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In this Update:
Legislation to Save Quehanna Passes Senate Committee
Legislation that I sponsored, alongside Sen. Lisa Baker to modernize the outdated statutory framework governing the Department of Corrections’ motivational boot camp program at Quehanna Boot Camp in Clearfield County passed the Senate Judiciary Committee. Senate Bill 875 also aims to implement cost-saving reforms and explore opportunities for additional reforms. The Quehanna Boot Camp has consistently outperformed other correctional facilities across the Commonwealth. It boasts the lowest recidivism rates in Pennsylvania and leads all state institutions in GEDs awarded, accounting for an 30% of all GEDs earned last year. Additionally, the facility offers vocational training that equips graduates with industry-recognized certifications, preparing them for family-sustaining careers upon release. Despite the state’s progress in creating alternative sentencing and rehabilitation programs, the statutory framework for motivational boot camps has remained unchanged. Quehanna isn’t just a correctional facility, it’s a proven model for rehabilitation and redemption. It transforms lives and prepares individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Shutting it down would be a serious step backwards in our pursuit of public safety and fiscally responsible governance. In February, the Shapiro Administration announced their intent to proceed with the proposed closure of Quehanna Boot Camp, despite its strong track record of success and support from corrections professionals and community leaders. Senate Bill 875 now heads to the full Senate for consideration. Senate Approves Bill to Authorize Drone Collaboration
The Senate unanimously approved my legislation authorizing the Commonwealth to enter into interstate agreements for drone research and deployment. Senate Bill 468 permits the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, with the Governor’s approval, to engage in agreements with other states to facilitate the research and use of unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones. The bill has garnered strong support from more than 14 leading organizations representing the aviation and technology sectors, underscoring its importance in fostering innovation and positioning Pennsylvania as a hub for drone advancement. This bill positions Pennsylvania to be a national leader in this emerging industry. It allows interstate cooperation to capitalize on this immense economical potential. It furthers research, workforce development, education that leads to jobs, investment and prosperity for our region. By ensuring drones are used safely and responsibly, we can enhance public safety, support family-sustaining careers, and drive meaningful economic growth. I’m proud to contribute to the broader partnership among key stakeholders that puts Pennsylvania at the forefront of this emerging field. Senate Bill 468 now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Passes Bill to Address Drug Activity Near Recovery Houses
Legislation that I sponsored to strengthen protections for individuals in recovery passed the Senate. Senate Bill 635 directs the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to establish a sentencing enhancement for certain drug-related offenses committed within 1,000 feet of a drug and alcohol recovery house. These recovery houses are meant to offer a lifeline to Pennsylvanians fighting to overcome addiction. Drug dealers who deliberately target individuals on the path to recovery are exploiting those working toward recovery and endangering public safety. The bill builds on the General Assembly’s unanimous passage of Act 59 of 2017, which established standards for recovery houses to ensure a safe, drug and alcohol-free environment for individuals in recovery. Despite these protections, some individuals continue to sell controlled substances near these facilities, undermining recovery and endangering lives. Senate Bill 635 now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Cambria County Realtors Visit the State Capitol
Realtors from across Cambria County visited Harrisburg this week. I had an opportunity to discuss legislation important to their profession and to show them around the Senate floor. Lifesaving Bill to Eliminate Cost Barriers to Breast Cancer Diagnosis Approved by Senate
Patients who receive abnormal results from supplemental breast cancer screenings will be able to access the necessary follow-up diagnostic imaging at no cost under bipartisan legislation passed by the Senate. This ensures critical continuum of care. Senate Bill 88 builds on the success of Act 1 of 2023, which provided no-cost preventive screenings for individuals at high risk. Senate Bill 88 takes the next step with no-cost follow-up diagnostic imaging and expands eligibility to include individuals at average risk. While 26 other states have followed Pennsylvania’s lead in offering no-cost supplemental breast screening since the passage of Act 1, Pennsylvania remains the only state without guaranteed coverage for diagnostic imaging. The bill now goes to the House of Representatives. Senate Targets PA Opioid Crisis with Expanded Reporting Tool
The Senate voted to incorporate overdose reporting by EMS providers into the statewide Overdose Information Network to make sure first responders, treatment providers and other key parties have the information they need to save lives. Senate Bill 89 would require the Pennsylvania Department of Health to coordinate with the Pennsylvania State Police to ensure real-time overdose reporting by EMS providers is incorporated into the statewide mapping system. The bill passed the House of Representatives and now heads to the Governor’s desk. EMS providers would report information including the date and time of the overdose, location, substances used by the victim and more. In other action to prevent opioid deaths, the Senate passed a measure giving EMS personnel permanent authority to leave behind a dose of lifesaving naloxone at non-fatal overdose scenes. Measure to Prevent Eminent Domain Abuse Approved by Senate
Legislation to protect property owners against eminent domain abuse and ensure they are fully compensated when their property is taken by government was approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 225 would ensure business owners and farmers whose properties are seized through eminent domain are compensated for loss of “goodwill,” which goes beyond the assessed value. For farms, the land may possess characteristics that make it particularly special, such as fertile soil. In the case of another business, goodwill may be because of location, access to utilities and other factors. The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration. Celebrating Great Outdoors Month
The arrival of summer means plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy what nature has to offer locally and across our commonwealth. Pennsylvania is home to cool, green forests, thousands of pristine lakes and streams, hiking trails and state parks. Find plenty of ways to explore the great outdoors of our region and the state here. |
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