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Mobile Office Hours – Times & Locations! Dear Friends, If you need assistance applying for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, join us for Outreach Days every Thursday through April 9, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Boyertown Area Multi-Service (200 Spring St, Boyertown). You are also welcome to call our office in Red Hill to schedule an appointment. Our team will walk you through the application process and answer any questions, all at no cost to you. Appointments are encouraged, and applications are due by June 30, so don’t wait! Sincerely,
In this Update:
Poll QuestionThank you to everyone who participated in our recent legislative survey on Senate Bill 1155, Voter Registration with Purchase of Hunting & Fishing Licenses. We received 161 responses, and here’s what you told us:
Your feedback is invaluable and helps guide our work on issues that matter most to you. Senate Bill 1155 is currently under review by the Senate State Government Committee, and we’ll keep you informed as it moves forward. Hearings on Proposed State Budget Set to Begin
Senate hearings begin next week on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2026-27 state budget, a plan that spends too much and steers the state ever closer to a massive tax increase. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will be actively questioning department heads as we work to reduce the size of the $53.3 billion spending that would increase spending by $2.7 billion – a 5.4% increase. It would take $4.6 billion out of the state’s Rainy Day Fund, which is made up of emergency reserves that protect against future tax hikes. The committee begins two weeks of hearings on Monday. I’ll provide recaps in this e-newsletter each week so you can see how your tax dollars are being planned and spent. Grow With Google Empowers Pennsylvania Small Businesses with Free AI Training
I recently joined Google and the TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce in Pottstown for an outstanding Grow with Google workshop aimed at helping local small businesses harness the power of artificial intelligence. As Chair of the Senate Communications & Technology Committee, I see firsthand how rapidly technology is evolving, and AI is leading that change. In just a few short years, AI will impact nearly every sector of our daily lives. It is critical that our small businesses have the tools and knowledge to stay competitive. This free training provided practical, hands-on guidance to help business owners boost productivity, spark creativity, and confidently integrate AI into their operations. Thank you to Google and the TriCounty Area Chamber for investing in Pennsylvania’s small businesses and workforce. To explore free AI resources and training opportunities, visit here. Supporting Lower Salford Township Police with Critical Investments
This week, I visited the Lower Salford Township Police Department to see their newly purchased body-camera equipment and tour the proposed site for a new police vehicle garage, both made possible through grants I was proud to help secure in 2025. These important investments will enhance transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency while ensuring officers have the tools and facilities, they need to serve our community effectively. I am honored to support our first responders and remain committed to securing resources that help keep our neighborhoods safe. Investing in Public Safety and Infrastructure in Lower Frederick Township
This week, I stopped by the Lower Frederick Township Police Department to see their recent facility renovations and the new police vehicle purchased with grant funding I was pleased to help provide in 2025. I value every opportunity to connect with our local law enforcement officials and discuss additional investments needed to strengthen community safety in Lower Frederick Township. Ensuring our officers have modern equipment and updated facilities is essential to protecting residents and maintaining a strong public safety presence. While passing through the township, I also noticed that the sign outside the municipal building was badly damaged. Fortunately, I helped secure a $99,510 grant through the LSA Statewide Program to replace it with a modern digital sign. This investment will improve visibility and communication with residents while giving the municipal building a fresh, updated look. I am proud to support projects that enhance local infrastructure, strengthen public safety, and keep our communities informed and engaged. Farmers Care Day Raises $31,000 for Families in Need
Farmers Care Day is a special annual tradition where our local farmers come together to donate fresh, locally grown food and raise funds for organizations that serve families in need, including the Ronald McDonald House. This year, an incredible $31,000 was raised to help Ronald McDonald House continue supporting families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. I was honored to speak and personally thank our farmers for their generosity, hard work, and unwavering commitment to strengthening our community. Their dedication is a powerful reminder of the compassion and spirit that define our region. Outreach Days: Property Tax & Rent Rebate Assistance
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. To make an appointment, visit here. For more information, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue’s website. Join Me for a Free Scam Jam in Topton on March 27
Financial scams continue to target individuals and families across Pennsylvania, especially seniors. That’s why I am partnering with the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities to host a free Scam Jam to help residents recognize and prevent financial fraud. This educational program will take place on Friday, March 27 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Lutheran Home at Topton (One S. Home Ave, Topton, PA 19562). Scammers are constantly changing their tactics, and staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself. During this event, attendees will hear from experts representing:
These professionals will share practical tips on spotting red flags, safeguarding personal information, and reporting suspicious activity before it’s too late. Registration is strongly recommended, as space is limited. You can reserve your spot online or by calling my office at (215) 541-2388. 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 was submitted by a resident of Gilbertsville, capturing a beautiful sunset in the Bella Vista neighborhood. Celebrate America 250 with Longswamp Township
Longswamp Township invites residents to join a special celebration of America 250! On Saturday, February 21 and Saturday, March 21 from 10 AM to 12 PM, participants can paint rocks that will become part of their America250 Rock Garden. All rocks and painting supplies will be provided, just bring your creativity and patriotic spirit! For more information please contact Longswamp Township at (610) 682-7388. Preventing Food Allergies and Cutting Costs for Taxpayers
Making preventative supplements available to families could prevent more than 80% of peanut and egg allergies and save taxpayers millions, according to testimony given at a Senate Majority Policy Committee public hearing. Approximately 1.3 million Pennsylvanians are afflicted with a food allergy. One expert testified the rate of children with a food allergy has grown by 50% over the past 20 years, with rates of peanut and tree nut allergies rising by 300%. The average cost of a child with a peanut allergy is more than $7,200 per year. Among the topics discussed was legislation that would require no-cost health insurance coverage for early peanut and egg introduction dietary supplements for infants. Video of the hearing and written testimony can be viewed here. Free Webinars Help Families Plan for Higher Education
For students and parents needing help with college financial aid, the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency offers free webinars on applying for aid and reviewing offers, options for non-traditional students and other important topics. Upcoming webinars include:
Check the full list here for dates and times. The page includes past webinar recordings for topics you might have missed. Avoiding the Emotional and Financial Toll of Romance Scams
Valentine’s Day is behind us, but romance scammers never go away. You can help yourself or a loved one avoid heartbreak and serious financial loss by knowing the warning signs. These scammers research a target’s social media to gather personal details, allowing them to mirror interests and build trust. According to state Attorney General Dave Sunday, common romance scammer behavior includes:
Consumers who feel they may have been victimized by this or any other scam may submit a complaint to the Bureau of Consumer Protection, email scams@attorneygeneral.gov or call 1-800-441-2555. Snowmobiling Opportunities in State Parks and Forests
For wintertime fun, our state parks and forests offer thousands of miles and hundreds of acres of designated snowmobile areas. Snowmobile trails are open until April 1 or earlier as determined by the district forester or park manager. It depends on having enough snow on the ground, so check the trail conditions page before you head out to see if trails are open and ready for riding. Riders must stay on roads and trails marked open for snowmobiles. Some trails used for snowmobiling may be open to vehicular traffic. Snowmobilers may also ride on state game lands on designated snowmobile areas, roads and trails.
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