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In this Update:
Future Farmers of America Annual State Leadership Conference
FFA students from across the Commonwealth learned about the legislative process at the Pennsylvania FFA Annual State Legislative Leadership Conference in Harrisburg this week. The three-day leadership experience is held each spring for FFA members to learn how government and advocacy intersect with agriculture. I enjoyed meeting with students and advisors from Derry Area School District and Penns Manor Area School District during their time at the State Capitol. These young leaders are engaged in a wide range of agricultural activities and help advocate for the agriculture industry within their communities and statewide. It is wonderful to see such passionate involvement for the future of our state’s top industry! 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. YMCA Advocacy Day in Harrisburg
It was a pleasure to meet with Brooklyn Visnesky during her visit to the state capitol for YMCA Advocacy Day. Brooklyn is a sophomore at Homer-Center School District High School and a member of YMCA’s Youth Advocacy Academy. I enjoyed our conversation and hearing Brooklyn’s concerns about the out-of-school time programs. The YMCA Youth Advocacy Academy is a statewide and federal advocacy training program for high school students in grades 9-12. Participants engage in exercises designed to provide the skills and resources necessary to effect positive change in their communities, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the United States. 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Cutting outdated regulations for farmers, the Senate approved a measure giving them greater flexibility to safely drive more farm vehicles on roadways at night, reflecting the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 submit a form here to 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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