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In this Update:
Property Tax Legislation Proposal
For decades, our seniors have worked hard, paid their taxes, and built their homes—brick by brick, year by year. I believe that once you reach 75 years of age, have lived in your home for 10 years or more, or have paid off your home, you should not be forced to keep paying property taxes just to stay under your own roof. That’s why I am proposing property tax relief legislation to give our seniors the security and peace of mind they deserve. No senior should have to worry about losing their home after a lifetime of hard work and sacrifice. It’s time to honor our seniors—not burden them. Major Fox Conner Hall Dedication Ceremony
It was an honor to attend the Fox Conner Hall Dedication Ceremony and reflect on the extraordinary legacy of Major General Fox Conner. Major General Fox Conner was a pivotal U.S. Army officer renowned for his intellect, strategic insight, and mentorship. During World War I, he helped shape Army doctrine and operations, earning the nickname “Brain of the AEF.” His influence extended far beyond the battlefield. General Conner later mentored future World War II leaders such as Dwight D. Eisenhower, George S. Patton, and George C. Marshall, leaving a lasting legacy on the Army’s approach to strategy and leader development. His life stands as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of leadership, wisdom, and service to our nation. Gettysburg Tour
On Saturday, we had a fantastic afternoon on the Gettysburg Battlefield! Meeting with Eastern University Staff & Students
What an amazing group of students and staff from Eastern University! It was a privilege to give them a tour of the Senate Chamber, share the story behind the stunning artwork, and highlight the rich biblical history represented throughout the Capitol. Most inspiring of all was hearing their personal stories of faith—of accepting Jesus and taking a firm stand in Him. Grateful for the opportunity to spend time with such a thoughtful and committed group of young leaders. Hartzell Supply Yard’s Ribbon Cutting
Congratulations to Hartzell Supply Yard on celebrating their 1-Year Ribbon Cutting Anniversary in Biglerville! It was a pleasure to join the team, community members, and local leaders to recognize this milestone and celebrate the growth of a business that continues to serve Adams County with dedication and hard work. Small businesses like Hartzell Supply Yard are the backbone of our local economy, creating jobs and strengthening our communities. Wishing them continued success for many years to come! Gun Owners of America
There’s nothing I enjoy more than connecting with The People of the Commonwealth. GOA put on a fantastic event as usual! Shen Yun Performing Arts Show
It was a privilege to attend Shen Yun, a powerful performance that brings to life thousands of years of traditional Chinese culture through breathtaking dance, music, and storytelling. Beyond its beauty and artistry, Shen Yun also shares the history of a culture that has faced suppression under the Chinese Communist regime, including the persecution of people of faith and those seeking to preserve traditional beliefs and practices. Many of the artists of Shen Yun cannot freely perform in China today because of these restrictions—making their mission to preserve and share traditional culture even more meaningful. It was an inspiring afternoon that combined artistic excellence with a reminder of the importance of faith, freedom, and cultural heritage. Throwback!
Family photo taken in Argonne, France (where Rebbie’s grandfather fought in WWI) at the memory stone of Sgt York. Hearing Explores Approaches to Expanding Access to Dental Care Across PA
Efforts to expand access to dental education and reduce barriers to entry to address severe workforce shortages in dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants were the focus of a public hearing of the Senate Majority Policy Committee. Almost a third of Pennsylvanians already don’t receive regular dental care and more than 22% of the commonwealth’s dentists are age 65 and older and nearing retirement. The hearing featured dental professionals, educators, insurance companies and other advocates who gave their perspectives on how dental workforce shortages harm public health and shared successful strategies that encouraged more people to pursue these careers. Video of the hearing and written testimony can be found here. Keeping Our Families and Communities Safe
A year ago this month, the Senate took decisive action on several bills to keep our families and communities safe. Among the bills we passed are Senate Bill 92, known as Tyler’s Law, to impose tougher penalties on drug dealers who sell fentanyl resulting in a fatal overdose; Senate Bill 490 to prohibit non-monetary bail for the most dangerous individuals; and Senate Bill 347 to prohibit so-called “safe injection sites” – which endanger our neighborhoods in Pennsylvania. I voted for these bills because there is a clear and urgent need to give our law enforcement community new tools to combat these serious issues. Unfortunately, although the Senate passed all three bills with bipartisan votes, they continue to sit in the state House of Representatives waiting for action. It’s time for the House Democrats to advance these bills, and I will continue pushing for strong legislation to make our communities safer. Student Teachers Can Apply for Assistance Through PA Support Program
Planning to be a student teacher in 2026-27? The Student Teacher Support Program provides financial assistance in return for help alleviating Pennsylvania’s pressing teacher shortage. It provides $10,000 to eligible student teachers and up to $2,500 to teachers who mentor them. Recipients must commit to teaching in Pennsylvania for three years following the completion of their teaching certification. Selection will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis based on when the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency receives a completed student application. Learn more and apply here. New Specialty Plate Helps Preserve Pennsylvania’s Heritage
Pennsylvania drivers have another special fund license plate to put on the back of their vehicles: the Preserve Our Heritage plate featuring the Liberty Bell and Pennsylvania Bank Barn. Built from about 1790 to 1900, these barns were banked and set into a hillside and became symbols of Pennsylvania’s agricultural roots. The plates are available for cars or trucks with a registered gross weight of 14,000 pounds or less. Each plate costs $64, with $23 going directly to support the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission’s education and exhibit programs. You can find the plate and order it here. You Can Help Deliver Senior Services in Our Area
Delivering meals, being a senior companion and other roles are open to volunteers of all ages and abilities with the state Aging Services Network. You can learn new skills, make friends and help others through these programs:
Find out more and apply online here or contact the local Area Agency on Aging to see where help is needed in our area. National Donate Life Month
You can save up to eight lives through organ donation, restore sight to two people through cornea donation and heal more than 75 people through tissue donation. While the vast majority of Americans support donation, many overlook the important step of registering their decision to be a donor. Donate Life America has plenty of useful information on this lifesaving topic. Find out how to add the Organ Donor designation to your driver’s license or ID card here.
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