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In this Update:
Shapiro Budget Proposal Spends Too Much
Senate and House Republican leadership held a press conference following the governor’s 2026-2027 state budget address. My Senate colleagues and I will be working to produce a fiscally responsible 2026-27 state budget, starting with public hearings by the Senate Appropriations Committee, of which I am a member. Committee Advances Drone Bill
The House Transportation Committee approved my bill authorizing the commonwealth to enter into interstate agreements for drone research and deployment. Senate Bill 468 permits the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, with the governor’s approval, to engage in agreements with other states to facilitate the research and use of unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones. The bill has garnered strong support from more than 14 leading organizations representing the aviation and technology sectors, underscoring its importance in fostering innovation and positioning Pennsylvania as a hub for drone advancement. This legislation enables multi-state collaboration and positions both our region and the commonwealth to capture the tremendous economic potential of this industry. The safe and responsible integration of drones will strengthen public safety, generate family-sustaining jobs and drive significant economic growth across Pennsylvania. I’m proud to contribute this critical measure to the collective efforts of so many dedicated stakeholders. With this legislation, Pennsylvania is poised to lead the nation in this emerging field. On the heels of this committee action comes the recent announcement of Horizon Aerobotics’ expansion of U.S. operations at the Mid-Atlantic Opportunity Park at John Murtha Johnstown-Cambria County Airport, which will bring 247 family-sustaining jobs. Senate Bill 468 passed the Senate unanimously in June and now heads to the full House of Representatives for consideration. Winter Intern Introduction
I had the privilege of introducing my winter intern, Zane Hensal, on the Senate floor during session. A native of Houtzdale, Clearfield County, Zane is a senior at Bucknell University studying political science with a minor in public policy. Recognizing Olympian Dan Barefoot
It was an honor to recognize Richland High School graduate and USA Bobsled/Skeleton team member Dan Barefoot on the Senate floor. Dan will be contending next week in the Winter Olympics skeleton competition. Best of luck to all the Team USA athletes representing the United States at Milano Cortina 2026, especially Dan and all the athletes from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania! Girl Scouts Visit the State Capitol
I welcomed Girl Scouts from Centre County to Harrisburg this week during the Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania Troop PA event at the State Capitol. America250PA Cambria County Kick-Off
I attended the Kick-Off Event for America250PA celebrations in Cambria County. DuBois Chamber of Commerce Business Bash
I joined state Rep. Mike Armanini for the DuBois Chamber of Commerce 2026 Business Bash. Congratulations to Scotty’s Donuts on being named 2025 Business of the Year, the DuBois Salvation Army Worship & Service Center on receiving the 2025 Community Cup Award, and Dr. Thomas C. Petraitis, D.M.D, on receiving the DuBois Area Jaycee 2025 Distinguished Service Award! I also had the honor of presenting the newly consolidated City of DuBois with a certificate in recognition of the merger between the former City of DuBois and Sandy Township! Grow PA Scholarship Application Now Open
The Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program is now accepting applications. If you’re currently pursuing or planning to pursue a college degree in Pennsylvania, you may be eligible for a Grow PA scholarship in the 2026-27 academic year. For in-state students who attend college in Pennsylvania, the Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program offers grants of up to $5,000 per year to students pursuing a degree in a high-demand occupation and who agree to live and work in Pennsylvania in that occupation for at least one year for each year they accept the grant. For out-of-state students attending a Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) school, the Grow PA Merit Scholarship Program offers in-state tuition rates to students pursuing a degree in a high-demand occupation and who agree to live and work in Pennsylvania in that occupation for at least one year for each year they accept the scholarship. All grants are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have previously applied for or received a Grow PA grant, you must reapply for the 2026-27 academic year. For more information, including qualifying majors and educational programs, visit pheaa.org/funding-opportunities/grow-pa-scholarship-grant-program. For in-state Grow PA Scholarship Grants, visit pheaa.org/funding-opportunities/grow-pa-scholarship-grant-program. For out-of-state Grow PA Tuition Waivers, visit pheaa.org/funding-opportunities/grow-pa-tuition-waiver. Senate Approves Bill Prohibiting Phones in Schools
To curb classroom distractions and improve academic performance and social development, the Senate passed bipartisan legislation to require Pennsylvania public schools to adopt policies prohibiting student cellphone use during the school day. Adult Trout Stocking Schedule Available
Looking forward to trout season? The 2026 adult trout stocking schedule is now available online from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. It’s searchable by county, lists the waterways in alphabetical order, and indicates stocking dates, meeting locations for volunteers and the species of trout that are planned to be stocked at each location. In 2026, Pennsylvania’s statewide Opening Day of Trout Season will be held on Saturday, April 4. A single, statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day will take place on Saturday, March 28. The commission will stock approximately 3.2 million adult trout in 684 streams and 130 lakes open to public angling, about the same number as previously. Grants Available to Help Preserve History
Communities across our district can apply now for state grants to help preserve historic places, strengthen local revitalization efforts and prepare for the nation’s 250th anniversary this year. The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission will award Keystone Historic Preservation Grants to support projects that identify, preserve, promote and protect historic and archaeological resources. This year’s program prioritizes projects that align with the themes of America250, ensuring Pennsylvania’s rich history is preserved as the nation marks its semiquincentennial. More information is available at Keystone Planning Projects and Keystone Constructions Projects. Career and Technical Education Month
Career and technical education (CTE) prepares students to enter high-demand fields, including health care, manufacturing, public safety, information technology, skilled trades and more. More than 75,000 Pennsylvania students are enrolled in CTE, where they can develop essential skills through a combination of classes and hands-on learning, allowing them to apply academics to real-world problems. Career and Technical Education Month shines a spotlight on the importance of CTE programs, the opportunities they provide in crucial fields and their role in making the commonwealth more economically competitive and a place where young Pennsylvanians can settle and prosper. News for Veterans Sign Up
I am now offering a monthly e-newsletter with updates on news and information for veterans! If you are interested in receiving my veterans e-newsletter, please visit my website to sign up here. |
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