View this email in a browser

In this Update:

• PennDOT Required to Release Funds for Local Road Projects
• Urgent Action Needed to Keep PA Communities Safe
• Cost of Living Adjustment for Retired Teachers, Police and Firefighters
• More Than $29 Million for Water Infrastructure in Luzerne and Susquehanna Counties
• Nanticoke Celebrates 100 Years
• Celebrating America
• Camping Reservations Available at State Parks

PennDOT Required to Release Funds for Local Road Projects

Recognizing the need to support local roads, an additional $775 million is being directed to three- and four-digit road projects throughout Pennsylvania communities to quickly improve our highway infrastructure.

As part of our budget negotiations, PennDOT agreed to release an additional $500 million in the 2026-27 fiscal year and $275 million in 2027-28 from the Commonwealth’s Motor License Fund. The funds will be for local road projects only, not interstates, which are funded separately.

I’m excited about the impact this funding will have within our region, allowing for the paving and rehabilitation of roadways used by so many area residents on a daily basis.

You can read more about the 2026-27 state budget, including initiatives to create jobs and support continued economic growth, here.

Urgent Action Needed to Keep PA Communities Safe

Nearly 1,200 people convicted of second-degree murder in Pennsylvania could be released if the state House of Representatives doesn’t act by Friday, July 24.

In March, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled that the current sentencing structure for second-degree murder is unconstitutional and gave the General Assembly 120 days to enact legislation correcting the situation. The Senate has successfully passed bipartisan legislation to address this issue – legislation supported by Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, Pennsylvania District Attorneys and the Pennsylvania State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police.

In Pennsylvania, second-degree murder (also known as felony murder) involves a homicide committed when the defendant engaged as a principal or an accomplice in the perpetration of a felony. In other words, homicides committed while the defendant was also committing another crime such as rape, arson, robbery, burglary or kidnapping.

These are serious and horrific crimes, and the safety of our communities is at stake. It’s time for the House to join us in taking urgent action. Read my op-ed here.

Cost of Living Adjustment for Retired Teachers, Police and Firefighters

The newly enacted state budget includes a cost-of-living (COLA) increase for retired teachers, school district employees and state employees who retired prior to July 2, 2001, as well as certain retired municipal firefighters and police officers.

Many of these employees retired in the early 2000s at much lower salaries than current employees. In addition, they did not receive the pension benefit enhancements under Act 9 of 2001 and have now gone more than 20 years without a COLA.

The COLAs are fully funded through existing interactive gaming tax revenues, ensuring these benefit enhancements have no impact on state, school district or municipal taxes. The legislation directs a portion of those revenues to fund the pension increases and reimburse municipalities for the municipal benefit adjustments, with any remaining funding continuing to support an existing grant program. These men and women dedicated years to serving our communities, and I’m pleased to support this long-overdue increase in their pensions.

More than $29 Million for Water Infrastructure Project in Luzerne and Susquehanna Counties

I am pleased to announce the approval of more than $29 million in financial assistance for two drinking water infrastructure projects serving Luzerne and Susquehanna counties.

Aqua Pennsylvania Inc. was awarded a $4.5 million grant and a low-interest loan for a nearly $4.7 million project to construct a new per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) treatment facility for the Oak Hill water system in Lehman Township, Luzerne County. Pennsylvania American Water Company also received a $25 million low-interest loan to construct a new water treatment plant serving customers in Susquehanna County, improving long-term reliability and water quality for more than 1,400 residents.

The financial assistance provided by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) represents an important commitment to protecting public health and ensuring our communities have dependable, high-quality drinking water. Whether removing emerging contaminants like PFAS or replacing aging treatment facilities, this project will strengthen critical infrastructure and help meet the needs of residents for decades to come.

Nanticoke’s 100th Anniversary

I was honored to recognize the 100th anniversary of the City of Nanticoke during this year’s Annual Big Bang Celebration. The parade began at the Greater Nanticoke High School and ended at Luzerne County Community College. The event included floats, marching units, performers, decorated vehicles, and other creative displays that highlighted the community’s enthusiasm and spirit, bringing together community groups, residents, and first responders for a day of celebration.

Celebrating America

2026 has been filled with events marking America’s 250th Birthday.  The 4th of July weekend offered numerous opportunities to gather and pay tribute to our nation.

In Exeter, Boy Scout Troop 311 joined borough council to dedicate the newly installed flag poles along Wyoming Avenue. There was a record turnout for the annual Patriotic Parade in Montrose sponsored by the Kiwanis and Lions Community Service Clubs. The weather held out for the Harveys Lake American Legion parade, and we didn’t let the storms cloud an evening of allegiance and pride at The America Hometown Heroes celebration in Luzerne County.

Thank you to the volunteers who dedicated their time to making this day special for their communities. It was great to see so many people come together in unity and patriotism as we celebrated this milestone.

Camping Reservations Available at State Parks

State park campsites are open and ready to reserve, with options for tents, cabins and RVs. The commonwealth manages 125 parks covering more than 300,000 acres, so you’re bound to find one that has what you’re looking for.

Available activities include picnicking, swimming, boating and other outdoor recreation. Prices vary for specific park accommodations and activities.

Visit the Pennsylvania State Parks website to find a list of parks and features and to reserve accommodations.