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In this Update:
Senate Budget Hearings Examine Spending Details, Transportation Issues and More
The Senate Appropriations Committee wrapped up two weeks of public hearings on the Governor’s $53.3 billion proposed state budget, which would increase spending by $2.7 billion, or 5.4%. During the hearings with the Governor’s Budget Office and Department of Revenue, I asked why the Lottery Fund appears to be in a difficult position for the immediate future and whether unregulated skill games may be affecting the fund. At the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation hearing, I asked about the Liquid Fuels Program. Funding has declined nearly every year over the last eight years, so I wanted to know what is driving that trend and how this year’s $8 million increase will be used to help communities maintain local roads and bridges. I also asked how increasing vehicle fuel efficiency and growing electric vehicle use could impact fuel tax revenues in the years ahead, and when those revenues may fall below the level needed to support road and bridge maintenance. During the Public Utility Commission hearing, I asked what can be done to help shield residential ratepayers from the impact of increasing data center energy use, and I requested an update on the status of foreign-owned utilities operating in Pennsylvania. Committee hearings also included testimony from leaders within the State System of Higher Education. I questioned the university presidents about how they are supporting their student bodies and what investments in PASSHE can help increase student success and better meet workforce needs. Finally, during the workforce development hearing, I asked the Department of Labor and Industry about two initiatives connected to student and workforce preparation. I asked about the Certified Teacher Registered Apprenticeship initiative and whether it has been coordinated with the Department of Education. I also asked about the purpose of the School-to-Work Program and where funding is being focused to ensure students have practical pathways that connect classroom learning to real careers. You can find complete recaps and videos of each hearing here. Education Budget Hearing: Key Takeaways
During this year’s budget hearings, I appreciated the opportunity as the Chair of Education Committee to ask questions about how Pennsylvania’s education priorities are being carried out in classrooms and communities. In the Department of Education hearing, I asked Secretary Carrie Rowe about the next steps for implementing the structured literacy initiative that was approved by lawmakers. Getting this right will take more than a line item in the budget. Schools need clear expectations, strong training and support for educators, and a plan that helps ensure students benefit no matter where they live. I also raised concerns about the continued underfunding of Career and Technical Education. CTE programs are an important pathway for many students, and they help meet workforce needs across our region. We should be making sure these programs have the resources they need to keep pace with demand and provide students with strong, practical options after graduation. Another focus of my questions was fairness for rural schools. Rural districts work hard to do more with less, and they often face unique challenges related to geography, staffing, transportation, and access to programs. Students in rural areas deserve the same opportunities as students anywhere else, and our funding conversations should reflect that. Finally, I asked about statewide test scores and the fact that performance has declined in key areas even as education spending has increased. Families and taxpayers deserve transparency about what is working, what is not, and what changes will make a real difference for students. These hearings help put details on the record. They also help identify where follow-up is needed, so we can make decisions with better information and stronger accountability. You can watch the full hearing on the Senate Appropriations Committee website. Important Health Advisory for Anglers and Families – Columbia County
I want to share an important public health update for anglers and families in our region. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission have issued a “Do Not Eat” advisory for all species of fish caught in Briar Creek and Middle Spring Creek due to elevated levels of PFOS, a PFAS “forever chemical,” found in fish tissue. It is important to note that fishing is still permitted, but fish from these waters should not be eaten until further notice. As a result of the advisory, trout stocking in the impacted waters will be discontinued for now, and the Fish and Boat Commission plans to reallocate trout to nearby waters to help maintain recreational angling opportunities. If you fish these areas or have family members who do, I encourage you to review the official advisory and stay up to date as more sampling and information becomes available. Home Care Chat in Selinsgrove on March 19
I am looking forward to joining Hearts for Home Care for a Home Care Chat on Thursday, March 19, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at the Regional Engagement Center in Selinsgrove. This conversation is an opportunity to hear directly from the home care community about what is working, what challenges remain, and what supports are needed moving forward. Home care plays an important role for seniors and individuals with disabilities by helping people stay safe and supported in their own homes, close to family, friends, and the communities they know best. We will also discuss how Pennsylvania can strengthen home care services and support the workforce that makes this care possible. Listening to caregivers, providers, and families is essential as we work toward practical solutions that protect quality of care and improve access for the people who depend on these services every day. Event Details To RSVP: https://heartsforhomecare.quorum.us/event/31591/ Read Across America Week at Northumberland Area Head Start
