HARRISBURG – Sens. Dan Laughlin (R-49) and Cris Dush (R-25) today introduced legislation to update existing “safe harbor laws” to address the gaps in the current statute regarding the protection and support of minors who have been victims of sexual exploitation.

“We need to change how the law treats children who have been sexually exploited and implement provisions that seek to reverse the long-term impact on victims of sexual exploitation and sex trafficking,” said Laughlin. “Minors should not be charged with prostitution; these children should be recognized as victims and provided with the necessary support services to help them recover from their exploitation.”

The Senate Majority Policy Committee held a public hearing this past January about human trafficking, learning not only that prosecution of offenders needs to be uniform across localities and states, but, just as important, that more needs to be done to protect the victims of human trafficking. The proposed legislation, Senate Bill 1299, was developed based on the information received during that hearing.

“By no means limited to faraway foreign nations or remote private islands, sex trafficking rings are actively operating within our local communities, many times as close as next door,” said Dush, the prime sponsor of Act 39 of 2023, which was signed into law to ensure sexually exploited child trafficking victims always have full access to appropriate services and support. “Being aware of the statistics and horrors of human trafficking is useless without taking serious legislative action. I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with Sen. Laughlin in fortifying our current safe harbor laws as another line of defense to protect human trafficking victims across the commonwealth.”

SB 1299 covers all criminal offenses related to the sexual exploitation of children, not just specific crimes. Using a broader scope will ensure all victims receive the assistance and protection they need, regardless of the circumstances of their exploitation.

County agencies will have an essential role in improving coordination and response efforts, helping identify and assist sexually exploited children, and strengthening the overall effectiveness of the program.

The legislation also seeks to ensure the privacy and safety of children since confidentiality is paramount to protecting sexually exploited children from further harm.

Additionally, SB 1299 would create alternative interventions and support mechanisms for sexually exploited children; such victims should not be put into the juvenile justice system. The focus should be on addressing the underlying factors contributing to their exploitation to prevent further victimization.

These changes will create a system that better protects the rights and well-being of some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

Contact:    David Kozak (Sen. Laughlin)     717-787-8927
                  Ty McCauslin (Sen. Dush)        717-787-7084

HARRISBURG – State Sen. Scott Martin (R-13), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and State Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23), chairman of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, applauded a $50 million annual recurring investment in the state’s Clean Streams Fund included in the 2024-25 state budget.

The landmark Fund addresses agricultural conservation, nutrient management, clean water procurement, stormwater management and acid mine drainage and has helped Pennsylvania gain momentum in meeting its goals for reducing pollution to the Chesapeake Bay. Spearheaded by Martin and Yaw last session, along with Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49), establishment of the Fund coincided with creation of the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP). This program is designed to share costs to farmers for farm management practices that reduce sediment in waterways, keeping the nutrients out of waterways and on the farm to build soil health.

“Clean water is a key contributor to the health of our communities and the quality of life we enjoy,” Martin said. “We have made tremendous progress in recent years to ensure our water is cleaner and healthier, and I am proud that our state budget makes historic new investments to ensure this progress can continue for many years to come.”

“The Clean Streams Fund puts money into action by correcting decades of non-point source pollution with innovative solutions, like pay-for-performance and strategic tree planting, without demanding a single additional cent from taxpayers,” Yaw said. “Funding of this magnitude will go a long way toward restoring our local Pennsylvania streams and the continued improvement of downstream waters like the Chesapeake Bay.  This is a historic investment, and I am grateful for the continued support of my fellow lawmakers and our governor in getting this across the finish line.”

The legislators noted that Pennsylvania boasts the highest stream density in the continental United States, with more than 85,000 miles of waterways that support a $26.9 billion outdoor recreation industry and more than 390,000 jobs.  Unfortunately, one-third of those streams fall short of water quality standards for drinking, fishing or swimming.  

Best management practices implemented by farmers and local governments are showing results.  Earlier this month, the annual report card released by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) showed notable progress, with the overall health of the Chesapeake Bay receiving its best grade in more than two decades. The Upper Bay, which is most influenced by the Susquehanna River, received a B- in the report card, a score second only to the lower Bay which is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. 

