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In this Update:
Harrisburg Happenings
This week I joined fellow lawmakers, animal welfare advocates, veterinary professionals, and pet owners for a press conference in the Main Capitol Rotunda to call for reform in the pet cremation industry following the Pennsylvania House’s unanimous passage of House Bill 1750. The legislation, along with Senate Bill 950, would establish standards, increase oversight, and ensure transparency in the pet cremation industry, providing critical protections for families during times of loss. This bill aims to address an urgent need to establish regulatory oversight for third-party providers in the pet cremation industry. Both measures will move to the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee, where continued support and collaboration will be critical to advancing these commonsense reforms. The press conference brought together advocates including Humane Action Pennsylvania, Humane World for Animals, and Tiffany Mantzouridis, a whistleblower who has raised awareness about unethical practices in the industry. Representatives from the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA) and members of the Animal Protection Caucus also participated. You can watch my remarks and Tiffany’s remarks from the press conference by tapping or clicking the image above.
The 46th Senatorial District has outstanding FFA programs filled with exceptional students, supported by dedicated advisors who are part of a robust network of agricultural educators committed to preparing our future leaders. I would like to thank the FFA chapters from the district for visiting Harrisburg this week to tour the State Capitol Complex and for stopping by my office to meet with my staff. As part of their State Legislative Conference, they met with public officials and observed the legislative process. A special shoutout to the dedicated advisors for leading these wonderful agricultural programs, Kara Ruffalo, Avella; Sara Rastoka, California; Jodie Hoover, Fort Cherry; Renee Cambruzzi, McGuffey; and Jamie Willson, Waynesburg. You can watch my floor remarks by tapping or clicking the image above.
It was a pleasure meeting with Dr. Sarah Slates, Assistant Professor and Internship Director at Seton Hill University, along with the outstanding students she brought to Harrisburg for Legislative Education and Advocacy Day hosted by the National Association of Social Workers Pennsylvania Chapter – an event at which nearly 1,000 social work students and professionals gather to advocate for legislation that is relevant to the social work profession. These students came prepared to engage in thoughtful conversations on important issues like the role of AI in mental health care and the Social Work Licensure Compact – topics that are shaping the future of care and access across our communities. Character Counts
My office participated in the Chartiers-Houston School District (CHSD) Character Counts meeting this week, a gathering of local leaders and school officials who are all working towards bringing the community together in a positive and uplifting way. Thank you to Dr. Christian Lesnett, CHSD High School Principal on another great meeting. Also thank you to Arc Human Services for providing their wonderful space for all of us. Senate Acts to Protect Workers’ Compensation for First Responders
The Senate approved legislation to ensure volunteer fire and EMS personnel are covered by workers’ compensation if injured participating in the fundraising activities essential for covering the costs of providing public safety. A 1980 court decision held that firefighters injured at their annual fundraising picnic were eligible for workers’ compensation because members were covered for all activities authorized by a municipality. However, current law does not provide the same coverage for the full scope of fundraising activities. Senate Bill 1053 would fill the gap, expressly providing workers’ compensation for volunteers’ participation in fundraising activities. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Legislation Giving Farmers More Vehicle Flexibility Approved by Senate
Cutting outdated regulations for farmers, the Senate approved a measure giving them greater flexibility to safely drive more farm vehicles on roadways at night, reflecting the real-world demands of modern farming. Current state law prohibits certain farm vehicles from driving on Pennsylvania roadways between sunset and sunrise. Senate Bill 203 would allow farmers to operate their vehicles, ranging from small cars to larger trucks, when their work demands it. The vehicles already maintain equipment required by the state to safely operate at night. Senate Bill 203 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Guest Chaplains Invited to Open Senate Session with a Prayer
When the Senate gathers in Harrisburg to consider legislation, we open session with a non-denominational prayer delivered by a guest chaplain. Religious leaders from across the commonwealth have offered messages of peace, reflection and hope in this role for many years. If you are interested in visiting the state Capitol when the Senate convenes for a session day to take part in this time-honored tradition, please contact my office for more details. Religious leaders of all faiths are welcome to reach out about this opportunity. Interested in Law Enforcement? Check Out This State Police Program
If you are thinking about a future in law enforcement, consider participating in the Pennsylvania State Police Law and Leadership Academy, which offers a 15-week program to experience the process of becoming a cadet. Applicants age 18 and over with a high school diploma or GED can apply. The program covers:
The program runs from early May to early August at six locations statewide. Cadets meet twice a week, with occasional Saturday sessions. You can learn more here. Promoting Reading for Lifelong Success
March is National Reading Month – a time to encourage children, families and communities to make reading a daily habit. Studies show childhood reading difficulties often lead to long-term, negative effects throughout life. Working with our schools to help improve literacy is vital as we help the next generation build a strong educational foundation. As part of the current state budget, we established important evidence-based reading instruction requirements. With a concerted effort, we can dramatically improve students’ chances of success and instill the excitement that comes with fostering a love of reading from a young age.
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