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Dear Friends, Starting May 7, 2025, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or photo ID card—or another form of federally accepted identification like a valid passport or military ID—to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings and military bases. To help make this process easier for our community, PennDOT is offering special dedicated times at select driver license centers so you can get your REAL ID without the hassle. You can find more details and locations here. If you’re not sure what documents you’ll need, PennDOT also provides a helpful checklist and guidance to walk you through it. Please share this information with friends and loved ones who may benefit from the extra support. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact my office. We’re here to help.
Sincerely,
In this Update:
Poll QuestionThe Pennsylvania General Assembly is working on legislation aimed at strengthening our criminal justice system. One measure, Senate Bill 175, seeks to enhance laws against “swatting” and other false emergency reports by updating the offense of false alarm to public safety agencies. This update would allow courts to order individuals convicted of this crime to pay for the emergency response. Take my poll here. Senate Votes to Strengthen Crime Prevention, Keep Communities Safe
Pennsylvania families deserve to be safe. The Senate took decisive action this week to hold dangerous criminals accountable and approved three key bills to protect Pennsylvania communities. Senate Bill 92 would impose a mandatory minimum 25-year sentence on drug dealers who sell fentanyl resulting in a fatal overdose. Known as Tyler’s Law, after Tyler Shanafelter, who tragically died at the age of 18 after purchasing pills he didn’t realize were laced with fentanyl, SB 92 sends a strong message that those fueling the opioid crisis will face severe consequences. Senate Bill 471 would require prosecutors to notify U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement when a criminal defendant is identified as unlawfully present in the United States. The bill would ensure that individuals who commit serious crimes are transferred to federal custody for removal proceedings. It also would prohibit sanctuary policies that obstruct communication between local law enforcement and federal agencies. Senate Bill 490 would prohibit non-monetary bail for the most threatening individuals, including those who possess 10 grams or more of fentanyl, have a history of violent crime or assault a law enforcement officer. These bills reflect Senate Republicans’ commitment to fighting crime, protecting Pennsylvania families and ensuring that our law enforcement officials have the tools they need to uphold justice. Each measure builds upon broader efforts to make Pennsylvania a safer place to live, work and raise a family. Senate Acts Against False Emergency Threats at Schools
The Senate this week approved legislation to crack down on false emergency threats targeting schools, a move aimed at enhancing public safety and reducing the strain on emergency responders. The bill, which also passed the Senate in the previous legislative session, now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Bill 96 would establish new felony penalties for individuals who make hoax emergency reports involving educational institutions. If signed into law, making a false report of an emergency threat to a school would be classified as a third-degree felony, and courts would be allowed to impose financial penalties to recover the costs incurred by taxpayers for emergency response efforts. The legislation comes in response to a troubling rise in hoax threats made against schools across Pennsylvania, causing fear among students and parents while diverting law enforcement and emergency personnel from real emergencies. Senate Bill 96 is part of a broader effort to safeguard schools and hold bad actors accountable. May 7 is the REAL ID Deadline
Beginning May 7, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license/photo ID card or another form of federally acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board a domestic commercial flight or enter a federal building or military installation that requires ID. Only about 26% of Pennsylvania drivers have replaced their standard driver’s license with a REAL ID. REAL IDs are available now and will continue to be available to Pennsylvanians after the May 7 enforcement deadline. Learn more about REAL ID documentation requirements and find a printable checklist for required REAL ID documents here. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is offering dedicated times at specific driver license centers to help Pennsylvanians get their REAL ID. Some centers will be able to process and issue a REAL ID at the time of service. Others will be able to verify and image your documents. You will then receive your REAL ID by mail within 15 business days. Dates for these REAL ID Days include April 7, April 14, April 28 and May 5 – all Mondays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Customers who want a REAL ID but aren’t able to attend a REAL ID Day may visit any REAL ID Center to receive a REAL ID at the time of service, visit any PennDOT Driver License Center to have documents verified and then receive REAL ID within 15 business days or apply online (pre-verified customers only). Month of the Military Child
April is the Month of the Military Child—a time to recognize the strength and sacrifices of the children in our military families. As a veteran and a mother, I know firsthand the challenges they face. That’s why I cosponsored Senate Resolution 64 to officially recognize April as the Month of the Military Child here in Pennsylvania. Last week, I spoke on the Senate floor about their resilience and the support they deserve. Let’s continue to show our appreciation for these incredible kids. They serve too! Interview with Paula Scanlan: Advocating for Fairness in Women’s Sports
I had the opportunity to interview former University of Pennsylvania swimmer Paula Scanlan, who witnessed firsthand the challenges facing women’s sports—including being forced to change in a locker room with a biological male. As a strong advocate for female athletes, she voiced her support for Senate Bill 9, which I am proud to cosponsor to ensure women have a fair opportunity to compete. I admire her courage in sharing her experience and advocating for female athletes. We must continue working to preserve fairness and protect opportunities for women in sports. Watch full interview here. $485K Grant Secured to Improve Key Upper Hanover Intersection
I was proud to join Rep. Milou Mackenzie in presenting a $485,600 PennDOT ARLE grant to Upper Hanover Township to support much-needed traffic infrastructure improvements. This funding will be used to modernize traffic signals and make minor widening improvements at the intersection of Route 663 and Schoolhouse Road/Montgomery Avenue. These updates will improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and increase safety for both drivers and pedestrians. Investing in our transportation infrastructure is a critical part of strengthening our communities. This project is a great example of how state resources can be used to meet local needs and support smart, safe growth. Full release here. CTE Day at the Capitol
It was an honor to welcome students from Pottstown High School Career and Technical Education, Berks Career & Technology Center, Western Montgomery Career and Technology Center, and SkillsUSA to the Capitol last week for CTE Day! These students are the future of our workforce, and it’s inspiring to see their passion and commitment to career and technical education. Thank you for showcasing your talents and the value of hands-on learning! Welcoming Reverend James M. Cox of Schwenksville as Guest Chaplain
I had the privilege of welcoming Reverend James M. Cox of Saint Mary Roman Catholic Church in Schwenksville as our guest chaplain. He delivered a heartfelt opening prayer, and it was a pleasure to recognize his dedication to faith and service. I was also happy to welcome his cousin, Eric Cox, for this special occasion! Watch here. Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program Assistance at Boyertown Area Multi-Service
My office will be providing in-person assistance for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program at the Boyertown Area Multi-Service (The Center at Spring Street), located at 200 W. Spring Street, Boyertown. This assistance will be available every Thursday through April 10. The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program helps eligible Pennsylvanians receive rebates on property taxes or rent they paid in the previous year. The program benefits seniors aged 65 and older, widows and widowers aged 50 and older, and individuals with disabilities aged 18 and older. In 2024, the income limits were raised to $46,520 per year for both homeowners and renters, which means more people may now qualify for this valuable assistance. Applications for 2024 Property Tax/Rent Rebates are due by June 30, 2025. To schedule an appointment, please call my Red Hill office at (215) 541-2388. For more information on the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, visit here. Millions in Unclaimed Property—Could Some Be Yours?
