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Dear Friends, This week brought an exciting step forward in our work to expand mental health care access across Pennsylvania. I’m proud to share that the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee has advanced my bill, Senate Bill 583, which would allow Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact. This is a meaningful move toward improving access to care—especially in our rural and underserved communities—and ensuring more Pennsylvanians can connect with the help they need. Read more about this important legislation below. Sincerely, Tracy In this Update:
Advancing Mental Health Access
I’m excited to share a major step forward for mental health care in Pennsylvania. The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee has approved my bill, Senate Bill 583, which would allow Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact. This multi-state agreement would make it easier for licensed social workers in our Commonwealth to practice across state lines—an especially important step for rural and underserved communities facing mental health professional shortages. By joining the compact, Pennsylvania can expand access to telehealth services, create more job opportunities for social workers, and improve mental health care for those in need. With 22 states already participating, this is a chance for Pennsylvania to take meaningful action to strengthen our mental health workforce and improve care across the Commonwealth. Full release here. Senate Committee Advances Bill to Combat High-Tech Auto Theft
The Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced my legislation, Senate Bill 739, which targets the use of devices that spoof or reprogram key fobs—a growing tactic used in high-tech auto theft. These tools allow criminals to bypass security systems and steal vehicles with alarming ease, posing a serious threat to public safety. I’m grateful to Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. for joining me as a co-prime sponsor of this important bill. Together, we’re working to modernize our laws and give law enforcement the tools they need to respond to evolving criminal tactics. Senate Bill 739 now moves to the full Senate for consideration. Full release here. Senate Votes to Preserve Prescription Assistance for Seniors
Legislation to protect thousands of Pennsylvania seniors from losing access to life-sustaining prescriptions passed the Senate unanimously. Senate Bill 731 would exclude Social Security cost-of-living adjustments from income eligibility calculations for the PACE and PACENET programs. The bill would extend the current exclusion from the end of this year to Dec. 31, 2027. Funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery, the PACE and PACENET programs have provided hundreds of thousands of adults 65 and older with low-cost prescriptions. It now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. Hand-Held Cell Phone Ban for Motorists Now in Effect
A law to increase safety on Pennsylvania roads passed by Senate Republicans that makes it illegal to use a handheld cell phone while driving is now in effect. Use is also prohibited when a vehicle is stopped in traffic or at a red light. Drivers may talk using hands-free devices, but holding a phone to make a call, text, get driving directions or check social media is now a citable offense. For the next year, officers may issue written warnings. Formal citations will be issued beginning June 6, 2026. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, distracted drivers were involved in more than 11,000 crashes in Pennsylvania in 2023, outpacing the number of crashes caused by impaired drivers. Appointed to the Pennsylvania Military Community Enhancement Commission
I’m honored to share that I have recently been appointed to the Pennsylvania Military Community Enhancement Commission. I had a productive overview meeting with the Commission team and am eager to collaborate on efforts that support and strengthen Pennsylvania’s military installations and the communities around them. I look forward to working alongside fellow members to promote policies and initiatives that enhance the quality of life for our service members, veterans, and their families across the Commonwealth. Recognizing Wrestling Champions from Faith Christian Academy
I was honored to recognize two outstanding student-athletes from Faith Christian Academy during the 2025 Pennsylvania Wrestling Day of Champions. Adam Waters captured state gold in the 189-pound class with an impressive 11–1 major decision, finishing an undefeated 46–0 season—an incredible achievement. Nick Singer, who was unable to attend, also earned state gold in the 172-pound class with a 12–3 victory. Both Adam and Nick dominated their districts and regional competitions, sweeping titles on their way to state championships. Congratulations to these remarkable young athletes on their hard work, dedication, and success! Floor remarks here. Join Me for a Scam Jam in Pottstown on June 13
Scammers are getting smarter, and it’s more important than ever to stay informed. That’s why I’m inviting you to join me on Friday, June 13, from 10 AM to 12 PM at the TriCounty Active Adult Center in Pottstown for a Scam Jam event focused on protecting yourself and your loved ones from fraud. This free, public event will feature presentations from experts with the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities, the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, the Pottstown Police Department, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the AARP Pennsylvania Office. These experts will share the latest information on common scams, offer tips to safeguard your personal and financial information, and answer your questions. Whether you’ve experienced scam attempts or simply want to be better prepared, this is a valuable opportunity to learn directly from those on the front lines of fraud prevention. The event will be held at 288 Moser Road in Pottstown. To reserve your spot, please visit here. I hope you’ll join us as we work together to protect ourselves and our communities. Local Girl Scouts Visit Harrisburg Office
I enjoyed a wonderful visit today from a local Girl Scout troop in my Harrisburg office. Their thoughtful questions and enthusiasm about the work we do at the Capitol were truly inspiring. It’s always encouraging to see young leaders eager to learn and get involved. Celebrating Bentley Day at Colebrookdale Railroad
This past Saturday, I had the pleasure of stopping by the Colebrookdale Railroad for the 3rd annual Bentley Day. It was a wonderful event that brought our community together in a truly special way. From the beautiful scenic ride to the incredible turnout, the day was filled with joy, connection, and heartfelt support for a meaningful cause. A big thank you to everyone who helped make the day so memorable. I look forward to returning again soon! Ribbon Cutting for Ryan Taylor Graphics
I had the pleasure of attending the ribbon cutting ceremony for Ryan Taylor Graphics this past Saturday. A standout moment was seeing an Exeter police car featuring custom graphics designed by Ryan himself—a true testament to the skill and creativity flourishing right here in our community. Their craftsmanship reflects the outstanding local talent contributing to our area’s growth and pride. I look forward to watching Ryan Taylor Graphics continue to thrive and serve our community with excellence. Bill to Strengthen Enforcement of PFA Orders Passes Senate
The Senate unanimously approved legislation to improve the enforcement of Protection from Abuse (PFA) petitions and orders and properly reimburse law enforcement agencies. A longstanding imbalance in the law directs a portion of PFA-related court fees to county sheriffs, even when local police departments or state troopers process the paperwork. Senate Bill 302 would require sheriffs to transfer the $25 service fee collected through the existing surcharge to the agency completing the service. The bill would also address a critical safety concern and reinforce professional enforcement standards by authorizing only sheriffs or trained law enforcement officers – not private individuals – to serve PFAs. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Approves Bill to Improve Access to Stroke Resources
The Senate unanimously passed legislation that would improve access to stroke resources. Senate Bill 411 would establish a statewide stroke registry administered and maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The registry would improve patient outcomes by giving emergency medical service providers, hospital stroke teams and other health care providers additional resources. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, strokes are the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States. Each year, more than 795,000 people experience a stroke. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. 23andMe Consumers Can Still Protect Their Information
While 23andMe has filed for bankruptcy, consumers should know they still have rights. Notably, if a consumer’s personal or genetic information was exposed in the 2023 data breach, they may file a claim electronically by July 14. People may also wish to delete their profiles and accounts to ensure their personal data is erased from the 23andMe system and not sold as part of the bankruptcy process. Attorney General Dave Sunday says consumers can learn how to delete their genetic data from 23andMe, destroy their 23andMe test sample and revoke permission for their genetic data to be used for research here. Remembering D-Day and Those Who Gave Everything
In one of the most important military actions in history, the Allies began the liberation of Western Europe on June 6, 1944. Each year, there are fewer surviving D-Day veterans, which makes it even more important that we preserve their legacy through education. We must never forget the more than 2,500 Americans who lost their lives turning the tide in World War II. The cost of freedom is high, and they gave everything to defend it for all of us.
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