Senator Hutchinson E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • Senate Acts to Protect Volunteer Fire & EMS
  • Linesville State Fish Hatchery Open House
  • Legislation Giving Farmers More Vehicle Flexibility Approved by Senate
  • Guest Chaplains Invited to Open Senate Session with a Prayer
  • Interested in Law Enforcement? Check Out This State Police Program
  • Promoting Reading for Lifelong Success

Senate Acts to Protect Volunteer Fire & EMS

I’m pleased to share that the Senate has unanimously passed legislation I introduced to ensure volunteer fire and EMS personnel are fully covered by workers’ compensation while participating in fundraising activities.

These events are critical to keeping our first responders equipped and ready to serve, and their protections should never hinge on a technicality. Senate Bill 1053 closes a longstanding gap in the law, guaranteeing that volunteers are covered if they are injured while supporting their companies and communities.

Linesville State Fish Hatchery Open House

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission invites the public to attend the annual Linesville State Fish Hatchery Open House on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Linesville Hatchery Visitor Center in Linesville, PA.

This free, family-friendly event offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at how millions of fish—especially Walleye—are raised to support Pennsylvania’s waterways. Visitors can watch live spawning demonstrations, explore the Walleye life cycle, and get up close to fish in a 10,000-gallon viewing tank.

In addition to educational exhibits, attendees can enjoy a fish fry, learn fish filleting techniques, and even create a fish print T-shirt as a fun keepsake. No registration is required, making it an easy and engaging outing for all ages.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, explore, and celebrate Pennsylvania’s rich fishing heritage!  Learn more here.

Legislation Giving Farmers More Vehicle Flexibility Approved by Senate

Cutting outdated regulations for farmers, the Senate approved a measure giving them greater flexibility to safely drive more farm vehicles on roadways at night, reflecting the real-world demands of modern farming.

Current state law prohibits certain farm vehicles from driving on Pennsylvania roadways between sunset and sunrise. Senate Bill 203 would allow farmers to operate their vehicles, ranging from small cars to larger trucks, when their work demands it. The vehicles already maintain equipment required by the state to safely operate at night.

Senate Bill 203 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. 

Guest Chaplains Invited to Open Senate Session with a Prayer

When the Senate gathers in Harrisburg to consider legislation, we open session with a non-denominational prayer delivered by a guest chaplain. Religious leaders from across the commonwealth have offered messages of peace, reflection and hope in this role for many years.

If you are interested in visiting the state Capitol when the Senate convenes for a session day to take part in this time-honored tradition, please contact my office for more details. Religious leaders of all faiths are welcome to reach out about this opportunity.

Interested in Law Enforcement? Check Out This State Police Program

If you are thinking about a future in law enforcement, consider participating in the Pennsylvania State Police Law and Leadership Academy, which offers a 15-week program to experience the process of becoming a cadet.

Applicants age 18 and over with a high school diploma or GED can apply. The program covers:

  • Physical Fitness
  • Paramilitary Discipline
  • Law Enforcement Education
  • Time and Stress Management Skills
  • Hands-On Practicums

The program runs from early May to early August at six locations statewide. Cadets meet twice a week, with occasional Saturday sessions. You can learn more here.

Promoting Reading for Lifelong Success

March is National Reading Month – a time to encourage children, families and communities to make reading a daily habit. Studies show childhood reading difficulties often lead to long-term, negative effects throughout life.

Working with our schools to help improve literacy is vital as we help the next generation build a strong educational foundation. As part of the current state budget, we established important evidence-based reading instruction requirements. With a concerted effort, we can dramatically improve students’ chances of success and instill the excitement that comes with fostering a love of reading from a young age.

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