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In this Update:
Governor Shapiro’s Carbon Tax Plan Raises Concerns
Governor Shapiro announced a new energy plan this week that bears many similarities to his Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which was ruled unconstitutional by the Commonwealth Court in December. The plan would enact new taxes on energy while mandating higher percentages of electricity be purchased from alternative sources. This would create greater risks to service reliability at a time when the nation’s largest grid operator is warning that we will be unable to meet the eastern U.S.’s energy demands within the next six years. Shapiro’s plan does not ensure grid reliability, protect struggling power plants from closing, or prevent consumers and job-creators from bearing the brunt of these new taxes. We must continue to work toward energy policy that makes sure our grid is resilient and Pennsylvania’s energy needs are met in the most affordable way possible. That means moving on from RGGI and similar ideas that will hurt Pennsylvanians for years to come. My statement on this plan is available here. Senate Finishes Review of Shapiro’s Budget Proposal
Last week, the Senate Appropriations Committee finished its three weeks of hearings on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal, which totals more than $48.3 billion and would increase state spending by 7.1% above the current year’s budget. The governor’s proposal would completely drain the state’s savings within two years and relies on income and spending estimates that are unrealistic. Having completed our initial review of Shapiro’s budget proposal, the Senate will use its findings from the hearings to craft its own spending plan, with the goal of enacting a final 2024-25 state budget. Find video and recaps of every budget hearing at PASenateGOP.com. My interactions with the heads of the various departments and agencies are available on my website at https://senatorscottmartinpa.com/audiovideo/. Lancaster City Council Immigration Decision Criticized
A recent ordinance passed by Lancaster City Council largely prohibits law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration officials to deport dangerous criminals. This decision creates greater threats in Lancaster County and beyond. I recently joined Senator Ryan Aument and Senator Chris Gebhard in authoring an op-ed detailing the consequences of this short-sighted decision. We make the case that Lancaster can still be a welcoming city for immigrants without creating new risks by ignoring one of the main lines of defense against illegal immigration. Last month, the Senate passed a resolution expressing support for Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s actions to secure the southern border, while also calling for President Biden and federal lawmakers to reverse some of the decisions that have created this crisis in the first place. PennDOT Shares Roadwork Info with Motorists
As the weather improves, there will be more roadwork. To inform motorists about construction projects that are underway, beginning this year or being bid, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation offers an informational portal. It has a mapping application for highway and bridge projects that allows users to obtain information about roadwork projects. For travel information, visit www.511pa.com or call 5-1-1. 511PA is Pennsylvania’s official travel information service, which provides travelers with reliable, current traffic and weather information, as well as links to other transportation services. Protect Your Family from Dangerous Radon
Radon is an odorless, invisible, radioactive gas that can enter your home from the ground through cracks in the foundation. It increases cancer risks and is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Pennsylvania has one of the most serious radon problems in the country. Approximately 40% of Pennsylvania homes have radon levels above the Environmental Protection Agency’s action guideline. Find information how to test your home’s radon level and find certified radon mitigation contractors here. Help is Available for Problem Gambling
Problem Gambling Awareness Month, observed in March, promotes prevention, treatment and recovery services. Sadly, hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians experience gambling-related problems, including family, financial, legal and emotional issues. Gambling problems can be mild or very serious, and can worsen with time. Individuals seeking treatment for compulsive or problem gambling can call Pennsylvania’s helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) to connect with local help. People can also text 1-800-522-4700 or live chat. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Saint Patrick, who lived in the fifth century, is the patron saint of Ireland and was credited with bringing Christianity to the country. Even though the Irish have observed St. Patrick’s Day as a religious holiday for more than 1,000 years, the first St. Patrick’s Day parade actually took place in America. Records show the first parade was held on March 17, 1601, in a Spanish colony in what is now St. Augustine, Fla. “May your troubles be less and your blessings be more, and nothing but happiness come through your door.” – Irish blessing
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