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In this Update:
Constituent’s Photograph recognized as People’s Best Choice Award
I would like to extend my congratulations to Sarah McAfee, of Butler, for winning the 2021 PA Parks and Forests Foundation Photo Contest People’s Choice Award. Contestants submitted their photos, taken in one of Pennsylvania’s 141 state parks and forests, under categories including Natural Value, Scenic Value, Historic Value and Esthetic Value. Sarah McAfee won Best in Show for her photo, submitted for the Natural Value category, taken at McConnell’s Mill State Park. Sarah McAfee should be commended for bringing attention to Pennsylvania’s natural wonder, and specifically to McConnell’s Mill State Park, one of her favorites places to hike. On behalf of a grateful commonwealth, I offer my congratulations on winning this statewide photo contest. Senate Majority Policy Committee holds Hearing on the Do No Harm Act
Recently, my colleague Senator J. Ward invited the Senate Majority Policy Committee to conduct a hearing on the Do No Harm Act that would prohibit minors from receiving irreversible gender transitioning procedures and prevent taxpayers’ dollars from funding these services. We learned how damaging these practices are to children after hearing from professionals, parents, advocates, and people personally affected by these procedures. If you would like to watch the hearing, you can it at this link: https://policy.pasenategop.com/policy-041525/ Students: Apply Now for Grow PA Scholarships and Improve Access for Everyone
People across the state have felt the pain of industries with declining workforces, from the long waits to see a doctor or a skilled mechanic. Senate Republicans took action to address those issues – and to reduce the loss of talent as young adults begin their careers in other states, rarely to return to Pennsylvania. As part of this year’s state budget, the Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program offers grants of up to $5,000 per year for in-state students who pursue a degree or certification for an in-demand occupation. Qualifying courses of study include agriculture, computer science, business, education, special education, STEM education, engineering, nursing, allied health, criminal justice and other programs approved by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency. Because the funding is being awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s important to apply as soon as possible. To qualify for the grant, applicants must agree to live and work in Pennsylvania in that occupation after graduation 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. Learn more or apply here. Survey: How Did PennDOT Do This Winter?
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is offering a short survey so motorists can offer their feedback on the winter services PennDOT provided. Filling out the survey allows you to share your thoughts about where you get information about road conditions, how soon you can expect roads to be safe to travel following a winter storm event and what features you would find useful from 511PA.com. There is also an opportunity to share additional comments. The survey can be completed anonymously. PA Women Veterans: Register Now for Capitol Ceremony Honoring Your Service
Pennsylvania women who served in the armed forces have until May 9 to register for a state Capitol ceremony honoring their service on Tuesday, June 10. A virtual display will also be available online and will go live on June 9. The event will recognize the courage and dedication of Pennsylvania’s women veterans from World War II to the present. Women veterans from all branches of the military are encouraged to attend and take part. The first Women Veterans Day Capitol exhibit took place in 2023, after passage of legislation observing Women Veterans Day in Pennsylvania annually on June 12. New participants are encouraged to share their service stories by completing the required submission form. Veterans featured in last year’s display who wish to participate again may simply update their previous submission. How to Locate Lost Military Documents
A veteran’s DD214 is a vital document when it comes to receiving the benefits they deserve. It provides the member and the branch of service with a concise record of a period of time with the armed forces at the time of the member’s separation, discharge or change in military status. Veterans discharged from 2010 and after can access their own digital records by setting up an account through the VA e-Benefits portal. Veterans who were discharged before then may complete the Standard Form 180, which includes mailing instructions on the last page. They may also visit the National Archives and Records Administration site to submit a signed form electronically. Anyone who needs assistance is encouraged to call 1-800-547-2838, email RA-REQ@pg.gov or learn more online. April 26 is Celebrate Trails Day
Including trails in state parks, trails in state forests and rail trails – former railway lines that were converted to paths for foot and bicycle traffic – Pennsylvania has thousands of miles of trails to enjoy. Trail lengths and difficulties vary. Some trails are scenic or leisurely, while others are self-guiding educational. Still others offer rigorous exercise. No matter the trail you choose, enjoy it safely by planning the route for your trip as cell phones and GPS units may not work in some areas. Bring a friend, monitor the weather and stay on the trail. It’s also important to share your route and the time you expect to return with someone who will not be on the trail with you.
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