|
||
|
Mobile Office Hours – Times & Locations! Dear Friends, I wanted to make you aware that today, Friday, June 5, Pennsylvania’s Paul Miller’s Law will go into effect. Named in honor of Paul Miller Jr., who was killed in 2010 by a distracted driver, the law prohibits drivers from using a handheld mobile device while operating a motor vehicle. During the last year, law enforcement officers issued written warnings to educate drivers about the new requirements. Beginning today, violations will carry a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees. Act 18 of 2024 prohibits drivers from using a handheld interactive mobile device while driving, including while temporarily stopped in traffic or at a red light. Drivers may still use hands-free technology and exceptions exist for emergency situations. The measure was signed into law in 2024 and took effect June 5, 2025, with a one-year warning period before citations could be issued. Beginning June 5, 2026, violations will be punishable as a summary offense. For more information about Paul Miller’s Law, motorists can visit the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s distracted driving resource page. Drive safely! Sincerely,
In this Update:
Women Veterans Day Commemoration — Updated Time & Location
As we prepare for my 4th Annual Women Veterans Day Commemoration at the Capitol on June 10, I want to share an important update regarding the event details. The ceremony will now take place at a revised time and location at the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg. Updated information is included below: Wednesday, June 10, 2026 Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s “What Service Means to Me” reflection project. Submissions are now closed, and I am grateful to the women veterans across Pennsylvania who shared their experiences, sacrifices, and perspectives on military service. These reflections help ensure we properly honor the meaningful contributions of women veterans throughout the Commonwealth. Supporting Strong Literacy Skills for Pennsylvania Students
Learning to read is one of the most important building blocks for success in school, the workforce, and everyday life. That is why I was pleased to join the Pennsylvania Literacy Coalition to discuss the importance of implementing Act 47, landmark legislation that will strengthen literacy education across the Commonwealth. Act 47 will bring evidence-based reading instruction, enhanced educator training, and universal literacy screening for students in kindergarten through third grade. These tools will help identify reading challenges early and provide students with the support they need to succeed. While passing the legislation was a significant achievement, effective implementation will be key to ensuring its success. By investing in literacy, we are investing in Pennsylvania’s children, strengthening our communities, and building a brighter future for generations to come. Senate Approves Child Protection in the Digital Age Task Force Measure
This week, the Pennsylvania Senate passed Senate Resolution 244, which I introduced to establish a Task Force on Child Protection in the Digital Age. The resolution directs the Joint State Government Commission to convene a task force that will meet at least once every two years to review Pennsylvania’s existing laws, assess emerging technologies, and identify gaps in protections for children online. The commission will then issue findings and recommendations to the General Assembly. This measure builds on previous efforts to address online harms, including Act 125 of 2024 addressing AI-generated child sexual abuse material and Act 35 of 2025 classifying deepfakes as digital forgery. By establishing an ongoing review process, this legislation ensures Pennsylvania’s laws keep pace with emerging technologies and continue to strengthen protections for children in the digital age. Celebrating State Wrestling Champions at the Capitol
Congratulations to the student-athletes who visited the Capitol this week in recognition of their state wrestling championships! It was an honor to welcome these talented wrestlers and celebrate the dedication, discipline, and countless hours of hard work that led to their success. Their accomplishments reflect not only their individual commitment, but also the support and encouragement of their coaches, teammates, families, and school communities. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement, and best wishes as you continue to build on your success in the future. Supporting the Telford Diving & Rescue Unit
On Saturday, I was pleased to visit the Telford Diving & Rescue Unit to announce a new $75,000 state grant to support their important work. This investment will help the unit purchase new rescue equipment, including a utility truck, enhancing their ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations. I am grateful for the dedication of these volunteers who put themselves on the line every day to protect our community, and I am proud to have helped deliver this funding to ensure they have the tools and resources they need to carry out their mission safely and effectively. Welcoming Diane Granger and Family to the Capitol
It was great to have Diane Granger and her family join us at the Capitol this week. The Grangers are active members of the East Greenville community, and it was a pleasure to recognize them during Session. I was glad they were able to spend the day with us and take part in this special experience. Punxsutawney Phil Visits the Capitol
A little excitement at the Capitol this week with a visit from Pennsylvania’s most famous weather forecaster, Punxsutawney Phil! Senate Approves Bills to Make Housing More Attainable Across PA
The Senate acted to help alleviate Pennsylvania’s growing housing shortage by approving three bills to expand access to housing while preserving local control. Senate Bill 1279 creates a Housing Development Regulatory Compliance Officer to improve coordination and efficiency in the permitting process. Senate Bill 1236 reduces regulatory burdens on small-scale home construction projects by reforming the stormwater permitting process. Senate Bill 1281 empowers local governments to streamline approval processes using uniform housing plans, helping reduce delays and cut unnecessary red tape. These reforms reduce several of the barriers contributing to Pennsylvania’s housing shortage, helping create more opportunities for homeownership while giving communities the flexibility to encourage growth in a way that reflects local needs and priorities. The bills were sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Cellphone Law to Reduce Distracted Driving Takes Full Effect
After a one-year warning period, a state law aimed at reducing distracted driving is now fully enforceable. The law prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light or other delays. Drivers can still use their phones to alert authorities in the event of an emergency and use hands-free technology to make phone calls, use a GPS and listen to music. Drivers convicted of using a hand-held device while driving will pay a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees under Paul Miller’s Law. The law is named for Paul Miller Jr., who was tragically killed in a 2010 Monroe County crash by a tractor trailer operator distracted while reaching for his phone while driving. Read more about this new law here. Protecting Yourself During Tick Season
Pennsylvania recorded more than 18,700 cases of Lyme disease in 2025, and the Centers for Disease Control estimates the true number may be much higher due to underreporting. Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses can cause serious long-term health complications, particularly when left untreated. Nearly 55% of ticks tested in Pennsylvania were found to carry at least one tick-borne pathogen, and blacklegged ticks have now been identified in all 67 counties. You can protect yourself by using repellent, avoiding brushy areas and checking your body and pets after outdoor activities. Learn more about protecting yourself from ticks here. Remembering D-Day
On June 6, 1944, the fate of Europe would be determined by the largest amphibious invasion in history, including 13,000 aircraft and gliders, 23,400 paratroopers, 5,000 ships and landing craft and 160,000 American, British and Canadian troops. More than 9,000 Allied servicemen were killed or wounded that day in northern France. It is our responsibility as Americans to honor their bravery, tell the stories of their heroism and preserve what they defended so their sacrifices were not in vain. |
||
|
||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2026 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorpennycuick.com | Privacy Policy |
