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Dear Friends, This week, I was sworn in as your state senator for a new legislative session. I’m exciting to begin a new year to continue the good work of serving you – the 24th District. Below please find a link to an OP-ED I recently wrote highlighting my goals for 2025. As always, I look forward to hearing from you about the issues affecting you, your business, and your family. Happy New Year! Sincerely,
In this Update:
Poll Question
“Do you believe the current rapid advancement of technology will ultimately benefit or harm the future of agriculture?” Take my survey here. Senate Republicans Kick Off 2025-26 Session with New Members, Leadership Team
The Pennsylvania Senate convened on Tuesday for the start of the 2025-26 legislative session, highlighted by the swearing in of new and reelected members. The proceedings also included the formal reelection of Sen. Kim Ward (R-39) as senate president pro tempore, as well as a vote on rules to govern the body for the next two years. Voters gave Senate Republicans a 28-22 majority in the November 2024 General Election. Learn which members took the oath of office for the first time, who was sworn in following reelection and who is serving as part of the leadership team here. Still to come are member committee assignments for the 2025-26 legislative session. Read my recent op-ed on my reflections and priorities for 2025. Farm Show Town Hall Explores Agtech
As Chair of the Senate Communications and Technology Committee, and in collaboration with Senator Elder Vogel Jr. (R-47), Chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, we held a Town Hall on Wednesday, January 8, to highlight innovation in Pennsylvania’s agricultural sector. The discussion was held at the Farm Show complex and included conversations with state Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding, Penn State University Agricultural Sciences Dean Troy Ott, among other farmers highlighting technological advancements in agribusiness. Watch full hearing here. Full release here. Hearing Explores Reuse of Vacant State Properties
The Senate Majority Policy Committee this week convened a hearing to explore the reuse of several long-vacant state properties. The nearly two-hour session brought together myself, other state lawmakers and community leaders to discuss strategies for revitalizing these properties. Focus was given to the challenges presented by vacant properties in the Hamburg area, White Haven, and Polk. Concerns were raised about the prolonged vacancy of these sites and their impact on surrounding communities. These sites have sat unused for too long, wasting taxpayer dollars. We need to find solutions that revitalize these areas, create jobs, and boost our economy. Watch full heating here. Interview with AG Secretary Redding
At the Pennsylvania Farm Show, I had the opportunity to interview Department of Agriculture Secretary Redding about the future of agriculture in our state. We discussed the critical role of technology in modernizing farming practices, exploring how AI can enhance efficiency and sustainability. We also explored the increasing demand for qualified veterinarians and the state’s efforts to address this critical shortage. We look to continue this great discussion this legislative session that will ultimately promote sustainable agriculture and ensure the long-term viability of the agricultural sector. Watch full interview here. Grant Secures Tech Upgrades for New Hanover Twp. Police
I am proud to have presented New Hanover Township Police Department with a $136,739 grant Monday night that I secured through the Department of Community and Economic Development. This funding will be used to significantly enhance the department’s technology by purchasing and deploying state-of-the-art dashboard cameras and equipping officers with cutting-edge body-worn cameras. This grant is a significant investment in the safety of our officers and the trust of our community. These technological advancements will not only improve public safety but also enhance transparency and accountability. As an expression of their gratitude, the New Hanover Township Board of Supervisors also presented me with an award to commend her service and dedication to the community. 109th PA Farm Show
Reflecting on a successful 109th Pennsylvania Farm Show! It was a privilege to connect with the hardworking individuals who make our state’s agricultural industry thrive. From innovative technologies to the dedication of our farmers, the Farm Show truly showcases the vital role of agriculture in Pennsylvania. I look forward to this exciting event every year! Scam Jam – January 23
Join me, PA Banking and Securities, PA State Police, Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and AARP Pennsylvania Office for a Scam Jam event at Frederick Living on January 23 at 9:30 AM. Learn how to identify and avoid scams. This event is a great opportunity to get informed and protect yourself from financial fraud. Register now to save your spot here. Scholarships Available Soon for Students Earning Degrees in In-Demand Jobs
Pennsylvania students pursuing a degree for an in-demand occupation will soon be able to apply for a $5,000 scholarship through the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) because of a law passed by Senate Republicans. To bolster industries with lots of open positions, the law requires them to agree to live and work in Pennsylvania in an in-demand occupation for at least one year for each year they accept the scholarship. Those occupations include agriculture, computer science, business, education, special education, STEM education, engineering, nursing, allied health, criminal justice and other programs approved by PHEAA. The list of in-demand occupations will be adjusted regularly to reflect Pennsylvania’s workforce needs. Out-of-state students are eligible for scholarships that allow them to pay in-state tuition rates. If a student receives a scholarship but does not complete the educational program or fails to meet other terms of the agreement, the scholarship will be converted to a loan and must be repaid by the student. The application is expected to be available on PHEAA’s website in the coming weeks, and more information will be shared then. Online Resource Tracks State Plows
Winter weather can impact safety on the roads, particularly before snow is cleared and salt is spread to mitigate icy spots. As the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) crews work to keep roads passable, you may be wondering where the plow is in your area. All of PennDOT’s roughly 2,200 owned and rented plow trucks are equipped with automated vehicle location systems, which use in-truck technology to log and share data in real time for that truck. View the routes of these interstate and expressway trucks here. PennDOT maintains nearly 40,000 miles of roads and 25,400 bridges statewide, which translates to more than 95,000 snow-lane miles. More Veterans are Eligible for Free Birth and Death Certificates
New this year, more veterans and their families are eligible for free birth and death certificates from the Pennsylvania Department of Health because of legislation passed by Senate Republicans. All veterans who were discharged or released from services under conditions other than dishonorable can receive a veteran fee waiver. Previously, they were only available for military members who were in active service or who were honorably discharged. Normally, there is a non-refundable $20 fee per copy, but with this law, up to 10 free copies will be available. The fee waiver may be applied to applications for the veteran, spouse and dependent children. To be eligible for the waiver, applications for birth and death certificates must be submitted with documentation proving military status. Schedule Your Free State Capitol Tour
If you’re looking for a fun educational activity for your family, you can tour the state Capitol for free. During a 30-minute guided tour, Capitol tour guides point out architectural and artistic highlights as they make the Capitol’s history come alive. There is also an Interactive Welcome Center and Capitol Gift Shop to enjoy during your visit. Guided tours are offered every half hour Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Weekends and most holidays, tours are offered at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Schedule a tour online or by calling the Tour Guide Office at 1-800-TOUR-N-PA (868-7672). Groups of 10 or more require advanced reservations. For your safety, group size is limited to 40.
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