|
|||
Brown Introduces “Residents First” Data Center Legislative Package
Over the past several months, our region has increasingly been targeted for large-scale data center development. While final approvals of any development lie with local governments under Pennsylvania law, I believe that legislative action at the state level is also appropriate to protect the interests of our communities and communities across the state facing similar circumstances. That is why, several months ago, I introduced legislation establishing data center pre-application requirements to ensure transparency and accountability before a project could even formally begin. But I am not stopping there. Last week, I announced three additional proposals to build out a comprehensive legislative package focused on protecting our communities. This package is the culmination of a formal policy hearing, one-on-one conversations with hundreds of impacted constituents, discussions with industry representatives, and meetings with state and local government officials. I have listened carefully to concerns about water usage, utility capacity, zoning, and the long-term viability of this rapidly evolving technology. Here is a recap of my full, “Residents First” legislative package:
I will continue to work diligently at the state level to put stronger safeguards in place since I, too, have been frustrated by local government decisions and processes. This legislation is designed to answer the many questions residents and I share regarding water protections, infrastructure durability, long-term sustainability, and overall community impacts. Responsible growth requires transparency, thoughtful planning, and putting our neighborhoods first. I appreciate your continued engagement on this critical issue for our region and remain personally available to discuss this with any resident. Brown Announces PennDOT Grant for Traffic Light at Stroudsburg Intersection
You can now expect a traffic signal at the intersection of Broad Street and Park Avenue in Stroudsburg. Many of you may remember the temporary light in place at this intersection from years ago, my office has received several requests to make this light permanent for some time now. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) only just announced this funding through the Automated Red-Light Enforcement and Green Light-GO Grants. This project has been awarded $483,565 for the completion of this necessary safeguard. I will share additional updates when I have them! Hearings on Proposed State Budget Begin Next Week
Senate hearings begin next week on the Governor’s proposed 2026-27 state budget. The Senate Appropriations Committee, which I am a member of, will question department heads as we review the $53.3 billion spending plan that would increase spending by $2.7 billion – a 5.4% increase. Last year’s budget created a $4.8 billion structural deficit, requiring the use of nearly every available reserve fund to achieve balance. The committee begins two weeks of hearings on Monday. Stay tuned for more updates at the conclusion of our questionings. Scenes from the 40th District
This week’s photo is courtesy of Lisa from East Stroudsburg, with a candid cardinal shot! This photo has been shared on my social media and posted to the 40th Senatorial District Photo Gallery. Interested in showcasing your photography skills? I am inviting residents of the 40th Senatorial District to share their photography and help capture the beauty and character of our community. Whether it’s a stunning landscape, a lively community event, or a cherished historical landmark, I encourage you to submit photos that highlight the unique aspects of our district, which includes parts of Lackawanna and Wayne counties, and all of Monroe County. Click here to submit your work and learn more. Free Webinars Help Families Plan for Higher Education
For students and parents needing help with college financial aid, the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) is offering free webinars on applying for aid and reviewing offers, options for non-traditional students, and other important topics regarding higher education. Upcoming webinars include:
Check the full list here for dates and times. The page includes past webinar recordings for topics you might have missed. Preventing Food Allergies and Cutting Costs for Taxpayers
Making preventative supplements available to families could prevent more than 80% of peanut and egg allergies and save taxpayers millions, according to testimony given at a Senate Majority Policy Committee public hearing. Approximately 1.3 million Pennsylvanians are afflicted with a food allergy. One expert testified the rate of children with a food allergy has grown by 50% over the past 20 years, with rates of peanut and tree nut allergies rising by 300%. The average cost of a child with a peanut allergy is more than $7,200 per year. Among the topics discussed was legislation that would require no-cost health insurance coverage for early peanut and egg introduction dietary supplements for infants. Video of the hearing and written testimony can be viewed here. Celebrating Mardi Gras in Blakely
Last weekend, I attended the Blakely Borough Crime Watch Mardi Gras Celebration at Fiorelli’s in Peckville! This was my third year attending this fun community event, and it is always such a great time to support the Blakely Borough Police Department as well as Blakely Borough. A very special thank you to both Mayor Mariani and Chief of Police Salerno for organizing this event! Follow Along on my Busy Morning in Lackawanna County
I had a very busy morning up in Lackawanna County yesterday. I started my day with The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce listening to Karen Grimm-Thomas of The Pennsylvania Key/Office of Child Development and Early Learning. Our discussion focused on childcare and its impact on workforce participation, retention, and regional economic development. We then headed over to Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center where I serve on the Advisory Council. At the day’s quarterly meaning, my fellow councilmembers and I were re-sworn in for the year. I concluded my morning meeting with the hardworking Jonathan Eboli, the new District 4 Executive for Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). Jonathan has big shoes to fill, but I know he is up to the task! Thank you for following along in my morning serving the 40th District!
|
|||
|
|||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2026 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorbrown40.com | Privacy Policy |
