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In this Update:
Connecting with Farmers at the Capitol on PA Farm Bureau Legislative Day
Agriculture is Pennsylvania’s leading industry and a vital part of our heritage and economy in the 27th District. Recently, I had the valuable opportunity to meet with local farmers from our area who traveled to Harrisburg for the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau’s annual State Legislative Conference. An incredible number of farmers come together for this event each year to discuss the key issues facing the agricultural community and advocate for their industry. It was a privilege, as always, to connect directly with them, listen to their concerns, and talk about the challenges and opportunities ahead for Pennsylvania agriculture. Hearing firsthand from those who produce our food is essential as we work on policies to support this critical sector. Senate Passes Bill Reforming Nomination Process for Agency Heads
To restore balance and transparency in state government, the Senate passed a bill reining in the use of unconfirmed state agency leaders. Senate Bill 472 advanced to the House of Representatives for consideration. Former Gov. Tom Wolf appointed 11 individuals to lead various state agencies in the “acting” capacity and never nominated them to the Senate as part of the official confirmation process. Additionally, 21 cabinet officials served in “acting” capacity longer than 90 days. This allowed key decisions to be made without public scrutiny. With the passage of the bill, an individual serving in a leadership role without official confirmation by the Senate would be designated as “Deputy Head of Department.” The designation could be used once during a governor’s term. These individuals would have to appear before the General Assembly during the annual budget process. They would not receive elevated compensation or additional benefits beyond their peers. Most importantly, they would not be allowed to remain indefinitely without Senate review and would not be permitted to serve longer than 90 days. Free Damaged License Plate Replacement Event in Drums on May 1st
Following successful events elsewhere in the district, I’m hosting another free Damaged License Plate Replacement Event, this time in Luzerne County. Please join us on Thursday, May 1st, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Butler Township Municipal Building, 83 Corporate Dr., Drums. If your license plate has lost reflectivity, or is peeling, blistering, or discolored, making it hard to read from 50 feet away, it may need replacement to avoid potential fines. At this event, local police officers will determine if your plate qualifies for a free replacement and assist with the necessary PennDOT paperwork at no charge. The new plate will be mailed directly to your home. Please remember to bring your current vehicle registration card. Pre-registration is helpful, and you can sign up at SenatorCulver.com/events or by calling my office at 570-387-4267. Walk-ins will also be welcome. Recognizing Excellence During Local Government Week
This week, April 14-18, has been designated as Local Government Week in Pennsylvania, and April 16th was Local Government Day. It’s an important time to recognize the indispensable role our local government officials and employees play every day in maintaining the safety, health, and well-being of our communities. On Wednesday, the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services held an awards ceremony to recognize outstanding initiatives from local governments across the Commonwealth. I was incredibly proud that three award recipients were honored from our own 27th District:
Congratulations to Milton Borough, Wright Township, and Mr. Hess for this well-deserved recognition! Their dedication highlights the vital importance of strong local leadership and community partnerships right here in our area. Voter Registration Deadline is May 5
The deadline to register to vote in Pennsylvania’s May 20 primary election is Monday, May 5. Your county election office must receive your application for a mail-in or absentee ballot by Tuesday, May 13, at 5 p.m. To legally register, individuals must be a citizen of the United States, reside in their local voting precincts at least 30 days prior to the election and be at least age 18 on Election Day, Tuesday, May 20. Once registered to vote, you are not required to register again unless you change your residence, name or political party affiliation. Voter registration forms, mail-in ballot applications and absentee ballot applications are available here or from your local county’s Board of Elections. You can also use the site to check your registration status. REAL ID to Replace Driver’s License as Federally Acceptable ID on May 7
Beginning May 7, Pennsylvanians who wish to board flights, visit military bases and enter certain federal facilities will be required to present a form of federally accepted identification. Options include a passport, military ID or a REAL ID. You do not need to wait until your driver license renews to get a REAL ID. To get one, you must provide documents proving your identity, lawful status, Social Security number and Pennsylvania residency. Review the list of acceptable documents. All documents must be original versions or certified copies (if applicable). While any of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s (PennDOT) driver license centers can verify these documents for customers who want a REAL ID, only certain locations can provide your REAL ID the same day. Otherwise, expect to receive your REAL ID within 15 business days after successful document verification. To make it more convenient for Pennsylvanians to get a REAL ID, PennDOT is offering dedicated time at some driver license centers on April 28 and May 5. Both REAL ID Days are on Mondays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Great Conversations at Elysburg Coffee Event
Thank you to everyone who came out to share a cup of coffee and conversation with me on Wednesday at the Elysburg Fire Company Banquet Hall! It was wonderful to chat informally with so many residents about the state and local issues that are important to you. Events like these are invaluable for me to hear directly about your concerns, ideas, and perspectives in a relaxed setting. I appreciate everyone who took the time to stop by, share their thoughts, and connect. I look forward to hosting more Coffee and Conversation events around the district soon! Free Cleanup Supplies for PA Communities
Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful is working to improve the state’s communities by cleaning up litter. Now through May 31 while supplies last, free work gloves, safety vests and trash bags are available to groups who register their cleanup event. Donated landfill space is offered for trash collected during cleanups held in April. Tires cannot be accepted, and groups should plan for proper disposal of electronics that are found. Read more about how to organize a cleanup event. Please email or call Michelle Dunn with Pick Up Pennsylvania at 724-836-4121, extension 113, with any questions. In 2024, more than 77,000 volunteers picked up more than 3.2 million tons of litter and trash. Another 4.5 million pounds of materials were recycled and more than 14,000 trees, flowers and other greens were planted. Best Wishes for a Happy Easter
Easter represents joy, hope and redemption. Warmest wishes to all families who celebrate this holy holiday and rejoice in eternal life. Happy Easter!
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