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In this Update:
Barb’s Childcare Center Tour
This week, I had the opportunity to visit Barb’s Childcare Center to tour the facility and learn more about the incredible work being done there. Spending time with the children was, of course, the highlight of my visit, but we also discussed important issues facing childcare centers across Pennsylvania. Staffing shortages, regulatory challenges, and underfunded programs are pressing concerns that I will keep in mind as I return to Harrisburg this session. Thank you, Barb’s Childcare Center, for your time and hospitality. It was truly inspiring to witness the care and dedication you provide to the children and families in our community. Keep up the amazing work! January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month
Human trafficking often goes hand in hand with violence and social issues. If you suspect someone is being trafficked, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Technology, the desire for connection and lack of financial stability all play key roles in the most common ways human trafficking begins. By looking out for those around us, we can help to prevent exploitation before it happens. While the new legislative session just began, Senate Republicans passed multiple bills last session to help people who were victims of human trafficking. One law ensures that sexually exploited children who are human trafficking victims always have full access to appropriate services and support. Another subjects individuals convicted of certain human trafficking offenses to the same reporting and evaluation requirements as any other sexual offender. Last year, I hosted a Senate hearing on human trafficking and a local roundtable to address this critical issue with community leaders. I also introduced Safe Harbor legislation to protect sexually exploited children and participated in the Erie Women’s Fund’s recent human trafficking event to continue raising awareness and driving action. Together, we’re making strides to combat exploitation and safeguard our communities. Nearly $11 Million Secured for Erie County Water Projects
I’m pleased to announce that Erie County has been approved for nearly $11 million in funding through PENNVEST for critical water infrastructure improvements. These projects will enhance water safety, reliability and public health in our communities. The Erie City Water Authority will receive $6.5 million to replace private lead service lines in Erie, addressing health risks and ensuring compliance with safety standards. North East Borough Water Authority will receive $4.5 million to upgrade aging infrastructure, improve service reliability and secure water access during emergencies. Investments like these are essential for our region’s well-being and future. Statewide Row Officers Begin Serving PA
Congratulations to new PA Attorney General Dave Sunday and reelected PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity and PA Auditor General Tim DeFoor on their inaugurations on Tuesday. My colleagues and I stand ready to work together to move our commonwealth forward. As the state’s top law enforcement official, the attorney general works to protect and serve citizens and agencies of the commonwealth. The position is served by several hundred prosecutors, attorneys, investigators, agents and support staff. The Treasury Department is the custodian of more than $160 billion in state funds and oversees all withdrawals and deposits from state agencies. It also administers programs, including the PA 529 college and career savings plan, that help families prepare for the future. In her first term, Garrity returned record amounts of unclaimed property and reduced fees multiple times for PA 529 and PA ABLE, which is a program that gives individuals with qualifying disabilities a tax-advantaged way to save without impacting their government benefits. The auditor general is the state’s fiscal watchdog. The role is tasked with ensuring state government lives within its means and every taxpayer dollar is spent wisely. In addition to completing nearly 4,000 legally required audits per year, DeFoor also conducted several high-profile performance audits during his first four years in office. The audits determine how state government programs are working and ensure tax dollars are being spent appropriately. Free Webinar on Jan. 30 to Provide Helpful Financial Aid Info
The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) is holding a free virtual webinar to assist college-bound students and their families with navigating the financial aid process. It will be held on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. During the webinar, a PHEAA expert will present information about the financial aid application process, the types of aid available and strategies about affordability to consider before applying for postsecondary school admission. A question-and-answer session will be held following the hour-long presentation. Register to attend the webinar, which is open to all ages. Assistance Available for Local Historic Preservation
The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission is now accepting applications from nonprofit organizations and local governments for the Keystone Historic Preservation Grant Program. The grants support projects that identify, preserve, promote and protect historic and archaeological resources in Pennsylvania for the benefit of public and community revitalization. Two categories of grants – construction and planning – are available for historic resources in Pennsylvania that are listed, or eligible for listing, in the National Register of Historic Places. Applicants may apply for only one type of grant. Learn more and apply online by March 3. Winter Emergency Travel Kit Tips
Winter travel can bring extended traffic stops. You can ensure your safety and comfort by packing an emergency travel kit. Be sure to include a blanket, ice scraper, flashlight, warm clothing and gloves, sand, jumper cables, cellphone charger, small shovel, first aid kit, water and nonperishable food. A printable winter emergency kit list from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is available here. Your winter emergency kit should also include the personal items you need to accommodate the family members who travel with you, such as special medication, baby supplies and pet food.
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