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In this Update:
Telephone Town Hall on Monday, Feb. 24
On Monday, Feb. 24, at 2 p.m., I will be hosting a Telephone Town Hall to engage with residents of the 33rd Senate District. This type of meeting allows you to attend from the comfort of your home. At the time of the event, you will receive a telephone call from me inviting you to participate. Simply stay on the line and you will be connected to the call. You can also choose to audio stream the event live via your smartphone or PC. I invite you to join the call to share your thoughts and ask questions on statewide and district-specific issues. To sign up to join the call, please visit my website. No Patient Left Alone Act: Defending Dignity, Compassion and Human Connection
I introduced the No Patient Left Alone Act to ensure that all Pennsylvanians facing medical treatment or end-of-life care have the support of family, friends or an advocate. Studies show that elderly patients left alone in hospitals experience faster physical and cognitive decline. Patients of all ages who are isolated are more likely to experience severe anxiety, depression and emotional distress. In addition to guaranteeing the right to a support person during hospitalization, treatments and end-of-life care, the legislation would also prioritize access for intensive care unit patients, the elderly, disabled individuals and those in critical or long-term care. Hospitals and care facilities would be required to implement safe, reasonable visitation policies that balance patient needs with public health protocols. For too long, hospitals have placed policies over people, red tape over relationships and rules over basic human decency. The No Patient Left Alone Act is more than legislation; it’s a moral obligation. Bill to Award a Global War on Terror Bonus
I introduced legislation to award a monetary bonus to veterans of the Global War on Terror (GWOT), which includes Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Pennsylvania has a long and proud history of recognizing the service and sacrifice of our veterans. Our commonwealth has supported those who served our country during an active theater of war as another way to express our gratitude for the sacrifices made. The GWOT Bonus would be available to all qualified veterans who were Pennsylvania residents at the time of their service and are current residents. It would offer a larger bonus if the service member was a prisoner of war or to the surviving family if the service member was killed in action. Locating veterans to award the bonus would also provide the opportunity connect them with additional state and federal programs and services. Senate Bill 144 has been referred to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration. Senate Concludes First Week of Budget Hearings
The Senate Appropriations Committee began public hearings this week on the proposed 2025-26 state budget. Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget plan would increase state spending by more than $3.6 billion, or about 7.5% above the current year’s budget. During the next five years, using realistic spending and revenue estimates, Shapiro’s spending plans would leave a $27.3 billion hole in the state’s finances. Among the highlights: The Department of Revenue hearing focused on the inflated revenues Gov. Josh Shapiro used to balance his spending proposal. Revenue Secretary Pat Browne confirmed the state is only expected to bring in approximately $47.5 billion in revenue under existing law. Balancing Shapiro’s budget would require elimination of the state’s entire existing fund balance of nearly $3 billion and a transfer of $1.6 billion from the state’s emergency savings, known as the Rainy Day Fund. Following his plan would cause serious financial issues. At the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) budget hearing, the committee sought information about how PASSHE is working to right-size the system given steep declines in enrollment and to minimize student debt. The new Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program, made possible by the support of Senate Republicans, provides $25 million in funding for students earning degrees and completing job training programs in high-demand industries. The State Police budget hearing highlighted Shapiro’s budget proposal for the State Police that would slow the phase-out from the Motor License Fund, making $375 million less available for road and bridge repairs. There were also questions about how the State Police would handle Shapiro’s plan to legalize recreational cannabis use. At the Department of Health budget hearing, members shared health-focused concerns regarding Shapiro’s plan to legalize recreational cannabis use. While most doctors prescribe fewer than 100 medical marijuana certifications, three doctors prescribed more than 11,000. Access to health care, particularly in rural areas where hospitals have been closed, was also discussed. Thursday’s hearings included the Department of State and the Department of Transportation. Find the hearings schedule, livestreams of budget hearings, daily recaps and video from prior hearings at PASenateGOP.com. Support for Veterans Struggling with Substance Use
Adapting from military life to civilian life comes with serious challenges. Most veterans, with the support of their loved ones, overcome these difficulties. Others, sadly, resort to using substances as a coping mechanism and develop substance use disorder. More than one in 10 veterans have been diagnosed with a substance use disorder, which is higher than the general population. Help is available for veterans, family members and their advocates at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Find local treatment options here. The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is active in communities throughout the state to connect troubled veterans to the resources they need for recovery. In a partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, the state agencies work together to provide supportive services that are person-centered and focused on achieving overall wellness. Tips to Protect Your Family in a Power Outage
More than just an inconvenience, power outages can also present safety threats. In extreme cold temperatures, do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home as it increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, fires and burns. It’s best to go to a community location with power – particularly for those at greatest risk. Another concern is keeping food at the proper temperature. Keep freezers and fridges closed; a fridge will keep food cold for about four hours, and a full freezer will maintain the temperature for about 48 hours. Dispose of food if the temperature exceeds 40 degrees. Find out how long refrigerated medication can be stored at higher temperatures and contact your doctor for a new supply if necessary. Generators can minimize the challenges associated with power outages, but they present their own risks if not used properly. Read more about how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Staying Safe in Winter’s Cold Temps
Not only are the cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing unpleasant, they can also be quite dangerous when frostbite or hypothermia take hold. If someone’s temperature is below 95 degrees, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. When body temperature is too low, brain activity is compromised and the victim is unable to think clearly or move as usual – which makes it difficult for them to know they need help or get it if they do. Knowing the risk factors and warning signs can help to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers helpful information about how to stay safe in the winter. Recognizing National FFA Week
One of the state’s top industries, agriculture, brings farming to mind for most people. However, there is so much more to it. People who are interested in science, business, technology and mechanics can find fulfilling careers in agriculture. The industry requires the skills of professionals in lots of areas to meet demands for food, fiber and fuel production. National FFA Week, which runs from Feb. 15-22, is a great time to consider career possibilities and to appreciate the many men and women who already serve in this critical industry.
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