Dec. 04, 2023

 
Capitol Report
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The latest news from the State Capitol
 
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You are welcome to contact me through this link
 
Update on State Aid and Fiscal Code Progress



Institutions across our Commonwealth, including those here at home such as Luzerne County Community College, Nanticoke’s Mill Memorial, and Plymouth’s Public Libraries are feeling pressure of only having half of our budget bills passed in Harrisburg. I share these same concerns.

The legislative budget process in our state involves passing the budget in two stages, with the General Appropriations bill setting the overall spending amount and the Fiscal Code bill directing the allocation of those funds. Unfortunately, the current impasse between the House Democrat Majority, the Senate, and the Governor has caused delays in moving the Fiscal Code bill forward.

I anticipate that we will return to session the week of December 11th, and I am hopeful that a vote on the Fiscal Code bill will take place at that time.
   
 
In the District


Mr. Gabriel Metric, at 93 years young, still serves his country by volunteering weekly at the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center. With 70 years of service to Hanover Twp’s AMVETS Post No. 59, we held a party to salute Mr. Metric for his service here at home and abroad! You can read more about the event here, and also watch a recap.
 
 
Deadline Nears for Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program

Older adults and Pennsylvanians with disabilities have until Dec. 31 to apply for the state’s 2022 Property Tax/Rent Rebate program. Remember, assistance through my office is always free. You need not pay a private firm for assistance.

The rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, and half of Social Security income is excluded.  

For additional information and applications, click here, or contact my office for assistance.
 
 
Need a Gift for an Angler?

You can now purchase a 2024 fishing license for yourself or someone you know from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. In the new year, an annual license for a Pennsylvania resident will cost $26 and senior resident annual licenses go for $12.50. Please click here to make a purchase and check out the full list of license options.

Now is also a good time to mark your 2024 calendars for the statewide opening day of trout season on Saturday, April 6; statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day on Saturday, March 25; and Fish for Free Days on Memorial Day (Monday, May 27) and Thursday, July 4.
 
 
Upcoming District Event – Mark Your Calendar! 

 
  
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