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In this Update:
Legislative Package to Strengthen Ethics and Transparency in Government
I recently unveiled a package of four legislative reform proposals aimed at enhancing ethical standards, ensuring accountability and rebuilding public trust in government. The package includes measures to ban cash and other gifts to public officials, create an independent legislative conduct review board and allow legislators to reject cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs). For years now, state legislators have heard rising public concerns about conflicts of interest on the part of elected and appointed officials. This has led to demands for greater transparency, stronger standards and increased accountability. I have previously introduced gift ban legislation and am hopeful these bills will be given priority for action early in the new legislative session so we can build momentum for additional reforms. The legislative package builds on bipartisan efforts from previous sessions, with several measures already earning support from senators across party lines: Cash Gift Ban This amendment would prohibit public officials and employees from accepting cash gifts – such as currency, checks, gift cards, prepaid debit cards or virtual currency – from lobbyists, principals, consultants or others attempting to influence legislative or administrative decisions. However, it allows gifts from close relatives if they are motivated by personal or family relationships. The amendment expands on the Senate Ethical Conduct Rules to create a more comprehensive state law. Comprehensive Gift Ban This measure prohibits public officials and employees from soliciting or accepting most gifts, with a few exceptions. Banned gifts include meals, travel and entertainment, although reasonable exclusions are allowed for items of nominal value, awards, charity events and legally reported campaign contributions. It specifically targets gifts from lobbyists, principals, contractors and others seeking to influence government decisions. Legislative Conduct Review Board This proposal creates an independent board to investigate and evaluate allegations of unethical conduct, harassment or public corruption involving legislators. The board will include legislators, experts and laypersons to provide diverse perspectives and ensure impartial decisions. It also permits the temporary suspension of voting and committee participation for legislators under credible investigation. Legislative COLA Refusal This measure allows members of the General Assembly to decline annual cost-of-living adjustments by submitting a written refusal. It provides legislators with an opportunity to demonstrate fiscal responsibility and set a positive example for prudent spending. These proposals reflect the values and priorities of Pennsylvanians who demand accountability and fairness in government. I urge my colleagues to join me in advancing these initiatives to show that we are serious about earning and maintaining the public’s trust. Fostering Greater Educational Opportunities for Students
Throughout the 2023-24 legislative session, Senate Republicans advanced numerous initiatives to expand educational opportunities and dedicate record-breaking levels of funding for our students. A newly implemented law now gives schools the option to use funding for resources to limit student smartphone use during school hours to improve students’ mental health and academic performance. Another measure is now working to improve early literacy rates – critical to lifelong success – by bolstering reading instruction, identifying struggling readers and properly training educators. We know skilled and dedicated teachers are vital to providing students with a strong educational foundation. To attract and keep passionate educators in our commonwealth, Grow PA Scholarships are available to in-state students who attend college in Pennsylvania, pursue a degree in a high-demand industry, and agree to live and work here after graduation. Another new law created is the PA Student Teacher Support Program, to provide student teachers with a stipend to alleviate the financial strain caused by student teaching requirements, thereby increasing the likelihood for degree completion. The new program will assist with the goal of reducing teacher shortages in Pennsylvania. Empowering parents when it comes to the education of their children has been and will remain a focus of our caucus. Read more about our efforts to strengthen educational opportunities here. 2025 Fishing Licenses, Permits and Gift Vouchers on Sale
Fishing licenses, permits and vouchers for 2025 purchased now from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission are valid immediately through Dec. 31, 2025. They can be purchased online, through the FishBoatPA mobile app or by visiting one of nearly 700 retail license issuing agents. Customers can choose from annual or multi-year licenses and permits with three-, five- and 10-year options. All documents can be printed immediately after purchase or saved digitally to a smart device which serves as proof of possession. People may also purchase vouchers to be given as gifts and redeemed by recipients. Pennsylvania’s Capitol Christmas Tree Lights the Way for the Holidays
The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony was held this week in the Capitol rotunda – a cherished tradition that brings us together during the holiday season. This year’s tree, a stunning 24-foot Douglas fir from Crystal Springs Tree Farm in Carbon County, is the largest in more than a decade. It was decorated by our dedicated Department of General Services team with 1,250 lights and more than 700 ornaments crafted by pre-kindergarten students and senior citizens throughout Pennsylvania. May this tree remind us of the power of community and the spirit of giving as we enter this season of hope and celebration. Wishing you all a joyous Christmas holiday and a bright New Year! Tips to Stay Safe Throughout the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a special time when many of us spend time with loved ones enjoying long-loved traditions. Because these special activities can come with extra risks, taking some precautions is wise. Candles, which cause the most fires on Christmas day, should be kept at least 12 inches from anything that can burn. Trees should be at least three feet from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles and heat vents. It’s best to dispose of the tree when it’s dry or after the holiday season. Discarding string lights that are worn or damaged also protects against fires. Read more about winter fire prevention. Help Wanted: Qualified Professionals Needed to Improve DEP Permit Process
To help Pennsylvanians who are tied up by bureaucratic red tape, Senate Republicans passed legislation as part of this year’s state budget that created the Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED) Program. The program allows permit applicants to have a Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)-verified professional conduct the initial review of the application, with DEP making its decision based on the qualified professional’s recommendation. Applicants for eligible permits must pay any review fees incurred by the professional in addition to their permit application fees. Qualified professionals who would like to review permits on an expedited basis are encouraged to apply for the specific permits that interest them by Dec. 31. Permits eligible for the SPEED program include air quality plan approvals (state-only) (Chapter 127), earth disturbance permits (Chapter 102), individual water obstruction and encroachment permits (Chapter 105) and dam safety permits (Chapter 105). Please email brfranklin@pa.gov or call 717-787-2471 with any questions. Wreaths Across America to Honor Veterans on Dec. 14
Each December, Wreaths Across America helps communities remember the fallen, honor those who served in the military and teach the next generation about the value of freedom by laying wreaths on the graves of heroes. These acts of remembrance take place at Arlington National Cemetery, and more than 4,600 locations in all 50 states, at sea and abroad. Ceremonies take place on Saturday, Dec. 14. You can help by sponsoring a veteran’s wreath at a cemetery near you, volunteering or donating to programs. Search for the nearest participating cemetery here.
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