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Dear Friends, As Chair of the Senate Communications and Technology Committee, I will be joining the Senate and House Policy Committees next week for a joint hearing to discuss the future of AI innovation in Pennsylvania. As we look to the future, it’s crucial that we understand the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence. The hearing is part of an ongoing discussion to ensure Pennsylvania remains competitive, forward-thinking, and prepared to lead in this rapidly evolving field. AI presents amazing opportunities, but also very serious concerns. If you are interested in listening in, the hearing will be livestreamed here on Wednesday, April 16 at 9 a.m. Sincerely,
In this Update:
Poll ResultsThank you to everyone who weighed in on our recent poll about Senate Bill 175, which targets “swatting” and false emergency reports. The bill aims to strengthen penalties by allowing courts to require convicted individuals to cover the costs of emergency responses. The results are in… Yes: 92% Your feedback is invaluable as we work to improve public safety and hold individuals accountable for these harmful actions. Youth Fishing Derby Cancelled Due to Weather Forecast
After carefully considering the forecasted weather conditions, I have made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Youth Fishing Derby, scheduled for Saturday, April 12. The safety of all our participants is my top priority, and I believe this is the best course of action given the expected conditions. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Stay safe and dry this weekend, and we look forward to casting lines with you next year! Over $4 Billion in Unclaimed Property Awaiting Pennsylvanians
Did you know there’s more than $4 billion in unclaimed property waiting to be returned to Pennsylvanians? That includes over $250 million in Montgomery County and more than $64 million in Berks County! I recently had the opportunity to tour the unclaimed property vault with Treasurer Stacy Garrity, gaining firsthand insight into how her team is working to reunite individuals with lost or forgotten assets. From old paychecks and tax refunds to military medals and family heirlooms, there’s a good chance something may belong to you. To check if you have unclaimed property, please visit here. Take a look inside the vault and see how your forgotten assets might be waiting to be returned! Raising Awareness for National Child Abuse Prevention Month
In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, I’ve placed blue pinwheels in front of my office as a visual reminder of the ongoing need to protect children from abuse and neglect. The pinwheel symbolizes the bright, healthy future that every child deserves. It serves as a call to action for all of us to be more proactive in supporting organizations like Mission Kids, who provide critical services to children and families facing difficult circumstances. Together, we can work toward a community where every child is given the safety, care, and opportunities they need to thrive. A heartfelt thank you to Mission Kids for their incredible work in making a difference for children and families in our community. Preston’s Pantry Wish List
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! Collegeville Borough Awarded $533,000 Grant for Recreational Trail Improvements and Streambank Restoration
I was pleased to join officials from Collegeville Borough for the presentation of a $533,000 state grant aimed at enhancing local recreational trails and restoring the streambank along the Perkiomen Creek. This funding will support key improvements to the trail network, making it more accessible for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as walking and biking. In addition, the streambank restoration project will help protect the local ecosystem and improve the overall environmental health of the area. These projects are a significant step forward in improving Collegeville’s public spaces, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on the community. Supporting Our Community Through Meals on Wheels
Each year, I have the privilege of assisting with the Meals on Wheels program through Family Services of Montgomery County. This week’s experience served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community support and the significant impact of providing nutritious meals to those in need. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this vital initiative and for the continued dedication of all those who work to ensure our neighbors receive the care they deserve. Programs like Meals on Wheels are essential in strengthening our communities, and I am proud to support this effort. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at The Museum at Hoppenville
I was honored to take part in the ribbon cutting ceremony at The Museum at Hoppenville, a wonderful reminder of the importance of preserving our local history. This museum is a true gem in our community, providing visitors with a glimpse into the stories and traditions that helped shape our region. A special thank you to everyone who continues to care for and share this local treasure. It was a pleasure to be part of the celebration and witness the continued commitment to preserving the rich history of our area for future generations. Touring Upper Montgomery Joint Authority
