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Capitol Report
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#Listrak\DateStampLong#
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The latest news from the State Capitol
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Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account.
You are welcome to contact me through this link.
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My legislation to address the efficiency of guardianship hearings is law! I originally introduced this legislation because, unfortunately, there are times when an individual’s appointed guardian exploits, neglects, abuses or otherwise fails to act in their best interests, and the family of that individual is compelled to petition the courts to modify or terminate the guardianship. Guardianship disputes often prove emotionally and financially draining for families, so having a timely hearing process will ensure fairness to all parties by preventing long delays that may exacerbate conflict, anxiety and financial burden.
It is necessary to ensure timely and just outcomes for vulnerable individuals. Now, courts are required to hold a hearing within 30 days of receipt of a petition to modify or terminate a guardianship.
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District Happenings
Be sure to check out my Facebook page for a recap of district events and celebrations, including:
Stopping by Lake Ariel and Gouldsboro Fire Company fish fries.
Celebrating the grand opening for the Bushkill Senior Center
Mark your calendar – The Bresnavan, a mobile constituent services office for Congressman Rob Bresnahan, will be at my district office on Wednesday, April 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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Watch Out for These Scams
Investment scams on social media and attempts to steal state benefits are both making headlines in the Commonwealth.
EBT Fraud
Last week, the Department of Human Services (DHS) warned of electronic benefits transfer (EBT) fraud phone calls in which a caller is leaving voicemails and claiming to be “Pennsylvania EBT Customer Service” in an effort to steal benefit card numbers. The agency emphasized it will never call or text an individual to request personal information.
Please report any suspicious texts or calls about DHS benefits by calling the DHS fraud tip line at 1-844-DHS-TIPS (1-844-347-8477). Find tips to keep your accounts safe here.
Social Media Investment Scams
This week, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General is warning about the prevalence of fraudulent investment schemes on Meta platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Citizens are urged to scrutinize social media investment advertisements before investing. Most reputable broker-dealers and investment advisors do not post specific investment advice on social media platforms.
To learn more about the scams and tips to protect yourself, click here. Victims of these types of scams should report them to the Bureau of Consumer Protection at 800-441-2555 or scams@attorneygeneral.gov.
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Seeking Solutions to Make Child Care More Affordable
As part of its “Affordability Starts Here” tour, the House Republican Policy Committee met in Hanover, York County, to examine the growing challenges facing Pennsylvania families and child care providers, as well as identify practical solutions to improve affordability, access and workforce stability.
Testifiers, including child care providers, educators, employers and local leaders, outlined a system under significant strain:
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Rising costs for families: Infant care averages around $13,000 annually and can consume up to 50% of household income. |
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Workforce shortages: Approximately 3,000 child care positions remain unfilled statewide. |
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Limited access: Many providers report waitlists of 50-75 children or more. |
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Economic impact: Child care challenges cost Pennsylvania billions annually in lost productivity and workforce participation. |
Providers consistently pointed to burdensome and inconsistent regulations as a major driver of cost and limited access. In response, lawmakers pledged to work toward reforms that would aim to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens while ensuring children remain in safe, high-quality care environments.
To view the hearing, click here.
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Donate Life Month
April is Donate Life Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about the growing need for organ donation across the Commonwealth and the country. According to Donate Life PA, 16 people on average die each day while waiting for a life-saving organ transplant.
Across the country, more than 100,000 people are waiting for a transplant to save their lives, and every eight minutes, another person’s name is added to the national waiting list. In Pennsylvania alone, more than 6,000 people are on the waiting list for a life-saving organ transplant.
About 5 million Pennsylvanians have added the donor designation to their driver’s license, learner’s permit or state identification card, but this represents only half of those eligible to register. If you’d like to register as an organ donor, you may sign up here. You are also encouraged to let your loved ones know of your wishes.
For more information about organ donation, visit donatelifepa.org.
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Eligible PA Veterans: Apply Now for Amputee, Paralyzed Veterans Pension
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is encouraging eligible veterans to apply now for a monthly pension offered through the state’s Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension program. The DMVA is promoting the benefit to increase awareness as the Amputee Coalition observes National Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month in April.
Pennsylvania veterans who qualify for the pension receive $150 per month. Currently, there are 2,500 veterans across the Commonwealth enrolled in the program.
For more information about the program qualifications, click here.
To apply, contact:
Pike County
Jesiah Schrader
837 Route 6, Unit 3
Shohola, PA 18458
(570) 296-3563
jschrader@pikepa.org
Wayne County
Frank Araujo
929-Rear Court Street
Honesdale, PA 18431
(570)253-5970 ext. 3114
faraujo@waynecountypa.gov
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April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month
Each April, traffic safety professionals and law enforcement agencies across the country highlight National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a campaign aimed at reducing distracted driving crashes, injuries and fatalities.
According to PennDOT statistics, distracted driving caused 9,950 crashes statewide in 2024, resulting in 49 fatalities and 336 suspected serious injuries.
Distracted Driving is anything that causes you to take your attention away from driving, take your eyes off the road or take your hands off the wheel. Eating, drinking, adjusting the controls and even hands-free talking while behind the wheel are examples of distracted driving.
Drivers are reminded of Pennsylvania’s Paul Miller Law, which bans the use of hand-held devices while driving, including when you are stuck in traffic or at a red light or stop sign.
Distractions are everywhere. It’s not worth your life, or anyone else’s. Keep your focus on the road. Don’t drive distracted.
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New ‘Preserve Our Heritage’ License Plate Available
Are you a history buff and fan of the state’s agricultural heritage? You may now purchase the newly designed “Preserve Our Heritage” special fund license plate featuring the Pennsylvania Bank Barn on the state’s new standard Liberty Bell plate.
The Pennsylvania Bank Barn is a distinct and highly efficient agricultural structure that became a defining feature of the American rural landscape. Originating in the early 18th century, it is celebrated for its ingenious integration of architecture and topography.
The special fund license plate is available for cars or trucks with a registered gross weight of not more than 14,000 pounds. Each plate costs $64, with $23 going directly to support the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission’s education and exhibit programs. Pennsylvanians who are interested in ordering this new plate can complete the MV-911 form, “Application for Special Fund Registration Plate.”
A complete list of available special fund plates can be found on PennDOT’s website.
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Veterans’ Assistance Hours Available
A representative from the American Legion is available to assist veterans and their dependents on Monday, April 13 in my district office. Services include assistance with compensation, pension and death benefits, education and health care, plus other benefits. Veterans do not need a membership with the American Legion to receive these services.
Appointments are required and available between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Call my office at 570-226-5959 for scheduling.
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Upcoming District Events
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