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Dear Friends, As the state budget impasse enters its 4th month, I am continuing the fight for a responsible spending plan that helps Pennsylvania thrive and grow without overburdening taxpayers with unsustainable levels of new spending. I believe we can – and should – provide counties, school districts, social service providers and others with the critical resources they need right now. The Senate voted to do just that in August. A report from Pennsylvania’s Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) forecasts poor growth for the rest of the decade, with expenditures up 18% and revenues 11%. According to the IFO’s projections, this culminates in a $6.8 billion budget deficit in FY 2029–30. We simply cannot continue to spend at the rate the House of Representatives is proposing. Their proposal would result in huge tax increases as soon as next year since we do not have the revenue to pay for increasing the cost of government. To generate new revenue, the Governor called for taxing skills games and legalizing marijuana. However, any taxing measures would take several years to implement and would generate only a fraction of the revenue projected by the Governor. According to the IFO, Pennsylvania would generate $100 million in FY 2025-26 from taxing skills games, and states that have legalized recreational marijuana average revenue is roughly $60 million – not the $536 million the Governor estimates. We also must continue to protect Medicaid for those who need it. I believe we will come to an agreement soon and understand how important it is that we do so. I will continue to keep you updated. Sincerely,
In this Update:
Protecting Children from AI-Generated Exploitation
I recently joined Senator Scott Martin and Senator Lisa Baker to introduce legislation addressing the disturbing rise of AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Our bill, Senate Bill 1050, ensures that all instances of CSAM, including those created using artificial intelligence, are reported to the proper authorities. As technology continues to evolve, so must our laws to protect children from new and emerging threats online. Protecting children from digital exploitation is one of our most urgent responsibilities. This legislation builds on our ongoing efforts to strengthen Pennsylvania’s child protection laws, support victims, and hold offenders fully accountable. Senate Votes to Expand College Aid for Foster Children
I’m proud to share that the Senate has approved my legislation to expand tuition aid for foster children and adopted youth to cover those from other states, attracting talented students to help fill in-demand jobs and boost the commonwealth’s weak population growth. Senate Bill 432 would expand the Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program, which waives higher education tuition and fees for children in the foster care system and those who were adopted. The program is currently available only to state residents and the legislation would expand it to eligible nonresident students for undergraduate courses at Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education schools. The measure builds on the GROW PA plan I supported last year to improve Pennsylvania’s competitiveness by, among other steps, attracting and retaining students to pursue college degrees. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Strengthening Ties with Taiwan
It was an honor to welcome Ambassador Tom Chih-Chiang Lee and the Taiwanese delegation to the Capitol. Together with Senator Gene Yaw and Representative David Rowe, we had a productive discussion about ways to further strengthen the important relationship between the Republic of Taiwan and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Our conversation focused on expanding our partnership in the energy sector, an area where collaboration can drive innovation, economic growth, and mutual prosperity. Pennsylvania deeply values its friendship with Taiwan and our shared commitment to advancing technology, trade, and sustainable development. Bill Targeting Catalytic Converter Thefts Passed by Senate
Pennsylvania is one of the top states in the country for catalytic converter thefts, with thieves targeting the car part for its precious metals – leaving families and businesses to deal with the costly aftermath. We passed legislation to strengthen regulations and equip law enforcement with better tools to track and prosecute offenders. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Bill 914 repeals the Scrap Metal Theft Prevention Act and moves the requirements to Title 18, the Crimes Code. Title 18 requires scrap processors and recycling facilities to collect buyer information, set commercial-account rules, restrict purchases of certain materials and create penalties. Honoring Major General Arthur St. Clair and 135 Years of the DAR
Congratulations to the Mahanatawny Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Pottstown on the dedication of the Historical Marker honoring Major General Arthur St. Clair. This important recognition celebrates the legacy of a distinguished Revolutionary War leader and his contributions to our nation’s founding. The event also marked the 135th anniversary of the founding of the National Society of the DAR. I was honored to prepare a certificate to commemorate this meaningful milestone and to recognize the chapter’s continued commitment to preserving Pennsylvania’s rich history and patriotic heritage. Constellation Awards $1.1 Million to Support Environmental Sustainability Projects
Constellation recently announced the recipients of its 2025 CLEAN Environment Awards, providing nearly $1.1 million in funding to support 46 nonprofit projects across the country that are advancing environmental sustainability and community impact. Constellation’s CLEAN Environment Awards highlight leadership in environmental restoration, biodiversity enhancement, and community collaboration. These investments reflect the company’s continued commitment to supporting clean energy, environmental stewardship, and sustainability across Pennsylvania and beyond. You can view the full list of 2025 CLEAN Environment Award recipients, along with the 2024 winners, on Constellation’s website here. Nominations Open for the 22nd Annual Berks County Heroes Breakfast
Do you know a hero in your community? Nominations are now open for the 22nd Annual Berks County Heroes Breakfast. This special event honors the remarkable individuals who go above and beyond to serve others, whether they are first responders, healthcare professionals or everyday citizens who make a difference through selfless acts of kindness. The nomination deadline is November 7. To learn more and submit a nomination, visit the American Red Cross nomination form. Students Invited to Participate in Statewide Financial Literacy Art Competition
The Pennsylvania Auditor General’s Office has launched a new financial literacy competition for students in grades K–12 across the Commonwealth, and they’re looking for young artists to help design the cover of their upcoming Be Money $mart activity book! This engaging activity book will include coloring pages, word searches, crosswords, and budgeting worksheets, all focused on teaching important financial literacy concepts in a fun and interactive way. The winning student’s artwork will be featured on the cover of the book, and the winner will also be recognized at the Pennsylvania Farm Show and receive a special visit to their class or school from the Pennsylvania Auditor General. Copies of the Be Money $mart activity book will be distributed statewide at the Farm Show and through libraries, YMCAs, and credit unions. To learn more or submit an entry, visit the Auditor General’s website. This is a great opportunity for students to showcase their creativity while learning valuable lessons about money management and financial responsibility. Open Government: Tracking How Your Tax Dollars are Spent
Government is funded by money paid by taxpayers, and these resources are available to shed light on how those dollars are being spent by the commonwealth. The PennWATCH website allows citizens to keep tabs on the state budget, spending and revenue. Pennsylvania also makes it easy for people to review state purchases, lobbyist registrations and reports and campaign finance reports. Announced earlier this year by state Treasurer Stacy Garrity, OpenBookPA is a vast resource of data and information related to state finances. It includes the Fiscal Health Scorecard, the daily balance of every state fund and the Contracts e-Library, which allows people to search all state contracts valued at $5,000 or more. Give Your Feedback on PennDOT Construction, Maintenance Services
Through Oct. 21, motorists can take an online survey to give their feedback on Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) construction and maintenance services. The 22-question survey asks participants how they receive PennDOT roadway information and how often PennDOT meets or exceeds expectations in construction and maintenance activities. Respondents are also asked about experiences with reporting concerns to the department, and whether or how they use the state’s 511PA traveler information services. PennDOT is directly responsible for nearly 40,000 miles of highway and 25,400 bridges. A summary of recent projects and funds spent can be found in the 2024 Annual Report. Expanding Coverage of Breast Cancer Screenings
Earlier this year, the Senate passed a bill to expand insurance coverage for breast cancer screenings, including MRIs and ultrasounds, with no out-of-pocket costs. It was another major step forward in early detection and access to care. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’m hopeful the House of Representatives will pass this legislation, so more Pennsylvanians have access to these lifesaving screenings. Read more about breast cancer risk and new resources available for early detection here.
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