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Mobile Office Hours – Times & Locations! Dear Friends, Trout season is here, time to get your rods, lines, hooks, and tackle ready! The statewide trout opener is April 4. Don’t forget the Fish-for-Free Days on May 24 and July 4. Trout regulations vary by PFBC region, so be sure to check the 2026 Fishing Summary for your area and stocking schedule. Tight lines and happy fishing! Sincerely,
In this Update:
Senate Education Committee Approves POW/MIA Flag Bill
The Senate Education Committee recently approved my legislation, Senate Bill 835, which would require public schools to display the POW/MIA flag alongside the American flag, where space permits. This flag serves as a powerful symbol honoring the brave men and women who were prisoners of war or remain missing in action. Displaying it in our schools helps ensure their sacrifices—and the sacrifices of their families are never forgotten, while also educating students about the importance of service and remembrance. Senate Bill 835 now moves to the full Senate for consideration. I look forward to continuing to advance this meaningful measure. Watch here. Senate Acts to Protect Workers’ Compensation for First Responders
The Senate approved legislation to ensure volunteer fire and EMS personnel are covered by workers’ compensation if injured participating in the fundraising activities essential for covering the costs of providing public safety. A 1980 court decision held that firefighters injured at their annual fundraising picnic were eligible for workers’ compensation because members were covered for all activities authorized by a municipality. However, current law does not provide the same coverage for the full scope of fundraising activities. Senate Bill 1053 would fill the gap, expressly providing workers’ compensation for volunteers’ participation in fundraising activities. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Legislation Giving Farmers More Vehicle Flexibility Approved by Senate
Cutting outdated regulations for farmers, the Senate approved a measure giving them greater flexibility to safely drive more farm vehicles on roadways at night, reflecting the real-world demands of modern farming. Current state law prohibits certain farm vehicles from driving on Pennsylvania roadways between sunset and sunrise. Senate Bill 203 would allow farmers to operate their vehicles, ranging from small cars to larger trucks, when their work demands it. The vehicles already maintain equipment required by the state to safely operate at night. Senate Bill 203 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Honoring Spring Ford’s 2025 PIAA Class 4A Champions
This week, I had the honor of recognizing the Spring Ford Area High School Girls Volleyball Team, 2025 PIAA Class 4A State Champions! The team capped off an incredible season by defeating Pine-Richland in November to claim the state title, and finished the year undefeated, a truly remarkable accomplishment. Congratulations to Coach George Fuller, the athletes, and their families for their dedication, hard work, and extraordinary season. Your commitment to excellence on and off the court is inspiring! Watch here. Strengthening Hereford Township’s Infrastructure Through Streambank Restoration
Recently, I met with Hereford Township Supervisor Karla Dexter to tour the site of a major streambank restoration project along Camp Mensch Mill Road. This important work focuses on stabilizing the waterway and improving the adjacent roadway, and I was proud to help secure the grant funding for the project in last year’s state budget. Seeing the site in-person was eye-opening. The extent of the damage caused by repeated storm events over the past few years is significant. It’s a stark reminder of how destructive unmanaged stormwater can be, and why investments in streambank restoration are so critical. Projects like this not only repair existing damage but also help protect our infrastructure, environment, and public safety for the future. Investing in Stormwater Improvements in Colebrookdale Township
Recently, I visited Colebrookdale Township to see firsthand several stormwater improvement projects made possible through grant funding I helped advance in last year’s state budget. While these projects may not always grab headlines, they are among the most important investments we can make. Effective stormwater management helps prevent property damage, reduces the risk of flash flooding, and protects residents during severe weather events. These improvements also have a positive impact beyond the immediate area, benefiting downstream communities as well. I’m proud to support and advocate for projects like these across the 24th Senate District that strengthen our infrastructure and keep our communities safe. Combating Invasive Species in Douglass Township
Recently, I visited Douglass Township in Berks County to see firsthand the important work being done to combat invasive insect species and remove dead and diseased trees impacted by these pests. This effort was supported by grant funding I championed in last year’s state budget. If you travel through the area, you may notice a significant number of trees that have been removed. While this change is visible, it is a necessary step to prevent further environmental damage and protect the health of surrounding forests and landscapes. As we move into the warmer months, I encourage residents to stay vigilant and watch for invasive species such as the Spotted Lanternfly and the Emerald Ash Borer. If you notice signs of infestation in your community, please report it to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. It’s worth noting that the Spotted Lanternfly was first detected in the United States right here in Berks County in 2014. That fact underscores just how important projects like this are in protecting our environment and preserving the natural resources we all rely on. Expanding Services for Seniors at TriCounty Active Adult Center
I recently joined the TriCounty Active Adult Center for the open house of their new Social Services Annex, made possible through a state grant. This newly renovated space will allow the center to expand its services and programming, including the addition of a much-needed emergency food pantry. These improvements will enhance the support available to the more than 200 older adults who visit the center each day. Investments like this make a meaningful difference in the lives of our seniors and strengthen the overall well-being of our community. I remain committed to supporting initiatives that ensure older adults have access to the resources and services they need. 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. MCCC Outreach Location Update
Our Montgomery County Community College (MCCC) – Pottstown Campus Outreach has moved to a new, more accessible location within the college. You can now find our staff in the South Hall in the Student Commons Area. My staff is there every Monday and Wednesday from 9:00AM to 12:00PM to be more accessible to you. For a full list of outreach locations and times, please visit my website here. Supporting Mental Health in Montgomery County
This week, I met with Whitney Hallman, who volunteers with NAMI Montgomery County. She shared with me the important work NAMI Montco is doing to support individuals, families, veterans, and first responders in our community. I’m proud to co-sponsor the Family Care Act (SB906), a meaningful step toward strengthening support for working families across Pennsylvania. NAMI Montco provides a wide range of free mental health resources, including support groups, educational programs, and services specifically for women veterans and first responders. They will be hosting their annual NAMIWalks Montgomery County on May 16 at 9:00 AM at Temple-Amber, bringing the community together to raise awareness and support for mental health. Learn more and get involved by visiting here. Guest Chaplains Invited to Open Senate Session with a Prayer
When the Senate gathers in Harrisburg to consider legislation, we open session with a non-denominational prayer delivered by a guest chaplain. Religious leaders from across the commonwealth have offered messages of peace, reflection and hope in this role for many years. If you are interested in visiting the state Capitol when the Senate convenes for a session day to take part in this time-honored tradition, please contact my office for more details. Religious leaders of all faiths are welcome to reach out about this opportunity. Interested in Law Enforcement? Check Out This State Police Program
If you are thinking about a future in law enforcement, consider participating in the Pennsylvania State Police Law and Leadership Academy, which offers a 15-week program to experience the process of becoming a cadet. Applicants age 18 and over with a high school diploma or GED can apply. The program covers:
The program runs from early May to early August at six locations statewide. Cadets meet twice a week, with occasional Saturday sessions. You can learn more here. Promoting Reading for Lifelong Success
March is National Reading Month – a time to encourage children, families and communities to make reading a daily habit. Studies show childhood reading difficulties often lead to long-term, negative effects throughout life. Working with our schools to help improve literacy is vital as we help the next generation build a strong educational foundation. As part of the current state budget, we established important evidence-based reading instruction requirements. With a concerted effort, we can dramatically improve students’ chances of success and instill the excitement that comes with fostering a love of reading from a young age.
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