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In this Update:
Senate Votes to Improve Communication About School Safety Issues
To empower parents and increase transparency, the Senate passed legislation to improve reporting requirements about potentially dangerous situations at schools. Senate Bill 246 would require parental and employee notification when there is a weapon on any school property that violates its weapons policy, as well as when there are cases of harassment and bullying. It would apply to public, non-public and private schools. Current law does not require school districts to inform parents about incidents when a weapon is brought onto school grounds or to related activities. The bill is part of a larger Senate Republican initiative to empower families and foster safe communities. It moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. Grants Available for Firefighting Equipment and Training
The Office of the State Fire Commissioner has two grant programs that are accepting applications through May 29. Both programs distribute grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000. Applications should be submitted online. The Emergency Training Center Capital Grant Program awards funds that can be used to establish or modernize facilities, acquire or renovate structures and repair or purchase equipment. Emergency service training centers, community colleges, county-owned facilities, municipal or fire department-owned facilities and nonprofit, countywide associations are eligible. The Municipal Fire Department Capital Grant Program awards money to municipal fire departments to improve structures and firefighting equipment in the commonwealth. Senate Judiciary Committee Advances Bill to Improve PFA Order Enforcement
The Senate Judiciary Committee approved legislation to strengthen the enforcement of Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders and ensure fair reimbursement for law enforcement agencies that serve these critical court orders. Senate Bill 302 addresses a flaw in existing law that prevents local police departments from being reimbursed when they serve PFA petitions and orders on defendants, despite being authorized to do so. Currently, the $25 service fee included in the $100 surcharge on PFA defendants is directed solely to sheriffs, regardless of who performs the service. The bill brings fairness and clarity to a system that is currently disadvantaging local law enforcement and the Pennsylvania State Police. Departments performing this important and sometimes dangerous work should be compensated for their efforts, just as sheriffs are. The need for reform was brought to my attention by Dallas Township Police Chief Doug Higgins, following an audit by Luzerne County Controller Walter Griffith that revealed local law enforcement agencies were effectively donating their time and resources to serve PFAs without reimbursement. In addition to ensuring equitable distribution of the service fee, the legislation also clarifies that only sheriffs or properly trained law enforcement officers may serve PFA petitions and orders – eliminating any confusion in current law that could allow private citizens to perform this hazardous duty. An amendment to the bill clarifies the reimbursement process: the $25 fee will initially be distributed to the sheriff, who must then forward it to another agency if that agency performed the service. PA Offers Free Motorcycle Training
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a great time to sign up for a motorcycle safety course whether you’re a novice or experienced rider. Classes are free for Pennsylvanians who have a motorcycle learner’s permit or motorcycle license. Successful completion of a basic or intermediate course offered by the state waives the requirement to take a skills test at a PennDOT driver license center and automatically earns the permit holder their motorcycle license. Class schedules are coordinated by third-party training providers at locations across the commonwealth and posted online at least four weeks before the class begins. Learn more about Pennsylvania’s Motorcycle Safety Program. Shavertown Volunteer Fire Company Celebrates 100th Anniversary
The Shavertown Volunteer Fire Company has been protecting people and property for 100 years. The community recently gathered to celebrate this milestone anniversary, and to thank these dedicated volunteers for their unwavering service and sacrifice. Remembering the Fallen on Memorial Day
“Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.” – Unknown To all the men and women who selflessly gave their lives so we can enjoy the freedoms we hold dear, thank you. To the families who are missing a loved one from their lives, please know that loss was not in vain. We remember, and we appreciate the sacrifice.
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