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Capitol Report
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#Listrak\DateStampLong#
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The latest news from the State Capitol
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Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account.
You are welcome to contact me through this link.
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Bringing Literacy to Life at Winding Creek Elementary School
While I was at the Capitol last Friday, a member of my staff visited Winding Creek Elementary School to learn about its Science of Reading program. She spoke with teachers and observed students in kindergarten, first-, and third-grade classrooms using the program in action.
The Science of Reading focuses on connecting letters to sounds, building fluency through repeated reading, and developing strong vocabulary and comprehension skills. It’s a structured, research-backed approach that gives all students the tools they need to become confident readers.
I’m committed to making sure schools have the funding they need to continue this important work.
I am also a co-sponsor of House Bill 684, which has overwhelming bipartisan support. This legislation would strengthen Pennsylvania’s structured literacy initiative. The bill is receiving attention in Harrisburg, and I am energized to continue advocating for it.
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Future Leaders in Action
This morning, I had the absolute pleasure of visiting Winding Creek Elementary School, where I met with their house leaders and student council. We had a great conversation about what it means to be a leader: focusing on service, setting priorities, and practicing humility.
Their questions and enthusiasm left me confident that the future is bright in their hands. These students are already showing up for each other and their communities, and I can't wait to see where their leadership takes them next!
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Celebrating Cumberland Valley FFA at Its Annual Banquet
It was a privilege to attend the Cumberland Valley FFA Banquet, where we celebrated the remarkable achievements of our students in agriculture and leadership.
These young individuals are not only learning vital skills that will shape their futures, but they are also becoming leaders who will drive positive change in our communities and our world. The FFA program continues to build a foundation for success, teaching the values of hard work, responsibility, and innovation.
Our future is bright with students like these leading the way, and I’m excited to see the impact they will have in the years to come.
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Honoring Local Leaders at Bubbler Foundation Award Ceremony
Attending the Bubbler Foundation Award Ceremony was an inspiring experience, as we honored individuals who are making a real difference in our community.
These awardees embody the spirit of service, commitment, and generosity that strengthens our neighborhoods and helps create a better future for all. It’s a reminder of the power of community and the profound impact that one person can have. We are shaping the future today through the hard work and passion of those around us.
The next generation of leaders is already here, and the work of these honorees is a shining example of what’s possible when we invest in our community and future.
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Armed Forces Day Saturday
TThis Saturday, May 17, is Armed Forces Day, a day set aside to recognize and honor the men and women who are currently serving in a branch of our armed forces.
The day was first celebrated in 1950, soon after the branches of the military were united under the leadership of the U.S. Department of Defense. In his proclamation marking the day, President Harry S. Truman called upon fellow citizens to “display the flag of the United States at their homes on Armed Forces Day and to participate in exercises expressive of our recognition of the skill, gallantry, and uncompromising devotion to duty characteristic of the Armed Forces in the carrying out of their missions.”
In other words, seek out opportunities to thank our men and women in uniform, not just this Saturday but every day.
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Primary Election Day Tuesday, May 20
This Tuesday, May 20, is primary election day. Voters will have the opportunity to choose their party’s candidates for vacancies on the Commonwealth and Superior courts, as well as for a variety of municipal positions.
Voters who have chosen to vote by mail-in or civilian absentee ballot must have those ballots back to their county Board of Elections no later than 8 p.m. on election day.
Otherwise, voters may cast their ballots in person at their local polling place. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Additional information about in-person voting is available here.
Only voters registered as Republicans or Democrats are eligible to vote for candidates in the primary election, unless you reside in a community where a special election is taking place or a referendum is on your ballot. Check with your county elections office for details about what is on your ballot. For comprehensive information about the state’s elections, visit vote.pa.gov.
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Advocating for First-Time Homebuyers
This week, House Bill 818, which would create a savings account for first-time homebuyers, passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support. Since I took office, I have been a strong advocate for supporting individuals and families looking to leave the rental market and plant roots by buying a home in the Commonwealth. I am proud to have introduced my own legislation on this issue, and to have cast a vote in favor of the bill.
You can listen to my remarks in the House chamber by clicking on the video below.
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Policy Committee Discusses Efforts to Cut Costs, Create Commerce
As working families and small businesses across Pennsylvania continue to grapple with inflation and economic uncertainty, House Republican policymakers are calling for transformational tax reforms to provide immediate relief and long-term growth.
The House Republican Policy Committee last week hosted a hearing in Adams County focused on pro-growth tax policy solutions, including expanding Net Operating Loss (NOL) carryforwards and ending Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Sales and Use Tax, that would allow small businesses to invest, grow and create jobs.
The committee heard from Stephen Kelly, senior associate, government affairs, Commonwealth Foundation; Isaac Bucher, owner and operator, Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium; and Robin Fitzpatrick, president, Adams Economic Alliance.
When businesses aren’t weighed down by burdensome taxes and unpredictable regulations, they innovate, hire and expand. If we want Pennsylvania to be competitive, we must listen to what Pennsylvania businesses are asking for and enact meaningful, permanent tax relief.
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Supporting Our EMS Providers
Next week, May 18-24, is National EMS Week, an opportunity for each of us to recognize and extend special thanks to the men and women who answer the call every day to help save lives. This year’s theme is “We Care. For Everyone.”
Caring for everyone, though, carries a significant cost. Here in Pennsylvania, more than four dozen emergency medical services (EMS) providers closed their doors since the start of 2023, often due to a shortage of funds, personnel or both.
We all tend to take it for granted that when we call 9-1-1, someone will be there to help. As we mark EMS Week this week, think about how you might be able to help your local ambulance company keep its doors open and keep saving lives.
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Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. By consistently following safe driving and riding practices and sharing them with others, all motorists can help reduce the number of motorcyclist fatalities on America’s roads.
The following are safe driving and riding practices that all road users – vehicle drivers and motorcyclists alike – should follow to help reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on our roadways:
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Observe all traffic laws and always obey the speed limit. |
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Drive and ride alcohol- and drug-free. |
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Avoid distractions while driving or riding. |
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Drivers should yield to motorcyclists, especially while turning at intersections. |
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Motorcyclists should wear high-visibility protective gear. |
One other significant step that motorcycle riders can take toward promoting road safety for all motorists is completing a rider education and training course. Please visit www.pamsp.com to learn about Pennsylvania’s free motorcycle training courses.
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Fish for Free Coming Up Next Weekend!
On Sunday, May 25, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will host a Fish for Free day to allow anyone (resident or non-resident) to legally fish on all Pennsylvania waterways. No license is required, but all other fishing regulations still apply.
This is the first of two dates set by the PFBC to enhance fishing opportunities. The next day is Independence Day, Friday, July 4. This is a great way to expose the next generation of anglers to the outdoors. More information about fishing in Pennsylvania is available here.
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