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Ensuring Access to Veterans Assistance Programs Across Pennsylvania
Legislation to improve the distribution of funding for veterans’ programs across the commonwealth is awaiting a vote in the House of Representatives. Senate Bill 146, introduced by Sen. Lisa Baker and unanimously passed by the Senate in March, would increase assistance and support provided by statewide charitable organizations to veterans and their families in underserved regions of the commonwealth through the Veterans’ Trust Fund. The Veterans’ Trust Fund provides grants to veterans’ service and non-profit organizations that assist veterans with issues including housing, financial matters, food, training, recovery assistance, transportation and health. Senate Bill 146 also raises awareness about the programs and resources supported by the Veterans’ Trust Fund. 2025 Year in Review
When I was sworn in as your Senator in 2023, I made one very important promise: to work hard! In my first two years, we delivered more than $65 million in state grants, enacted 7 bills into law, and served thousands of constituents through direct services and outreach. In 2025, we built even more on this record. Here is what we accomplished:
I also make it a priority to regularly attend community events—from business openings to Eagle Scout ceremonies and 100th birthdays—ensuring I stay connected and accessible to you. In 2026, I will use these accomplishments to build on delivering even more for the 40th Senatorial District. As always, thank you for your trust in me to work hard for you. I will continue to focus on common sense policy and results while creating an environment that fosters patriotism, deeper education, good government, kindness, and respect. It is going to be a great 2026! More Disabled Pennsylvanians Now Eligible for PA ABLE Savings Accounts
More Pennsylvanians – including veterans – are eligible to participate in the PA ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) Savings Program in 2026. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, Pennsylvanians with a qualifying disability occurring prior to age 46 are eligible to open a PA ABLE account. Previously, eligibility required the disability to occur before age 26. PA ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities and their families to save up to $19,000 per year tax-free without impacting important benefits. For veterans, savings and investments in PA ABLE accounts do not impact VA benefits. PA ABLE offers several saving options, including an interest-bearing checking account or investment options. Funds can be used for qualified expenses such as housing, health care, transportation and assistive technology. Contributions are deductible on state income taxes, and qualified withdrawals are exempt from state and federal income taxes. PA ABLE is administered by the Pennsylvania Treasury Department. Treasurer Stacy Garrity, herself a veteran, said, “This significant expansion of eligibility to save with PA ABLE will usher in an era of greater financial independence and security for more of our friends and family members living with disabilities.” Expanding Eligibility for Free and Reduced Disabled Veterans Hunting Licenses
Legislation passed unanimously by the Senate in November would make Pennsylvania veterans with a 100% service-connected disability eligible for a free regular hunting or fur taking license, regardless of whether their disability occurred during war or armed conflict. Senate Bill 1020, sponsored by Sen. Chris Gebhard, would allow veterans with a 60-99% disability rating from active-duty service to purchase regular hunting or fur taking licenses at a reduced cost of $1. Currently, free and reduced fee hunting licenses are only available to resident veterans whose disabilities were incurred during war or armed conflict. Senate Bill 1020 would expand eligibility to include veterans whose disabilities were incurred during other times of military service such as training exercises, non-combat military operations and peacetime service activities. The bill is now in the House of Representatives, awaiting a vote by the Game and Fisheries Committee. Assisting Veterans with Financial Literacy
If your New Year’s resolution is to increase financial literacy, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers resources to help veterans manage their personal finances, including:
YMCA Veterans Pathway Program
Ready to get healthier in 2026? YMCAs across the commonwealth offer veterans and their families a free 12-week program designed to nurture health, wellness and connection. The Veterans Pathway Program includes:
Check with your local YMCA to see if it offers the program.
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