Senator Baker E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • Senate Acts to Protect Workers’ Compensation for First Responders
  • Legislation Giving Farmers More Vehicle Flexibility Approved by Senate
  • Susquehanna County Ag Day Celebration
  • Guest Chaplains Invited to Open Senate Session with a Prayer
  • Interested in Law Enforcement? Check Out This State Police Program
  • Milford St. Patrick’s Day Parade
  • Promoting Reading for Lifelong Success

Senate Acts to Protect Workers’ Compensation for First Responders

The Senate approved legislation to ensure volunteer fire and EMS personnel are covered by workers’ compensation if injured participating in the fundraising activities essential for covering the costs of providing public safety.

A 1980 court decision held that firefighters injured at their annual fundraising picnic were eligible for workers’ compensation because members were covered for all activities authorized by a municipality. However, current law does not provide the same coverage for the full scope of fundraising activities. Senate Bill 1053 would fill the gap, expressly providing workers’ compensation for volunteers’ participation in fundraising activities.

The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

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Cutting outdated regulations for farmers, the Senate approved a measure giving them greater flexibility to safely drive more farm vehicles on roadways at night, reflecting the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. 

Susquehanna County Ag Day Celebration

Susquehanna County’s annual Ag Day is a great reminder of the vital role agriculture plays in our region.

This free event offers valuable educational opportunities for residents of all ages while highlighting the hard work and dedication of our local farmers. Supporting agriculture means supporting the future of our communities.

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.

As the Senate’s Majority Caucus Administrator, I have the honor of coordinating guest chaplains to serve.

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.

Milford St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Finley and I were proud to walk in the 3rd Annual Milford St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a wonderful celebration of Irish heritage and local pride.

It was great to see families, friends and neighbors come together to enjoy the festivities and support the many organizations that make our community strong. Thank you to the organizers and volunteers for making this event such a success.

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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