|
||
|
In this Update:
Addressing the Public Safety Staffing Crisis: Co-Sponsoring SR 94Across Pennsylvania, communities are facing an urgent public safety challenge: a growing shortage of law enforcement officers, corrections officers, and prosecutors. These aren’t just staffing gaps—they are a direct threat to the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods. Departments are stretched thin, officers are overworked, and prosecutors are struggling to manage increasing caseloads without the necessary resources. In cities like Philadelphia and throughout the Commonwealth, this shortage is making it more difficult to enforce laws fairly, respond to emergencies promptly, and maintain public trust in our justice system. That’s why I’ve joined Senator Langerholc in strongly supporting Senate Resolution 94. This resolution establishes a task force within the Joint State Government Commission to investigate the root causes of the recruitment and retention crisis in our public safety workforce. The task force will be charged with developing practical, actionable policy solutions aimed at reversing this trend and restoring strength and stability to our public safety institutions. I urge all of my colleagues to support this resolution and take a stand for the dedicated men and women who work every day to keep our Commonwealth safe. Welcoming Students from The Bridgeway School
I recently had the honor of welcoming a remarkable group of students from The Bridgeway School in Northeast Philadelphia to the Senate. These young people represent resilience, growth, and the power of supportive education. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to visit Bridgeway with Senator Tartaglione, where I witnessed firsthand the incredible work being done every day to support students on their recovery journeys. What sets Bridgeway apart is its deep commitment to both academic excellence and mental health. Their holistic approach ensures that students receive not only a strong education, but also the emotional and psychological support needed to heal and thrive. This dual focus empowers teens to build brighter, healthier futures for themselves and for our broader community. Schools like Bridgeway are vital to the strength of our neighborhoods. They provide hope, structure, and the tools for lasting success. We are proud to recognize and support the life-changing work of The Bridgeway School, and I invite everyone to join me in celebrating the outstanding students who remind us of what is possible when care and education go hand in hand. Honoring Heroes and Investing in the Future at the Upper Holmesburg Civic Association
I had the pleasure of attending a recent meeting of the Upper Holmesburg Civic Association, and I want to begin by thanking Councilmember Mike Driscoll for his strong support of the Association and His dedication to the community helps make gatherings like this possible and meaningful. The evening was especially moving as local hometown heroes—both veterans and active-duty military personnel—were honored ahead of Memorial Day. Their service and sacrifice are a testament to the strength and character of our Northeast Philadelphia neighborhoods. It was equally inspiring to see several hardworking high school students awarded scholarships in recognition of their academic achievements and contributions to the community. These young people represent the future of our city, and their success is something we can all be proud of. Thanks to the efforts of the Civic Association and leaders like Councilmember Driscoll, the spirit of service and commitment to the common good continues to thrive in Holmesburg. Senate Votes to Help Fire and EMS Departments
The Senate passed legislation to address Pennsylvania’s volunteer firefighter shortage that, if left unaddressed, threatens to cause local tax hikes to fund paid services. The bill would also fix recent issues with emergency services grant funding. Senate Bill 466 would allow job training credits to count toward Firefighter I Certification, giving volunteer recruits a more flexible pathway to credentialing. It would also correct a recent administrative error that led to a number of Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services grants being rescinded. Many departments had already budgeted for those funds, and the bill would ensure they receive the support they were promised. To prevent similar issues, the bill would also establish a one-time, 15-day grace period – available once every three years – for fire and EMS companies to submit required reports without needing to demonstrate undue hardship. It moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. Win Money for Your Child’s Education
In honor of PA 529 Day on May 29, Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity invites families to contribute $10 or more to their child’s PA 529 account in May to be automatically eligible for one of six regional awards of $5,529. PA 529 plans allow families to use their savings to pay for a wide variety of education expenses, including at any qualified educational institution, from K-12 to college and career training programs. If the child doesn’t pursue education, the beneficiary can be updated to certain family members or used to repay the principal and interest on a qualified education loan for a PA 529 beneficiary or sibling. Anyone – parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends – can contribute to a PA 529 plan. Saving with PA 529 does not impact a student’s eligibility for Pennsylvania state financial aid. Learn more. Election Day is Tuesday, May 20
Election Day is Tuesday, May 20, and polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you are in line by 8 p.m., you will be able to vote. If you applied for a mail-in or absentee ballot, your county election office must receive it by Tuesday, May 20, at 8 p.m. Track your ballot to confirm it was received. Any voter who requested to vote using a mail-in or absentee ballot but would prefer to vote in person may do so. Bring the ballot and the envelope to surrender at the polls. If you don’t have those materials, you may vote using a provisional ballot. Call 1-877-VOTESPA (1-877-868-3772) if you experience any issues.
|
||
|
||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2025 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorpicozzi.com | Privacy Policy |
