Bill would Preserve Pennsylvania’s Nuclear Energy Industry

Apr. 15, 2019 /

This week in Harrisburg, the House Consumer Affairs Committee held a public hearing to gather testimony on the pros and cons regarding the Keep Powering Pennsylvania Act (House Bill 11), legislation that would preserve Pennsylvania’s nuclear energy industry and prevent the pending closure of two of the state’s nuclear power plants.

Protect Yourself Against Lyme Disease

Apr. 08, 2019 /

With longer days and warmer spring weather on the way, the Pennsylvania Department of Health has issued a reminder to be aware of Lyme disease and ticks as we spend more time outdoors.

State Releases Child Abuse Report

Mar. 25, 2019 /

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services recently released a study of child abuse fatal and near-fatal cases in the Commonwealth from 2015-16. The report outlines and analyzes data from these years and makes recommendations to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Trout Season is Just Around the Corner

Mar. 11, 2019 /

It is almost time to head for that favorite fishing hole, as trout season will open across Pennsylvania on Saturday, April 13. Anglers can find out when area streams will be stocked with trout by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) by checking the 2019 stocking schedules. The schedules are available online at the PFBC website and on its FishBoatPA mobile app. Hard copies can be obtained at my district office in Hazleton, located at 1 W. Broad St.

Creating Good Jobs for Pennsylvania

Mar. 04, 2019 /

A key to Pennsylvania’s economic success is to ensure its students and workers are prepared to fill the good-paying jobs of today and tomorrow.

Sunday Hunting Bill Advancing in General Assembly

Feb. 25, 2019 /

Earlier this month, legislation that would allow the Pennsylvania Game Commission to lift the long-standing ban on most Sunday hunting was reported out of the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee by a vote of 8-3. It was the first step in a long process that was cheered by proponents of the proposal.

Applications Now Available for Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program

Feb. 05, 2019 /

Application forms for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program are now available for eligible seniors and people with disabilities to begin claiming rebates for property taxes or rent payments they made last year.

Legalizing Recreational Marijuana: What’s Your Opinion?

Jan. 22, 2019 /

Gov. Tom Wolf sparked a statewide debate last month when he tweeted that “it is time for Pennsylvania to take a serious and honest look at recreational marijuana.” Republican leaders in the Legislature quickly responded, calling the idea “reckless and irresponsible.”

Supporting Our Veterans During the Holiday Season

Jan. 01, 2019 /

In the spirit of the holiday season, the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) reminds us that this is a great time to give to programs that support our state’s veterans, active military and their families.

Renew Your Dog’s License Now

Dec. 17, 2018 /

Did you know that every dog in Pennsylvania must be licensed? All dogs three months of age or older must be licensed on an annual basis in the Commonwealth. Owners who fail to license their dogs by Jan. 1 of each year could face a fine of up to $300 for each unlicensed animal.

New Law Protects Our Four-Legged Friends

Dec. 11, 2018 /

Did you know that on an 80-degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 99 degrees in just 10 minutes, 109 degrees within 20 minutes and 114 degrees within 30 minutes? Those extreme heat conditions can be a death sentence for an animal left inside the vehicle, or at the very least it can cause irreversible organ and brain damage, or heat stroke.

Share the Harvest Program Helps to Feed the Hungry

Nov. 27, 2018 /

Since 1991, the Hunter’s Sharing the Harvest (HSH) program has provided venison donated by hunters to families and individuals in need throughout Pennsylvania. HSH works with food banks, food pantries and charitable organizations in playing a critical role in filling the gaps for those at risk of hunger.

Thanking Our Veterans

Nov. 14, 2018 /

Throughout the nation this weekend, communities are paying tribute to veterans with a variety of parades, ceremonies and dedications.

Driver’s Beware, Deer are on the Move

Nov. 07, 2018 /

With deer becoming increasingly active and daylight saving time now in effect, putting more vehicles on the road during the hours when deer move most, the Pennsylvania Game Commission is advising motorists to slow down and stay alert.

Home Heating Assistance Program to Open Nov. 1

Oct. 29, 2018 /

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will begin to accept applications on Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018. Funded by the federal government but administered at the state level, LIHEAP provides cash and crisis grants to eligible participants who need some help in paying their heating costs during the winter.