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In this Update:

• Measures Helping Nonprofit Fundraising Efforts Approved by Senate
• Standing with Breast Cancer Survivors
• Join Me for My Veterans Appreciation Luncheon on Nov. 5!
• School Bus Driver Safety Bill Approved by Senate
• State Game Lands Driving Tours
• Senate Acts to Strengthen Property Rights
• Senate Passes Bill to Establish Animal Abuser Registry
• Out and About in the 30^th District

Measures Helping Nonprofit Fundraising Efforts Approved by Senate

The Senate approved two bills to give a boost to civic organizations, fire companies, veterans’ groups and other Pennsylvania nonprofits that rely on small games of chance for crucial fundraising.  

Under current law, clubs and organizations are limited to awarding no more than $35,000 in prizes from small games of chance each week. That cap has not been updated since 2013, despite inflation and the rising costs of programs these organizations fund. 

Senate Bill 995 would raise the weekly limit to $60,000, ensuring local groups can continue generating the revenue they rely on to support vital community programs and services. Read more about this bill.  

Senate Bill 465 would allow licensed clubs to retain up to 50% of their small games of chance proceeds, up from the current 40%. Clubs would continue to be required to use at least 50% of proceeds for public interest purposes. The change would provide clubs with more flexibility to cover operating costs while continuing to support their communities. Read more about this measure.

The bills were sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Standing with Breast Cancer Survivors

I was proud to join the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition at the State Capitol as we kicked off Breast Cancer Awareness Month by turning the East Wing Fountain pink. It was especially meaningful to stand alongside breast cancer survivors and thrivers, advocates and families from across Pennsylvania who continue to bring hope and strength to this important cause.

The event was a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and ensuring women have access to the screenings, care and support they need. And here in Pennsylvania during October, we’re reminded that breast cancer is not a red or blue issue – it’s pink. It affects every one of us. Together, we can raise awareness, support those facing breast cancer and celebrate the survivors and thrivers who inspire us every day.

Join Me for My Veterans Appreciation Luncheon on Nov. 5!

On Thursday, November 5^th, from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., I am inviting all area veterans and their family members to attend a free veteran appreciation luncheon at the American Legion Social Hall located at 1501 N. Juniata Street in Hollidaysburg.

As a token of my deepest gratitude to our veterans for their service to our country, I hope you will join us!

Rsvp’s are required by October 30^th, you can call 814-695-8386 to register.

School Bus Driver Safety Bill Approved by Senate

Approximately 1.5 million children are transported on school buses every day in Pennsylvania, and the Senate approved legislation aimed at keeping reckless bus drivers from getting behind the wheel.

Senate Bill 1262 would increase penalties for school bus drivers who transport children while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or a dangerous combination of both. Read more about this school bus safety measure.

The latest Senate action follows passage last year of Senate Bill 65, which would increase the required stopping distance for drivers approaching from the opposite direction when a school bus is stopped with its red lights flashing. Both bills await passage in the House of Representatives.

State Game Lands Driving Tours

It’s time once again for state game lands driving tours across our state, showcasing hunting and trapping opportunities, all while enjoying Pennsylvania’s beautiful fall scenery. Tours are FREE, held rain or shine, and open only to vehicles licensed for travel on public roads.

Sunday, October 11, from 12 to 3 p.m. State Game Lands 26, Bedford County—Starting Point: (40.298825, -78.641233) Off Route 869 near the Bedford/ Cambria County line.

Sunday, October 18, from 12 to 3 p.m. State Game Lands 67, Huntingdon County—Starting Point: (40.2488603, -78.1980772) In Saxton on Burma Road, off Little Valley Road.

Both tours are self-guided audio tours using the STQRY Guide app. You must go to your phone’s app store and download the STQRY Guide app ahead of time. Once you install this free app, download the “Pennsylvania Game Commission SGL 26” or “Pennsylvania Game Commission SGL 67” tour prior to arriving for the tour.