During Read Across America Week, I had the opportunity to visit Northumberland Area Head Start at the Beck Elementary school in Shikellamy School District to read with preschool students and celebrate the joy of books. There is nothing quite like seeing young learners light up when a story begins. Reading aloud helps build early literacy skills, but it also builds confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning that can last a lifetime. I appreciated the warm welcome from the staff and the wonderful work they do each day to support children and families. Thank you to everyone at Northumberland Area Head Start for the invitation and for the important work you do. Supporting early literacy is one of the most meaningful investments we can make, and I will continue working to ensure every child has the opportunity to grow into a strong, confident reader. Family Caregivers Can Find Help Through State Support Program
Caring for a loved one is rewarding but also challenging. If you or someone you know could use some help, the state Caregiver Support Program could be the answer. The state Caregiver Support Program provides relief through respite care, education and financial assistance for eligible unpaid caregivers. Each caregiver is assigned a care manager who will come to the home, conduct a comprehensive assessment of the needs of the caregiver, provide support and work with them to develop a care plan. Find out more about eligibility and how to apply, and find other caregiver resources, from the Department of Aging. Celebrating 25 Years of The Nail Nook
I was pleased to present a Senate citation to The Nail Nook and owner Leisa Madara in recognition of the business’s 25th anniversary. Opened in 2000 as a natural nail salon, The Nail Nook has grown through Leisa’s hard work and a reputation built entirely through word of mouth. Even during the challenges of COVID closures, she continued moving forward, renovating in 2020 to expand services including reflexology, facials, and a hair salon. Congratulations to Leisa and her team, and thank you for 25 years of service to our community. Summer STEM and Ag Ed Opportunity
If you are a middle or high school STEM teacher, I want to share a summer opportunity through the CSATS Summer Research Experience for Teachers (RET) Program. From June 15 to July 31, 2026, educators can participate in a 7-week research experience with university faculty, then bring that learning back to the classroom by creating a research-based project for students. Program locations vary and include remote, hybrid, and in-person options, including placements at Penn State Harrisburg and University Park. The application deadline is March 27, 2026. Participants receive a $6,000 stipend and may be eligible for additional funds for classroom resources. Eligible applicants include middle and high school STEM teachers with 3+ years of experience, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and plan to teach during the 2026–2027 school year. Learn more and apply here: https://www.csats.psu.edu/forms/registration-ret Keystone Degree Breakfast Celebrates FFA Leaders
Recently, I attended the Keystone Degree Breakfast at Benton Middle-Senior High School to recognize local FFA students who earned their Keystone Degrees. I presented citations to recipients from Benton, Central, Northwest, Millville, and Warrior Run, alongside Representatives Jamie Walsh and Robert Leadbeter. The Keystone Degree represents significant work in agricultural education, leadership, and service. Congratulations to each student, and thank you to the advisors, families, and supporters who helped them reach this milestone, as well as The Old Filling Station for providing breakfast. Online Filing Option Available for PA Personal Income Taxes
If you’re working on your taxes, keep in mind you can file your Pennsylvania Personal Income Tax return online for free through the myPATH portal. It includes automatic calculators, instant confirmation and secure payment options. You can access many features directly from the myPATH homepage without needing to create a username or password. Additional options are offered exclusively to users who opt to create an account. If you would rather get in-person help, the Department of Revenue is also scheduling filing assistance events across the Commonwealth. Below are the events currently scheduled in Northumberland County, and more may be added on a rolling basis. Northumberland County Filing Assistance Events (Current Schedule) Coal Region Adult Community Center Coal Township High Rise Mountainside Estates Willow Court Apartments Learn more from the state Department of Revenue. Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses
Pennsylvania is one of the top states in the nation for veteran-owned small businesses and Invest in Veterans Week (March 1-7) helps focus attention on these patriotic entrepreneurs. These men and women served our nation and are now providing jobs and economic vitality in our communities. Please keep an eye out for veteran-owned businesses in our area. If you’re a veteran looking to start or expand a business, you can find state and federal resources here.
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