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2024 Annual Senior Expo: A Heartfelt Thank You

What an incredible turnout at the 2024 Annual Senior Expo! With over 80 vendors, the event offered door prizes, health screenings, and so much more. I was thrilled to have welcomed hundreds from across the 40th district. This event allows seniors to learn more about available resources, speak with representatives from agencies, ask questions, and raise concerns—all in one convenient location.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and made this event a success! A special thank you to my staff, who go above and beyond to make this event happen, and the incredible team at Pocono Mountain School District for their hard work and professionalism every year.

In addition to celebrating the success of the Senior Expo, I want to update you on some important legislative proposals I am championing to support our senior community. I have introduced the Senior Property Tax Relief Act. As drafted, my proposal would expand the existing property tax rent rebate program. Currently, to be eligible, you must make under $45,000 with a rebate amount around $1,000. My proposal would expand to a tiered eligibility:

1. If your income is $60,000 or less, you would receive a $5,000 rebate.
2. If your income is $60,000 or more, you would receive a $2,500 rebate.

Read more about this proposal here.

Furthermore, my Alzheimer’s and Dementia Infrastructure bill is focused on enhancing services and resources, ensuring that those affected receive the care and assistance they need. This bill includes provisions for increased funding for research, improved training for caregivers, and the development of more comprehensive support systems. After two years of dedicated work on my proposal, Senate Bill 840 passed the Senate unanimously and is waiting consideration in the House of Representatives.

Thank you once again for making the Senior Expo a memorable event. Your participation and support are what make these initiatives possible.

Honoring Local Hero Scott Buchanan

I am honored to share with you a truly inspiring story of bravery and selflessness from our very own community. Last week, I had the privilege of formally recognizing Scott Buchanan, a local hero, at my district office in Scotrun.

On June 22, a tractor-trailer overturned and caught on fire. In a remarkable act of bravery, bystander Scott Buchanan risked his life to save the driver inside. Without hesitation, Scott watched the situation unfold, jumped onto the hood of the trailer, removed the windshield, and pulled the driver to safety just minutes before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. His swift and selfless response undoubtedly saved the driver’s life.

In moments of crisis, everyday heroes like Scott remind us of the extraordinary courage within us. Scott’s quick thinking and fearless action exemplify the very best of our community. It was an honor to present him with a citation from the Senate of Pennsylvania to formally recognize and document his heroic act of bravery.

This event was a heartfelt reminder of the strength and compassion that define our community. Scott’s heroism serves as an inspiration to us all, showing that in times of need, there are always individuals ready to step up and make a difference.

Thank you, Scott, for your incredible bravery and for being a shining example of what it means to be a true hero.

New Law to Increase School Security

To protect students, the Senate voted in favor of legislation that would require every school building in Pennsylvania to have an armed officer. Senate Bill 907 was amended into Senate Bill 700, an omnibus School Code bill that was passed as part of the budget and is now law.

Each school district is required to have at least one school security personnel, who has completed training to be armed, and may be either a school police officer, school resource officer or school security guard. School safety personnel would undergo background investigations, be required to maintain certification and be annually certified in position-specific training.

Program Increasing Digital Connectivity to Provide Laptops

The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) is accepting applications for its Digital Connectivity Technology Program.

Through the new program, the PBDA will purchase and distribute $20 million in laptops for eligible public-facing institutions such as libraries, municipalities, workforce training organizations, not-for-profit organizations and other institutions that can offer internet access to individuals who lack the technology.

PBDA strongly encourages interested applicants to review the program frequently asked questions (FAQ), before applying. The FAQ, pre-recorded webinar providing an overview of the program, guidelines and online application are available here. Applications must be submitted by Monday, Aug. 19.

Around the District

Please join me in congratulating Reeve Owens of Olyphant (Troop 21) on attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. His inspiring journey is a shining example of what it means to strive for excellence and work to be our best self for the future of our world together.

It was a pleasure to spend time last weekend supporting the devoted volunteer crew of the Lake Ariel Volunteer Fire Company and their breakfast.

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