|
||
|
In this Update:
AIR Act Takes Flight
I recently introduced Senate Bill 1365, the Pennsylvania AIR Act, legislation that would create a dedicated Aviation Trust Fund to modernize airport funding across the Commonwealth. From infrastructure improvements and workforce development to expanded air service, the AIR Act provides a stable, long-term funding source to help Pennsylvania’s airports grow and compete. Our airports are vital economic engines, and this legislation ensures communities across the state—especially those served by smaller regional airports—have the resources needed to prepare for the future of aviation. Read the full release. Keeping Students Safe
More than $528,000 in state funding is headed to Erie County nonpublic schools to strengthen campus security, support violence prevention initiatives, and expand student mental health resources. The funding, approved through Pennsylvania’s School Safety and Security Grant Program, will help schools invest in measures that create safer learning environments and provide students with the support they need to succeed. Keeping our students safe remains a top priority. Advocates Speak Up for Cancer Prevention
I had the opportunity to meet with Rujula, a student from Fairview School District, during her visit to Harrisburg to advocate for cancer prevention and research initiatives on behalf of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. It’s always encouraging to see young people engage in the legislative process and share their perspectives on issues that impact communities across Pennsylvania. I appreciate Rujula taking the time to visit the Capitol and advocate for a cause that is making a difference in the lives of so many families. Chamber Day at the Capitol
I joined chamber leaders from across Pennsylvania for Chamber Day at the Capitol, including representatives from the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. These conversations are vital to understanding the challenges and opportunities facing businesses and communities throughout the Commonwealth. By working together, we can support job creation, strengthen local economies, and ensure Pennsylvania remains competitive for years to come. One issue that generated significant discussion with chamber leaders from across Pennsylvania was my recently introduced Pennsylvania Air Act (SB 1365). Reliable and affordable air service is critical to economic growth, workforce development, tourism, and business investment. Communities like Erie depend on strong regional air connections to remain competitive, and I look forward to continuing the conversation on how we can strengthen Pennsylvania’s aviation infrastructure and expand opportunities across the state. I appreciate the opportunity to connect with leaders who are committed to helping communities grow and succeed, from Erie to every corner of the state. YMCA Champion of the Year
I am honored to have been named the YMCA of Greater Erie’s Champion of the Year in recognition of my support for the organization’s mission and the positive impact it has on our community. While legislative duties kept me in Harrisburg and prevented me from attending the event, members of my staff were proud to accept the award on my behalf. I am grateful to the YMCA for this recognition and for its continued commitment to strengthening Erie through youth development, healthy living, and community engagement. 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 Bills to Make Housing More Attainable Across PA
The Senate acted to help alleviate Pennsylvania’s growing housing shortage by approving three bills to expand access to housing while preserving local control. Senate Bill 1279 creates a Housing Development Regulatory Compliance Officer to improve coordination and efficiency in the permitting process. Senate Bill 1236 reduces regulatory burdens on small-scale home construction projects by reforming the stormwater permitting process. Senate Bill 1281 empowers local governments to streamline approval processes using uniform housing plans, helping reduce delays and cut unnecessary red tape. These reforms reduce several of the barriers contributing to Pennsylvania’s housing shortage, helping create more opportunities for homeownership while giving communities the flexibility to encourage growth in a way that reflects local needs and priorities. The bills were sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Task Force on Child Protection in the Digital Age
To make sure state laws keep pace with emerging online threats, the Senate voted to establish a Task Force on Child Protection in the Digital Age. Senate Resolution 244 would direct the Joint State Government Commission to convene a task force to review Pennsylvania’s laws, assess new technologies and identify legal gaps in protections for children in the digital environment. The commission will issue a recommendation for action to the General Assembly. The proposal builds on previous work by the legislature: In 2024, we passed a law to combat AI generated child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). In 2025, we acted to classify deepfakes as digital forgery for more severe punishment. The Senate also approved bills to strengthen reporting requirements for AI-generated CSAM and to establish commonsense safeguards for AI chatbots accessible by minors. Read more about our efforts to protect children in the digital age here. Cellphone Law to Reduce Distracted Driving Takes Full Effect
After a one-year warning period, a state law aimed at reducing distracted driving is now fully enforceable. The law prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light or other delays. Drivers can still use their phones to alert authorities in the event of an emergency and use hands-free technology to make phone calls, use a GPS and listen to music. Drivers convicted of using a hand-held device while driving will pay a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees under Paul Miller’s Law. The law is named for Paul Miller Jr., who was tragically killed in a 2010 Monroe County crash by a tractor trailer operator distracted while reaching for his phone while driving. Read more about this new law here. Protecting Yourself During Tick Season
Pennsylvania recorded more than 18,700 cases of Lyme disease in 2025, and the Centers for Disease Control estimates the true number may be much higher due to underreporting. Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses can cause serious long-term health complications, particularly when left untreated. Nearly 55% of ticks tested in Pennsylvania were found to carry at least one tick-borne pathogen, and blacklegged ticks have now been identified in all 67 counties. You can protect yourself by using repellent, avoiding brushy areas and checking your body and pets after outdoor activities. Learn more about protecting yourself from ticks here. Remembering D-Day
On June 6, 1944, the fate of Europe would be determined by the largest amphibious invasion in history, including 13,000 aircraft and gliders, 23,400 paratroopers, 5,000 ships and landing craft and 160,000 American, British and Canadian troops. More than 9,000 Allied servicemen were killed or wounded that day in northern France. It is our responsibility as Americans to honor their bravery, tell the stories of their heroism and preserve what they defended so their sacrifices were not in vain. |
||
|
||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2026 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://www.senatorlaughlin.com | Privacy Policy |
