|
||
|
In this Update:
Fairview STEM Students Showcase Real-World Innovation at Plastikos Inc.
A member of my staff recently had the opportunity to attend the unveiling of an impressive student-engineered project at Plastikos Inc., developed through a unique partnership with Fairview High School’s STEM Academy. The project showcased the incredible talent and dedication of local students who designed and built a real-world manufacturing tool. With guidance from industry professionals, they gained valuable hands-on experience that goes beyond the classroom. This collaboration is a shining example of how education and innovation can come together to prepare the next generation for success in today’s workforce. Honoring Our Heroes in Lawrence Park
I had the honor of speaking at the Memorial Day ceremony in Lawrence Park. It’s always humbling to stand among veterans, families, and neighbors as we come together to remember and pay tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Their courage and dedication will never be forgotten. Supporting Local Manufacturing in Erie
I recently had the opportunity to tour two outstanding local manufacturers — Erie Molded Packaging and Adler Industrial Solutions Inc. These companies are doing impressive work right here in our region, creating quality jobs and investing in innovation. From custom injection molding to precision tooling, their operations highlight the strength, craftsmanship, and commitment behind American manufacturing. I’ll continue working in Harrisburg to support policies that help manufacturers grow and thrive in Pennsylvania. A Local Foundation for Growth
I recently toured Baycrete, Inc., one of our region’s leading ready-mix concrete suppliers. This family-run business has been helping build Erie for decades, with their work visible in everything from major infrastructure to neighborhood construction projects. Baycrete’s lasting impact is quite literally set in stone across our community. Thank you to the team for the warm welcome and for your continued investment in our local economy. Highlighting Opportunity in Erie with HUD Secretary Turner
I was honored to welcome U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner to Erie, along with Senator John Fetterman. Erie has become a national example of how federal Opportunity Zones can drive meaningful economic development, and I’m proud to have helped secure that designation for our community. This kind of progress doesn’t happen by chance—or by sticking to party lines. It takes collaboration, leadership, and a shared focus on what really matters: jobs, growth, and strong neighborhoods. Erie is living proof that when we work together, we all win. Supporting Housing and Opportunity in Erie
I recently attended a legislative breakfast with the Housing Authority of the City of Erie (HACE). HACE goes beyond providing safe, affordable housing—it serves as a launchpad for opportunity and a lifeline for families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and children throughout our city. I’m grateful for the meaningful conversations we shared and for the continued partnership and commitment to building a stronger Erie. Do You Know an Erie County WWII Veteran?
Erie County is proud to honor the heroes of the Greatest Generation. If you are, or if you know a World War II veteran living in Erie County, we want to hear from you. On Flag Day, June 14, during the annual Flag Day Concert at the Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home, WWII veterans will be recognized with a special medal from the Pennsylvania State Senate. To receive the medal, the veteran must be present at the ceremony. To register a veteran, please contact Suzanna at smitkowski@eriecountypa.gov or 814-451-6265. Let’s give these heroes the recognition they deserve. Bill to Increase Firefighters in PA Receives Senate Support
Pennsylvania relies on volunteer firefighters, but their numbers are dropping – from 300,000 in the 1970s to fewer than 38,000 today. To help ensure there are enough firefighters to respond to a crisis, the Senate passed a bill that would reform the process for people earning their firefighter certification. Senate Bill 90 would maintain the high standards to become a firefighter while making it less intimidating for men and women who are interested in serving their communities as volunteer firefighters. Currently, firefighter applicants must complete four training modules totaling 188 hours. They then must pass a cumulative test covering all four modules. The bill would allow them to be tested following each of the four modules. Senate Bill 90 heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Prevent Surprises on the Road with PennDOT’s Construction Plans
As the weather improves, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is spending more time maintaining the state’s approximately 40,000 roadway miles and 25,400 bridges. You can be aware of and plan for delays you experience driving by checking the status of construction projects in your area. Information about projects underway, beginning and being bid this year is listed here. Road work projects are chosen through an extended planning process in four-year and 12-year increments. Learn more about the State Transportation Improvement Plan and the Twelve Year Program. Beware of Counterfeit Weight Loss and Diabetes Drugs
If you purchase GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, which are typically used for weight loss and diabetes, anywhere other than a licensed pharmacy, you could be buying counterfeit products. As supplies have not kept pace with overwhelming consumer demand, a counterfeit market has emerged for these drugs. Using counterfeit products is dangerous. Attorney General Dave Sunday is urging consumers to report suspicious products by calling the Drugs Tip Line at 800-442-8006. Read more. Enjoy a Great American Getaway in PA
Tourism is an important part of Pennsylvania’s economy. In 2022, the most recent year with available data, we welcomed more than 192 million travelers and benefited from $45 billion in visitor spending. The commonwealth has a lot to offer, even to people who call it home. Find some great ideas for vacations and day trips here. PA Offers Free Motorcycle Training
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a great time to sign up for a motorcycle safety course whether you’re a novice or experienced rider. Classes are free for Pennsylvanians who have a motorcycle learner’s permit or motorcycle license. Successful completion of a basic or intermediate course offered by the state waives the requirement to take a skills test at a PennDOT driver license center and automatically earns the permit holder their motorcycle license. Class schedules are coordinated by third-party training providers at locations across the commonwealth and posted online at least four weeks before the class begins. Learn more about Pennsylvania’s Motorcycle Safety Program.
If you are not already subscribed to this newsletter please sign up here. |
||
|
||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2025 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://www.senatorlaughlin.com | Privacy Policy |
