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In this Update:
How Workforce Development Gets Done
In the latest edition of the Mission Report Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC) President Susan Snelnick to discuss what sets NPRC apart from traditional higher education. With flexible scheduling options at Close-to-Home instructional locations and innovative partnering with a growing team of high-quality, industry-leading instructors, NPRC serves a vast, under-served, rural 10-county region which includes Cameron, Elk, McKean, Potter, Crawford, Erie, Forest, Tioga, Venango and Warren counties. By offering dual enrollment, convenient online courses and in-person classes in various community facilities such as libraries, schools, career and technical centers, and even businesses—all without requiring students to commute long distances—NPRC continues to find innovative ways to put learners first by providing affordable and accessible education and career pathways to sustainable income. One of the most notable actions taken by NPRC is the elimination of fees for classes. Unlike many other institutions that charge various fees on top of tuition, NPRC has suspended these fees, making the cost of education more transparent and predictable for students. How Workforce Development Gets Done In the preview clip above, Susan furthers explains how NPRC delivers mutually beneficial Workforce Development training that seeks to connect job seekers with regional job creators by developing in-demand, career-ready skills. Recent NPRC Workforce Development initiatives include online offerings such as EMT and CDL targeted training programs, as well as recognition with the Rural Community College Alliance (RCCA) Workforce Development and Innovation Award. Additional thought-provoking, podcast discussion topics include:
Visit SenatorDush.com any time for exclusive access to every complete episode of the Mission Report Podcast, including my featured conversation with PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity. You can also subscribe and watch on my YouTube channel or listen any time on Spotify. Open Government: Tracking How Your Tax Dollars are Spent
Government is funded by money paid by taxpayers, and these resources are available to shed light on how those dollars are being spent by the commonwealth. The PennWATCH website allows citizens to keep tabs on the state budget, spending and revenue. Pennsylvania also makes it easy for people to review state purchases, lobbyist registrations and reports and campaign finance reports. Announced earlier this year by state Treasurer Stacy Garrity, OpenBookPA is a vast resource of data and information related to state finances. It includes the Fiscal Health Scorecard, the daily balance of every state fund and the Contracts e-Library, which allows people to search all state contracts valued at $5,000 or more. Bill Targeting Catalytic Converter Thefts Passed by Senate
Pennsylvania is one of the top states in the country for catalytic converter thefts, with thieves targeting the car part for its precious metals – leaving families and businesses to deal with the costly aftermath. We passed legislation to strengthen regulations and equip law enforcement with better tools to track and prosecute offenders. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Bill 914 repeals the Scrap Metal Theft Prevention Act and moves the requirements to Title 18, the Crimes Code. Title 18 requires scrap processors and recycling facilities to collect buyer information, set commercial-account rules, restrict purchases of certain materials and create penalties. Expanding Coverage of Breast Cancer Screenings
Earlier this year, the Senate passed a bill to expand insurance coverage for breast cancer screenings, including MRIs and ultrasounds, with no out-of-pocket costs. It was another major step forward in early detection and access to care. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’m hopeful the House of Representatives will pass this legislation, so more Pennsylvanians have access to these lifesaving screenings. Read more about breast cancer risk and new resources available for early detection here. Give Your Feedback on PennDOT Construction, Maintenance Services
Through Oct. 21, motorists can take an online survey to give their feedback on Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) construction and maintenance services. The 22-question survey asks participants how they receive PennDOT roadway information and how often PennDOT meets or exceeds expectations in construction and maintenance activities. Respondents are also asked about experiences with reporting concerns to the department, and whether or how they use the state’s 511PA traveler information services. PennDOT is directly responsible for nearly 40,000 miles of highway and 25,400 bridges. A summary of recent projects and funds spent can be found in the 2024 Annual Report.
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