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In this Update:
Additional Legislation to Repeal Vehicle Emissions Testing
I recently announced my intent to introduce additional legislation that will repeal Pennsylvania’s outdated and burdensome vehicle emissions testing program. Since taking office, I have led the fight to reform this flawed mandate. Earlier this year, the Senate passed Senate Bill 35, which removes Blair, Cambria, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lycoming, Mercer and Westmoreland counties from the emissions testing program, and Senate Bill 149, which exempts the five most recent model year vehicles from testing requirements. The Trump Administration is now moving to repeal federal vehicle emissions standards and to reverse the determination that new motor vehicles and engines pose a threat to public health and welfare. My legislation would align Pennsylvania with these federal actions, eliminating a costly and unnecessary requirement on motorists. This commonsense legislation is about putting working Pennsylvanians first. Emissions testing is an outdated government mandate that serves no legitimate purpose other than cost hardworking Pennsylvanians that live in certain counties additional dollars during inspection time. It is high time to end this program. I won’t stop fighting until we get this done. DuBois Area School District Named PA Wilds Champion
A member of my staff presented DuBois Area School District with a Pennsylvania Senate citation in recognition of their 2025 Pennsylvania Wilds Inspiring Youth Champion Award! Senate Approves Bill to Make PA Leader in Drone Research
My legislation to position Pennsylvania as a national leader in the emerging drone industry was approved by the Senate and sent to the House of Representatives. Senate Bill 468 permits the state 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 (UAS), or drones. 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. An interstate compact would make Pennsylvania a key player in UAS testing, training and education, helping to ensure public safety, expand aviation jobs and inspire business development across the commonwealth. Children in Hot Cars: Look Before You Lock
In 2024, 39 children died of heatstroke in vehicles – up 35% from 2023. Following the below steps helps ensure that a child is not left in the car this summer:
More information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is available here. Protecting Yourself on Facebook Marketplace
Transactions through social media platforms have limited consumer protections compared to traditional business dealings. In some cases, incidents can occur, ranging from scams to violent crimes. After a constituent was tragically murdered during a Facebook Marketplace exchange, I introduced the Denise Williams Act to establish a Safe Exchange Zone Program in Pennsylvania. Safe Exchange Zones are places in public view and close proximity to law enforcement designated as safe spaces to exchange goods purchased on Facebook Marketplace and other online entities. These areas may also be used to transfer custody of children by parents involved with custody agreements. Senate Bill 665 would create a grant program for municipalities and counties to establish Safe Exchange Zones across the commonwealth, creating more spaces to safely make exchanges and prevent future tragedies. There are steps you can take to protect yourself with Facebook Marketplace, such as checking the seller’s Marketplace profile to learn more about them, using online payment methods and verifying the item before paying. Check out more tips here. Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program
The deadline to file for the state Property Tax Rent/Rebate Program has been extended to Dec. 31, 2025, allowing eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older more time to apply for rebates on property taxes and rent paid. The maximum eligible income is $46,520 and the maximum rebates range from $380 to $1,000 depending on the income level of the homeowner or renter. Check income, age, and other eligibility details here. Please contact my district office at (814) 266-2277 if you need help filling out your application. Tuesday is National Night Out
National Night Out takes place Tuesday, Aug. 5. It’s an annual community-building campaign promoting police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Neighborhoods host block parties, festivals, cookouts and various other community events with safety demonstrations and more. Over 220 communities across Pennsylvania are hosting National Night Out, including many in Senate District 35. For more information on participating communities visit here and for specific events across Cambria, Centre, and Clearfield counties visit my Facebook page for information. Pennsylvania Ice Cream Trail
With nearly 5,000 dairy farms, Pennsylvania ranks third nationally in ice cream production. You can make your summer sweeter by visiting PA creameries through Scooped: An Ice Cream Trail. The trail connects dairy farm families and ice cream lovers at 52 destinations statewide, including Vale Wood Farms in Loretto! Travelers can plan their adventures, learn about participating creameries and accumulate redeemable points by visiting trail stops and making purchases. Find a list of participating creameries, their features and sign-up information here. |
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