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In this Update:
SB 109 Heads to the Governor’s Desk
I’m proud to report that my legislation, Senate Bill 109, has passed both chambers of the General Assembly and is now on its way to the governor for final approval. This bill updates the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act by formally defining and regulating groin structures—shoreline features that help control erosion and wave impact. The bill also allows the Department of Environmental Protection to collect a modest license fee (capped at $250) for homeowners who build, maintain, or repair these structures. This ensures responsible oversight without placing an undue burden on property owners. This is an important step in preserving and protecting our lakefronts for the future. Supporting Regional Casinos and Local Jobs
The Senate has passed my bill, Senate Bill 840, which reduces the minimum number of slot machines required at Pennsylvania casinos from 1,500 to 1,000. This commonsense update is especially important for regional casinos like Presque Isle Downs. By modernizing outdated requirements, we can help our gaming industry stay competitive while protecting local jobs and keeping revenue here in Pennsylvania. Sunday Hunting Legislation One Step Closer to the Finish Line
House Bill 1431 has passed the Senate and is now headed back to the House for concurrence, bringing us one step closer to finally ending Pennsylvania’s outdated restrictions on Sunday hunting. This is the first real shot we’ve had at getting this legislation across the finish line, and I’m proud to be part of the effort. I want to thank Representative Mandy Steele (D-33) for her leadership in the House and recognize former Senator Jim Brewster for laying the early groundwork that helped make this moment possible. With strong bipartisan support, we’re closer than ever to expanding hunting access, supporting our rural economy, and strengthening outdoor traditions for the next generation. Reviewing Priorities with the PA Association of Realtors
It was great to connect with the local members of the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors to review their legislative priorities for 2025. We had a productive discussion about the challenges facing homebuyers, property owners, and the real estate industry across the Commonwealth. From improving housing availability to addressing regulatory hurdles and supporting economic growth, their advocacy plays a vital role in shaping smart policies that strengthen our communities. I appreciate their insight and look forward to working together on shared goals this legislative session. Collaborating for a Stronger Region
Last Friday, my District Director Katie Nagle joined local leaders for a Government Affairs Roundtable hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry and the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. The discussion spanned a wide range of important topics—from workforce development and education to industry needs and human services—but one key theme emerged: the power of collaboration. By working together across sectors, we can create smart solutions that move our region forward. Thank you to everyone who participated. Your insights are essential to building a stronger, more connected northwest Pennsylvania. Lifesaving Bill to Eliminate Cost Barriers to Breast Cancer Diagnosis Approved by Senate
Patients who receive abnormal results from supplemental breast cancer screenings will be able to access the necessary follow-up diagnostic imaging at no cost under bipartisan legislation passed by the Senate. This ensures critical continuum of care. Senate Bill 88 builds on the success of Act 1 of 2023, which provided no-cost preventive screenings for individuals at high risk. Senate Bill 88 takes the next step with no-cost follow-up diagnostic imaging and expands eligibility to include individuals at average risk. While 26 other states have followed Pennsylvania’s lead in offering no-cost supplemental breast screening since the passage of Act 1, Pennsylvania remains the only state without guaranteed coverage for diagnostic imaging. The bill now goes to the House of Representatives. Senate Targets PA Opioid Crisis with Expanded Reporting Tool
The Senate voted to incorporate overdose reporting by EMS providers into the statewide Overdose Information Network to make sure first responders, treatment providers and other key parties have the information they need to save lives. Senate Bill 89 would require the Pennsylvania Department of Health to coordinate with the Pennsylvania State Police to ensure real-time overdose reporting by EMS providers is incorporated into the statewide mapping system. The bill now goes to the House of Representatives. EMS providers would report information including the date and time of the overdose, location, substances used by the victim and more. In other action to prevent opioid deaths, Senate Republicans led passage of a measure giving EMS personnel permanent authority to leave behind a dose of lifesaving naloxone at non-fatal overdose scenes. Measure to Prevent Eminent Domain Abuse Approved by Senate
Legislation to protect property owners against eminent domain abuse and ensure they are fully compensated when their property is taken by government was approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 225 would ensure business owners and farmers whose properties are seized through eminent domain are compensated for loss of “goodwill,” which goes beyond the assessed value. For farms, the land may possess characteristics that make it particularly special, such as fertile soil. In the case of another business, goodwill may be because of location, access to utilities and other factors. Farmers, employers and homeowners testified before a Senate committee last year about eminent domain abuse. The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration. School Bus Safety Grant Program Applications Accepted
School districts, school bus companies and municipalities have until July 3 to apply for state grants to improve school bus safety and pay for training and other costs associated with attracting much-needed school bus drivers. Legislation passed by the General Assembly allows school districts to install automated camera systems to enforce the state School Bus Stopping Law and increase safety for school children. A portion of the fines paid by violators are used for the School Bus Safety Grant Program. Details and the online application are available here. Celebrating Great Outdoors Month
The arrival of summer means plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy what nature has to offer locally and across our commonwealth. Pennsylvania is home to cool, green forests, thousands of pristine lakes and streams, hiking trails and state parks. Find plenty of ways to explore the great outdoors of our region and the state here.
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