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In this Update:
Securing Historic Tax Cuts for Working Families
Working families, job creators and energy consumers in Pennsylvania would see their taxes reduced by approximately $3 billion a year under a bill approved by the Senate with a strong bipartisan, veto-proof majority. It would represent the largest tax cut for working families in Pennsylvania history, saving taxpayers more than $13 billion over the next five years. Senate Bill 269 would reduce the personal income tax (PIT) rate from 3.07% to 2.8%, putting more money in the wallets of every Pennsylvanian who earns a paycheck. The bill would also eliminate the gross receipts tax on energy, effective Jan. 1, 2025, providing critical relief from high energy costs. The tax cuts would benefit all Pennsylvania families and inject an additional $3 billion into the state’s economy, rather than growing government and arbitrarily picking winners and losers. The plan is a sharp contrast from Gov. Josh Shapiro’s calls for $3.2 billion in new government spending, as well as legislation introduced by House Democrats to nearly quadruple certain taxes paid by small businesses. I will continue to protect taxpayers by standing firm against punitive tax increases, reckless spending and unchecked growth in the size of government. ‘Top Gun’ Citizen Engagement Grounds PA Wilds Military Flyover Zone
On May 5, the Air Force and National Guard Bureau officially announced the scrapping of plans to establish a military flyover training zone in the Pennsylvania Wilds region. While we may never know the actual reasons behind last week’s cancellation announcement, it is possible to identify the major catalyst for victory in preserving the PA Wilds as a non-military flyover zone. Without question, the lion’s share of the credit belongs to the “Top Gun” citizen engagement effectively exercised by “We the People.” Clinton County and surrounding Cameron, Potter, Tioga, Elk, and McKean counties – all part of the Pennsylvania Wilds region – were in the crosshairs of this proposal to conduct low-altitude military training. Last May, I voiced my opposition in a letter formally calling on Brig. Gen. Jori A. Robinson, 175th Wing Commander, Maryland Air National Guard (ANG) to conduct a full environmental impact study (EIS) on the proposed Duke Military Operations Area (MOA). As a veteran of the U.S. Airforce and the PA Air National Guard, I applaud the citizens and local leaders of the Pennsylvania Wilds region and surrounding areas for making the most of your opportunities to publicly comment on what form of government you would willingly accept. In this case, “We the People” successfully stopped a proposed government initiative (military flight training) that would have been detrimental to the PA Wilds region. Regardless of the public policy issue at hand, this timeless, three-word phrase remains foundational to our Constitutional Republic and demonstrates the authority to govern is exclusively granted to the people. For more information click here. A Once in a Lifetime Chance to Learn about the Second Largest Illicit Business in the World
On Tuesday, May 14 at the Calvary Church in Boalsburg (150 Harvest Fields Drive), learn how Human Trafficking has invaded our lives and endangers our children, family members and loved ones daily. Register at the link below, and the $20 fee covers your lunch: Pennsylvania Anti-Human Trafficking Conference Tickets, Tue, May 14, 2024 at 8:00 AM | Eventbrite The day includes very special speakers who are donating their time and talents. One is a survivor of Human Trafficking who is now a Registered Nurse. Two others include a CEO from a company that hunts perpetrators on the web and hands the cases over to the FBI and Homeland Security, and a CEO who will discuss issues of Human Trafficking that educators should know (for CEU credit hours). You will have options to expand your awareness, better deal with the facts of HT and learn how to become involved in the fight. This conference highlights why Senator Dush is aggressively fighting HT and emphasizes how important the passage of his Senate Bills 44 and 45 were. You just might save the life of someone you know! Senate Votes to Create Statewide Sexual Assault Evidence Tracking System
To assist survivors of sexual assault, the Senate approved Senate Bill 920, which would establish a sexual assault evidence tracking system. Using the system, individuals could follow the path of a rape kit throughout the collection and testing process. Sexual assault forensic exams are conducted using what are commonly referred to as rape kits, in which DNA evidence is collected from the assault victim’s body, clothes and other personal belongings. The process can increase the likelihood of criminal prosecution. Thirty-two states and the District of Columbia have established rape kit tracking systems. Enactment of the legislation would enable Pennsylvania to receive additional federal funds. Senate Acts to Bolster Telemedicine in PA
Taking a major step forward in strengthening and stabilizing rural health care, the Senate approved legislation aimed at expanding the use of telemedicine across Pennsylvania. Telemedicine is the remote delivery of health care services and medical information using telecommunications technology. It allows medical services to be provided to some of the most vulnerable Pennsylvanians who otherwise would not be able to receive them due to location or other circumstances. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it saw rapid growth in Pennsylvania. Senate Bill 739 requires insurance providers or managed care organizations to reimburse health care providers for services provided to a patient through telemedicine. Services provided through telemedicine must meet the same standard of care as health care services provided in person. Scholarship Bill Wins Bipartisan Support
The Senate Education Committee advanced bipartisan legislation to provide more educational options to children in low-performing public schools through scholarships to attend the school of their choice. Senate Bill 795 would establish the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success (PASS) Program. During Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget address earlier this year, he referenced his continued support for “scholarships that let poor families in struggling school districts put their kids in the best position for them to succeed – whether that’s paying for extra tutoring, books and computers, or yes, going to another school.” The bill, which now heads to the full Senate for consideration, is part of a larger Senate Republican initiative to preserve the role parents have in their children’s lives. Preventative Care Protects Moms, All Women
Happy Mother’s Day to the women who play a critical role in their families as they care for their loved ones. Often, they are so focused on supporting everyone else that meeting their own needs takes a back seat. However, when it comes to breast cancer, that’s simply not safe to do. It’s important for all women who are at least 40 years old to carve out time to get a mammogram every two years. Know your risk and family history because Act 1 of 2023 eliminates all costs associated with screening breast MRI, ultrasound, genetic testing and counseling for individuals with high risk. The comprehensive breast cancer screening bill will save lives so we can enjoy more time with the mothers and all other women in our worlds.
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