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Senate Budget Hearings in Harrisburg Conclude
Over the past two weeks, as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have been in Harrisburg to review the Governor’s proposed $53.3 billion state budget, which would increase spending by $2.7 billion, or 5.4%, over the current fiscal year. These hearings are an important part of the budget process and allow the legislature the opportunity to question agencies directly about their spending requests, priorities, and long-term financial outlook. This week’s hearings included discussions with the Governor’s Budget Office and Department of Revenue, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and others. Energy policy and consumer costs were discussed during the Public Utility Commission’s hearing. The commission regulates more than 8,000 utility providers in Pennsylvania, and we questioned whether current energy policies could be contributing to higher costs for Pennsylvania consumers. You can find complete recaps and videos of each hearing here. Brown Announces Next Telephone Town Hall
During my last tele-townhall, it was a pleasure to speak directly with so many of you from the comfort of your own home. We covered a lot of important issues – from school property taxes, to energy, to local government, and data centers – these conversations are valuable in my work for you. I am hosting my next Telephone Town Hall on May 20th at 11AM. You will have the opportunity to listen from the comfort of your own home, or wherever else you may be, and ask questions or share your concerns with me. March Legislative Report: Mount Diana Teas & Herbs
My March Legislative Report featuring Mount Diana teas & Herbs is now out! What an enjoyable experience this was for me. Another inspiring husband and wife team, Robert & Diana, in business together! So many amazing teas and herbs and a plethora of expertise to offer you along with tea tastings! Can’t wait to try my new Earl Grey Cream too. Scenes from the 40th Senate District
This week’s photo is courtesy of Jeanine of East Stroudsburg, with some interestingly colored snow and ice on Seven Bridges Road in Marshalls Creek! 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. Bill to Ease Shortage in Long-Term Care Workers Approved by Senate
To help alleviate Pennsylvania’s serious shortage of long-term care workers, the Senate approved legislation to allow high school juniors and seniors to earn graduation credit by working or volunteering in these settings so they can consider a career in this crucial field. Health care leaders and senior advocates strongly support Senate Bill 116 because while Pennsylvania’s population over the age of 65 is expected to nearly double by 2040, the number of long-term care professionals declined by 14% from 2019 to 2022. This bill is part of a bipartisan package aimed at strengthening the long-term care workforce. Along with Senate Bill 114 and Senate Bill 115, it awaits action in the House of Representatives. Visiting the NativityMiguel School of Scranton
Last week, I had the special opportunity to tour the NativityMiguel School of Scranton! This gem of a school helps provide for children and families in Lackawanna County who are near or below the poverty line. It was such a pleasure to speak with each classroom about my role as a legislator and my experiences in school. NativityMiguel has 6 guiding principles which really spoke to me: Faith, Honor, Integrity, Respect, Leadership, and Perseverance. The school offers an extended school year, with students participating in a rigorous academic program during the traditional school year and in a Summer Program, which is a four-week academic enrichment program that focuses on reading, math, and writing. The school is committed to educating students in the arts and humanities, with subjects ranging from music, art, architecture, health, strings, and more. Thank you to my wonderful tour guides for showing me around your school, it made my day! Celebrating Read Across America Week
This week kicked off Read Across America Week! The goal of Read Across America Week is to promote literacy and emphasize the importance of reading. This week serves as a nationwide movement to encourage daily reading habits, both in schools and at home. Throughout the week, teachers, parents, and volunteers organize read-aloud sessions, book fairs, storytelling events, and reading challenges to inspire children to develop a lifelong passion for books. While I was in Appropriation hearings down in Harrisburg, some members of my staff happily visited schools in the 40th District to be guest readers at the beginning of the week! Brooks read to kindergarteners Mid Valley Elementary School and Kristine read to children at the Pocono Services for Families and Children’s Ramsey Center! BSA Pack 84’s Blue & Gold Ceremony
Last weekend was BSA Pack 84’s 2026 Blue and Gold Banquet! Alyssa from my office attended the event to recognize their accomplishments with citations from the Senate of Pennsylvania! Congratulations again!
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