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In this Update:
Remembering the Greatest Generation on Flag Day
This Flag Day, I attended a special concert at the Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home in Erie. The Erie Philharmonic delivered a powerful performance of pride and patriotism. The highlight of the event came during intermission, when I had the privilege of presenting Pennsylvania Senate medals to six World War II veterans. These heroes answered the call of duty at a critical moment in history and have carried themselves with dignity and humility ever since. One of the veterans, Don Grumblatt, served alongside my father during the war, making the moment even more personal and emotional for me. Recognizing these men in front of their loved ones and fellow citizens was a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of the greatest generation. To all our veterans, thank you for your service. Senate Votes to Combat Overregulation
To address overregulation that stifles business growth and drives jobs to other states, the Senate passed two regulatory reform bills. The Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act, Senate Bill 333, would establish an enhanced legislative review process for costly new regulations. It is designed to address concerns about unchecked regulatory burdens on businesses, communities and taxpayers. Senate Bill 444 would establish a one-time automatic review process for regulations that impose a fiscal impact exceeding $1 million annually on taxpayers or employers. The review would ensure regulations remain effective, efficient and in the public interest. Both bills now move to the House of Representatives for consideration. Bill Targeting Rise of Deepfake Scams Approved by Senate
The Senate unanimously voted to stem the rise of “deepfakes” and other forms of digital impersonation by treating them as forgeries punishable by law. Technology enables individuals to create convincing images, audio and video of others – often without consent – that are nearly indistinguishable from reality. These digital forgeries have been used to commit financial scams and injure personal reputations. Senate Bill 649 would enact penalties for anyone who creates a digital representation of a real person without their consent and distributes it as genuine to defraud or injure. The measure would protect First Amendment rights and preserve valid expressions of parody, satire and other forms of free speech. Senate Bill 649 is now before the House of Representatives for consideration. PA Now Has Concealed Carry Reciprocity with Virginia
A new reciprocity agreement allows holders of Pennsylvania Licenses to Carry Firearms to do so in Virginia, making it the 30th state that has a concealed carry reciprocity agreement with Pennsylvania. The agreement resulted from efforts of Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday to maximize reciprocity agreements while protecting standing law and constitutional rights. The agreement is only applicable to handguns and requires permit holders to:
Funding Available for Community Groups Providing Veteran Suicide Prevention Services
Community-based organizations that provide suicide prevention or emergency clinical services to veterans can apply now for grants to support their vital mission. Organizations can apply for grants worth up to $750,000 and may apply to renew awards from year to year. Grant applications must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs by July 18 at 5 p.m. Learn more about eligibility and apply here. Veterans in crisis are encouraged to call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing one to speak with responders trained in crisis intervention and military culture. All calls are free and confidential. Additionally, Pennsylvania provides many programs and services to support veterans. Celebrating National Dairy Month in June
Pennsylvania’s dairy farmers work hard to provide families with common dairy staples, including cheese and yogurt, that are part of healthy diets. Consuming dairy products contributes to strong bones, muscle function and immune support. Senate Republicans highlighted the role dairy plays in making agriculture the state’s top industry. It generates more than $11 billion in revenue and supports 47,000 jobs. Checking out PA’s Ice Cream Trail is a fun way to celebrate and support dairy farmers. At more than 50 spots across the state, you can enjoy homemade ice cream and other delicious treats.
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