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In this Update:
Senate Bill 49 Advances
This week, my Senate Bill 49 passed the Senate Law and Justice Committee and now heads to the full Senate for consideration. The bill would bring structure, accountability, and oversight to Pennsylvania’s cannabis industry while cracking down on unregulated intoxicating hemp products, often sold in gas stations and vape shops with little oversight. It’s time for Pennsylvania to get control of this industry, protect consumers, and keep these products out of the hands of minors. Erie Day at the Capitol
Erie showed up strong for Erie Day at the Capitol this week. One of the largest delegations from our region traveled to Harrisburg to advocate for Northwest Pennsylvania and make sure Erie’s voice was heard loud and clear. From economic development and infrastructure to workforce needs and community investment, we made one thing clear: Erie deserves its fair share. I’m proud of the businesses, community leaders, organizations, and local officials who took the time to come to the Capitol and fight for our region. When Erie works together, we can accomplish great things. Aimee’s Law Introduced
This week, I introduced Aimee’s Law, SB 1311, to bring stronger accountability and transparency to Pennsylvania’s animal cruelty laws. The legislation would create a publicly searchable registry of individuals convicted of felony animal abuse or aggravated cruelty to animals — similar in concept to Megan’s Law. Aimee’s Law is inspired by a heartbreaking case in Erie County that underscored the urgent need for stronger protections and consequences. This bill ensures that cases like that are not forgotten and that Pennsylvania takes meaningful steps to prevent them in the future. Honoring Fallen Troopers
My staff attended the Pennsylvania State Police Memorial Day ceremony this week, honoring the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Since the Pennsylvania State Police was founded, 105 troopers have fallen in service to the Commonwealth. Their courage, commitment, and sacrifice will never be forgotten. We owe them—and their families—a debt of gratitude that can never be fully repaid. Major Water Infrastructure Upgrade
I joined the ribbon cutting for the new Asbury Pump Station, a major investment by the Erie Water Works to modernize critical water infrastructure in our community. The new facility replaces the outdated and non-compliant pump station and will greatly improve reliability and service for residents. This project is an important step forward in strengthening our water system, ensuring we can meet current demand and better prepare for future needs. It’s a strong example of investing in the essential infrastructure that keeps our region running. Senate Approves Tougher Penalties for Attempted Murder of Law Enforcement Officers
The Senate approved legislation closing a gap in state law and imposing tougher penalties on individuals who attempt to murder a law enforcement officer and cause serious bodily injury. Under current law, the penalty for attempted murder of a law enforcement officer could be as little as seven years in prison. Senate Bill 1284 establishes a 20-year mandatory minimum sentence and a maximum of up to life in prison. The measure was passed on Police Officers’ Memorial Day in Pennsylvania, which honors the brave men and women of law enforcement. It now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Read more about this legislation. Protecting Pennsylvanians’ Second Amendment Rights
The Senate moved to protect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens by approving Senate Bill 822, which strengthens Pennsylvania’s state preemption over regulating firearms and ammunition, preventing local governments from enacting ordinances that are more restrictive than those established by the General Assembly. Allowing local governments to establish a patchwork of inconsistent gun laws would make it impossible for Pennsylvania residents, along with citizens from other states, to travel without fear of inadvertently breaking a local law they were unaware of. Senate Bill 822, which passed with bipartisan support, also reinforces and restores the original intent of Pennsylvania’s Uniform Firearms Act, ensuring consistent and clear regulations across the state. The bill has been sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Committee Approves Measures to Make Housing More Attainable
Legislation aimed at expanding access to attainable housing while preserving local control was approved by the Senate Urban Affairs and Housing Committee. The bills now move to the full Senate for consideration. The legislation includes:
Forming a robust strategy to increase housing supply, lower costs and stimulate economic activity is a key focus for the Senate this year. Read more about these attainable housing bills. Senate Honors America 250 with Ceremonial Gathering in Philadelphia
With the U.S. Semiquincentennial less than two months away, the state Senate held a ceremonial gathering honoring America’s 250th birthday at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. The meeting included senators representing all corners of the commonwealth and students from across the state as part of a partnership with America250PA. The event marked the fourth meeting in the last 100 years that has taken place outside of the State Capitol in Harrisburg. The previous three meetings were also held in Philadelphia to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1926, the 200th anniversary of the Declaration’s signing in 1976 and the 200th anniversary of the adoption of the U.S. Constitution in 1987. Read more about the historic gathering. Mother’s Day and Mammo May
Mother’s Day is a great time to remind Mom and all the women in your life about the importance of annual mammograms. While these low-dose x-rays are critical to a lifesaving early diagnosis of breast cancer, one in four Pennsylvania women fail to get a mammogram each year. Annual mammograms are recommended for women beginning at age 40 or as early as age 25 if a woman is considered at increased risk for breast cancer. Learn more from the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition. |
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