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Brown Launches All-New Veterans E-Newsletter
On Monday, I proudly introduced my new monthly Veterans E-Newsletter! This dedicated newsletter will serve as a direct resource for our veterans, active-duty service members, and their families here in Pennsylvania. Our veterans have given so much to protect our freedoms, and it is our responsibility to ensure they have access to the services, benefits, and opportunities they’ve earned. Each edition of this newsletter will highlight important updates on legislation, community programs, veteran events, and resources available to support those who have served. This is one more way I hope to stay connected with you and ensure that your voices, experiences, and needs are heard in Harrisburg. Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your continued contributions to our communities. I look forward to keeping you informed and engaged through this new platform. If you want to sign up to receive this e-newsletter monthly, click here. Providing Loan Interest Forgiveness to Counties and Head Start
The delay in passing Pennsylvania’s budget is disrupting schools, local governments, and vital services that rely on state funding. To prevent further harm, in August, the Senate passed a short-term budget identical to last year’s to keep money flowing. I supported this responsible step. Unfortunately, House Democrats rejected it, leaving critical services in limbo. For a deeper dive, you can read a previous newsletter article – but here’s the recap: Pennsylvania has roughly $45 billion available to appropriate. The Governor has proposed spending $51 billion, and the House $50 billion – both exceeding our revenue and risking the depletion of state reserves, which would lead to future tax increases. One thing I know for sure – taxpayers in our community are tapped out! I am not willing to set you up for a tax increase. Recognizing the impact of the incomplete budget, the Senate is expected to advance legislation providing loan interest forgiveness to counties and Head Start early childhood education programs that receive state Treasury loans to keep their services available while budget discussions continue. I will update you on the status of this legislation as it moves forward. FAFSA Form Launches Early
Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Education announced that the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form is online and available, marking the earliest launch in the program’s history. If you or your student is planning to attend college, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is one of the most important steps to take. The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility for federal and state grants, work-study opportunities, and student loans. Many colleges and universities also use the FAFSA to award their own need-based financial aid. Who should complete it: Every student applying to college or career training programs should submit a FAFSA, regardless of family income. Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for need-based aid, the FAFSA is often required to access scholarships or certain financial assistance programs. Why it matters: Filling out the FAFSA helps ensure students receive all the financial aid they are eligible for, which can make a big difference in covering the rising cost of higher education. Scenes from the 40th District
This week’s photo winner is once again courtesy of Susan from Stroudsburg, with some breathtaking closeups of local wildlife! 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. Open Government: How to Access Public Records
Under Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law (RTKL), all state and local government agency records are presumed to be public. If an agency wants to withhold a record, it must prove that it is entitled to do so under the state law or court order. The Office of Open Records maintains information about the RTKL and Sunshine Act, which governs public meetings. This includes information about filing a request for records, a database of Agency Open Records Officers and a Citizens’ Guide to the RTKL. The office also provides information about filing an appeal when a RTK request is denied and provides a variety of training resources including PowerPoint presentations and videos. Pocono Family YMCA Senior Prom
Pocono Family YMCA is hosting their 23rd Annual Senior Prom on Sunday November 9th from 1-4pm! The theme for this year is Gone with the Wind. Early bid pricing has started now, so don’t delay! For more information on how to register, contact the YMCA’s Older Adult Coordinator, Deborah Lang, at 570-421-2525 ext. 0124, or by emailing dlang@poconoymca.org. Bells Across PA Unveiling in Carbondale
Earlier this week, America250PA, Carbondale Mayor Michele Bannon, myself and members of The Wright Center for Community Health and the community joined forces with Bells Across PA to unveil the Carbondale Bell, a powerful beacon of freedom and unity as we approach America’s 250th Anniversary. This inspiring monument is a tribute to the creativity of local artist Allison LaRussa and the generous support of The Wright Center. This is one of many to come throughout the state and in the 40th District! Jermyn Historical Society Grand Opening
Such an amazing project unveiled last weekend from the Jermyn Historical Society, as they held the grand opening of their new building! The work from the community and Bruce Smallacombe, President of the Society, on this project is so impressive! Brooks from my office was pleased to present a Senate Citation along with Representative Kyle Mullins from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania!
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