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In this Update:
Catalytic Converter Bill Passes in the Senate
The state Senate has passed legislation that I cosponsored to address the alarming rise in catalytic converter and scrap metal thefts affecting communities across the Commonwealth – including families and businesses in Northeast Philadelphia. Many thieves have targeted business’s vehicle fleets which has cost many companies and customers time and money. Pennsylvania is still one of the top states in the country for catalytic converter robberies. Senate Bill 914 modernizes Pennsylvania’s crimes code to ensure that criminals are being punished appropriately, and law enforcement has the tools they need to keep their communities safe. Specifically, the measure moves the Scrap Metal Act to Title 18. This Act was designed to help combat people using scrap metal facilities to make money off their stolen property. This stand-alone Act should be placed in Title 18 to better ensure stolen metals are not being sold in our scrap yards. Happy Birthday, Isadore!
It was an honor to help celebrate Isadore, a World War II veteran who recently marked his 103rd birthday! Isadore embodies the strength, courage, and resilience of an entire generation that sacrificed so much for our country. During the celebration, Isadore began reciting the Gettysburg Address from memory – a powerful reminder of his sharp mind, enduring spirit, and deep love for our country. I was privileged to present him with a citation recognizing his service and this incredible milestone. Happy birthday again, Isadore – and thank you for your service! Build my Future: Sheet Metal Union Local 19
It was great to attend the Build my Future event and see the wonderful opportunities available through skilled trades. Students received a first-hand look at rewarding careers in the trades and learned how technical education can open the door to life-long success. These opportunities expose the next generation to great career paths of family sustaining jobs. Holy Family Groundbreaking
I had the privilege of attending the groundbreaking for Holy Family University’s new Welcome Center. It’s always great to see schools in my district continue to grow and invest in their students and community. Projects like this don’t just strengthen Holy Family University; They strengthen Northeast Philadelphia as a whole. This university has long been a cornerstone of the Great Northeast – A place that draws people here, inspires families to put down roots, and helps our local economy thrive. This new welcome center welcomes residents, families, visitors, and shows the best of what our community offers. Thank you to the university and all the community partners who made this project possible. The future of this institution is bright, and I’m honored I was able to join the celebration of this milestone. Senate Votes to Expand College Aid for Foster Children
The Senate approved legislation to expand tuition aid for foster children and adopted youth to cover those from other states, attracting talented students to help fill in-demand jobs and boost the commonwealth’s weak population growth. Senate Bill 432 would expand the Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program, which waives higher education tuition and fees for children in the foster care system and those who were adopted. The program is currently available only to state residents and the legislation would expand it to eligible nonresident students for undergraduate courses at Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education schools. The measure builds on the GROW PA plan I supported last year to improve Pennsylvania’s competitiveness by, among other steps, attracting and retaining students to pursue college degrees. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Give Your Feedback on PennDOT Construction, Maintenance Services
Through Oct. 21, motorists can take an online survey to give their feedback on Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) construction and maintenance services. The 22-question survey asks participants how they receive PennDOT roadway information and how often PennDOT meets or exceeds expectations in construction and maintenance activities. Respondents are also asked about experiences with reporting concerns to the department, and whether or how they use the state’s 511PA traveler information services. PennDOT is directly responsible for nearly 40,000 miles of highway and 25,400 bridges. A summary of recent projects and funds spent can be found in the 2024 Annual Report. Expanding Coverage of Breast Cancer Screenings
Earlier this year, the Senate passed a bill to expand insurance coverage for breast cancer screenings, including MRIs and ultrasounds, with no out-of-pocket costs. It was another major step forward in early detection and access to care. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’m hopeful the House of Representatives will pass this legislation, so more Pennsylvanians have access to these lifesaving screenings. Read more about breast cancer risk and new resources available for early detection here. Upcoming events in the Community
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