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In this Update:
Joint Transportation Committee tour of SEPTA and the Port of Philadelphia
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to my colleagues in both the House and the Senate for inviting me to join the recent Joint Transportation Committee tour of SEPTA and the Port of Philadelphia last week. It was an honor to witness firsthand the incredible work being done to keep our region connected and competitive. I am especially grateful to the leadership and staff at SEPTA and the Port of Philadelphia for welcoming us so warmly and providing such a detailed and informative look at your operations. From managing daily transit for millions to overseeing vital shipping and logistics, your work is at the heart of our region’s economic vitality. The pride and professionalism of your teams were evident throughout the visit. This experience will stay with me as we continue our work in Harrisburg. The insights gained during the tour will help shape more informed conversations around infrastructure, transportation, and economic development. Visit to The Wistar Institute
I had the privilege of touring The Wistar Institute, where I witnessed firsthand the groundbreaking research taking place and had the opportunity to engage with future lab technicians. Seeing the innovation and dedication within the labs highlighted the vital role this institution plays in advancing biomedical science. Supporting technological innovation, advanced training, and strong partnerships between industry and academia are essential drivers of job growth and economic prosperity in our region. This experience reinforced how closely scientific innovation is connected to workforce development and the overall strength of our local economy. Conversation with Rep. Hohenstein and Mural Arts Philadelphia
I had the honor of welcoming Rep. Joe Hohenstein and Jane Golden, Executive Director of Mural Arts Philadelphia, to our Parkwood office recently. Our conversation focused on the powerful role public art plays in communities—not merely as decoration, but as a meaningful expression of care and respect for a neighborhood. Public murals do more than beautify walls; they send a message that the community is valued and important. When these spaces are maintained and protected, it reflects a collective commitment to the area’s well-being. This perspective reinforces how public art can strengthen neighborhood identity and foster pride among residents. Honoring Memorial Day
This Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice is the foundation of our freedoms, and we are forever in their debt. The Delaware Valley Veterans Home on Southampton Road reminds us of those who understand the true cost of liberty. Their legacy lives on in the values we defend and the nation we strive to build in their honor. Senate Votes to Improve Communication About School Safety Issues
To empower parents and increase transparency, the Senate passed legislation to improve reporting requirements about potentially dangerous situations at schools. Senate Bill 246 would require parental and employee notification when there is a weapon on any school property that violates its weapons policy, as well as when there are cases of harassment and bullying. It would apply to public, non-public and private schools. Current law does not require school districts to inform parents about incidents when a weapon is brought onto school grounds or to related activities. The bill is part of a larger Senate Republican initiative to empower families and foster safe communities. It moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. Grants Available for Firefighting Equipment and Training
The Office of the State Fire Commissioner has two grant programs that are accepting applications through May 29. Both programs distribute grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000. Applications should be submitted online. The Emergency Training Center Capital Grant Program awards funds that can be used to establish or modernize facilities, acquire or renovate structures and repair or purchase equipment. Emergency service training centers, community colleges, county-owned facilities, municipal or fire department-owned facilities and nonprofit, countywide associations are eligible. The Municipal Fire Department Capital Grant Program awards money to municipal fire departments to improve structures and firefighting equipment in the commonwealth. PA Offers Free Motorcycle Training
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a great time to sign up for a motorcycle safety course whether you’re a novice or experienced rider. Classes are free for Pennsylvanians who have a motorcycle learner’s permit or motorcycle license. Successful completion of a basic or intermediate course offered by the state waives the requirement to take a skills test at a PennDOT driver license center and automatically earns the permit holder their motorcycle license. Class schedules are coordinated by third-party training providers at locations across the commonwealth and posted online at least four weeks before the class begins. Learn more about Pennsylvania’s Motorcycle Safety Program. Rite Aid Customers Can Redeem Gift Cards Until June 6
As a result of a bankruptcy announcement, Rite Aid will accept gift cards, coupons and other Rite Aid rewards through June 6. Returns and exchanges will not be accepted after June 4. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday encourages any consumers who experience issues redeeming their Rite Aid points, coupons or unused gift cards or with returning merchandise to Rite Aid to submit an online complaint to the Bureau of Consumer Protection. They may also contact the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-441-2555. Read more.
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