HARRISBURG – Senator Judy Ward (R-30) was reappointed today by Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman (R-34) to serve as the Chair of the Senate Aging and Youth Committee.
Ward was first appointed to the position last January. The panel is responsible for reviewing legislation that affects the programs and services dedicated to senior citizens and younger Pennsylvanians.
As chair of the committee over the past year, Ward led the Senate’s effort to review the Wolf Administration’s management of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The committee’s review exposed numerous problems related to how these facilities were handled throughout the pandemic.
The committee also considered legislation last year to designate essential caregivers for residents of long-term care facilities during emergencies and improve newborn health screenings.
“It is an honor to be asked to lead a committee that plays such a critical role in protecting some of our state’s most vulnerable citizens,” Ward said. “Pennsylvania has one of the largest senior populations in the nation, and protecting the programs they rely on most is an important part of the committee’s work. We have also made great strides in safeguarding young people against neglect and abuse in recent years, and the committee will continue to play a critical role in that effort going forward.”
CONTACT: Cheryl Schriner (717) 787-5490