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Senator Brown Champions Legislation to Enhance Alzheimer’s Care, Legislation Approved by Committee
The Senate’s Aging and Youth Committee approved a bill that I’ve been working on for nearly two years – Senate Bill 840. This legislation is designed to substantially improve support for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (ADRD) in Pennsylvania. Senate Bill 840 will establish a permanent ADRD Division and an ADRD Advisory Committee within the Department of Aging. These entities will work together to bring stakeholders to the table, advocate for effective policies, and secure federal funding. This coordinated approach is crucial because our current system lacks the necessary organization, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for comprehensive care and support. Currently, 280,000 seniors in Pennsylvania are living with Alzheimer’s, and this number is expected to rise to 320,000 by 2025. In 2020, the state spent nearly $3.7 billion on Medicaid costs for Alzheimer’s care. Pennsylvania families cover 70% of the total lifetime cost of caring for someone with dementia, including out-of-pocket health expenses and the substantial value of unpaid care. In 2022, more than 404,000 unpaid caregivers in Pennsylvania provided care worth more than $10.7 billion. Senate Bill 840 aims to ensure that our loved ones receive the best possible care, support, and guidance. By streamlining our efforts and fostering collaboration, we can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by ADRD. I am pleased to see other legislators in the House and Senate jump on board to support Senate Bill 840. The enthusiasm shows me that the advocates, my staff, and I have done significant work behind the scenes to build a coalition to advance this critical legislation. The approval of Senate Bill 840 by the Senate’s Aging and Youth Committee is a significant milestone, and I look forward to the full Senate taking up this initiative. “Grow PA” Bills to Support Affordable Pathways to Higher Ed, Career Prep Passes Senate
Tens of thousands of students would have more opportunities to pursue affordable post-secondary education and career preparations programs under a package of bills approved with bipartisan support in the Senate. The Grow PA initiative would create and expand programs to connect students to high-demand careers in Pennsylvania. The bills would not only make education and career training more affordable, but also provide strong incentives for students to stay and work in the state after completing their degrees and certifications. Grow PA Scholarships would be established for in-state students who attend college in Pennsylvania, pursue a degree in a high-demand industry, and agree to live and work in that industry in Pennsylvania after graduation. Grow PA Merit Scholarships would be created to allow high-performing, out-of-state students pursuing in-demand occupations to pay lower, in-state tuition at Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) schools. Ready to Succeed Scholarships would be expanded to help as many as 24,000 additional students cover post-secondary education costs. Fostering Independence Tuition Waivers would be expanded to nonresident students, waiving PASSHE tuition and fees for children in the foster care system and children who were adopted. Performance-based metrics would be added to funding for state-related universities, including the University of Pittsburgh, Penn State University and Temple University to provide added accountability to taxpayers. A Higher Education Task Force would be created to improve higher education and career preparation programs. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion would be required for high school seniors, ensuring families have access to vital information on higher education aid, career and technical education, certificate programs and more. The Grow PA plan also includes historic investments in career and technical education and dual enrollment. Building Awareness for Roadway Safety in Honesdale
This week, Kristine from my office participated in a press conference with the Greater Honesdale Partnership, Honesdale Borough, Jim Hamill, Mayor Derek of Honesdale, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, and Linda from State Rep. Jonathan Fritz’s office. The event focused on pedestrian and motorist safety initiatives in Honesdale Borough, prompted by recent unfortunate pedestrian incidents. I extend my gratitude to all involved in this critical awareness campaign to enhance walkability and safety on and around Main Street in Honesdale. Your commitment to improving our community is deeply appreciated. Happy Father’s Day!
Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads out there! Let’s celebrate the fathers who have shaped our lives with their love, wisdom, and guidance. Fathers play an essential role in our families and communities. They are our mentors, protectors, and friends, providing unwavering support and encouragement. To all the dads who go above and beyond every day, thank you. Your dedication and hard work make a world of difference. Whether you’re a father, stepfather, grandfather, or a father figure, your impact is immeasurable. Wishing everyone a joyous and heartfelt Father’s Day! Recognizing our Retired Senior Volunteers
I had a wonderful time this week at the RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) recognition luncheon in Monroe County. We celebrated the remarkable contributions of our retired senior volunteers and their immense impact on our community. Their dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment are truly immeasurable. We are profoundly grateful for their service. A special thank you to Neal and Erica, our RSVP Director, and Office Manager, for your exceptional leadership and coordination. Your hard work ensures that these hundreds of volunteers can continue making a difference. Our community is fortunate to have their guidance in this important program. Interagency Council – Keynote Speaker
I was honored to serve as the keynote speaker at Interagency Council (IAC) Monroe Meeting. It is always a pleasure to engage with so many dedicated agencies that meet monthly to discuss community issues, trends, and solutions. I appreciated the opportunity to provide a legislative and district update. Thank you to all who attended and contributed to the insightful discussions.
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