Senator Yaw E-Newsletter

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Hello! Thank you for subscribing to my E-newsletter. This week’s edition will keep you informed about veteran-related news, programs and events happening throughout Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Tioga and Union counties, as well as key legislative efforts in Harrisburg that affect veterans and their families. If you know a veteran, please forward this issue onto them.

I hope you will find this e-newsletter helpful. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me.

Gene Yaw
State Senator
www.SenatorGeneYaw.com

Senate Bill 626 Protects Veterans’ Organizations that Rely on Skill Games

The supplemental income from skill games that so many small businesses and veterans’ organizations rely on is at risk. Proposals are being introduced with tax rates so high, they could drive skill games out of business entirely.

That’s why I introduced 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝟔𝟐𝟔, which protects these organizations from devastating taxes they can’t afford.

I’ve spoken to operators, business owners, veterans and first responders at events across the state to showcase the importance of skill games. They told me they depend on the games to help pay their staff, pay their bills, maintain their establishments and pay for donations to help their communities.

I asked them to tell their senators and representatives how skill games have helped their organizations and ask them to support Senate Bill 626. Learn more HERE.

Honoring Mike McMunn’s Service to Lycoming County

On July 31st, Matt Wise of my Williamsport office joined the Lycoming County Commissioners and local elected officials to recognize VA Director Mike McMunn upon his retirement. 

Mike served as an army captain in Vietnam and was instrumental in securing Lycoming County as a designated Purple Heart county, as well as the City of Williamsport as a Purple Heart city. He also helped to establish the county’s Veterans Court.

Mike’s leadership and dedicated service to our community’s veterans have left a lasting impact in Lycoming County. Congratulations!

Streamlining Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans

Thanks to the passage of Senate Bill 232, disabled veterans with a 100% disability will no longer have to apply for a free Pennsylvania fishing license on an annual basis. Starting Aug. 29, all disabled veterans with a 100% disability determination from the VA, whether it is a permanent determination or not, will be able to purchase free lifetime fishing licenses. 

Easing Repayment of PA Military Family Education Program Awards for Eligible Service Members

Currently, Pennsylvania National Guard (PANG) service members participating in the PA Military Family Education Program who separate from the PANG must repay the total award plus interest. Through a change made by Act 32 of 2025, service members will only be responsible for repaying a portion of the program’s benefit if they separate from the PANG on or after Sept. 5, 2025 due to death, medical reasons, discharge at the convenience of the Guard or other compelling circumstances which warrant forgiveness.

PA’s Newest Brigadier Generals

In June, the state Senate confirmed the promotions of the following four Pennsylvania National Guard Officers from colonel to brigadier general: 

  • Brett J. Gagnon – PA Army National Guard
  • Robert S. Noren – PA Air National Guard
  • Brad W. Pierson – PA Army National Guard
  • John M. Wenzel – PA Army National Guard

These individuals will continue to serve our Commonwealth and lead our National Guard with honor and distinction.

Reduced Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Premiums

Veterans insured coverage under the Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) program have started seeing lower monthly premiums for all ages. Discounts range from 2% to 17%, with an average reduction of 11%. Insured veterans are being notified of their monthly premium reduction through direct mail, email, online accounts and premium bills. No action is required.

Veteran Burial Benefits

The National Cemetery Administration has launched Plan Today, Honor Forever, a nationwide campaign to help veterans understand their options and apply for VA pre-need burial eligibility. Eligible veterans have burial and memorial benefits for themselves, their spouses and qualifying family members whether being buried in a VA national cemetery or within a private cemetery.

Taking Veterans Out to the Ballgame

Baseball fans who have served in the U.S. Military can save some money when going to Major League Baseball (MLB) games at the ballpark. MLB teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Pirates, offer discounted tickets through GovX for home games throughout their seasons to veterans and their families.

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