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In this Update:
Classroom Visits at Ligonier Valley High School
I recently had the pleasure of visiting with students in AP Government and Social Studies classes at Ligonier Valley School District High School. We had good conversations about different aspects of state government, including becoming an elected official, educational opportunities, and various career paths. The students had thoughtful questions on current affairs and a variety of issues facing Pennsylvania. Thank you to, Mr. Brian Blasko, for inviting me to visit his classroom – I enjoyed the time and dialogue shared.
Video: Energy Advancement in Pennsylvania Our region has a long and storied history when it comes to the production of electricity that has powered not only Pennsylvania, but the entire nation. Over the last several decades we have no doubt seen production of electricity in our region undergo a significant transition, which has had a substantial impact upon our local communities, labor employees, and their families. The former Homer City Generating Station site right here in Indiana County is set to become the largest gas-fired power plant and AI data center in the nation. It was great to sit down with Valory Myers from WJAC-TV News recently to discuss the Homer City Energy Campus and economic growth! Click the image above to watch the segment and my interview. Fort Ligonier in Westmoreland County
I was thrilled to visit Fort Ligonier, a historic landmark in Westmoreland County. The gracious staff provided a brief overview of their history and shared information on the new exhibit on the Friendly Fire Incident of 1758 – a pivotal moment in young George Washington’s military career. The Fort has an exceptional art collection which features original works from the 18th and 19th centuries. It is an incredible asset which gives a wonderful glimpse into the important role our region played in history. My thanks to Director Mary Manges and the dedicated staff for preserving this vibrant piece of our nation’s heritage. I highly recommend a visit! Hearings on Proposed State Budget Set to Begin
Senate hearings begin next week on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2026-27 state budget, a plan that spends too much and steers the state ever closer to a massive tax increase. The Senate Appropriations Committee will question department heads as we seek to reduce the size of the $53.3 billion spending plan that would increase spending by $2.7 billion – a 5.4% increase. It would take $4.6 billion out of the state’s Rainy Day Fund, which is made up of emergency reserves that protect against future tax hikes. The committee begins two weeks of hearings on Monday. I’ll post recaps of each week’s hearings in this e-newsletter so you know what’s being planned for your tax dollars. Preventing Food Allergies and Cutting Costs for Taxpayers
Making preventative supplements available to families could prevent more than 80% of peanut and egg allergies and save taxpayers millions, according to testimony given at a Senate Majority Policy Committee public hearing. Approximately 1.3 million Pennsylvanians are afflicted with a food allergy. One expert testified the rate of children with a food allergy has grown by 50% over the past 20 years, with rates of peanut and tree nut allergies rising by 300%. The average cost of a child with a peanut allergy is more than $7,200 per year. Among the topics discussed was legislation that would require no-cost health insurance coverage for early peanut and egg introduction dietary supplements for infants. Video of the hearing and written testimony can be viewed here. Free Webinars Help Families Plan for Higher Education
For students and parents needing help with college financial aid, the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency offers free webinars on applying for aid and reviewing offers, options for non-traditional students and other important topics. Upcoming webinars include:
Check the full list here for dates and times. The page includes past webinar recordings for topics you might have missed. Avoiding the Emotional and Financial Toll of Romance Scams
Valentine’s Day is behind us, but romance scammers never go away. You can help yourself or a loved one avoid heartbreak and serious financial loss by knowing the warning signs. These scammers research a target’s social media to gather personal details, allowing them to mirror interests and build trust. According to state Attorney General Dave Sunday, common romance scammer behavior includes:
Consumers who feel they may have been victimized by this or any other scam may submit a complaint to the Bureau of Consumer Protection, email scams@attorneygeneral.gov or call 1-800-441-2555. Snowmobiling Opportunities in State Parks and Forests
For wintertime fun, our state parks and forests offer thousands of miles and hundreds of acres of designated snowmobile areas. Snowmobile trails are open until April 1 or earlier as determined by the district forester or park manager. It depends on having enough snow on the ground, so check the trail conditions page before you head out to see if trails are open and ready for riding. Riders must stay on roads and trails marked open for snowmobiles. Some trails used for snowmobiling may be open to vehicular traffic. Snowmobilers may also ride on state game lands on designated snowmobile areas, roads and trails.
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