Senator Ward, J E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • Transportation Committees Tour Philadelphia
  • Senate Votes to Improve Communication About School Safety Issues
  • UPMC Altoona Kids Safety Day on May 31
  • Grants Available for Firefighting Equipment and Training
  • PA Offers Free Motorcycle Training
  • Rite Aid Customers Can Redeem Gift Cards Until June 6
  • Remembering the Fallen on Memorial Day
  • Out and About in the 30th District

Transportation Committees Tour Philadelphia

As Majority Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, I convened a joint Transportation Committee Tour of both the Senate and House Transportation Committees for a special visit to the City of Philadelphia.

The purpose of the tour was for the Transportation Committees to meet with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), Port of Philadelphia and community leaders to learn how people and goods move throughout southeastern Pennsylvania.

As we continue to hear of budgetary shortfalls facing these institutions, I wanted to see firsthand the work that was taking place to address some of these issues. I look forward to working with my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to find responsible solutions.

Senate Votes to Improve Communication About School Safety Issues

To empower parents and increase transparency, the Senate passed legislation to improve reporting requirements about potentially dangerous situations at schools.

Senate Bill 246 would require parental and employee notification when there is a weapon on any school property that violates its weapons policy, as well as when there are cases of harassment and bullying. It would apply to public, non-public and private schools. Current law does not require school districts to inform parents about incidents when a weapon is brought onto school grounds or to related activities.

The bill is part of a larger Senate Republican initiative to empower families and foster safe communities. It moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

UPMC Altoona Kids Safety Day on May 31

Grants Available for Firefighting Equipment and Training

The Office of the State Fire Commissioner has two grant programs that are accepting applications through May 29. Both programs distribute grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000. Applications should be submitted online.

The Emergency Training Center Capital Grant Program awards funds that can be used to establish or modernize facilities, acquire or renovate structures and repair or purchase equipment. Emergency service training centers, community colleges, county-owned facilities, municipal or fire department-owned facilities and nonprofit, countywide associations are eligible.

The Municipal Fire Department Capital Grant Program awards money to municipal fire departments to improve structures and firefighting equipment in the commonwealth.

PA Offers Free Motorcycle Training

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a great time to sign up for a motorcycle safety course whether you’re a novice or experienced rider. Classes are free for Pennsylvanians who have a motorcycle learner’s permit or motorcycle license.

Successful completion of a basic or intermediate course offered by the state waives the requirement to take a skills test at a PennDOT driver license center and automatically earns the permit holder their motorcycle license.

Class schedules are coordinated by third-party training providers at locations across the commonwealth and posted online at least four weeks before the class begins. Learn more about Pennsylvania’s Motorcycle Safety Program.

Rite Aid Customers Can Redeem Gift Cards Until June 6

As a result of a bankruptcy announcement, Rite Aid will accept gift cards, coupons and other Rite Aid rewards through June 6. Returns and exchanges will not be accepted after June 4.

Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday encourages any consumers who experience issues redeeming their Rite Aid points, coupons or unused gift cards or with returning merchandise to Rite Aid to submit an online complaint to the Bureau of Consumer Protection. They may also contact the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-441-2555. Read more.

Remembering the Fallen on Memorial Day

“Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.” – Unknown

To all the men and women who selflessly gave their lives so we can enjoy the freedoms we hold dear, thank you. To the families who are missing a loved one from their lives, please know that loss was not in vain. We remember, and we appreciate the sacrifice.

Out and About in the 30th District

Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce Awards Ceremony

The Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce held their annual awards ceremony to highlight all the great work going on throughout our community. This event also included their Leadership Institute graduation ceremony. Congratulations to all the graduates!

Mifflin County High School 2025 Distinguished Graduate Awards

Nathan Banks and Natalie Bickert received the 2025 Distinguished Graduate Award at Mifflin County High School at this year’s awards assembly. Congratulations, Nathan and Natalie, on all your hard work!

PA Motor Truck Association Conference

It was an honor to speak with fellow Transportation Chairs in the House to the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association at their annual conference on legislative issues that involve the transportation industry.

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