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In this Update:
Senator Culver Co-Hosts Mental Health Roundtable in Danville
This week, I had the privilege of co-hosting a public roundtable discussion on mental health with Senator Dave Argall, Chair of the Senate Majority Policy Committee, at the new Geisinger Behavioral Health Center in Danville. We heard testimony from local mental health professionals, corrections officials, county leaders, and community organizations. Their comments reinforced the importance of supporting our frontline providers, addressing workforce shortages, and improving coordination across agencies. Justice Kevin Dougherty of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court joined us to share how the courts are working to better respond to behavioral health needs. He highlighted the creation of the Office of Behavioral Health within the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts. I want to thank Geisinger and their partner, Acadia, for hosting the event and for their investment in the new 96-bed inpatient facility, which I was able to tour before the roundtable and prior to patients being admitted that same day. Their commitment to expanding access to care in our region will make a real difference for patients and families. Events like this are an important step toward building a more responsive, accessible, and sustainable behavioral health system. I remain committed to working with community partners and my colleagues in the General Assembly to support policies that reflect the needs of the people we serve. To watch a replay of the roundtable or read submitted participant testimony, visit the Senate Majority Policy Committee’s website. Celebrating Community at National Night Out
On August 5, I had the pleasure of attending the National Night Out event in Sunbury, where neighbors, first responders, and local organizations came together for an evening of connection and community. While I was in Sunbury, members of my team were also present at events in Watsontown, McClure, Elysburg, Riverside, and Wright Township, where they shared information and visited with residents throughout the evening. National Night Out is a longstanding tradition that builds stronger relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. I’m grateful to all the police departments, emergency personnel, volunteers, and local leaders who helped make these events possible across the 27th District. Thank you to everyone who came out to participate and show your support for public safety and community spirit. Temporary Closure at Briar Creek Lake for Boat Ramp Construction
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has announced that the access area at Briar Creek Lake in Columbia County will be temporarily closed beginning August 11, 2025, and is expected to remain closed for approximately one week. This closure will allow for the construction of a new concrete boat ramp, which will improve long-term access to the lake for boaters and anglers alike. For more information, you can view the official release here: 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. 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’s 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.
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