This week, I had the opportunity to tour the Upper Montgomery Joint Authority wastewater treatment plant, where I gained valuable insight into the important work being done to keep our water clean and our environment protected. It was fascinating to learn about the innovative processes used in water treatment and the technology that drives their operations. The tour highlighted the critical role these facilities play in maintaining the health and sustainability of our local water systems. Along the way, I also had the chance to meet an unexpected little visitor, adding a fun moment to an informative and engaging experience. I want to thank the team at the Upper Montgomery Joint Authority for their warm welcome and for the crucial work they do every day to ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for our community. Phoenix Physical Therapy Celebrates One-Year Anniversary in Pennsburg
I had the pleasure of joining Phoenix Physical Therapy in Pennsburg to celebrate their one-year anniversary. During the event, I presented Farryn Kauffman, PT, DPT, Clinic Director, with a Senate citation to recognize their outstanding service to the local community. In just one year, Phoenix Physical Therapy has made a significant impact by providing top-quality care and support to patients. It’s been inspiring to see the positive difference they’ve already made, and I look forward to seeing their continued success and impact in the years ahead. Boyertown Area School District Students Prepare for PA State Youth and Government Convention
I recently had the opportunity to connect with students from the Boyertown Area School District at the Boyertown YMCA as they prepare for the upcoming PA State Youth and Government convention. During our time together, we discussed the legislative process, my work in Harrisburg, and what they can expect when they visit the Capitol. It was inspiring to see such a motivated group of young individuals eager to learn more about the inner workings of government. I’m confident they will represent Boyertown with pride at the convention. Best of luck to all of them as they take on this incredible opportunity! Senate Passes Bill Benefitting Career and Technical Schools
Career and technical education prepares students for rewarding, family-sustaining careers, often at a significantly reduced cost compared to attending college. Pennsylvania is in great need of people with this training, and there are many job openings waiting to be filled. To ensure people have the training needed for these jobs, the Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 315. The legislation would provide more certainty regarding grant funding for career and technical education equipment by making funding calculations before the school year in which the allocation occurs. Currently, schools are reimbursed after they have made purchases based on calculations made near the end of the school year. Read more about career and technical education opportunities in the commonwealth. Program Increasing Digital Connectivity to Provide Laptops
The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) is accepting applications for its Digital Connectivity Technology Program. Through the program, the PBDA will purchase and distribute $20 million in devices such as laptops for eligible public-facing institutions including libraries, workforce training organizations, not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, and other institutions that can offer internet access to individuals who lack the technology. PBDA strongly encourages interested applicants to review the program FAQ before applying. The FAQ, pre-recorded webinar providing an overview of the program, guidelines and online application are available here. Applications must be submitted by Friday, May 30. School Safety Report Available Now
Students deserve to feel safe while they’re learning, and their families should be confident that extensive efforts are made to ensure that happens. Senate Republicans have prioritized fostering healthy and safe communities, which include schools. Part of that work includes requiring and conducting a report to evaluate school safety initiatives and how they can be adjusted to more effectively protect students. The Legislative Budget and Finance Committee’s report highlighted the need for security assessments of school buildings and certification requirements for school safety and security coordinators. Other key findings include collecting and analyzing more relevant data – such as tips made using the Safe2Say Something Program – and improving how the data already being collected is shared. Find the full report here. Purple Star Schools Support Military Children
Military children face unique challenges as a result of frequent moves and parental deployments. To give them the best chance of success, Senate Republicans passed Act 69 of 2022. The law created the Purple Star designation for schools that demonstrate their commitment to supporting military families. Many schools have embraced this program and stepped up to help the children of our service members. Purple Star Schools go the extra mile to provide stability, resources and a welcoming community for military children, ensuring they have every opportunity to thrive. Pennsylvania has 37,000 children with parents serving in the military – and 80% of these children are in kindergarten through grade 12 and attend public schools. Learn more about Purple Star Schools. Passover Begins on April 12
Saturday marks the beginning of Passover, the eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the Israelites’ emancipation from slavery in ancient Egypt. I hope it’s a warm occasion of family and friends for all who observe.
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