|
||||
|
In this Update:
Budget Hearings Reinforce Need for Greater Financial Accountability
After three weeks of detailed public hearings examining Gov. Josh Shapiro’s $51.5 billion budget plan – which would increase state spending by an eye-popping 7.5% compared to the current fiscal year – it is clear that his priorities are very different than those of Senate Republicans. Shapiro’s unsustainable spending plan would quickly drain every dollar in the state’s bank accounts – including our entire $7.3 billion in emergency savings in the Rainy Day Fund – within two years. This is especially troubling at a time when respected, nonpartisan sources like the Independent Fiscal Office are warning that Pennsylvania faces serious financial challenges. Notably, not even Shapiro’s own team claims that the astronomical cost of his proposed budget can be paid for without higher taxes. Senate Republicans will fight for taxpayers throughout this year’s state budget negotiations. We will continue to work toward a responsible state budget that promotes economic growth, job creation and fiscal stability for the commonwealth. Encouraging Future Leaders at PennWest Clarion University
On March 6th, I had the pleasure of hosting my Senator for a Day event at PennWest Clarion University. This annual event provides an exciting opportunity for local high school students to engage with legislators, government professionals, and public officials to gain a deeper understanding of how state government operates. Throughout the day, over 150 students from 9 local school districts came together to debate important, current policy issues, participate in mock committee meetings, and cast votes on proposals put forward by their peers. It was incredibly inspiring to witness their creative and thoughtful positions, as well as the passion they brought to the debates. I’m confident that we are nurturing a strong group of future leaders! Grow PA Scholarship Grant Applications Available Now
The Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program – created by Senate Republicans as part of this year’s state budget – offers grants of up to $5,000 per year for in-state students who pursue a degree or certification for an in-demand occupation. The application period for grants is open now, with funding awarded on a first come, first served basis. To qualify for the grant, applicants must agree to live and work in Pennsylvania in that occupation after graduation. Grant recipients will be required to live and work in Pennsylvania for 12 months for each year they receive the grant. Failure to meet this requirement will result in the grant converting to a loan requiring repayment. Courses of study that qualify for the grant include agriculture, computer science, business, education, special education, STEM education, engineering, nursing, allied health, criminal justice and other programs as approved by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). Learn more or apply here. Read Across America
I had the absolute pleasure of participating in the Read Across America initiative last week by reading Hop on Pop to a wonderful group of 3rd graders at Hasson Elementary! As part of Dr. Seuss Week and Read Across America, we celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday and promoted a love for reading and literacy in children across the country. This year, we were joined by officers from the Pennsylvania State Police, making the celebration even more Seusstastic and Seusserific! In addition, later that day I read to 5th graders at Central Elementary School in Franklin. It was a fun and inspiring day for everyone involved! License Plates Support Women Veterans
You can support women veterans in Pennsylvania by purchasing a license plate recognizing the importance of the brave women who have served in our military. When you purchase the Honoring Our Women Veterans Registration Plate or the Honoring Our Women Veterans Motorcycle Registration Plate, a portion of the fee will be used to support programs assisting the approximately 63,000 female veterans in Pennsylvania. The motorcycle version of this registration plate is new, having been introduced in December. You do not need to be a veteran to purchase either of these plates. If you are a veteran, you may want to consider purchasing either the Women Veteran Registration Plate or the Women Veteran Motorcycle Registration Plate. Applicants for these plates must submit a legible photocopy of their Form DD-214 or the front and back of their DD2(RET). Learn more about these license plates and several other new plates available for veterans. Antique American Bantam Cars on Display
Experience Butler County and the Butler County Tourism Foundation, in partnership with the Butler Chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), are hosting open houses showcasing five antique American Bantam cars. The first open house is this Sunday, March 16th, from 1-4 p.m. at the Butler Built garage (110 Barracks Rd, Butler, PA 16001), and continuing every third Sunday (with April’s event on the fourth Sunday). The collection includes a roadster, panel truck, pickup truck, Bantam Reconnaissance Car, and the unique “popcorn truck,” all from 1930-1943. These vehicles highlight the innovation and craftsmanship of the early automotive industry. “It’s a great opportunity to educate the public and recognize the hard work of this group and our county’s history,” said Amy Pack, President of Experience Butler County. Butler’s Bantam legacy includes the creation of the original Jeep in 1940, celebrated annually at the Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival. For more information, visit the Experience Butler County website. (Photos credit to Experience Butler County). Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
A celebration of country and heritage, St. Patrick’s Day became an official religious holiday in the early 17th century. It commemorates the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. “May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow, and may trouble avoid you wherever you go.” – Irish blessing
For anyone who hasn’t already signed up to receive my e-newsletters, you can get on the mailing list here. |
||||
|
||||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2025 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://www.senatorscotthutchinson.com | Privacy Policy |
