Senator Pennycuick E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • Pennycuick Legislation Becomes Law: Streamlining Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans
  • Easing Repayment of PA Military Family Education Program Awards for Service Members Who Separate Under Certain Circumstances
  • PA’s Newest Brigadier Generals
  • Reduced Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Premiums
  • Veteran Burial Benefits
  • Taking Veterans Out to the Ballgame

Pennycuick Legislation Becomes Law: Streamlining Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans

I’m pleased to report that my legislation Senate Bill 232, passed the General Assembly and was signed into law. Disabled veterans with a 100% disability will no longer have to apply for a free Pennsylvania fishing license on an annual basis. Starting Aug. 29, all disabled veterans with a 100% disability determination from the VA, whether it is a permanent determination or not, will be able to purchase free lifetime fishing licenses. 

Easing Repayment of PA Military Family Education Program Awards for Service Members Who Separate Under Certain Circumstances

Currently, Pennsylvania National Guard (PANG) service members participating in the PA Military Family Education Program who separate from the PANG must repay the total award plus interest. That’s why I introduced legislation to make a change through Act 32 of 2025, which states that service members will only be responsible for repaying a portion of the program’s benefit if they separate from the PANG on or after Sept. 5, 2025 due to death, medical reasons, discharge at the convenience of the Guard or other compelling circumstances which warrant forgiveness.

PA’s Newest Brigadier Generals

In June, the state Senate confirmed the promotions of the following four Pennsylvania National Guard Officers from colonel to brigadier general: 

  • Brett J. Gagnon – PA Army National Guard
  • Robert S. Noren – PA Air National Guard
  • Brad W. Pierson – PA Army National Guard
  • John M. Wenzel – PA Army National Guard

These individuals will continue to serve our Commonwealth and lead our National Guard with honor and distinction.

Reduced Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Premiums

Veterans insured coverage under the Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) program have started seeing lower monthly premiums for all ages. Discounts range from 2% to 17%, with an average reduction of 11%. Insured veterans are being notified of their monthly premium reduction through direct mail, email, online accounts and premium bills. No action is required.

Veteran Burial Benefits

The National Cemetery Administration has launched Plan Today, Honor Forever, a nationwide campaign to help veterans understand their options and apply for VA pre-need burial eligibility. Eligible veterans have burial and memorial benefits for themselves, their spouses and qualifying family members whether being buried in a VA national cemetery or within a private cemetery.

Taking Veterans Out to the Ballgame

Baseball fans who have served in the U.S. Military can save some money when going to Major League Baseball (MLB) games at the ballpark. MLB teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Pirates, offer discounted tickets through GovX for home games throughout their seasons to veterans and their families.

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