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In this Update:
Senate Republicans Secure Historic Tax Cuts for Working Families
Working families, job creators and energy consumers in Pennsylvania would see their taxes reduced by approximately $3 billion a year under a bill approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 269 would reduce the Personal Income Tax (PIT) rate from 3.07% to 2.8%, putting more money in the wallets of every Pennsylvanian who earns a paycheck. The bill would also eliminate the Gross Receipts Tax on energy, effective Jan. 1, 2025, providing critical relief from high energy costs. The bipartisan legislation would represent the largest tax cut for working families in Pennsylvania history, saving taxpayers more than $13 billion over the next five years. There are crucial choices to be made about state taxes and spending. Many people who have struggled with job changes and rising costs due to inflation have asked what Pennsylvania can do to help. This proposal will offer a clear counter to the governor’s heavy spending budget plan. It is intended to enable us to reach a more family friendly balance between costs and services. The tax cuts would benefit all Pennsylvania families and inject an additional $3 billion into the state’s economy, rather than growing government and arbitrarily picking winners and losers. The plan is a sharp contrast from Gov. Josh Shapiro’s calls for $3.2 billion in new government spending, as well as legislation introduced by House Democrats to nearly quadruple certain taxes paid by small businesses. The tax cuts are a continuation of Senate Republicans’ longstanding efforts to protect taxpayers against unnecessary tax increases, new spending and unchecked growth in the size of government. More Than Nostalgia: AM Radio Essential for Public Safety, Free Speech
This week the Senate adopted Senate Resolution 223, which urges Congress to keep AM radio viable by passing the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. Many people across Pennsylvania prefer to listen to their news, talk shows and entertainment on AM radio. It is a lifeline during disasters large and small and a key component of the National Public Warning System and the Emergency Alert System. The Founding Fathers knew that ensuring the diversity of expression was indispensable to the development and flourishing of democracy. Ensuring that AM radio is not sacrificed on the altar of car maker profits seems very consistent with the beliefs of those who crafted the First Amendment. Broadcast radio is the ultimate platform for free speech, and it is vital to keep AM radio going strong. Senate Votes to Create Statewide Sexual Assault Evidence Tracking System
To assist survivors of sexual assault, the Senate approved Senate Bill 920, which would establish a sexual assault evidence tracking system. Using the system, individuals could follow the path of a rape kit throughout the collection and testing process. Sexual assault forensic exams are conducted using what are commonly referred to as rape kits, in which DNA evidence is collected from the assault victim’s body, clothes and other personal belongings. The process can increase the likelihood of criminal prosecution. Thirty-two states and the District of Columbia have established rape kit tracking systems. Enactment of the legislation would enable Pennsylvania to receive additional federal funds. Legislation to Curb Distracted Driving Set for Enactment
Legislation passed by the Senate to prohibit the handheld use of cellular and other devices while driving is set for enactment into law. Senate Bill 37 would enhance driver responsibility by prohibiting the use of handheld cellphones or other communication devices while operating a motor vehicle on a Pennsylvania highway or trafficway. While hands-free use of devices when driving would remain legal, handheld use of devices would only be permitted when the vehicle is parked on the side or shoulder of a roadway and the vehicle can safely remain stationary. To inform drivers about the new law, law enforcement must issue warnings for violations during the initial 12 months following the bill’s enactment. Senate Acts to Bolster Telemedicine in PA
The Senate approved legislation aimed at expanding the use of telemedicine in Pennsylvania. Telemedicine is the remote delivery of health care services and medical information using telecommunications technology. It allows medical services to be provided to some of the most vulnerable Pennsylvanians who otherwise would not be able to receive them due to location or other circumstances. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it saw rapid growth in Pennsylvania. Senate Bill 739 requires insurance providers or managed care organizations to reimburse health care providers for services provided to a patient through telemedicine. Services provided through telemedicine must meet the same standard of care as health care services provided in person. Scholarship Bill Wins Bipartisan Support
The Senate Education Committee advanced bipartisan legislation to provide more educational options to children in low-performing public schools through scholarships to attend the school of their choice. Senate Bill 795 would establish the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success (PASS) Program. During Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget address earlier this year, he referenced his continued support for “scholarships that let poor families in struggling school districts put their kids in the best position for them to succeed – whether that’s paying for extra tutoring, books and computers, or yes, going to another school.” The bill, which now heads to the full Senate for consideration, is part of a larger Senate Republican initiative to preserve the role parents have in their children’s lives. Back Mountain Police Association Holds Annual Kid’s Fishing Day
The fish were biting at the Back Mountain Police Association’s 2024 Kid’s Fishing Day at Frances Slocum State Park. Held in memory of long-time supporter Rusty Flack, the event helps build relationships between the community and law enforcement and fire and EMS personnel. In addition to learning about fishing and conservation, activities include safety demonstrations, fire prevention education, and arts and crafts. Preventative Care Protects Moms, All Women
Happy Mother’s Day to the women who play a critical role in their families as they care for their loved ones. Often, they are so focused on supporting everyone else that meeting their own needs takes a back seat. However, when it comes to breast cancer, that’s simply not safe to do. It’s important for all women who are at least 40 years old to carve out time to get a mammogram every two years. Know your risk and family history because Act 1 of 2023 eliminates all costs associated with screening breast MRI, ultrasound, genetic testing and counseling for individuals with high risk. The comprehensive breast cancer screening bill will save lives so we can enjoy more time with the mothers and all other women in our worlds.
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