Senator Pennycuick E-Newsletter

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Dear Friends,

As technology continues to advance, data center development is becoming an increasingly important topic in communities across Pennsylvania. I recently wrote an op-ed highlighting the importance of transparency, local input, and thoughtful planning when considering projects that can have a significant impact on residents and local infrastructure. I encourage you to read more about why community engagement must remain part of the conversation.

You can read my full op-ed here.

Sincerely,

Sen. Pennycuick Signature

In this Update:

  • Addressing the Risks of AI Deepfakes and Protecting Our Children
  • Honoring the Sacrifice of Montgomery County’s Fallen Officers
  • Helping Residents Reclaim Over $31,000 in Unclaimed Property in the 24th District
  • Inspiring the Next Generation of Youth and Government
  • Cutting Costs for PA Families by Ending Outdated Emissions Testing
  • Ending State Funding for Gender Transition of Children
  • Remove Invasive Plants, Get a Free Native Replacement
  • Save for Education and the Opportunity to Win $5,529
  • Mammo May: No-Cost Breast Cancer Screenings and Diagnostic Imaging

Addressing the Risks of AI Deepfakes and Protecting Our Children

Senator Pennycuick speaking as a panelist at AI event

I recently participated in an important conversation on AI deepfakes and what every parent should know.

As artificial intelligence continues to advance, so do the risks facing children and families. Deepfakes are already having real impacts in our schools and communities, making it more important than ever to stay informed and prepared.

It was valuable to join experts, advocates, and families impacted by this issue to discuss the challenges we are seeing today, as well as practical steps parents and community leaders can take to help protect young people in the digital age.

As your state Senator, I’m pleased to have several bills signed into law to protect our kids from the dangers of AI deepfakes, including Act 125 of 2024, to combat AI generated child sexual abuse materials (CSAM); Act 35 of 2025 to classify deepfakes as digital forgery. In addition, Senate Bill 1050, which would strengthen reporting requirements for AI-generated CSAM, and Senate Bill 1090, which would establish commonsense safeguards for AI chatbots accessible by minors have passed the Senate.

Honoring the Sacrifice of Montgomery County’s Fallen Officers

Senator Pennycuick and Commissioner Tom DiBello at Memorial

Last week, I attended the Montgomery County Police Officers Annual Memorial Ceremony, a solemn and meaningful event honoring the brave officers who gave their lives in the line of duty.

The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and dedication carried by those who wear the badge. We also remembered the families, friends, and fellow officers who continue to carry the weight of that loss each day.

We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to these heroes. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

Helping Residents Reclaim Over $31,000 in Unclaimed Property in the 24th District

Looking inside of a vault in the PA Treasury Department.

This week, I hosted an Unclaimed Property Day in partnership with the Pennsylvania Treasury to help residents search for money and assets that may be owed to them.

Together, Treasury and my staff identified over $31,000 in unclaimed property for constituents in the district, with more than 20 individuals beginning claims across both locations at Montgomery County Community College and Trappe Borough.

All residents are welcome to stop by my office to receive assistance searching for unclaimed property.

There is still more than $4 million in unclaimed property across the 24th District, belonging to over 4,000 residents. This is real money that rightfully belongs back in the hands of local families, and I remain committed to helping residents recover what is rightfully theirs.

Check to see if you have unclaimed property.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Youth and Government

Senator Pennycuick speaking to group of students

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Boyertown Middle School East to speak with students participating in the Youth and Government Club. It was encouraging to see so many young people engaged in the democratic process, learning about leadership, and preparing to become informed and active citizens. Their enthusiasm and thoughtful participation were truly inspiring, and I look forward to seeing all they accomplish in the future.

Submit Your Reflection: What Service Means to You

Tell Us Your Story Honoring Women Veterans Your Service Your Sacrifice June 10, 2026 11:30 a.m. The Capitol Building

As we prepare for my 4th Annual Women Veterans Day Commemoration at the Capitol on June 10, 2026, I want to remind women veterans across Pennsylvania to participate in this year’s special reflection project, “What Service Means to Me.”

This initiative provides an opportunity for women veterans to share their personal experiences, sacrifices, and perspectives on military service. Selected reflections may be featured during the commemoration as we honor the important contributions women veterans have made throughout the Commonwealth.

To learn more and submit your reflection, please visit here.

Cutting Costs for PA Families by Ending Outdated Emissions Testing

Late model white SUV in motion on asphalt highway with green trees and vegetation in background.

Taking legislative action to do away with an outdated and unnecessary mandate, the Senate voted to eliminate the vehicle emissions testing requirement across the commonwealth. The measure will save Pennsylvanians an estimated $160 million annually.

Senate Bill 1298 would remove all 25 counties currently subjected to annual emissions testing. It also clarifies that no additional counties can be added into the program, protecting Pennsylvania vehicle owners.

The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Read more about Senate Bill 1298 here.

Ending State Funding for Gender Transition of Children

White hospital corridor with while lights above and blue doors on left and worker in blue scrubs waking down the hall.

Legislation to end state funding for the gender transition of children was approved by the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee.

The measure follows recent guidance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services stating gender-related medical interventions for minors do not meet professionally recognized standards of care. Senate Bill 1321 would require the state to withhold Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program funding for any procedure conflicting with federal standards.

At least half of U.S. states have passed similar laws. The U.K. banned the use of puberty blockers and sex-reassignment surgeries for minors in 2024. The measure now heads to the full Senate for consideration. Read more about Senate Bill 1321.

Remove Invasive Plants, Get a Free Native Replacement

Outdoor area overgrown with 3-foot-tall green invasive weeds.

Registration is open for the opportunity to receive free native trees and shrubs by removing invasive plants from your property.

You can participate in the Pennsylvania Invasive Replace-ive Program by removing an invasive tree or shrub from your property or with permission from a property owner (such as a park, library or school), taking a photo of the removed plants and attending an event to receive a replacement plant.

It’s available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Learn more and register here.

Save for Education and the Opportunity to Win $5,529

Six increasingly higher stacks of quarters with the last stack topped by a small graduation cap and tassel.

State Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced the fifth annual 529 Day Promotion is running throughout May. Pennsylvania families who contribute at least $10 to their PA 529 account this month could be eligible to win one of six regional awards of $5,529 to boost their education savings.

The PA 529 College and Career Savings Program is a tax-advantaged way for families to save for a wide variety of education, including technical training, college, apprenticeship, credential program and K-12 expenses. Saving with a PA 529 does not impact eligibility for Pennsylvania state financial aid.

The PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan helps families save at today’s tuition rates to cover tomorrow’s tuition expenses and the PA 529 Investment Plan offers a wide variety of investment options to choose from. Find official rules and learn more about how to make an eligible contribution here.

Mammo May: No-Cost Breast Cancer Screenings and Diagnostic Imaging

Large fountain with pink water outside Pennsylvania Capitol and words “No-cost breast cancer screenings and diagnostic imaging.

In Pennsylvania, we’ve enacted laws to cover breast cancer screenings and diagnostic breast imaging at no cost for individuals with state-regulated insurance. I urge women to take advantage of these potentially lifesaving laws.

Under Act 1 of 2023, supplemental screenings including breast MRI, ultrasounds and BRCA-related genetic testing and counseling are covered at no cost for those with an increased risk who are insured under PA law. Under Act 52 of 2025, which is currently in the implementation stage, diagnostic breast imaging including diagnostic mammograms, breast MRI and ultrasounds are covered at no cost for individuals insured under state law who are of average risk or higher. 

Learn more about no-cost screenings here. Learn more about no-cost diagnostic imaging here.

Information on no-cost mammograms for those without insurance can be found here.

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