Over 967 miles of streams have been restored back to health in the past 20 years, and new tools to find the most effective actions and locations, combined with new resources through the Clean Streams Fund, will accelerate that trend.

“As the Chesapeake Bay restoration enters its fifth decade, our non-governmental partners and scientific advisors are emphasizing the need for more strategic efforts that have relevance to local communities across the watershed.  Pennsylvania’s Clean Streams Fund is an example of that “local-first” approach that will benefit both Pennsylvania and the Bay,” said Anna Killius, Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Commission. 

The Chesapeake Bay is the largest and most productive estuary in the United States, spanning six states and the District of Columbia.  It is fed by 50 major tributaries, including the Susquehanna River, which is the largest tributary in the Bay. The Susquehanna River contributes about half of the Bay’s fresh water.

Senators Martin and Yaw represent Pennsylvania as members of the Chesapeake Bay Commission, a tri-state legislative commission advising the general assemblies of Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia. Yaw chairs the Commission’s Pennsylvania Delegation and is a vice chair of the Commission.

For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit Senator Martin’s website at www.SenatorScottMartinPA.com and Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com and

CONTACT:
Jason Thompson (Sen. Martin)
717-787-6535

Elizabeth Weitzel (Sen. Yaw)
717-787-3280

HARRISBURG – State Sens. Dan Laughlin (R-49) and Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35) will soon introduce legislation to bring back the Flagship Niagara license plate.

With the governor’s recent decision to revamp the design of Pennsylvania’s license plates, now is the perfect time to bring back a newly designed Flagship Niagara plate, aligning with the state’s efforts to modernize and enhance license plate aesthetics.

The Flagship Niagara plate was available from late 1995 to early 1997, but discontinued due to significant legibility problems. However, advancements in design and printing technology now provide an opportunity to address these issues and reintroduce the plate with a new, improved design.

“The Flagship Niagara holds great historical significance for Pennsylvania,” said Laughlin. “As the relief flagship of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812, it played a pivotal role in securing a critical American victory. This victory ensured American control of the Great Lakes and boosted national morale. The ship is a symbol of bravery, resilience, and the maritime heritage of Pennsylvania.”

Reintroducing the Flagship Niagara license plate not only pays tribute to this important historical vessel but also promotes state pride and heritage. It offers Pennsylvanians a unique way to connect with our state’s rich history and honor the legacy of those who served aboard the Niagara.

“The Flagship Niagara played a crucial role in our nation’s history,” Langerholc said. “This plate will help us remember its significance to Erie, the commonwealth, and the entire country.”

The Flagship Niagara will travel to Cleveland, Ohio, for an initial round of repairs. A subsequent trip to the shipyard, scheduled for 2024-2025, will address more extensive repairs. All repair work will be completed in time for Niagara to be sailing in Erie as part of the commonwealth’s semiquincentennial (250th) anniversary celebration of the Declaration of Independence.

“What better way to celebrate its return than by unveiling a newly designed license plate?” said Laughlin. “This initiative will allow Pennsylvanians to proudly display a piece of our state’s history and celebrate the enduring legacy of the Flagship Niagara.”

Contacts:    David Kozak     (Sen. Laughlin)
                   Gwenn Dando  (Sen. Langerholc)

HARRISBURG – After a multi-year effort, liquor will be sold outside of the state store system with the passage of legislation championed by Sen. Mike Regan (R-31).

“This is monumental,” Regan said. “For the first time in 91 years, Pennsylvania consumers will be able to buy liquor-based alcohol to go at their local grocery store, convenience store, beer distributor or restaurant.”

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (LCB) dates back to the end of Prohibition in 1933. With the LCB came state-run liquor stores, the only place in the commonwealth where consumers have been allowed to purchase spirits-based alcohol for off-premises consumption.

Regan’s Senate Bill 688 changes that by allowing licensed retailers to sell ready-to-drink canned cocktails (RTDs) made with spirits, such as vodka and tequila, with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 12.5% or less.

“We are putting a product on the shelves that is similar in ABV and very similar in look and concept to malt-based canned cocktails that consumers can already access at their local retailers,” Regan said.  “We are not putting high-alcohol-content products on the shelves of grocery and convenience stores.”

As with many legislative initiatives, compromises were made to get this historic legislation across the finish line. 

