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In this Update:
High School Students Encouraged to Compete in America 250 Essay Contest
In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary celebration, I am inviting local high school students to participate in a special essay contest. The contest is open to all students who live in the 13th Senatorial District in grades 9 through 12 attending public, private, charter, cyber or home school. Participants are asked to write a 250-500 word essay on why the Declaration of Independence is considered to be one of the most important documents in world history. Essays can be submitted online at https://senatorscottmartinpa.com/essay-contest/. Submissions are due by April 1 and the winner will be notified on April 3. The winner will be invited to represent the region at the Pennsylvania Senate’s Ceremonial Celebration in Philadelphia on May 5. You’re Invited: Social Media Safety and Parental Awareness Event April 9
To help parents and students learn more about potential dangers to young people online, I plan to host a special Social Media Safety and Parental Awareness informational session in partnership with Lampeter-Strasburg High School on Thursday, April 9 from 6-8 p.m. The event will include experts on cyberbullying, sextortion, deepfakes, scams, and other threats to young people through social media, gaming platforms and other online communications. The informational session – which is free and open to all members of the public – will also include exhibitors who will be available to answer questions and hand out information to help keep young people safe online. Registration is encouraged but not required. You can register and learn more on my website at www.senatorscottmartinpa.com. Senate Acts to Protect Workers’ Compensation for First Responders
The Senate approved legislation to ensure volunteer fire and EMS personnel are covered by workers’ compensation if injured participating in the fundraising activities essential for covering the costs of providing public safety. A 1980 court decision held that firefighters injured at their annual fundraising picnic were eligible for workers’ compensation because members were covered for all activities authorized by a municipality. However, current law does not provide the same coverage for the full scope of fundraising activities. Senate Bill 1053 would fill the gap, expressly providing workers’ compensation for volunteers’ participation in fundraising activities. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Legislation Giving Farmers More Vehicle Flexibility Approved by Senate
Cutting outdated regulations for farmers, the Senate approved a measure giving them greater flexibility to safely drive more farm vehicles on roadways at night, reflecting the real-world demands of modern farming. Current state law prohibits certain farm vehicles from driving on Pennsylvania roadways between sunset and sunrise. Senate Bill 203 would allow farmers to operate their vehicles, ranging from small cars to larger trucks, when their work demands it. The vehicles already maintain equipment required by the state to safely operate at night. Senate Bill 203 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Interested in Law Enforcement? Check Out This State Police Program
If you are thinking about a future in law enforcement, consider participating in the Pennsylvania State Police Law and Leadership Academy, which offers a 15-week program to experience the process of becoming a cadet. Applicants age 18 and over with a high school diploma or GED can apply. The program covers:
The program runs from early May to early August at six locations statewide. Cadets meet twice a week, with occasional Saturday sessions. You can learn more here. Promoting Reading for Lifelong Success
March is National Reading Month – a time to encourage children, families and communities to make reading a daily habit. Studies show childhood reading difficulties often lead to long-term, negative effects throughout life. Working with our schools to help improve literacy is vital as we help the next generation build a strong educational foundation. As part of the current state budget, we established important evidence-based reading instruction requirements. With a concerted effort, we can dramatically improve students’ chances of success and instill the excitement that comes with fostering a love of reading from a young age.
If you have a question about the information in this e-newsletter or other state related matters that you would like a response to, please click HERE to submit your inquiry through my website. This will help to ensure that we are able to respond to your question in a timely fashion due to the high volume of emails and the ever growing amount of computer generated spam mail we receive daily. |
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