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In this Update:
Budget Hearings Begin Next Week Examining Shapiro Spending Plan
State spending would increase by more than $3.2 billion, or about 7.1%, under Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget plan for the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year. The process of finding ways to rein in this spending includes three weeks of budget hearings held by the Senate Appropriations Committee, which begin Tuesday and will be used to ask administration officials about the need for the proposed expenses. As Chairman of the Senate Law and Justice Committee, which oversees the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB), I will have the opportunity to participate in the PLCB hearing to be held on Feb. 29. Livestreams of the hearings and daily recaps will be available here, and I will share updates on this important process each week. Shielding Pennsylvanians from Cybersecurity Attacks
The Senate approved legislation to improve cybersecurity defenses by setting cybersecurity standards for IT procurement within state government. Cyberattacks and data breaches – experienced by multiple state agencies – highlight the need for increased cybersecurity measures to protect the valuable data of every Pennsylvanian. The bill would require any acquisition of computer hardware by the state to adhere to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines for computer security. NIST’s comprehensive approach includes standards, guidelines and best practices to effectively manage cybersecurity-related risks. Reminder: School Safety and Mental Health Grant Applications Due Feb. 29
The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency is currently accepting applications for the FY 2023-24 School Safety Grants. Applications will be accepted until Thursday, February 29, 2024 for the following four programs:
For a guide about which entity qualifies for each funding opportunity, select the appropriate entity type below:
Additional information about the grants and the application process can be found on PCCD’s School Safety and Security website. PA Parks Offer Free Events for People of All Ages
As people start to feel a bit of cabin fever this time of year, it can be a great time to take advantage of recreational opportunities offered at Pennsylvania state parks. There are free or low-cost seminars to interest people of all ages. Some examples include a winter photography walk, an introduction to cross country skiing, make and take tree cookie crafts, a cast iron cooking lesson and even a full moon hike. Find a full calendar of events, including some that are virtual, and sign up here. Protect Your Money by Investing Wisely
Trying to research financial services, products or companies can be confusing, but investing without first investigating can be a costly mistake. The Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities (DoBS) offers free information about how to research people, companies and investments. If you’re not sure where to start, call the department at 1-800-600-0007. Learn more about the free and confidential help DoBS provides. Student Art Contest Raises Lyme Disease Awareness
Pennsylvania has one of the highest counts of Lyme disease cases in the nation. Symptoms often initially include fever, headache and extreme tiredness. If the disease is untreated, the infection can spread to joints, the heart and the nervous system. First- through sixth-graders can help spread the word about preventing this tick-borne illness by entering the Pennsylvania Department of Health Lyme Art Contest. They are encouraged to submit a poster or video showing how to avoid exposure to ticks, check for ticks and/or remove ticks safely by March 15 at 5 p.m. Find more information, including how to apply, here. Happy Presidents Day!
On Monday, Feb. 19, we recognize Presidents Day and reflect on the effort it takes to guide our country in the right direction. Originally, the holiday was to honor our first president – George Washington – but it has since been expanded. Because of the holiday, my offices will be closed with normal business hours resuming on Tuesday, Feb. 20.
For anyone who hasn’t already signed up to receive my e-newsletters, you can get on the mailing list here. |
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