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In this Update:
Senate Continues to Dissect Shapiro’s Budget to Protect PA Consumers, Empower Parents
The Senate Appropriations Committee continued public hearings this week on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed $51.5 billion spending plan for Fiscal Year 2025-26. His plan would increase state spending by more than 7.5% above the current year’s budget. Shapiro’s spending plan would create a funding shortfall of more than $27 billion in the next five years, so Senate Republicans are carefully reviewing proposed expenses to avoid big financial issues. Among the highlights of recent budget hearings: During the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) budget hearing, discussion centered on inefficient government and delays people experience when trying to get permits. The governor’s continued pursuit of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) electricity tax on Pennsylvania consumers and the hidden cost of Shapiro’s new “Lightning” energy plan were also discussed, including the fact that both plans would raise energy prices for consumers, limit job growth, and make our electric grid less reliable. The Department of Aging hearing highlighted concerns about the accountability, oversight and costs of court-appointed guardians. The viability of the Lottery Fund, which pays for new initiatives benefiting older Pennsylvanians, and helping seniors avoid financial scams were also part of the conversation. At the Department of Education budget hearing, committee members shared problems regarding education funding and declining student proficiency in basics like reading and math. While Shapiro calls for an increase of $860 million, Senate Republicans are focused on the need for greater accountability in education. The importance of career and technical centers, apprenticeships and other job-training programs was also discussed. Members of the committee also highlighted the importance of school choice programs, including Lifeline Scholarships to support choice options in low-performing schools. The Department of Agriculture hearing focused on the severe threats posed by Avian Influenza and the Shapiro Administration’s $25 million cut to programs combatting the disease. The crisis has already led to record-high egg and poultry prices across the state. During the Department of Community and Economic Development hearing, concerns were raised about Governor Shapiro’s elimination of funding for highly successful workforce development programs like Tec Centro. Find the hearings schedule, livestreams of budget hearings, daily recaps and video from prior hearings at PASenateGOP.com. Reporting State Fraud and Waste
Commonwealth employees and private citizens can take action to stop fraud and misconduct in Pennsylvania state government. Complaints can be made online with the Office of the State Inspector General (OSIG) against a commonwealth employee, agency or contractor regarding an issue related to an executive agency of the commonwealth. The OSIG works to maintain public confidence in government by combating fraud, waste, misconduct and abuse in commonwealth programs, operations and contracts. Connect with Employers at the Commonwealth Job Fair on March 5
The Commonwealth Job Fair offers the opportunity to connect with more than 30 Pennsylvania state agencies and to learn more about public service. There are openings in transportation, finance, health care, wildlife management, public safety and more. You can also learn about career growth and other benefits. It will be held Wednesday, March 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, 2300 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg. See open positions, learn more and register here. Free “$cam Jam” fraud prevention event scheduled for March 19
On March 19, I plan to host a free event in Lancaster to help community residents learn about common scams, identity theft schemes and other forms of fraud. The “$cam Jam” fraud prevention event will be hosted jointly with the Spanish American Civic Association and will feature information from the Pennsylvania Department of Banking, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and other key stakeholders. Attendees will also engage in interactive activities such as “Fraud BINGO,” making the learning experience both informative and enjoyable. If you would like to register to attend, visit https://senatorscottmartinpa.com/scam-jam-reg/. Preventing Heart Attacks and Strokes
February is American Heart Month, which is a wonderful time for people of all ages to take steps to protect their hearts. Typically, we think of heart disease and stroke when we think of the challenges that can result from poor heart health. Maintaining healthy blood pressure and eating well can help to prevent a cardiac event. But heart health isn’t just for adults. More than 23,000 children experience cardiac arrest outside of the hospital each year. By learning CPR, you will be ready to respond in an emergency.
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