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In this Update:
Honoring Corporal Glenn Hodak
As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, I’m reminded of the incredible sacrifices made by those who served to establish and preserve the freedoms we enjoy. I recently had the solemn honor of recognizing United States Air Forces Corporal Glenn Hodak, a World War II hero from Pennsylvania who gave his life in service to our nation. Corporal Hodak flew with the 93rd Bombardment Squadron during the war and tragically perished in the Tokyo Prison Fire of May 1945 after being captured. For over 80 years, his remains went unidentified—until last year, when the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency confirmed his identity through forensic analysis. He was finally brought home and laid to rest in Warren County’s Spring Creek Cemetery just last month. This Independence Day, as we mark the 249th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, we are reminded of the ideals and courage that gave birth to our nation. Just over a year earlier, on June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress voted to establish the Continental Army, our nation’s first military force, which recently celebrated its 250th birthday. Corporal Hodak stood in that proud tradition, answering the call to defend freedom just as those first soldiers did. His legacy, like theirs, reminds us that liberty endures because brave Americans are always willing to protect it. New Law Modernizes CPA Licensure in PA
I’m pleased to share that my legislation, Senate Bill 719, was unanimously approved by the House of Representatives on June 26 and signed into law by the Governor on June 30 as Act 27 of 2025. This new law takes important steps to address Pennsylvania’s shortage of certified public accountants (CPAs) by modernizing the licensure process and making the profession more accessible to the next generation. Act 27 creates an alternative path to CPA licensure that maintains the profession’s high standards while reducing financial and educational barriers. It also improves license mobility for out-of-state accountants, making it easier for qualified professionals to work in Pennsylvania. These changes are vital to ensuring our businesses, governments, and communities continue to have access to trusted financial experts. Progress on the 2025-26 State Budget
Standing up for families and taxpayers remains our focus as work on the 2025-26 budget continues in Harrisburg. Over the last two weeks we have taken steps to advance several key components of the state budget, to fund certain government functions, as work continues on reaching a full budget agreement. This year’s budget must invest in our communities and core government functions that people across Pennsylvania rely on as part of their daily lives. However, we must also address the fact that in the current fiscal year Pennsylvania is faced with a $3 billion structural deficit that could grow to $6 billion if spending is left to grow unchecked. We cannot rely on one-time use dollars from our state’s Rainy Day Fund to fill the gap, given this would cause a massive fiscal cliff and tax increases in the coming years. While divided government certainly brings challenges of different viewpoints, Senate Republicans are focused on completing a budget that respects taxpayers and addresses the needs of organizations and individuals who rely on state resources and services. Happy Independence Day
I hope you have a wonderful Fourth of July weekend with friends and family celebrating the birth of this great nation. America is one year away from its 250th birthday. I hope the next year sees us come together as citizens to appreciate the great blessings of our nation.
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