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Strengthening Emergency Services Funding
This week, I’m excited to share that a package of bills I’ve been working on has passed unanimously out of the House Local Government Committee. These bills aim to give municipalities, who are facing increasing demands and financial challenges, greater flexibility in funding emergency medical services (EMS) and fire companies. Currently, municipalities can impose a local tax to support EMS, but only half of the revenue generated can be used for personnel costs. With these bills, we are expanding that provision to include fire companies, and more importantly, allowing municipalities to allocate a larger portion of these funds towards staffing. This is critical to addressing the shortages in qualified personnel that our EMS providers and fire companies are facing. We’re not raising taxes with this legislation, but we’re making sure that local governments can maximize the revenue they already have to support the men and women who serve our communities. The current cap on how these funds can be used just isn’t practical anymore. By giving local governments the ability to allocate more resources to hiring and retaining personnel, we’re helping ensure that EMS and fire services remain strong and responsive to the needs of our residents. Senate Bills 1132, 1133, and 1134 will continue to the full House for a vote before it proceeds to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Our emergency services play a vital role in keeping our communities safe, and I’m proud to be working on legislation that directly supports them and our public safety. Child Care Tax Credit Supports Families, Communities
The Pennsylvania Senate understands that supporting families helps create strong communities. We led the way in establishing the Child Care Tax Credit and increased it to provide relief to as many moms and dads as possible. Because of the tax credit, more businesses can contribute toward their employees’ child care benefits, providing financial relief to parents, beginning Jan. 1, 2025. Employer contributions may not count as the employee’s income. The tax credit allows employers to claim a tax credit equal to 30% of what they contribute toward an employee’s child care benefits, up to $500. If an employer chooses to make contributions to its employees, the employer must make equal contributions to all employees who have eligible child care costs. State Seminars Explain New Tax Laws
The state Senate worked to reform the state tax code to bring jobs to Pennsylvania and help start-ups. Tax professionals can learn about these and other changes at the Department of Revenue in person or at virtual seminars. The one-day seminars offer information about the Personal Income Tax, sales tax, corporate taxes and compliance initiatives. They also explain how to use the department’s website to establish tax accounts for new businesses, file tax returns and pay state taxes. Seminars are offered through December. Learn more and register here. Sneak Peek: Legislative Report Taping Highlights Local Gems
Today, I had the pleasure of filming several new episode of the Legislative Report, where we visited some incredible spots in our community! We explored the Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center, where we learned about their efforts in caring for injured wildlife. Next, we stopped by Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, which offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century farm life. Lastly, we toured the Schisler Museum of Wildlife & Natural History and the McMunn Planetarium, home to some truly amazing exhibits. Stay tuned for videos coming soon – you won’t want to miss these highlights! Local Student Shadows at my District Office
This week, I had the pleasure of welcoming Anayah, a bright student from Pleasant Valley High School, to shadow me at my district office. It was a wonderful opportunity to show her the inner workings of our office and the day-to-day responsibilities of serving our community. Anayah is a brilliant young woman with a bright future ahead of her, and I’m excited to see all that she will accomplish. It’s always inspiring to spend time with young leaders who are eager to learn and make a difference! Milestones in our Community
Top Left: The Monroe County Habitat for Humanity ReStore has officially opened, offering discounted furniture, lighting, and more! Every purchase supports Habitat’s mission in Monroe County. Visit at The Village Center Plaza, 2610 Milford Rd, East Stroudsburg. Top Right: Congratulations to Peter Alasty on his outstanding service in our community. Peter’s kindness and dedication has had left a lasting impact on so many – we are grateful for his incredible work. Bottom Left: This week, the Western Pocono Community Library celebrated 50 years. Located in Brodheadsville, the center hosts many programs for adults and children of all ages. You can visit their website here. Bottom Right: Cinder Inn Bar-Grill-Catering celebrated 90 years of operation and 20 years under owner Veronica Murray. The Cinder Inn is known for its community connection and home-town feel – we are fortunate to have this gem in our area.
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