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Mobile Office Hours – Times & Locations! Dear Friends, The 2026-27 state budget process is underway. The Governor’s $53.3 billion plan would increase spending by $2.7 billion (5.4%), draining most of the Rainy-Day fund, and would drive the need to raise taxes in the near future . My Senate colleagues and I are committed to protecting families and taxpayers by finding efficient ways to keep spending under control. I am again participating in several weeks of budget hearings to thoroughly review state departments’ proposals, and I hope we can arrive at a more fiscally responsible final budget. Sincerely,
In this Update:
Gov. Shapiro’s Budget Proposal Spends Too Much
The process of enacting a state budget for fiscal year 2026-27 began on Tuesday, and one thing is certain: The $53.3 billion plan presented by Gov. Josh Shapiro would spend too much. Shapiro’s proposal would increase state spending by $2.7 billion, a 5.4% increase – which would set up the commonwealth for massive tax increases in the future. In fact, the senate’s work to limit spending increases and enact pro-growth policies over the past three years was the reason the governor’s budget did not include a broad-based tax increase this year. At our press conference this week, we took a stand and emphasized our ongoing commitment to protecting Pennsylvania families and taxpayers. My Senate colleagues and I will be working to reduce spending and produce a fiscally responsible 2026-27 state budget, starting with in-depth public hearings by the Senate Appropriations Committee, beginning Feb. 23. As we begin our work on this year’s budget, looking for more government efficiencies and respecting taxpayers by controlling the growth of state spending are key priorities. Protecting Minors from Harmful AI
In a recent article, it was reported that about 30% of teens use AI chatbots daily, raising serious concerns about their mental health. That’s why I introduced the SAFECHAT Act and other bills to protect minors. My legislation prevents violent content from being shown to children and requires AI companies to report if a child might be in danger. These same concerns were addressed by Gov. Josh Shapiro during his budget address, when he voiced support for age verification and stricter oversight of bots giving medical advice or sexually explicit content. The SAFECHAT Act passed the Senate Communications and Technology Committee unanimously and received a second reading Wednesday. I’m hopeful for a full Senate vote in March. Read more here. Wearing Red for Heart Health
This week, my fellow women senators and I wore red for National Wear Red Day, observed on the first Friday of February, to raise awareness about heart disease in women, the #1 cause of death among women in the U.S. Heart disease can affect anyone, but women often experience different symptoms than men, making awareness and prevention especially important. Simple steps like staying active, eating a balanced diet, and getting regular check-ups can make a big difference in protecting your heart. Learn more about American Heart Month and ways to prioritize your heart health from the American Heart Association here. Scenes from the 24th Senatorial District – Photo Submissions Open!
I’m inviting residents of the 24th District to share their favorite photos capturing life in our community, from scenic landscapes and local landmarks to community events and everyday moments. Selected photos will be featured in my weekly e-newsletter. Photos must be taken within the 24th District and submitted by district residents. Not sure if your photo qualifies? You can check the district map and submit your photo here. Let’s celebrate Berks and Montgomery Counties through your lens! This week’s featured photo comes from a resident of Kutztown, capturing beautiful agricultural land along the Longswamp/Topton area. Outreach Days: Property Tax & Rent Rebate Assistance
Starting Thursday, February 12, and continuing every Thursday through April 9, our office will host Outreach Days from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Boyertown Area Multi-Service (200 Spring St, Boyertown, PA 19512). These events are designed to help residents apply for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program provides important financial relief to homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania. Eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older may receive rebates ranging from $380 to $1,000, and only half of Social Security income is included in the eligibility calculation. During Outreach Days, our staff will be available to guide residents through the application process, answer questions, and help determine eligibility. Assistance is provided by appointment only, and all services are free of charge. Applications must be submitted by June 30, 2026. To make an appointment, visit here. For more information, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue’s website. Senate Approves Measure to Prohibit Student Cellphone Use in PA Schools
To curb classroom distractions and improve academic performance and social development, the Senate passed bipartisan legislation to require Pennsylvania public schools to adopt policies prohibiting student cellphone use during the school day. Senate Bill 1014 ensures districts retain local control by giving them the flexibility to choose how to implement and enforce the standard in a way that works best for their communities, including deciding where phones must be stored. School administrators, teachers and parents across Pennsylvania have increasingly expressed concern about the proven link between smartphones and anxiety, depression, cyberbullying and reduced classroom engagement. The measure was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Visit to Calvary Baptist School
I had the opportunity to visit Calvary Baptist School in Lansdale to see firsthand the important work being done to support students and families. Calvary Baptist School is one of many outstanding schools across Pennsylvania that benefits from the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. EITC helps provide families with more educational options, ensuring students can attend the school that best meets their individual needs. During my visit, I was impressed by the dedication of the teachers and staff who are committed to delivering a high-quality, faith-based education and helping students succeed both academically and personally. Supporting programs like EITC empowers families with choice and helps Pennsylvania students reach their full potential. Pope John Paul II Girls Volleyball Honored as State Champions
This week, I was proud to recognize the Pope John Paul II High School Girls Volleyball Team on the Senate floor for their incredible accomplishment as the 2025 PIAA Class 3A State Champions. I extend my sincere congratulations to Head Coach Ryan Sell and the entire team for representing our community with such pride. It was an honor to celebrate these student-athletes and their well-earned state title at the Capitol. Their success is truly something our region can be proud of. Watch here. Recognizing Pennsylvania’s 2026 Principal of the Year
I was proud to join Senator Amanda Cappelletti on the Senate floor to recognize Dr. David Weidlich as Pennsylvania’s 2026 Principal of the Year. This honor reflects Dr. Weidlich’s outstanding leadership, dedication to education, and commitment to student success. His work has made a lasting impact on his school community and serves as an example of excellence in education across the Commonwealth. Congratulations to Dr. Weidlich on this well-deserved recognition! Watch here. 2026 Adult Trout Stocking Schedule Available
Looking forward to trout season? The 2026 adult trout stocking schedule is now available online from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. It’s searchable by county, lists the waterways in alphabetical order, and indicates stocking dates, meeting locations for volunteers and the species of trout that are planned to be stocked at each location. In 2026, Pennsylvania’s statewide Opening Day of Trout Season will be held on Saturday, April 4. A single, statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day will take place on Saturday, March 28. The commission will stock approximately 3.2 million adult trout in 684 streams and 130 lakes open to public angling, about the same number as previously. Grants to Help Preserve History Ahead of America’s 250th
Communities across our district can apply now for state grants to help preserve historic places, strengthen local revitalization efforts and prepare for the nation’s 250th anniversary this year. The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission will award Keystone Historic Preservation Grants to support projects that identify, preserve, promote and protect historic and archaeological resources. This year’s program prioritizes projects that align with the themes of America250, ensuring Pennsylvania’s rich history is preserved as the nation marks its semiquincentennial. More information is available at Keystone Planning Projects and Keystone Constructions Projects. Career and Technical Education Month
Career and technical education (CTE) prepares students to enter high-demand fields, including health care, manufacturing, public safety, information technology, skilled trades and more. More than 75,000 Pennsylvania students are enrolled in CTE, where they can develop essential skills through a combination of classes and hands-on learning, allowing them to apply academics to real-world problems. Career and Technical Education Month shines a spotlight on the importance of CTE programs, the opportunities they provide in crucial fields and their role in making the commonwealth more economically competitive and a place where young Pennsylvanians can settle and prosper.
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