Senate Acts to Strengthen Property Rights

Property rights are enshrined in both the U.S. and the Pennsylvania constitutions, and the Senate approved legislation to strengthen protections against warrantless entry onto private property by Pennsylvania Game Commission personnel.

Senate Bill 1431 would require Game Commission personnel to obtain a valid warrant before entering private property, including posted land, unless a judicially recognized exception to the warrant requirement applies.

Current law gives Game Commission personnel broad authority to enter land outside buildings, whether posted or otherwise. Senate Bill 1431 would place clear limits on that authority while preserving recognized exceptions to the warrant requirement. Read more about the effort to strengthen property rights.

Senate Passes Bill to Establish Animal Abuser Registry

The Senate approved Senate Bill 1311, known as Aimee’s Law, to help prevent convicted abusers from obtaining more animals by establishing a statewide animal abuser registry. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

People selling, transferring or offering dogs, cats or horses for adoption would be required to check the registry, which would be maintained by Pennsylvania State Police, and refuse placement with anyone listed. These requirements will help shelters, rescues and others by placing animals in new homes to identify convicted abusers before another animal is put at risk.

The legislation is named after a six-month-old husky found abandoned in a crate beneath a bridge in Erie during subzero temperatures. She was severely underweight, covered in filth and suffering from frostbite on all four paws. Despite the rescuers’ efforts to save her, Aimee did not survive. Read more about Aimee’s Law.

Out and About in the 30^th District

Friends of Scouting Dinner

The Chief Logan District of the Juniata Valley Council of Scouting America held their Friends of Scouting Dinner Dance at the U.S. Hotel. The evening was graciously hosted by Joan and Joe Keller, with music provided by The Santones featuring Julie Hanlon. A wonderful evening celebrating Scouting!

Independent Catholic Foundation Ribbon Cutting

It was a good day for the Independent Catholic Foundation in Blair County as they celebrated the ribbon cutting for their new space! Along with Chamber members and representatives from elected offices, the event also brought together past and current Board of Trustees members for this special occasion, which are pictured below.

Visit with Local Pastors

Grateful for the opportunity to spend time this week with local Assemblies of God pastors and Kurt Weaver from the Church Ambassador Network for a meaningful visit and conversation.

Juniata County 4^th Grade Agricultural Tour

The Juniata County 4^th Grade Agricultural Tour was recently held at the Groninger Homestead Farm in Port Royal. More than 150 fourth graders from across Juniata County participated in the event, hosted by the Juniata County Conservation District, the Juniata County School District parent-teacher organizations and Penn State Ag Extension. Students explored 12 hands-on stations led by local businesses and agricultural partners, learning about butchering, beef farming, manure management, soils, ag-related careers, animal housing, dairy promotion, crops, farm equipment, food safety and more. 

Coffee with a Cop

On Wednesday, I stopped by Coffee with a Cop to catch up with officers from our Capitol Police force along with members of our Senate Sergeant-at-Arms team, who work so diligently to ensure our safety here at the Capitol Complex and thank them for all they do. I am so grateful for all their hard work and dedication!

Grand Re-Opening of the Juniata Valley YMCA Pool

The Juniata Valley YMCA Pool celebrated its grand re-opening in Burnham this week with a great turnout. The facility underwent $800,000 in renovations to the pool and surrounding areas, completing a seven-week transformation. The pool is now officially open to members once again.

LeadingAge PA Legislative Champion

What an honor to have received LeadingAge PA’s Legislative Champion Award this year! This recognition reflects a steadfast commitment to supporting seniors across our Commonwealth and the dedicated providers who care for them every day.

42^nd Annual PA Chamber Dinner

Great evening at the 42nd Annual PA Chamber of Business and Industry Dinner, featuring inspiring remarks and entertainment from Kevin Hart, Bret Michaels, and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. A memorable night celebrating Pennsylvania’s business community.