On Thursday, I took part in a discussion at Sacred Heart Hospital in Allentown with elected officials and community leaders that focused on poverty in the Lehigh Valley and possible solutions to the problem. We talked about youth intervention programs, improving community entrepreneurial efforts, and current labor needs. The roundtable was one in a series of events being held statewide by the House Majority Policy Committee as part of the “Empowering Opportunities: Gateways Out of Poverty” initiative.
Veterans Day is on Monday – a time for the nation to pause and recognize the service and sacrifice of our military veterans. Please try to make it a point to say “thanks” to a vet whom you know.
The House of Representatives continues its efforts to honor and assist Pennsylvania’s veterans by passing legislation of benefit to them and their families. Two such bills are education related. House Bill 472 would allow vets, their spouses and children to pay in-state tuition rates at community colleges and state schools, including Penn State. House Bill 1164 would require colleges and universities to provide veterans with priority registration. Both bills are now being considered by the Senate.
A couple of bills passed unanimously in the House recently that are designed to assist local volunteer emergency responders. House Bill 1632 would create a tax credit that allows volunteers to leave work for responding to emergencies or attend training, without penalty. Pennsylvania’s volunteer ranks have dwindled, making it difficult to maintain adequate manpower, especially during the daytime hours.
House Bill 1706 would increase loan amounts available for volunteer ambulance and fire companies under the state’s Volunteer Loan Assistance Program (VLAP). Those amounts have not been raised in more than 20 years. Both bills now move to the Senate for consideration.
A newly revamped comprehensive website for the Pennsylvania General Assembly was activated this week. It includes information about all members of the House and Senate, a search engine for all legislation and a record of all votes. Click here to take a look!