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In this Update:
Senate Acts to Protect Workers’ Compensation for First Responders
The Senate approved legislation to ensure volunteer fire and EMS personnel are covered by workers’ compensation if injured participating in the fundraising activities essential for covering the costs of providing public safety. A 1980 court decision held that firefighters injured at their annual fundraising picnic were eligible for workers’ compensation because members were covered for all activities authorized by a municipality. However, current law does not provide the same coverage for the full scope of fundraising activities. Senate Bill 1053 would fill the gap, expressly providing workers’ compensation for volunteers’ participation in fundraising activities. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Scam Alert!
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is urging anyone who receives a suspicious text message to avoid clicking on any links. PennDOT has recently received reports of scammers trying to impersonate PennDOT or the Department of Motor Vehicles to obtain personal information, such as bank account information. PennDOT does not send texts about traffic violations or fines. Please be alert of this scam! Legislation Giving Farmers More Vehicle Flexibility Approved by Senate
Cutting outdated regulations for farmers, the Senate approved a measure giving them greater flexibility to safely drive more farm vehicles on roadways at night, reflecting the real-world demands of modern farming. Current state law prohibits certain farm vehicles from driving on Pennsylvania roadways between sunset and sunrise. Senate Bill 203 would allow farmers to operate their vehicles, ranging from small cars to larger trucks, when their work demands it. The vehicles already maintain equipment required by the state to safely operate at night. Senate Bill 203 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Guest Chaplains Invited to Open Senate Session with a Prayer
When the Senate gathers in Harrisburg to consider legislation, we open session with a non-denominational prayer delivered by a guest chaplain. Religious leaders from across the commonwealth have offered messages of peace, reflection and hope in this role for many years. If you are interested in visiting the state Capitol when the Senate convenes for a session day to take part in this time-honored tradition, please contact my office for more details. Religious leaders of all faiths are welcome to reach out about this opportunity. Grant Funding Opportunities
Here are potential grant funding opportunities that may be available to you or your organization. You can click on each link to find more information and how to apply for each program.
Interested in Law Enforcement? Check Out This State Police Program
If you are thinking about a future in law enforcement, consider participating in the Pennsylvania State Police Law and Leadership Academy, which offers a 15-week program to experience the process of becoming a cadet. Applicants age 18 and over with a high school diploma or GED can apply. The program covers:
The program runs from early May to early August at six locations statewide. Cadets meet twice a week, with occasional Saturday sessions. You can learn more here. Promoting Reading for Lifelong Success
March is National Reading Month – a time to encourage children, families and communities to make reading a daily habit. Studies show childhood reading difficulties often lead to long-term, negative effects throughout life. Working with our schools to help improve literacy is vital as we help the next generation build a strong educational foundation. As part of the current state budget, we established important evidence-based reading instruction requirements. With a concerted effort, we can dramatically improve students’ chances of success and instill the excitement that comes with fostering a love of reading from a young age. Out and About in the 30th DistrictAAA Citizen Safe Driving Course I was pleased to give a greeting to constituents who participated in a AAA Citizen Safe Driving Course offered by the Hustontown Senior Services Center in Fulton County this week. This is a great program for older Pennsylvanians and offers a discount on car insurance upon completion.
UPMC Altoona Annual Meeting UPMC Altoona/Bedford President, Mike Corso, provided an update at the 2026 annual public meeting of all the ongoing work UPMC Altoona is doing.
Imler’s Poultry Tour Recently, Rep. Scott Barger and I joined PA Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding as he visited Blair County. During his visit, owner Fred Imler and his son Bryan welcomed us to their business, Imler’s Poultry, for a tour and overview of their company operation. It was a very “chilly” tour, as part of the visit included walking in their coolers! Thank you to the Imler’s for their warm welcome and their contribution to the agriculture industry and our community.
Huntingdon County Farm Bureau Spring Banquet This week was the annual Huntingdon County Farm Bureau spring banquet. The banquet featured an auction to raise funds for the county’s 4-H program and PA Friends of Ag Foundation and was auctioneered by Jim Brown. Also pictured is Chris Hoffman, President of PA Farm Bureau and Rodney Davis, President of Huntingdon Farm Bureau.
Fulton County Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce hosted a special awards banquet at the McConnellsburg American Legion. Pictured are Stephen Wible of A-Z Land Consulting who received the Excellence in Small Business Award, Darren Mellott of McConnellsburg Citgo for Best Service Station, and Marty Mettille for Volunteer of the Year pictured with Helen Overly and Rep. Jesse Topper. Congratulations also to award recipients Cheryl Alloway, Jamie Brambley, Harrisonville Eagles, and the Cone Zone.
Research Day at the Capitol Students from Juniata College stopped by the Capitol this week as part of undergraduate research day. Their display was on ticks and Lyme Disease in Huntingdon County, and they gave presentations on their findings. Keep up the great work ladies!
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