E-news Updates - October 13, 2023

Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) provided the following statement after today’s horrific and ongoing attack on Israel and its civilians:

“Today I announced I am introducing a resolution expressing condolence and support for the State of Israel and its People considering today’s barbaric terrorist attacks by Hamas.

“The images we have seen on the news and social media indicate atrocities being committed against Israeli civilians in Southern Israel in horrific fashion and are condemned in the strongest manner. We stand firmly with the people of Israel and their right to defend themselves.

“These attacks by Hamas are shocking, barbaric and evil; shooting and killing civilians, killing families at rest on Shabbat that is also the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, and kidnapping women and children. They amount to war crimes of the worst kind.

“In the history of civilization and freedom, those who burst into people’s homes and slaughter sleeping or resting families and civilians are soon themselves destroyed and brought to justice in the name of everything good and true. Today, we ask God for the protection of all Israelis and innocent lives, and the restoration of peace in Israel.

“Make no mistake, Israel has every right to defend itself with all due and overwhelming force. The Senate of Pennsylvania expresses its support for Israel, with whom we have shared a special relationship since its Independence established in 1948. Our National Guard troops have deployed to the Sinai Peninsula since 2007 as part of an ongoing international peacekeeping mission to ensure that the 1978 Camp David Accords peace agreement between Egypt and Israel is upheld.

“The Abraham Accords have further brought peace and stability to the Middle East, and the Senate of Pennsylvania stands in opposition to any state or entity, including Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah, that supports terrorism of any kind or provides aid and support to those who fund terror against it.

“The Senate of Pennsylvania stands resolutely with Israel and prays for the Peace of Jerusalem, calling on all who love freedom and peaceful coexistence to do the same.”

How to Prepare for the Nov. 7 Election

Election Day on Nov. 7 is approaching. You’re able to participate as long as you’re registered to vote by Oct. 23. If you’ve moved, this is also a great time to double check that you’re registered to vote at your current address.

Anyone who wishes to vote by mail must apply by Oct. 31. You must be a registered voter to submit an application, which can be done here.

If you are looking for a way to help your community, learn more about becoming a poll worker here. Thousands of Pennsylvanians are needed to run elections, and poll workers are needed in all 67 counties.

PennDOT Survey Open Until Oct. 20

What do you think of PennDOT’s construction and maintenance services? Motorists have until Friday, Oct. 20, to provide feedback via an online survey.

The 24-question survey asks respondents how they receive PennDOT roadway information and how often PennDOT meets or exceeds expectations regarding construction and maintenance services. Respondents are also asked about experiences with reporting concerns to their department, and whether or how they use the state’s 511PA traveler information services.

Enjoy PA’s Gorgeous Fall Foliage

Some of the world’s most beautiful fall colors are in Pennsylvania. Our state also has a longer and more varied fall foliage season than any other state in the nation.

Find prime locations for viewing fall foliage in the commonwealth, as well as information about scenic driving tours, here.

Of course, there are all sorts of fun things to do in Pennsylvania this fall beyond leaf peeping. Read about autumn tourism activities – including partaking in festivals, enjoying seasonal foods and exploring architectural marvels – here.

Brush Up on School Bus Safety

School Bus Safety Week, Oct. 16-20, is the perfect time for students, parents and drivers to brush up on traffic safety rules.

For students, this means knowing how to safely board, ride and exit the school bus. For parents and all drivers, this means knowing what to do on the road when a school bus is in the area and being aware of the penalties associated with breaking Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law.

Turn Around, Don’t Drown: What to do When Roads Flood

Flooding is more common during hurricane season. Please listen for flood warnings, and don’t drive through flooded roads. After all, it takes just two feet of fast-moving water to float a car.

Anyone who drives around barriers intended to close a road can face increased penalties if emergency responders are called to rescue motorists who disregard traffic control signs.