|
|||||
|
In this Update:
Senate Votes to Combat Overregulation
To address overregulation that stifles business growth and drives jobs to other states, the Senate passed two regulatory reform bills. The Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act, Senate Bill 333, would establish an enhanced legislative review process for costly new regulations. It is designed to address concerns about unchecked regulatory burdens on businesses, communities and taxpayers. Senate Bill 444 would establish a one-time automatic review process for regulations that impose a fiscal impact exceeding $1 million annually on taxpayers or employers. The review would ensure regulations remain effective, efficient and in the public interest. Both bills now move to the House of Representatives for consideration. Bill Targeting Rise of Deepfake Scams Approved by Senate
The Senate unanimously voted to stem the rise of “deepfakes” and other forms of digital impersonation by treating them as forgeries punishable by law. Technology enables individuals to create convincing images, audio and video of others – often without consent – that are nearly indistinguishable from reality. These digital forgeries have been used to commit financial scams and injure personal reputations. Senate Bill 649 would enact penalties for anyone who creates a digital representation of a real person without their consent and distributes it as genuine to defraud or injure. The measure would protect First Amendment rights and preserve valid expressions of parody, satire and other forms of free speech. Senate Bill 649 is now before the House of Representatives for consideration. McConnellsburg Native, Now Head Coach of Phoenix Suns
Jordan Ott a McConnellsburg native was announced as the new head coach of the Phoenix Suns. Formerly assistant coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Jordan is the 23rd head coach in franchise history for the Suns. Raised in Fulton County, he graduated from Penn State University, where he holds a bachelor’s degree in sports management. Jordan managed the Nittany Lions, before heading to Michigan State University for graduate school, where he was the graduate assistant to the basketball team. Following his time in Michigan, he quickly rose through the ranks in the NBA, before landing in Phoenix. It is wonderful to see a native son of the 30th District coaching an NBA team! Congratulations, Jordan! We wish you the best of luck! PA Now Has Concealed Carry Reciprocity with Virginia
A new reciprocity agreement allows holders of Pennsylvania Licenses to Carry Firearms to do so in Virginia, making it the 30th state that has a concealed carry reciprocity agreement with Pennsylvania. The agreement resulted from efforts of Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday to maximize reciprocity agreements while protecting standing law and constitutional rights. The agreement is only applicable to handguns and requires permit holders to:
Spiritual Heritage Tour
My Harrisburg Staff and I participated in a Spiritual Heritage Tour at the Capitol this week, led by Dr. Peter Lillback, President of Westminster Theological Seminary in Glenside, and Rob Fields, a Legislative Chaplain at the Capitol. This thoughtful tour guided us through the Governor’s Reception Room, the House of Representatives Chambers, the Senate Chambers and the Main Capitol Rotunda. Throughout our state’s Capitol are many meaningful representations of our founding heritage grounded in Judeo-Christian tradition.
Funding Available for Community Groups Providing Veteran Suicide Prevention Services
Community-based organizations that provide suicide prevention or emergency clinical services to veterans can apply now for grants to support their vital mission. Organizations can apply for grants worth up to $750,000 and may apply to renew awards from year to year. Grant applications must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs by July 18 at 5 p.m. Learn more about eligibility and apply here. Veterans in crisis are encouraged to call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing one to speak with responders trained in crisis intervention and military culture. All calls are free and confidential. Additionally, Pennsylvania provides many programs and services to support veterans. Celebrating National Dairy Month in June
Pennsylvania’s dairy farmers work hard to provide families with common dairy staples, including cheese and yogurt, that are part of healthy diets. Consuming dairy products contributes to strong bones, muscle function and immune support. Senate Republicans highlighted the role dairy plays in making agriculture the state’s top industry. It generates more than $11 billion in revenue and supports 47,000 jobs. Checking out PA’s Ice Cream Trail is a fun way to celebrate and support dairy farmers. At more than 50 spots across the state, you can enjoy homemade ice cream and other delicious treats. Out and About in the 30th DistrictBells Across PA In honor of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026, the DelGrosso Family became the sponsor of the Blair County commemorative Liberty Bell as part of the Bells Across PA initiative. Pictured is Leah McNaul with her family, a local artist who painted the bell and titled it, “Blair County – A Part of America’s Story.”
Fulton County Celebrates 175 Years As part of ongoing celebrations of Fulton County’s 175th Anniversary, The Fulton County Historical Society unveiled the new Civil War plaque and informational boards that the Society purchased to document the impacts of the Civil War in Fulton County, stating “We feel strongly the sacrifices of the citizens of Fulton County should be documented and publicly available to everyone.” The plaque will be installed on the original stone monument still standing along Route 522, along with the stand-alone information boards.
America250PA Kickoff Gala The America250PA team collaborated with Blair County to host a Kickoff Gala at the U.S. Hotel with keynote speaker, former Governor Mark Schweiker. It was an evening of patriotism, pride and purpose! Pictured is Glenn Nelson, dressed as Major Cluggage, Commander of Fort Roberdeau.
If you are not already subscribed to this newsletter please sign up here. |
|||||
|
|||||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2025 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorjudyward.com | Privacy Policy |
