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Mobile Office Hours – Times & Locations! Dear Friends, As budget hearings continue, I remain committed to protecting Pennsylvanians’ hard-earned tax dollars. Each week, I hear from families and small businesses who are feeling the strain of rising costs and working hard just to make ends meet. We must do more to guard taxpayers against excessive government spending. Pennsylvanians deserve a transparent and honest accounting of the Commonwealth’s financial position, along with a clear understanding of how the governor’s proposed spending plans will impact working families across our state. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue asking the tough questions and demanding accountability to ensure Pennsylvania’s fiscal house remains in order. Sincerely,
In this Update:
Key Points from This Week’s Senate Budget Hearings
This week, I participated in Senate budget hearings as efforts began to review the governor’s proposed $53.3 billion state budget, which would spend $2.7 billion (5.4%) more than the current budget. These hearings are an important step in ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. Members of the Senate Appropriations Committee focused on containing the growing costs of Medicaid and other entitlement programs, as well as identifying and eliminating fraud. The Department of Human Services, the largest agency in the state budget, is requesting a 6.6% increase for 2026-27. We also questioned officials from the Department of General Services and the Pennsylvania State Police about missing revenue, funding projections, and strategies to crack down on new, more sophisticated fake IDs. DGS has requested an 11.8% spending increase, while the State Police’s proposed budget is more than 9% higher than the current fiscal year. See the full schedule of remaining hearings through March 5, here. Investing in Transparency and Public Safety in Upper Perk
I recently visited the Upper Perk Police Department to see the body-camera equipment they were able to purchase through a $26,000 grant I helped secure last year. Seeing this technology in action reinforced how important these tools are for today’s law enforcement officers. Body-worn cameras play a critical role in promoting public safety, accountability, and transparency, values that help strengthen trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. This investment supports both officers in the field and the residents they work every day to protect. I am honored to support projects that ensure our first responders have the resources they need to serve effectively and safely. I look forward to continuing to work with local police departments across the district to advance initiatives that enhance public safety for everyone. 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. Supporting Public Safety in Lower Pottsgrove
I recently met with the Lower Pottsgrove Township Police Department to see the new equipment they were able to purchase through a grant I helped secure in 2025. During my visit, we discussed their transition to a new facility, the challenges many local law enforcement agencies are facing, and the initiatives they are implementing to keep Lower Pottsgrove residents safe. I appreciate the opportunity to hear directly from our officers and look forward to continuing these important conversations with first responders across the district. Showcasing Culinary Excellence at Western Montgomery CTC
I attended the Western Montgomery Career and Technology Center Culinary Arts Department’s White House Student State Dinner Project, and I was truly impressed by the talent on display. The students presented a thoughtfully crafted, multi-course menu inspired by Pennsylvania’s rich farm-to-table traditions and diverse culinary heritage. Beyond the food itself, what stood out most was the professionalism, leadership, and creativity demonstrated throughout the event. Under the guidance of former White House Social Secretary Deesha Dyer, these students delivered an experience that reflected the value of hands-on, career-focused education. It was inspiring to see students apply their skills in such a meaningful and real-world setting, and I am proud to support programs that prepare our young people for future success. 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, submitted by a Schwenksville resident, beautifully captures the American flag at Upper Salford Park. Share Your America250 Events with Our Office
As our nation celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, communities across our district are finding meaningful and creative ways to honor this historic milestone. From educational programs and historical exhibits to community gatherings and commemorative events, these efforts reflect the pride we share in our country’s past and future. If you know of an America250 event happening in our district, I want to hear from you. By sharing your event details, you help us spread the word and highlight the great work taking place in our local communities. Event organizers are encouraged to submit information and upload their event flyer through my website so we can help promote these celebrations districtwide. Submit your event here. Hearing Explores Ideas to Combat State Housing Crisis
Efforts to make housing more attainable for working families were reviewed during a Senate hearing with local government officials, housing advocates, builders and developers. The Senate Majority Policy Committee heard how housing shortages drive up costs for Pennsylvanian families and stall economic growth. Among the solutions explored were infrastructure partnership programs to help lower upfront development costs, state tax credits, development incentives and bond financing specifically targeted to middle-income housing development, and more. Forming a robust strategy to increase housing supply, lower costs and stimulate economic activity is a key focus for the Senate this year. Video of the full hearing and written testimony can be viewed here. Share Your Thoughts with the Highway Safety Survey
Pennsylvania motorists have until Saturday to provide input on traffic safety and driving behaviors through an anonymous online survey. The aim is to understand attitudes on state Department of Transportation safety measures and reduce crashes and fatalities. The survey takes about five minutes to complete. The number of people who lost their lives on Pennsylvania highways decreased to 1,127 in 2024, the second lowest since record keeping began in 1928. While 2025 fatality data is not yet complete, preliminary numbers indicate crash fatalities have again decreased. Record-Breaking Unclaimed Property Returns to PA Residents
Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced that the Pennsylvania Treasury Department returned more unclaimed property in 2025 than ever before: $334.1 million. Unclaimed property can include dormant bank accounts, abandoned stocks, uncashed checks, and more. Property is always available for the rightful owner to claim. Tangible property – often the contents of forgotten safe deposit boxes – may be auctioned after three years, but proceeds remain available to claim perpetuity. Among the reasons for the record property returns was the General Assembly’s passage of a law that allows Treasury to automatically return unclaimed property valued up to $500. In the program’s first year, nearly $50 million was returned this way. To see if any unclaimed property is available for you, visit patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property. Saturday is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
School bus drivers play a critical role in the safety and well-being of students, but shortages of these vital workers can disrupt schedules and learning. Thank you to all the men and women performing this critical task in our area. Individuals interested in becoming a school bus driver can visit the commonwealth’s Become a School Bus Driver webpage or the School Bus Hero website to learn more.
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