|
||||
|
In this Update:
Providing Loan Interest Forgiveness to Counties and Head Start
As work continues on finalizing a state budget for 2025-26, my priority remains enacting a budget that respects taxpayers and does not spend beyond our means. Spending too much this year would set Pennsylvania on a course of fiscal uncertainty and tax increases, and we cannot allow that to happen. It’s important to get a budget finished as soon as possible – but it’s more important to get it done right. Recognizing the impact of the incomplete budget, the Senate is expected to advance legislation providing loan interest forgiveness to counties and Head Start early childhood education programs that receive state Treasury loans to keep their services available while budget discussions continue. I’ll update you on the status of this legislation as it moves forward. Rock the Ribbon During Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I hope you’ll join me in supporting those affected by breast cancer by raising awareness and encouraging early detection. You can find plenty of useful information to share at this resource page. I was proud to support Senate passage of legislation to strengthen Pennsylvania’s no-cost breast cancer screening law by ensuring diagnostic imaging is fully covered. The measure awaits action in the House of Representatives. Let’s come together and Rock the Ribbon with purpose and compassion. Honoring First Responders at Pike County Blue Mass
Pike County officials held a Blue Mass at St. Patrick’s Church in Milford. This special liturgy honors the brave first responders who protect and serve our communities each day. The Blue Mass is both a remembrance for those who have given their lives in the line of duty and a prayer for the continued safety of those who still serve in law enforcement, fire, EMS and other emergency roles. Following the service, it was wonderful to join together for a reception to thank our Pike County first responders for their courage and sacrifice. Open Government: How to Access Public Records
Under Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law (RTKL), all state and local government agency records are presumed to be public. If an agency wants to withhold a record, it must prove that it is entitled to do so under the state law or court order. The Office of Open Records maintains information about the RTKL and Sunshine Act, which governs public meetings. This includes information about filing a request for records, a database of Agency Open Records Officers and a Citizens’ Guide to the RTKL. The office also provides information about filing an appeal when a RTK request is denied and provides a variety of training resources including PowerPoint presentations and videos. Celebrating 200 Years of Hanover Green Chapel
Last week, I presented an official Senate citation in recognition of the 200th anniversary of the Hanover Green Chapel in Hanover Township. Founded in 1825, the chapel has served as both a spiritual home and a place of compassion for countless families throughout the community. Originally known as the Hanover Green Meeting House, the chapel also includes the Hanover Green Cemetery, one of the oldest in the Wyoming Valley. For two centuries, it has endured as a beacon of faith, guiding generations through moments of both joy and sorrow. It was truly moving to celebrate this milestone with the congregation. Hanover Green Chapel stands as a reminder of the traditions and values that sustain and strengthen our communities. Applications Accepted for Keystone ChalleNGe Academy January Class
Teens between the ages of 16 and 18 can apply now for the Jan. 2026 class of the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy at Fort Indiantown Gap in Lebanon County. A National Guard program, the academy uses a military academy training model to provide structure and discipline for youth. Classes begin in mid-January and mid-July each year. The residential portion of the program runs for 22 weeks. All meals, housing, uniforms and school supplies are provided at no cost. You can learn more and apply here. Resources for Choosing an Insurance Provider
Cost matters when choosing insurance, but it’s not the only factor. Comparing quotes, checking coverage and reviewing customer feedback can help you decide. A good rule of thumb is to compare at least three companies, according to the Pennsylvania Insurance Department. The department has resources to help you:
Access information to help you make these important decisions here. Join Us at Our 2025 Senior Expo!
Join me and Representative Brenda Pugh at our 2025 Senior Expo on Thursday, Oct. 16 from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the Jewish Community Center, 613 S. J. Strauss Lane, Kingston. The Senior Expo will feature:
You’ll also find important information on:
Our senior citizens are the foundation of our communities, and it is so important that they have access to the tools, knowledge, and support they need. This expo provides a one-stop opportunity to connect with organizations and experts who are ready to help. I look forward to seeing you there! Find the Best Fall Foliage Nearby and Statewide
Pennsylvania offers one of the longest and most varied fall foliage seasons in the world. You can find the best spots to view these vibrant displays with the fall foliage map from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. In addition, the department’s weekly Fall Foliage Reports offer regional updates, photos and expert tips to help you experience these seasonal landscapes.
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 |