Did you know that millions of dollars in unclaimed property are waiting to be returned to their rightful owners? It’s possible that some of this property could be yours! To help residents search Pennsylvania’s unclaimed property database and file claims, my office will be at the Boyertown Area Multi-Service (200 W. Spring Street, Boyertown, PA 19512) on April 11, and April 25 from 10 AM to 2 PM. If you’re interested in reclaiming what’s rightfully yours, please schedule an appointment by calling (215) 541-2388. Don’t miss this opportunity to check and recover any unclaimed property that may belong to you! 4th Annual Youth Fishing Derby – April 12
I’m thrilled to invite you to my 4th Annual Youth Fishing Derby on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Camp Wawa Park in Schwenksville! This event promises to be a day of fun and learning for all ages, with activities designed to engage the community and educate participants about the rich diversity of Pennsylvania’s wildlife. You’ll have the chance to learn about our native birds, mammals, and the importance of environmental conservation, while enjoying some time on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to fishing, everyone is welcome to join in on the fun! Don’t forget to bring your own fishing poles and bait to make the most of the experience. This event is open to all youth, and I encourage families to come out, explore the outdoors, and connect with others in the community. For more information or to register, please visit my website or contact my Red Hill office at (215) 541-2388. I look forward to seeing you there for a morning of fishing, fun, and learning! Women Veterans Ceremony – June 10
I am proud to announce that I’ll be hosting my third annual Women Veterans Ceremony at the Capitol on June 10, 2025. This event, which began following the passage of my 2022 legislation designating June 12 as Women Veterans Day in Pennsylvania, is dedicated to honoring the service of women veterans across our great Commonwealth. I truly believe that the contributions of women in the military deserve the recognition they’ve earned, and I’m thrilled to provide a platform where we can celebrate the incredible women who have served our country. I hope all women veterans from every branch of the military will join us for this special tribute. The Women Veterans Ceremony has grown year after year, and this time, we’re offering a digital display at the Capitol so that an even larger audience can experience and celebrate the stories of these remarkable women. The display will also be available online, and will go live on June 9, 2025, at www.senatorpennycuick.com. If you were featured in last year’s display, you can easily update your submission form here. For new participants, I encourage you to share your service story by completing the required submission form. The deadline for entries is May 9, 2025. This event is a chance to honor the extraordinary contributions of women throughout our history, and I can’t wait to continue recognizing their exceptional service and unwavering dedication. I look forward to seeing you there! Free Tax Prep Services Available for Qualified Individuals
Free tax preparation services are available to individuals and families who qualify through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The IRS-sponsored initiative serves households earning approximately $60,000 or less, those with disabilities, the elderly and individuals with limited English proficiency. To find a VITA site near you, dial 211, visit the PA 211 website or use the IRS’s VITA locator tool. It’s essential to make an appointment in advance, as many VITA sites operate on a seasonal basis and appointments can fill quickly. Be sure to bring necessary documents. Households with an annual income of $73,000 or less can file their federal and state tax forms online for free through MyFreeTaxes.com. The user-friendly platform allows filers to easily navigate the tax preparation process at their own pace and features live support from IRS-certified specialists. MyFreeTaxes.com uses secure, IRS-approved software to protect your personal information and data. April is National Donate Life Month
For the 23rd year, we recognize April as an opportunity to raise awareness about organ donation. In the season that represents new beginnings, we honor donors, recipients, their families, caregivers and the clinical teams that make it all possible. More than 6,000 Pennsylvanians are awaiting organ transplants. Organ donation can save up to eight lives, and tissue donation can enhance the lives of 75 others by helping them recover from trauma, spinal injuries, burns and vision loss. If you aren’t an organ or tissue donor yet but would like to be, there’s no need to wait until you get or renew your driver’s license, learner’s permit or photo ID. It’s easy to register online to donate. There are no costs to the donor’s family for donation. Paramedics, doctors and nurses remain committed to doing everything possible to save donors’ lives. Learn more.
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