can find my remarks and more information on this measure here. Senate Again Acts to Repeal RGGI Electricity Tax
Bipartisan legislation preventing a new electricity tax by repealing Pennsylvania’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) was approved by the Senate. RGGI, a multi-state compact, would increase electricity rates on families and employers, cut energy and manufacturing jobs and cause Pennsylvania power plants to close. Senate Bill 1068 formally repeals Pennsylvania’s participation in RGGI, ensuring that any decision to impose electricity taxes or emissions programs must go through the legislative process rather than being enacted unilaterally by the governor. The Commonwealth Court has ruled that RGGI is a tax and cannot be implemented without legislative approval. However, the governor appealed the decision to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. His action has deepened concerns about energy grid reliability and affordability, prolonged uncertainty for workers and businesses across the commonwealth – and caused electricity prices to go up for hardworking families. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Preparing Pennsylvania’s Workforce for the Future
We’re all in this together when it comes to preparing Pennsylvania’s workforce for the future. I’m proud to partner with Senator Vincent Hughes on bipartisan legislation to study how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping jobs and industries across the Commonwealth. Understanding how AI will impact our economy is key to ensuring Pennsylvania is ready to adapt, innovate, and thrive. Let’s build a future-ready Pennsylvania together. You can find out more about this initiative here. Unmask Your Hidden Treasure This Halloween
This Halloween season, my team is partnering with the Pennsylvania Treasury Department to help residents uncover unclaimed property that may be waiting for them. Unclaimed property can include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance policies, stocks, and more. It’s real money and it might have your name on it! Event Details: Representatives from the Treasury Department and my team will be on-site to help you search for any unclaimed property and guide you through the simple process to claim it. There’s no cost to search or claim what’s yours. No tricks, just treats and maybe a little hidden treasure! Auditor General’s Activity Book Contest Accepting Submissions
Pennsylvania students in grades K-12 are invited to help the state Auditor General’s office design the cover of its new Be Money $mart activity book. The book will include coloring pages, word searches, word scrambles, crosswords and budgeting sheets – all focused on financial literacy. The deadline to submit a design online is Oct. 31. The winner’s artwork will be featured on the cover of the new activity book and recognized at the PA Farm Show, and will win their school a visit from Auditor General Tim DeFoor. The activity book will be distributed statewide through libraries, YMCAs and credit unions. Pastor Herbert Opens Senate
This week, we were joined in the Senate by Pastor Jim Herbert of Glenview Alliance Church in Glen Rock as our guest chaplain. Many around the Capitol know Pastor Herbert for the encouragement he shares with members and staff. His team often visits offices to offer prayer, support, and a reminder of what community looks like in action. Pastor Herbert’s message was a meaningful way to start the day. You can find his opening prayer here. Lance Fimiani Shadows Office at the Capitol
The Senate welcomed Lance Fimiani, a York County native and student at York College of Pennsylvania. Lance spent the day shadowing my office to learn more about how state government serves our communities. He shared a perspective that stuck with me that you can find in his introduction here. His passion for public service and his drive to make a difference give me great hope for Pennsylvania’s future. It was a pleasure having him with us for the day. A Hero’s Strength Shines Bright
After surviving the unimaginable, Lt. David Godfrey of the York County Sheriff’s Office has been released from WellSpan Surgery and Rehabilitation Hospital. Lt. Godfrey was gravely wounded in the same tragic attack that claimed the lives of three fellow officers. His release marks a powerful moment of resilience and hope for our entire community. Throughout his recovery, Lt. Godfrey has embodied courage, determination, and the unbreakable spirit of those who serve. His return is a testament not only to his strength but to the support of his family, friends, fellow law enforcement officers, and neighbors who have rallied around him. As we celebrate Lt. Godfrey’s recovery, we also hold in our hearts the memory of the three officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. Their service and courage will never be forgotten. Please join me in wishing Lt. Godfrey continued strength in his healing journey and in honoring the memory of those we lost. Honoring the Fallen
This week, I joined my York County colleagues in presenting Senate citations to the Northern York County Regional Police Department to honor Det. Sgt. Cody Becker, Det. Mark Baker, and Det. Isaiah Emenheiser. Their service and sacrifice remind us of the courage and commitment shown by law enforcement officers every day. Their legacy will never be forgotten. Continental Food and Vending Service Keeps York County Fueled
I had the pleasure of touring Continental Food and Vending Service in York. This third-generation, family-owned business delivers quality, convenience, and care to southern York County. From fresh food to reliable service, they’re helping keep our community running strong. Are YOU Rockin’ the Ribbon?
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor survivors, support those still fighting, and raise awareness about the power of early detection. This year, the Senate advanced legislation to expand insurance coverage for breast cancer screenings like MRIs and ultrasounds, eliminating out-of-pocket costs and helping more Pennsylvanians catch cancer early. Awareness saves lives and action makes it possible. You can find my reason to “Rock the Ribbon” here. As Ryan P. has reminded me this month, men can develop breast cancer as well. I encourage everyone to assess your personal breast cancer risk using this free online risk calculator. On Deck
The Senate of Pennsylvania reconvenes Monday, Oct. 27. 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 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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