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In this Update:
My Letter to Governor Shapiro on Temporary Suspension of State Gas Tax
Freedom Medal Recipients
Dave Bonhoff, a former Baltimore County police officer, and his wife Kim, who served as a dispatcher, have dedicated much of their lives to public service. Recently, Dave made the decision to leave his position as a school bus driver in Littlestown after choosing not to remove his MAGA hat, standing firm in what he believed was his right to express his views. In support of her husband, Kim also chose to leave her job as a school bus driver with the same bus company, standing alongside him during this time. Regardless of where people stand politically, their story highlights the challenges that can arise when personal beliefs and workplace expectations intersect. Thank you to Dave and Kim for their years of service and dedication to their communities.
Brian and AmyBeth Hodges were true heavy hitters during the Reopen movement in the COVID era, standing strong for small businesses and fighting to keep their B&B, the Brafferton Inn in Gettysburg, open during an incredibly difficult time. They didn’t back down when it mattered most. They spoke up, supported fellow business owners, and stood firm in defense of their livelihood and their community. Today, Brian and AmyBeth remain a strong conservative voice in Gettysburg, continuing to advocate for the values they believe in and the community they care about. Thank you, Brian and AmyBeth for all that you do! Capitol Visit with Red Cross
I had a fantastic meeting with the American Red Cross and appreciated hearing the most recent updates on their ongoing work and community efforts. Across the country, the American Red Cross responds to an emergency every 8 minutes! This is an incredible reminder of the vital role they play in helping families and communities when it matters most. Grateful for the dedication of those who serve, respond in times of need, and help keep our communities safe. Looking forward to continuing to support their important mission. To watch my remarks, please click below.
Students from Franklin County Career and Technical Institute
What a fantastic group from Franklin County Career and Technical Institute! We had a great time! Meeting with Eastern University President, Ron Matthews and Vice President Michael Fedor
Had a great meeting with President Ron Matthews and Vice President Michael Fedor of Eastern University (my alma mater and where I met my sweetheart Rebbie!) in St. Davids, PA. We discussed the important role Eastern University and independent nonprofit higher education play in strengthening our district and Commonwealth, as well as the vital mission of spreading the Gospel and preparing students to lead with faith and purpose. Thank you to President Matthews and Vice President Fedor for their leadership and for the work Eastern University continues to do to support students, families, our communities. My Committee Remarks on SB 128
My remarks from today’s Education Committee Meeting on SB 128 “Transparency is not political. It is a basic principle of good governance and public trust. It means that the people we serve—parents, families, and taxpayers—have clear, accessible insight into how our schools operate and what our students are learning.” Families Can’t Wait—Suspend Pennsylvania’s Gas Tax Now
A mother in Pennsylvania should not have to choose between filling her gas tank and feeding her children—but that is exactly the reality many families are facing today. Across our Commonwealth, working people are not just noticing higher prices at the pump—they are feeling fear, frustration, and financial strain that grows with every gallon purchased. This is not about inconvenience. It is about survival. When fuel prices surge this rapidly, they do more than strain budgets—they threaten livelihoods, disrupt families, and punish people who are simply trying to get to work and care for those they love. Since the outbreak of conflict involving Iran, global oil markets have surged, driving gasoline prices sharply higher across the country and here at home. What was once a manageable expense has become a growing burden that families cannot escape. And in Pennsylvania, that burden is made heavier by one of the highest gasoline taxes in the nation—nearly 58 cents per gallon—piling state-imposed costs onto an already worsening crisis. This is not just an economic issue—it is a moral one. Government exists to serve the people, especially in moments of crisis. When families are hurting, leadership is not measured by patience or process—it is measured by action. Doing nothing while families struggle is not neutrality. It is a decision—a decision to allow hardship to deepen when relief is possible. Across Pennsylvania, the impact is being felt everywhere. For many residents—especially in rural communities—driving is not optional. It is essential. People must travel miles to reach their workplaces, schools, farms, and hospitals. Truckers who deliver our goods, farmers who feed our nation, and small business owners who keep local economies alive are absorbing higher fuel costs every day. Those costs do not disappear—they are passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices for food, materials, and services. At kitchen tables across our Commonwealth, families are making impossible choices: Do we fill the tank or fill the refrigerator? Do we make it to work this week or delay paying the electric bill? These are not theoretical concerns. They are happening now. And the hardship is compounded by policy choices made here at home. Pennsylvania maintains one of the highest gasoline taxes in America. At a time when global conflict has driven fuel prices upward, continuing to collect one of the nation’s heaviest per-gallon taxes places an extraordinary burden on the very people government is meant to protect. Other states have demonstrated that relief is possible. During periods of sharp fuel price increases, states such as Georgia have temporarily suspended their gas taxes to provide immediate financial relief to residents. Pennsylvania should not lag behind while our citizens struggle to keep up. Suspending the state gas tax—temporarily and responsibly—would provide immediate breathing room to families already stretched thin by inflation. It would help stabilize small businesses facing rising transportation costs. It would support farmers working to sustain food production and truckers working to keep supply chains moving. And most importantly, it would signal that government understands the urgency of this moment and is willing to act. Critics will argue that gas tax revenue supports infrastructure, and they are correct—our roads and bridges matter. But infrastructure exists to serve people, not the other way around. In times of extraordinary hardship, government must place the needs of families first. Temporary relief in a time of crisis is not reckless—it is responsible. This is not a partisan issue. It is not about ideology. It is about survival for working families who are doing everything right yet falling further behind through no fault of their own. Leadership is tested in moments like this. Not when times are easy—but when families are hurting. Every day of delay costs Pennsylvanians more money they cannot afford to lose. Every week without relief tightens the financial strain on households already stretched to their limits. And every month of inaction risks pushing more families to the brink. Pennsylvania families do not need sympathy. They need relief. Suspend the gas tax—temporarily, responsibly, and immediately—until global energy markets stabilize and prices return to manageable levels. Because when families are hurting this badly, waiting is not leadership. Act now. Throwback!
Rebbie and me in our college days—young, carefree, and full of laughter, with little Kinky and Baby Cat bringing us endless joy. These were the days that filled our hearts with friendship, love, and memories that still make me smile. 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. 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. 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.
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