|
|||||
|
In this Update:
Senate Returns to Session Next Week; Education Committee to Examine Cell Phone Policies in Schools
The Senate will return to session next week as work continues toward finalizing a responsible state budget that protects taxpayers, supports essential services, and strengthens Pennsylvania’s long-term financial stability. As Chair of the Senate Education Committee, I will also be leading a public hearing on Tuesday, October 21, at 10 a.m. to examine cell phone policies in schools. The hearing will bring together educators, parents, students and policy experts to discuss how technology use affects learning, safety, and classroom environments. The goal is to better understand how schools across the Commonwealth are addressing these challenges and to identify best practices that promote student success. I look forward to continuing the work ahead, both in moving the state budget process forward and in ensuring that our education policies reflect the needs of students, teachers, and families across Pennsylvania. Mount Carmel Township Receives New Vehicles Through State Grant
On Wednesday, I visited Mount Carmel Township to see the township’s new vehicles purchased through a Local Share Account (LSA) grant totaling $200,000. The funding supported the purchase of two new police trucks and one street department truck, which will assist with snow removal and ongoing township maintenance projects. It was a pleasure to meet with township officials and see how these state funds are being put to work to strengthen public safety and local services. Investments like this help ensure that our communities have the reliable equipment and resources needed to serve residents year-round. I commend Mount Carmel Township leadership and staff for their efforts in securing this funding and continuing to prioritize the needs of their residents. Mount Carmel District Office Reopens with Flag Raising Ceremony
I was pleased to welcome community members to the Mount Carmel District Office for a Flag Raising and Open House this past Saturday. The event marked the reopening of the office following recent renovations to better serve residents of the 27th Senatorial District. The morning began with a flag raising ceremony conducted by members of the Mount Carmel Area Honor Guard, followed by coffee, tea, and pastries from Rita’s Bakeshop. It was wonderful to see so many neighbors, local officials, and veterans join us as we reopened this refreshed space. My staff and I are grateful for the continued support from the Mount Carmel community and look forward to welcoming residents who stop by for assistance with state programs, forms, and services. The Mount Carmel District Office is located at 10934 State Route 61, Mount Carmel, and is open to the public for walk-in visits or by appointment. Honoring History at the Liberty Tree Dedication in Sunbury
I was honored to join members of the community, America250PA, and the Pennsylvania Freemasons for the Liberty Tree Dedication Ceremony in Sunbury Park on Saturday. This statewide initiative, known as the Liberty Tree Project, is part of Pennsylvania’s commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary. A Liberty Tree is being planted in each of the Commonwealth’s 67 counties to honor the history and enduring spirit of American freedom. In Northumberland County, the tree holds special significance. It was planted by John Barnhart, a dedicated community member who helped make this project possible before his passing. His legacy, and the continued involvement of the Barnhart family, made this ceremony especially meaningful. That same day, a member of my staff also attended a Liberty Tree planting ceremony in Snyder County, as part of the same statewide effort. Both events reflect the spirit of unity and remembrance that the Liberty Tree Project was created to honor. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the Pennsylvania Freemasons, who have spearheaded the Liberty Tree Project across the state. Their leadership and commitment to preserving our shared history ensure that future generations will have a place to reflect on the values that have guided our nation since its founding. Honoring Local Firefighters at the Sunbury Fire Department Memorial Service
I was honored to join members of the Sunbury Fire Department and our community at the 35th Annual Sunbury Fire Department Memorial Service in Cameron Park on Sunday. Shikellamy school district fire club. This annual service provides an opportunity to remember and honor the firefighters who have dedicated their lives to protecting others, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. It also serves as a reminder of the courage, service, and commitment shown every day by our local first responders. During the ceremony, members of the community, local officials, and fire department representatives gathered to pay tribute to the men and women who serve and protect Sunbury and the surrounding area. I extend my sincere gratitude to Chairman Dean Weirick, the Sunbury Fire Department Memorial Committee, and all of the volunteers who helped organize this meaningful event, including the Shikellamy School District Junior Firefighter Club. Our firefighters embody true public service, and I am proud to recognize their dedication and sacrifices on behalf of our community. Grant Funding Available to Support Fire, Rescue, and EMS Readiness
