|
||||
|
In this Update:
Eliminating Waste and Fraud in State Government
Reforming the way state government operates includes removing barriers to creating good jobs and preventing fraud and waste of taxpayer dollars. This year, we passed legislation to implement stricter oversight to block regulations that will cost employers or taxpayers more than $1 million, and require automatic review of these kinds of regulations after three years to ensure they remain in the public interest. Other bills passed by the Senate require the Department of Human Services to prevent fraud in public assistance, prevent dead people from receiving benefits and ensure unemployment compensation benefits don’t go to claimants who try to avoid work. To reduce the risk of data breaches in taxpayer-funded systems, we passed legislation requiring all state IT contracts to meet national cybersecurity standards. You can review all the notable bills we’ve passed in 2025 here. Jobs Available with PennDOT’s Winter Maintenance Program
The coming end of summer means job opportunities for those with the skills to maintain and clear Pennsylvania’s roadways in the winter with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). Positions and hourly pay include CDL equipment operator ($23), dispatcher ($17.38), diesel and automotive mechanic ($24.97 – $28.37 based on title), tradesman helper and semi-skilled laborer ($18.46), and more. These temporary positions could be a pathway to a permanent PennDOT career. You can find more background information and links to job openings here. Recognizing National ABLE Savings Day
I recently joined Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity to celebrate National ABLE Savings Day and promote the PA ABLE Savings Program. We toured Coffee Inclusive, a coffee shop and bakery in Pittston that employs over twenty people with intellectual disabilities and Autism. PA ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) accounts are a tax-free way for Pennsylvanians with disabilities, and their families, to save without affecting eligibility for important benefits. I was proud to be a part of bringing the program to our commonwealth. Starting in January 2026, ABLE eligibility will be expanded to include those whose disability is onset prior to age 46. This gives more than six million more Americans, including one million veterans, the opportunity to save for their future. ATHENA Leadership Program Celebrates Exceptional Women
For 40 years, the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Leadership Program has been recognizing outstanding women who demonstrate career excellence, contribute to their community and help others attain success. As a past honoree, I appreciated the opportunity to serve as a panelist at the Women’s Network Luncheon and join other mentors and leaders, some of whom I’ve known for more than 30 years, in offering insights and advice. Sarah Borland, Esq., was also selected as the 2025 ATHENA award recipient. She follows in the footsteps of her mother, Ruth Borland, marking the first time that both a mother and daughter have been recognized since the program started in 1985. Help for Caregivers: PA CareKit
Caring for a loved one is a selfless act that strengthens family bonds but can be difficult for the caregiver. The PA CareKit can be a great help. From the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, the PA CareKit is a collection of tools and information to help you manage stress, navigate the health care system, stay connected and find support. Topics include the First Five Steps, Understanding Your Needs, Key Caregiving Terms and Concepts, and Caregiving Resources. If you’re a caregiver, I hope you find this information useful for this challenging but lifechanging role. Successful County Fair Season Concludes
Fairs in Wyoming and Luzerne counties rounded out a successful season of celebrating agriculture and community in the 20th District. Attendance was strong as crowds enjoyed mild weather, along with some healthy competition, delicious food and diverse entertainment. Thank you to the participants and to the dedicated volunteers who work to keep the tradition alive. Learn Skills with the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps
Residents ages 15 to 25 can learn new skills, gain job experience and improve public lands with the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps. Skills-building and training opportunities include infrastructure maintenance, habitat restoration, CPR and first aid and more. Interested individuals can learn how to get paid fixing trails, planting trees and more here. National Crime Prevention Week
A key role as lawmaker is passing legislation to combat crime and keep our communities safe. We rely on police to enforce those laws and the justice system to impose punishment when appropriate. National Crime Prevention Week is a reminder of the role citizens play in keeping their neighborhoods safe. The National Crime Prevention Council offers these crime prevention and personal safety tips to help you and your community outsmart potential lawbreakers.
Please do not reply to this email. If you would like to contact Senator Baker, submit a web contact form here: https://www.senatorbaker.com/contact-me-2/ |
||||
|
||||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2025 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://www.senatorbaker.com | Privacy Policy |
