|
||
|
In this Update:
New Hands-Free Driving Law Takes Effect June 5
Starting June 5, a new law will make it illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving in Pennsylvania. This law is an important step toward reducing distracted driving crashes, which tragically claimed 49 lives across the Commonwealth last year. Drivers will still be able to use hands-free technology, but holding a phone while operating a vehicle will now be prohibited. Safety on our roads depends on staying focused behind the wheel. Learn more about the new law here: https://bit.ly/4jqBTGu Eagle’s Nest Leadership Athletic Center Opens in Erie
After years of hard work, dedication, and strong community support, the Eagle’s Nest Leadership Athletic Center is officially opening its doors today in Erie. This state-of-the-art facility represents a major investment in our region’s future, offering a safe, inspiring space where young people can grow through athletics, leadership training, and mentorship. It’s a beacon of hope and opportunity, and a testament to what our community can achieve together. Congratulations to everyone who helped make this vision a reality! New Low-Cost Boating License Course Now Available
Boating season is here, and I’m proud to have worked with the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission to make an affordable online boating safety course available for just $17. This effort helps ensure more Pennsylvanians can safely enjoy our lakes, rivers, and waterways. The course can be completed entirely online in just 4 to 8 hours and is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard. Whether you’re new to boating or just need certification, it’s a convenient and accessible option for everyone. Let’s make boating safer and more accessible across Pennsylvania. Start your course today: https://buff.ly/0Ry9CRU Steel Beams Going Up on Route 20 Bridge in North East Township
PennDOT crews are making strong progress on the Route 20 bridge project in North East Township, with steel beams now being installed on site. This marks a major milestone in the effort to replace the aging structure and improve travel for drivers in the area. The project remains on track for completion this fall. I appreciate the continued patience and support from the community as this important upgrade moves forward. Celebrating the YMCA of Greater Erie’s Community Impact
A member of my staff attended the YMCA of Greater Erie’s Annual Meeting to celebrate the organization’s outstanding work in youth development, healthy living, and community support. The YMCA continues to be a cornerstone of positive change in our region, and I’m grateful for their lasting impact and commitment to strengthening our communities. Senate Votes to Preserve Prescription Assistance for Seniors
Legislation to protect thousands of Pennsylvania seniors from losing access to life-sustaining prescriptions passed the Senate unanimously. Senate Bill 731 would exclude Social Security cost-of-living adjustments from income eligibility calculations for the PACE and PACENET programs. The bill would extend the current exclusion from the end of this year to Dec. 31, 2027. Funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery, the PACE and PACENET programs have provided hundreds of thousands of adults 65 and older with low-cost prescriptions. It now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. Bill to Strengthen Enforcement of PFA Orders Passes Senate
The Senate unanimously approved legislation to improve the enforcement of Protection from Abuse (PFA) petitions and orders and properly reimburse law enforcement agencies. A longstanding imbalance in the law directs a portion of PFA-related court fees to county sheriffs, even when local police departments or state troopers process the paperwork. Senate Bill 302 would require sheriffs to transfer the $25 service fee collected through the existing surcharge to the agency completing the service. The bill would also address a critical safety concern and reinforce professional enforcement standards by authorizing only sheriffs or trained law enforcement officers – not private individuals – to serve PFAs. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Approves Bill to Improve Access to Stroke Resources
The Senate unanimously passed legislation that would improve access to stroke resources. Senate Bill 411 would establish a statewide stroke registry administered and maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The registry would improve patient outcomes by giving emergency medical service providers, hospital stroke teams and other health care providers additional resources. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, strokes are the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States. Each year, more than 795,000 people experience a stroke. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. 23andMe Consumers Can Still Protect Their Information
While 23andMe has filed for bankruptcy, consumers should know they still have rights. Notably, if a consumer’s personal or genetic information was exposed in the 2023 data breach, they may file a claim electronically by July 14. People may also wish to delete their profiles and accounts to ensure their personal data is erased from the 23andMe system and not sold as part of the bankruptcy process. Attorney General Dave Sunday says consumers can learn how to delete their genetic data from 23andMe, destroy their 23andMe test sample and revoke permission for their genetic data to be used for research here. Remembering D-Day and Those Who Gave Everything
In one of the most important military actions in history, the Allies began the liberation of Western Europe on June 6, 1944. Each year, there are fewer surviving D-Day veterans, which makes it even more important that we preserve their legacy through education. We must never forget the more than 2,500 Americans who lost their lives turning the tide in World War II. The cost of freedom is high, and they gave everything to defend it for all of us.
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 |
