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In this Update:
Updating PA Hemp Laws
I’ve amended my legislation to create a Pennsylvania Cannabis Control Board so it reflects new federal hemp standards signed into law in 2025. These updates close loopholes that allowed intoxicating hemp-derived products like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC to be sold with little oversight. By aligning Senate Bill 49 with these changes, we can eliminate legal gray areas, strengthen enforcement, and better protect consumers. My bill would establish a single regulatory body to oversee cannabis and hemp products, improve consistency, and give law enforcement the tools they need to remove illegal and potentially harmful products from store shelves. The measure remains under consideration in the Senate Law and Justice Committee. Recognized by Game Commission
Honored to be recognized by the Pennsylvania Game Commission for expanding hunting opportunities in PA. From opening the door to Sunday hunting to securing a Saturday opener, we’re making it easier for hardworking Pennsylvanians to enjoy the outdoors. Glad to stand alongside Executive Director Steve Smith and support the future of hunting in PA. Annual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast
I’m proud to host our annual Veterans Breakfast to honor all those who have served in the 49th Senatorial District. Join us to connect with fellow veterans and show our appreciation for your service. Date & Time: Wednesday, April 29, 2026 | Doors open at 7:30 a.m., Program starts at 8:00 a.m. This event fills up fast—reserve your spot now! Beware of PennDOT Text Scams
Beware of fake text messages claiming to be from PennDOT or the DMV—do not click any links. These scams may try to steal your personal information. PennDOT does not send texts about violations or fines. You can report suspicious texts to the Federal Trade Commission or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. How I Can Help
If you or someone you know is having trouble accessing state programs or services, or if you have questions about a law or government program and aren’t sure where to turn, my team and I are here to help. We can guide you through the process, connect you with the right resources, and provide support on a wide range of issues to make things easier for you. Senate Approves Measure to Protect Children from Harmful AI Chats
The Senate approved legislation to establish commonsense safeguards for children interacting with artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots. The bill will be sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Bill 1090 would require robust, age-appropriate safeguards to prevent content generation that encourages self-harm, suicide or violence against others, and directs users to appropriate self-harm crisis resources whenever high-risk language is detected. Heartbreaking stories have been reported of vulnerable individuals, including minors, who have used AI chatbots to cope with trauma, mental health, depression and anxiety. Multiple families have alleged in lawsuits that chatbot responses contributed to their teen’s death by suicide. Legislation Expanding First Responder Training Passed by Senate
Legislation to help alleviate the shortage of emergency responder instructors across Pennsylvania was approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 782 would allow retired public school and state employees who previously worked part-time as certified EMS, fire or police instructors to return to that work without losing their pension benefits. Retirees would not earn additional benefits. The measure was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Acts to Protect Vehicle Choice in Pennsylvania
Legislation preserving Pennsylvanians’ ability to choose their preferred vehicle by prohibiting state mandates on specific vehicle purchases was approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 990 protects consumer choice, encourages innovation and helps prevent higher costs associated with uniform mandates. The bill supports a comprehensive approach to transportation that includes gas and diesel-powered vehicles, hybrids, electric vehicles and emerging technologies, allowing new advancements to develop and compete. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Shooting Range Improvement Program Accepting Applications
Shooting ranges and related organizations open for public use have until May 8 to apply for state grants for development and renovation work that helps ensure community access to safe ranges. Related organizations include shooting clubs, recreational shooting organizations, archery clubs and education groups. Public use of facilities includes public range times, educational outreach/trainings or organized shooting competitions. Retail ranges are not eligible to apply for this program. Each Pennsylvania Game Commission region will receive at least one project. Learn about eligible projects and how to apply here. Recognizing the Need for Government Transparency
National Sunshine Week highlights the importance of “sunshine laws” designed to ensure government transparency, and the importance of citizen access to government information. The Office of Open Records maintains information about Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law and Sunshine Act, including information about filing a request for records. You can find more tools for keeping government transparent here.
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