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In this Update:
State Budget Passed
On Sunday, the General Assembly passed a budget after months of meetings, negotiations and ultimately compromise. As Pennsylvania has a divided government, it requires compromise from both sides for passage. As Pennsylvanians are dealing with the affordability crisis, this budget does not raise taxes, preserves the rainy day fund, and is significantly less than what the governor proposed in February. This budget still invests in the commonwealth in a responsible manner by increasing funds for nursing homes, ensuring our older population receives the care it deserves. It also increases support for rape crisis centers, which is the first increase in six years. In addition, it establishes the Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods Grant Program, which will deliver additional state funding to local law enforcement to improve their ability to investigate violent crimes. It deploys funding at a rapid pace for local road projects which will result in $10.5 million in Cambria County, $9.3 million in Centre County and $10 million for Clearfield County. The legislation recovers billions stuck in the bureaucracy of state government and reinvests it in the commonwealth’s operation. Over the last two years, Senate Republicans have returned over $4.5 billion in special funds back to the General Fund. Locally, I am proud to have negotiated alongside Majority Leader Joe Pittman, Senators Pat Stefano and Judy Ward to ensure local constituents will have access to their local pharmacies, including Martella’s Pharmacy. This provision will help strengthen healthcare access and provide a responsible, timely path forward for pharmacies that have been impacted by PBM practices. It’s an important step toward ensuring that residents can continue to rely on their local pharmacies for care close to home. Protect Victims, Not Murderers
If House Democrats fail to act by July 24, nearly 1,200 individuals convicted of second-degree murder in Pennsylvania could become eligible for release. The Senate has twice passed bipartisan legislation to prevent this outcome, with the support of the Attorney General, the Fraternal Order of Police and District Attorneys across the Commonwealth. The House needs to act. Recognizing Ed Sheehan of Concurrent Technologies Corp.
I recognized Ed Sheehan on the Senate floor in honor of his retirement after a distinguished career with Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC). Cost of Living Adjustment for Retired Teachers, Police and Firefighters
The newly enacted state budget includes a cost-of-living (COLA) increase for retired teachers, school district employees and state employees who retired prior to July 2, 2001, as well as certain retired municipal firefighters and police officers. Many of these employees retired in the early 2000s at much lower salaries than current employees. In addition, they did not receive the pension benefit enhancements under Act 9 of 2001 and have now gone more than 20 years without a COLA. The COLAs are fully funded through existing interactive gaming tax revenues, ensuring these benefit enhancements have no impact on state, school district or municipal taxes. The legislation directs a portion of those revenues to fund the pension increases and reimburse municipalities for the municipal benefit adjustments, with any remaining funding continuing to support an existing grant program. These men and women dedicated years to serving our communities, and I’m pleased to support this long-overdue increase in their pensions. Protecting Pets from Excessive Heat
Hot weather reminder: Police and emergency responders in Pennsylvania are authorized to remove dogs and cats from unattended vehicles by force if they’re deemed to be in imminent danger. Also, under Act 104 of 2018, dogs that are tethered outside and unattended can only be so for up to nine hours in temperatures up to 90 degrees, and only for 30 minutes above 90 degrees. The dog must have access to an area of shade to escape the direct rays of the sun, as well as clean water. Watch for signs of heat stroke in animals, including heavy panting, excessive drooling, vomiting and red or purple gums. You can read more about PA’s “Hot Car Bill” here. Camping Reservations Available at State Parks
State park campsites are open and ready to reserve, with options for tents, cabins and RVs. The commonwealth manages 125 parks covering more than 300,000 acres, including four state parks in the 35th Senatorial District, so you’re bound to find one that has what you’re looking for. Available activities include picnicking, swimming, boating and other outdoor recreation. Prices vary for specific park accommodations and activities. Visit the Pennsylvania State Parks website to find a list of parks and features and to reserve accommodations. State Police Cadet Selection Open Through July 31
Do you know someone who is considering a law enforcement career? The Pennsylvania State Police Cadet selection cycle is open through July 31. In addition to patrol services and policing residential areas, state troopers provide a variety of support services through specialized positions. The selection process consists of a written exam, background check and polygraph exam, physical readiness test, medical checkup and psychological evaluation. College internships are also available at participating schools. Learn more about the cadet selection process here. Property Tax/Rent Rebate Application
The property tax/rent rebate application has been extended to December 31, 2026. If you need assistance filing your application or you are not sure if you are eligible for the program, please reach out to one of my district offices:
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. Share Your Local Events
If you’re hosting a local event, I want to hear about it. Please send your event details to wlangerholc@pasen.gov. If the event is free and open to the public, it could be highlighted in my e-newsletter or featured on my Facebook page to help share it with the community. |
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