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In this Update:
Hearing Explores Approaches to Expanding Access to Dental Care Across PA
Last week, I participated in the Senate Majority Policy Committee’s hearing focused on efforts to expand access to dental education and reduce barriers to entry to address severe workforce shortages in dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants. Almost a third of Pennsylvanians already don’t receive regular dental care and more than 22% of the commonwealth’s dentists are age 65 and older and nearing retirement. The hearing featured dental professionals, educators, insurance companies and other advocates who gave their perspectives on how dental workforce shortages harm public health and shared successful strategies that encouraged more people to pursue these careers. I appreciated the opportunity to hear thoughtful suggestions from professionals across Pennsylvania and learn how the General Assembly can work to address the challenges of access and affordability of dental care. Those recommendations included expanding scope of practice and training programs, as well as advocating for low-interest loans and grant programs for dentists in shortage areas and the need for help with technology advancements in dental practices. Video of the hearing and written testimony can be found here. Keeping Our Families and Communities Safe
A year ago this month, the Senate took decisive action on several bills to keep our families and communities safe. Among the bills we passed are Senate Bill 92, known as Tyler’s Law, to impose tougher penalties on drug dealers who sell fentanyl resulting in a fatal overdose; Senate Bill 490 to prohibit non-monetary bail for the most dangerous individuals; and Senate Bill 347 to prohibit so-called “safe injection sites” – which endanger our neighborhoods in Pennsylvania. I voted for these bills because there is a clear and urgent need to give our law enforcement community new tools to combat these serious issues. Unfortunately, although the Senate passed all three bills with bipartisan votes, they continue to sit in the state House of Representatives waiting for action. It’s time for the House Democrats to advance these bills, and I will continue pushing for strong legislation to make our communities safer. Wyoming County Celebrates Voter Hall of Fame Inductees
I was proud to recognize Wyoming County residents who were inducted into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame for voting in 50 consecutive general elections. These honorees represent an extraordinary commitment to civic engagement and democracy. As my mentor Sen. Charlie Lemmond would say, good government doesn’t just happen, it takes caring, committed people who are willing to vote and support the men and women who heed the call of public service in our communities. It was an honor to help celebrate their achievement, and we thank them for setting such a strong example of civic responsibility for future generations. Honoring Our Veterans with Quilts of Valor
Two outstanding local veterans, Clay Cadwalader and Rick Blaine, recently received Quilts of Valor in recognition of their military service and the continued impact they have on our community. Both graduates of Lake-Lehman High School and US Army veterans, this pair is dedicated to giving back. Clay is the owner of Back Mountain Brewing Company, a business focused on honoring veterans and helping others. Rick is the founder of Heroes Hearthstone, an organization dedicated to serving veterans, first responders and their families. The Quilts of Valor Foundation’s work is a powerful tribute to the service and sacrifice of our veterans, offering comfort, healing and heartfelt appreciation. Thank you to everyone who made this event possible and for the opportunity to celebrate these deserving individuals. Student Teachers Can Apply for Assistance Through PA Support Program
Planning to be a student teacher in 2026-27? The Student Teacher Support Program provides financial assistance in return for help alleviating Pennsylvania’s pressing teacher shortage. It provides $10,000 to eligible student teachers and up to $2,500 to teachers who mentor them. Recipients must commit to teaching in Pennsylvania for three years following the completion of their teaching certification. Selection will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis based on when the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency receives a completed student application. Learn more and apply here. Educating Seniors About Scams
As technology continues to evolve, scammers are using increasingly sophisticated methods to pose as government agencies or other entities to trick people out of their hard-earned money. I invited the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General to Oplinger Towers in Nanticoke to educate local seniors about the latest scams and how to avoid them. Dana Neely, II gave a very informative presentation. His best advice: Don’t give your personal information to anyone you don’t know! If you encounter a scam, report it to Attorney General Sunday’s office here. New Specialty Plate Helps Preserve Pennsylvania’s Heritage
Pennsylvania drivers have another special fund license plate to put on the back of their vehicles: the Preserve Our Heritage plate featuring the Liberty Bell and Pennsylvania Bank Barn. Built from about 1790 to 1900, these barns were banked and set into a hillside and became symbols of Pennsylvania’s agricultural roots. The plates are available for cars or trucks with a registered gross weight of 14,000 pounds or less. Each plate costs $64, with $23 going directly to support the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission’s education and exhibit programs. You can find the plate and order it here. You Can Help Deliver Senior Services in Our Area
Delivering meals, being a senior companion and other roles are open to volunteers of all ages and abilities with the state Aging Services Network. You can learn new skills, make friends and help others through these programs:
Find out more and apply online here or contact the local Area Agency on Aging to see where help is needed in our area. National Donate Life Month
You can save up to eight lives through organ donation, restore sight to two people through cornea donation and heal more than 75 people through tissue donation. While the vast majority of Americans support donation, many overlook the important step of registering their decision to be a donor. Donate Life America has plenty of useful information on this lifesaving topic. Find out how to add the Organ Donor designation to your driver’s license or ID card here.
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