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In this Update:
State Budget Proposal
On Tuesday, Governor Shapiro proposed a state budget that again includes significant spending increases and accounting gimmicks that continues Pennsylvania down an already unsustainable path. At first glance, it’s clear that his proposal costs far too much – a 5.4% hike, which is higher than inflation and wage increases for everyday Pennsylvanians. The government spent too much last year, and now he’s doubling down. We simply can’t afford it. His proposal relies on gimmicks like overestimating revenues while underestimating spending. That’s irresponsible budgeting. It also includes a hidden tax increase on businesses called combined reporting. The Governor is counting on billions in additional tax revenue from this job-killing change, which would cripple our already struggling economy. To make matters worse, he wants to draw down $4.6 billion from Pennsylvania’s Rainy Day Fund to pay for his runaway spending. That reserve has been critical to improving our bond ratings and saving taxpayers millions. Raiding it now would undo years of progress and leave us unprepared for an actual “rainy day.” We have a lot of work ahead, so I’m glad we’re starting early. Beginning February 23, the Senate Appropriations Committee will hold in-depth public hearings to thoroughly examine this proposal. Eagle Scout Isaac Hammerbeck Recognized
It was my honor to present a citation from the Senate of Pennsylvania to Isaac Dean Hammerbeck in recognition of his extraordinary achievement in attaining the rank of Eagle Scout – the highest honor in Scouting – alongside Representative Rapp, who presented a citation from the House of Representatives. Earned by only a small percentage of Scouts, this distinction reflects Isaac’s dedication, perseverance, and commitment to service. His leadership as Senior Patrol Leader and his impactful community project revitalizing the Sheffield Rotary Picnic Pavilion exemplify the core values of Scouting and a strong sense of civic responsibility. On behalf of the Senate, I congratulate Isaac on this remarkable accomplishment and wish him continued success in all his future endeavors! Senate Approves Measure to Prohibit Student Cellphone Use in PA Schools
To curb classroom distractions and improve academic performance and social development, the Senate passed bipartisan legislation to require Pennsylvania public schools to adopt policies prohibiting student cellphone use during the school day. Senate Bill 1014 ensures districts retain local control by giving them the flexibility to choose how to implement and enforce the standard in a way that works best for their communities, including deciding where phones must be stored. School administrators, teachers and parents across Pennsylvania have increasingly expressed concern about the proven link between smartphones and anxiety, depression, cyberbullying and reduced classroom engagement. The measure was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Career and Technical Education Month
Career and technical education (CTE) prepares students to enter high-demand fields, including health care, manufacturing, public safety, information technology, skilled trades and more. More than 75,000 Pennsylvania students are enrolled in CTE, where they can develop essential skills through a combination of classes and hands-on learning, allowing them to apply academics to real-world problems. Career and Technical Education Month shines a spotlight on the importance of CTE programs, the opportunities they provide in crucial fields and their role in making the commonwealth more economically competitive and a place where young Pennsylvanians can settle and prosper.
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