The Pennsylvania Office of the State Fire Commissioner announced that applications are now open for the 2025 Act 13 Unconventional Gas Well Fund (UGWF) Grant Program. The program provides funding to help fire, rescue, and emergency medical services (EMS) organizations prepare for emergencies related to unconventional gas wells. Grants may be used for training, certification, and specialized equipment purchases that improve emergency response and safety for both first responders and local communities. Examples include firefighting and rescue equipment, air monitoring tools, or training programs focused on gas well response. Fire, rescue, and EMS companies located in the 40 counties with unconventional gas wells, as well as 11 adjacent counties, are eligible to apply, including Columbia and Luzerne Counties within the 27th Senatorial District. The application deadline is Sunday, November 30, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. More information, including eligibility details and instructions to apply, is available on the Office of the State Fire Commissioner’s website. Applications Open for PA Game Commission District 5 Board Seat
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is seeking qualified candidates for the District 5 Representative seat on the Pennsylvania Game Commission. District 5 includes Tioga, Lycoming, Union, Bradford, Sullivan, Columbia, Montour, and Northumberland Counties. The seat is currently held by Allen DiMarco, who is eligible for reappointment. Individuals interested in applying must submit a resume and cover letter by Friday, November 7, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. to Derek Eberly, Director of the Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing, and Conservation, at deeberly@pa.gov. The Pennsylvania Game Commission is responsible for managing the state’s wildlife resources, protecting habitats, and ensuring safe, sustainable hunting and trapping opportunities for future generations. Selinsgrove Center Hosting On-Site Hiring Event October 28
The PA Department of Human Services will host an On-Site Hiring Event on Tuesday, October 28, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Selinsgrove Center Training Center, located at 1000 Route 522, Selinsgrove. Job seekers can learn about open positions and take part in on-the-spot interviews for full-time and part-time roles. Available positions include aide trainees, nurses, food service workers, psychologists, electricians, and more. The event offers an opportunity for individuals interested in a meaningful career serving others to meet directly with hiring staff and explore advancement opportunities within the Department of Human Services. Click here for additional details or to apply online. Senate Votes to Expand College Aid for Foster Children
The Senate approved legislation to expand tuition aid for foster children and adopted youth to cover those from other states, attracting talented students to help fill in-demand jobs and boost the commonwealth’s weak population growth. Senate Bill 432 would expand the Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program, which waives higher education tuition and fees for children in the foster care system and those who were adopted. The program is currently available only to state residents and the legislation would expand it to eligible nonresident students for undergraduate courses at Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education schools. The measure builds on the GROW PA plan I supported last year to improve Pennsylvania’s competitiveness by, among other steps, attracting and retaining students to pursue college degrees for in-demand careers. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Open Government: Tracking How Your Tax Dollars are Spent
Government is funded by money paid by taxpayers, and these resources are available to shed light on how those dollars are being spent by the commonwealth. The PennWATCH website allows citizens to keep tabs on the state budget, spending and revenue. Pennsylvania also makes it easy for people to review state purchases, lobbyist registrations and reports and campaign finance reports. Announced earlier this year by state Treasurer Stacy Garrity, OpenBookPA is a vast resource of data and information related to state finances. It includes the Fiscal Health Scorecard, the daily balance of every state fund and the Contracts e-Library, which allows people to search all state contracts valued at $5,000 or more. Give Your Feedback on PennDOT Construction, Maintenance Services
Through Oct. 21, motorists can take an online survey to give their feedback on Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) construction and maintenance services. The 22-question survey asks participants how they receive PennDOT roadway information and how often PennDOT meets or exceeds expectations in construction and maintenance activities. Respondents are also asked about experiences with reporting concerns to the department, and whether or how they use the state’s 511PA traveler information services. PennDOT is directly responsible for nearly 40,000 miles of highway and 25,400 bridges. A summary of recent projects and funds spent can be found in the 2024 Annual Report. Expanding Coverage of Breast Cancer Screenings
Earlier this year, the Senate passed a bill to expand insurance coverage for breast cancer screenings, including MRIs and ultrasounds, with no out-of-pocket costs. It was another major step forward in early detection and access to care. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’m hopeful the House of Representatives will pass this legislation, so more Pennsylvanians have access to these lifesaving screenings. Read more about breast cancer risk and new resources available for early detection here.
For anyone who hasn’t already signed up to receive my e-newsletters, you can get on the mailing list here. |
|||||
|
|||||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2025 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorculver.com | Privacy Policy |
