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In this Update:
New State Budget Protects Taxpayers and Funds Priorities
Last weekend, I voted to support Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 state budget, which makes important investments without raising taxes or drawing from the Rainy Day Fund. The final agreement reduced the level of spending proposed earlier this year by more than $1.1 billion. It also puts previously appropriated but unused dollars back to work supporting state programs rather than allowing those funds to remain idle in government accounts. Education remains a major part of the budget. The plan includes an additional $565 million for the Ready to Learn Block Grant program, a $58 million increase for Basic Education Funding and a $55 million increase for Special Education. The budget also maintains funding for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program, which supports scholarships and educational programs for students across Pennsylvania. No budget is perfect, but this agreement addresses important needs while avoiding new taxes and maintaining the reserves Pennsylvania may need in the future. Listen to my thoughts here on my Facebook page. Cost of Living Adjustment for Retired Teachers, State Employees, Police and Firefighters
The newly enacted state budget includes a cost-of-living adjustment for eligible retired teachers, school employees and state employees who retired before July 2, 2001, as well as certain retired municipal police officers and firefighters. Many of these retirees left public service at salaries far below those earned today, did not receive the benefit changes included in Act 9 of 2001 and have now gone more than 20 years without a COLA. The increase is funded through existing interactive gaming tax revenues and will not place an additional burden on state, school district or municipal taxpayers. Eligible recipients are expected to see the increase reflected in their monthly payment beginning in August. These men and women dedicated years to serving our schools, communities and commonwealth, and I am thankful this long-overdue adjustment was included in the final budget. PennDOT Required to Release Funds for Local Road Projects
Recognizing the need to support local roads, an additional $775 million is being directed to three- and four-digit road projects throughout Pennsylvania 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 look forward to 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. Milton YMCA Recognized for Food Security Efforts
My office recently joined YMCA of the USA representatives for visits to the Milton YMCA and the Union-Snyder Food Hub at the Lewisburg YMCA. The Milton YMCA was selected for the July 9 visit because of its work addressing food insecurity. Through the Summer Food Service Program, the branch provides daily meals to 1,079 children across Northumberland, Union and Snyder counties. The Union-Snyder Food Hub also provides walk-in assistance, emergency groceries and mobile deliveries to more than 2,000 individuals each month. These programs are helping families throughout our region access nutritious food and essential support close to home. Nominate a Community “Window Keeper” by July 31
Across our district, there are many people whose quiet acts of service and leadership make a lasting difference in their communities. As part of Pennsylvania’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, PA Humanities is accepting nominations for The Window Keeper: Civic Honors, a statewide initiative recognizing individuals who strengthen their communities through service, leadership and civic involvement. Anyone in Pennsylvania may submit a nomination. Nominees must be individuals, as organizations and elected officials are not eligible. PA Humanities hopes to recognize at least one Window Keeper from every legislative district, and nominations are open through Friday, July 31. Nominate a window keeper here. Celebrating Rosemary Middleton’s 100th Birthday
My office was honored to recognize Rosemary Middleton on the occasion of her 100th birthday with a citation from the Pennsylvania Senate. Rosemary celebrated alongside family and friends, wearing a pink tiara and a sash that read “100 & Fabulous.” A member of my staff presented the citation during the celebration and shared congratulations on my behalf. When asked about the secret to a long life, Rosemary offered a memorable answer: “Be bad and eat a lot of candy.” Happy 100th birthday, Rosemary, and best wishes for continued health and happiness! Volunteering at the Ta-Ta Trot
I once again had the opportunity to attend the Ta-Ta Trot in Sunbury this year! More than 600 runners registered for this year’s event, which brought the community together to support those affected by breast cancer. It was good to spend time with event organizer Lisa Pfleegor, her daughter Claire Schmoke, Rep. Michael Stender and the many volunteers who helped make the day possible. Thank you to everyone who ran, volunteered or supported this important community tradition. Honoring David Campbell’s 47 Years in Education
I had the opportunity on Tuesday to visit the Line Mountain School District and join faculty, staff and friends for a luncheon celebrating Superintendent Dave Campbell’s retirement. A 1985 graduate of Line Mountain High School, David dedicated 47 years to education, including 19 years leading his home district as superintendent. During the luncheon, I presented him with a citation from the Pennsylvania Senate recognizing his service to students and families. Rep. Joanne Stehr also presented David with a House citation. David’s commitment to Line Mountain has made a lasting difference, and I wish him all the best in retirement. Berwick Industrial Development Association Dinner
Tuesday evening, I attended the Berwick Industrial Development Association’s annual dinner celebration at the Berwick Golf Club. B.I.D.A. is a nonprofit organization that supports economic development and works to create opportunities for businesses and communities throughout the Berwick area. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday served as the evening’s guest speaker, and I was glad to join Rep. Robert Leadbeter, local business leaders and community members to hear more about the work underway to support continued economic growth in our region. Urgent Action Needed to Keep PA Communities Safe
Nearly 1,200 people convicted of second-degree murder in Pennsylvania could be released without legislative action 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 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. SB 1400 remains before the House Judiciary Committee awaiting action. 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. The responsibility to address this issue now rests with the majority leadership in the House of Representatives. Protecting Pets from Excessive Heat
Hot weather reminder: Police and emergency responders in Pennsylvania are authorized to remove dogs and cats from unattended vehicles by force if they’re deemed to be in imminent danger. Also, under Act 104 of 2018, dogs that are tethered outside and unattended can only be so for up to nine hours in temperatures up to 90 degrees, and only for 30 minutes above 90 degrees. The dog must have access to an area of shade to escape the direct rays of the sun, as well as clean water. Watch for signs of heat stroke in animals, including heavy panting, excessive drooling, vomiting and red or purple gums. You can read more about PA’s “Hot Car Bill” here. 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. REMINDER: License Plate Replacement Event in Shamokin – July 21
If your license plate is peeling, blistered, discolored or difficult to read, Rep. Joanne Stehr and I are hosting an event to help you apply for a free replacement plate through PennDOT. The event will be held Tuesday, July 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rep. Stehr’s Shamokin District Office, 300 E. Independence St. Damaged or illegible plates can create issues for drivers and law enforcement, and this event is intended to make the replacement process more convenient for residents. Law enforcement will be on site to review plates and complete the required sign-off, which is needed before PennDOT can process a free replacement plate request. Drivers should bring the vehicle with the affected plate, current vehicle registration and their driver’s license. Participants may sign up in advance by calling Rep. Stehr’s office at 570-648-8017. REMINDER: Virtual Event: Data Centers and Water Demand – July 22
As data center development continues to be discussed across our region, many residents have questions about water use and how those demands are reviewed. To help provide clear information, I am hosting a virtual informational session with the Susquehanna River Basin Commission on Wednesday, July 22, from 6-7 p.m. The session, “Managing Water Demand Associated with Data Centers,” will feature Andrew D. Dehoff, P.E., executive director of the Susquehanna River Basin Commission. SRBC experts will explain how water usage is evaluated, regulated and balanced within the Susquehanna River Basin, including how potential impacts are considered. Attendees will be able to submit questions during the virtual event. |
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