Senator Baker E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • Senate Votes to Combat Overregulation
  • Bill Targeting Rise of Deepfake Scams Approved by Senate
  • Luzerne County Historical Society Recognizes 250th Anniversary of the 28th DIVARTY
  • PA Now Has Concealed Carry Reciprocity with Virginia
  • Wallenpaupack School District Hosts CTE Discussion
  • Funding Available for Veteran Suicide Prevention Services
  • Margaret Luzetsky Kolojejchick Palmer Celebrates 100th Birthday
  • June is National Dairy Month

Senate Votes to Combat Overregulation

To address overregulation that stifles business growth and drives jobs to other states, the Senate passed two regulatory reform bills.

The Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act, Senate Bill 333, would establish an enhanced legislative review process for costly new regulations. It is designed to address concerns about unchecked regulatory burdens on businesses, communities and taxpayers.

Senate Bill 444 would establish a one-time automatic review process for regulations that impose a fiscal impact exceeding $1 million annually on taxpayers or employers. The review would ensure regulations remain effective, efficient and in the public interest.

Both bills now move to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Bill Targeting Rise of Deepfake Scams Approved by Senate

The Senate unanimously voted to stem the rise of “deepfakes” and other forms of digital impersonation by treating them as forgeries punishable by law.

Technology enables individuals to create convincing images, audio and video of others – often without consent – that are nearly indistinguishable from reality. These digital forgeries have been used to commit financial scams and injure personal reputations.

Senate Bill 649 would enact penalties for anyone who creates a digital representation of a real person without their consent and distributes it as genuine to defraud or injure. The measure would protect First Amendment rights and preserve valid expressions of parody, satire and other forms of free speech. Senate Bill 649 is now before the House of Representatives for consideration.

Luzerne County Historical Society Recognizes 250th Anniversary of the 28th DIVARTY

The Luzerne County Historical Society held its 167th annual dinner honoring the

28th Division Artillery (DIVARTY) as it observes its 250th anniversary. Formerly known as the 109th Field Artillery Regiment, this unit has participated in nearly every major war in American history. Its members have served our country with honor, pride and loyalty and have displayed a tremendous commitment to the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.

Dedicated to preserving and promoting the collective history and heritage of the area, the Luzerne County Historical Society is the oldest county historical society in Pennsylvania. The annual dinner helps to support various exhibits, events, lectures and tours each year, as well as the museum, historic houses, library and archive.

PA Now Has Concealed Carry Reciprocity with Virginia

A new reciprocity agreement allows holders of Pennsylvania Licenses to Carry Firearms to do so in Virginia, making it the 30th state that has a concealed carry reciprocity agreement with Pennsylvania.

The agreement resulted from efforts of Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday to maximize reciprocity agreements while protecting standing law and constitutional rights.

 The agreement is only applicable to handguns and requires permit holders to:

  • Be at least 21 years of age.
  • Carry photo identification.
  • Display the concealed carry permit when asked by law enforcement.
  • Not have a concealed carry permit previously revoked.

Wallenpaupack School District Hosts CTE Discussion

Wallenpaupack School District recently hosted a discussion on career and technical education, showcasing its existing curriculum and sharing expansion needs. Currently, area districts offer individual programming to prepare students for the workforce in careers such as agriculture, aviation, computers and emergency services. However, there is duplication, as well as limits to available space. Wayne and Pike are the only two counties in Pennsylvania without a dedicated career and technical education center, so Wallenpaupack has taken the lead in exploring the creation of a shared facility and resources.  

Funding Available for Community Groups Providing Veteran Suicide Prevention Services

Community-based organizations that provide suicide prevention or emergency clinical services to veterans can apply now for grants to support their vital mission.

Organizations can apply for grants worth up to $750,000 and may apply to renew awards from year to year. Grant applications must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs by July 18 at 5 p.m. Learn more about eligibility and apply here.

Veterans in crisis are encouraged to call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing one to speak with responders trained in crisis intervention and military culture. All calls are free and confidential. Additionally, Pennsylvania provides many programs and services to support veterans.

Margaret Luzetsky Kolojejchick Palmer Celebrates 100th Birthday

Congratulations to Margaret Luzetsky Kolojejchick Palmer of Swoyersville as she celebrates a century of memories and experiences this year! Margaret believes in prayer, hard work and sharing talents with others. We wish her much happiness as she continues to enjoy cooking, gardening and spending time with her family.

Celebrating National Dairy Month in June

Pennsylvania’s dairy farmers work hard to provide families with common dairy staples, including cheese and yogurt, that are part of healthy diets. Consuming dairy products contributes to strong bones, muscle function and immune support.

Senate Republicans highlighted the role dairy plays in making agriculture the state’s top industry. It generates more than $11 billion in revenue and supports 47,000 jobs.

Checking out PA’s Ice Cream Trail is a fun way to celebrate and support dairy farmers. At more than 50 spots across the state, you can enjoy homemade ice cream and other delicious treats.

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