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Senate Session Reconvenes This Week; Budget Hearings Review Wolf’s Spending and Tax Plans

The Senate Appropriations Committee began the formal process of reviewing Governor Wolf’s budget proposal last week, including exploring how the governor’s massive new spending plans and record-breaking tax increases would impact Pennsylvania communities, families and small employers.

Some of the key points discussed during the hearings included:

• The 470,000 jobs lost during the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of higher taxes on economic growth, and the $500 million difference in revenue estimates between the Administration and the Independent Fiscal Office. Key Points, March 8
• The 500,000 acres of state land that could be used for natural gas development without surface disturbance, and the potential benefits of allowing broadband infrastructure on state game lands. Key Points, March 9
• The massive increase in spending for human services programs, the need for greater efficiency with the Community HealthChoices Program, and the shared goal of moving able-bodied Medicaid recipients back into the workforce. Key Points, March 10
• The need for upgrades to the Statewide Uniform Registry of Electors (SURE) system, the use of risk-limiting audits, reimbursements for counties for voting machines, permitting delays, the lack of communication and engagement in the Administration’s decision to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), and the number of plant shutdowns and job losses that will result from the state’s participation in RGGI. Key Points, March 11

Budget Hearing Q&A (1): DEP

Budget Hearing Q&A (2): DEP

Special Committee Set to Begin Bipartisan Election Review

A newly created Senate panel will begin a comprehensive review of the 2020 General Election with its first hearing on Monday, March 15, beginning at 10AM. The hearing is scheduled to review best practices of election integrity and security from other states.

The Special Committee on Election Integrity and Reform is anticipated to produce a report that will be presented to the General Assembly with recommendations to improve the administration and safety of elections in Pennsylvania.

State residents are encouraged to submit comments through the online form.

In Case You Missed It….

Jersey Shore Borough residents may receive no-cost home repairs; Residents should apply now for wait list…Homeowners in the borough limits of Jersey Shore Borough may be eligible to receive up to $65,000 in home improvements from the HOME Existing Owner-Occupied Housing Program.  SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) is encouraging borough residents to apply now to get on the wait list. SEDA-COG manages the program on behalf of the borough.  Interested residents may call SEDA-COG’s Stacy Anderson at 800-326-9310, ext. 7215.  To review qualifications, visit www.seda-cog.org. 

Municipal officials, conservation districts, private landowners, authority board members and staff, regulators, engineers, and others interested in learning about how PENNVEST funding can help improve water quality in your community may do so during a series of lunchtime sessions on various topics.  Click here to learn more and register. 

Bill Would Ensure Pennsylvania Homes, Businesses Have Access to Diverse Energy Options

While some states are advancing bills to prohibit certain types of energy sources, I formally introduced legislation in the Pennsylvania Senate last week that would ensure state residents have options when it comes to fuel availability.

Senate Bill 275, known as “Energy Choice” legislation, would limit municipal entities from banning a specific type of fuel source for appliances and heating homes or businesses.  The language is fuel-neutral and is not specific to one energy source.

It’s about consumer choice and keeping energy costs low.  Pennsylvania is unique in that we have a myriad of energy options available to us.  For example, I have constituents that still utilize wood as a fuel source to heat their homes.  Should we prevent them from doing so?  The answer is no.  My bill will still allow those who want clean or renewable energy to choose it.

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Letter to Governor Wolf: Support Minor League Baseball 

I joined a bipartisan group of Senators and Representatives recently in sending a letter to Governor Wolf asking him to consider increasing the capacity limits for the eleven Minor League Baseball teams that operate in Pennsylvania.  These programs, including the Williamsport Crosscutters, are a source of pride in our communities and a source of affordable, family-friendly entertainment.  Many of these programs are currently in difficult financial straits due to the pandemic and long-term shutdown of our economy.

Emergency Rental Assistance Applications Available Now

Renters struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic can apply now for financial assistance through a program authorized by the General Assembly last month. Applications and more information on the program are available from the Department of Human Services.

Funding for the program was released to counties by Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity on Tuesday.

Discounted Fishing Licenses Available for Non-Resident Students

Non-resident students attending in-state universities now qualify for a discounted fishing license from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. The price of a license is $22.97, which is the same price as an annual license for state residents and $30 less than the cost of an annual non-resident license.

Licenses are available through the HuntFishPA online licensing system. The opening day of trout season is April 3.

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