“This is in no way the most cost-effective or efficient way of getting RTDs on the shelves of retailers,” Regan said. “That part has been left out because the unbreakable union entanglement in liquor issues has once again unnecessarily put self-interest above all else. Despite this, we have still achieved something that no one in the Legislature has done in 91 years. We are allowing consumers the ability to buy spirits-based products along with wine, beer and even their groceries.”

Senate Bill 688 was signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Josh Shapiro as Act 86 of 2024.

CONTACT: Bruce McLanahan, (717)-787-8524

HARRISBURG – A bill signed by the governor this week seeks to modernize and enhance Pennsylvania’s trust laws, according to Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20), who sponsored the measure.

Directed trusts, which have been increasing in popularity, allow trustees to share administrative powers with another person – the trust director. Senate Bill 1231 – now Act 64 of 2024 – will reduce administrative costs and simplify account settlements for these types of trusts, directly benefiting beneficiaries.

“Pennsylvania’s lack of a directed trust act posed a barrier to our competitiveness in establishing and managing directed trusts,” Baker said. “By reducing costs and alleviating administrative burdens we are ensuring a more efficient distribution of trust income to beneficiaries and making more funds available for their benefit.”

This action makes Pennsylvania the 20^th state to implement a directed trust act, allowing directed trusts, and the business they generate, to be formed in the commonwealth rather than being moved out of state. The changes are based on a recommendation from a 2021 report by Joint State Government Commission Advisory Committee on Decedents’ Estates Law and guidance from the Uniform Laws Commission.    

“This new law represents a significant step forward in ensuring that our trust laws are up-to-date, equitable and reflective of current best practices,” Baker said. “By clarifying and updating various provisions, we are providing more robust protections and clearer guidance for trustees and beneficiaries alike.”

The bill received bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, reflecting a shared recognition of the importance of trust law reform in safeguarding the interests of both trustees and beneficiaries.

CONTACT: Jennifer Wilson

HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Sen. Devlin Robinson (R-37) to allow doorless driving in Pennsylvania for vehicles such as Jeeps and Broncos was signed into law today.

Senate Bill 298 – now Act 61 of 2024 – adheres to logistical and safety standards important to residents and law enforcement, including requiring side view mirrors when doors are removed and upholding the seatbelt protections in place for minors.

“Today marks a significant milestone as the governor has signed Senate Bill 298 into law,” said Robinson. “This legislation brings Pennsylvania in line with the rest of the country regarding doorless driving. I am deeply thankful for the bipartisan support from my colleagues in both chambers. This new law not only grants vehicle owners greater freedom and enjoyment but also upholds the essential safety standards. It’s a victory for both adventure enthusiasts and those who prioritize safety.”

Drivers will be able to remove doors beginning mid-September.

CONTACT:
Allison Dutrey

The proposal aims to improve student mental health, academic performance, and social skills.

HARRISBURG – The General Assembly passed and the Governor signed a proposal championed by Sen. Ryan Aument (R-36) to improve students’ mental health and academic performance by giving schools the resources they need to effectively limit student smartphone use during the school day. The proposal incorporates the use of secure, lockable smartphone bags in which students would deposit their mobile devices until the end of the school day.

Specifically, Senate Bill 700 included Aument’s proposal to amend the School Safety & Mental Health grant program to allow for the purchase of these smartphone bags as an eligible use of the funding. The bill funded the program at $100 million and provided each school district with an automatic base grant of $100,000 and each intermediate unit, area career and technical school, charter school, regional charter school or cyber charter school with an automatic base grant of $70,000.

“This funding is a huge opportunity for any school district looking to address one of the major root causes of the mental health crisis plaguing our kids – smartphones and social media,” said Aument. “Now that this proposal has been signed into law, I intend to work towards ensuring that every school district in Pennsylvania knows this funding is available to them and that a robust cellphone policy has the power to help them regain their students’ focus in class, restore the social environment on campus, and boost academic performance.”

Since the early 2010s, there has been a steep decline in mental health in children, and their academic performance is suffering. This decline directly correlates to the rise of smartphones and social media apps.

“Kids spend so much time on social media and using their smartphones that it’s taking a toll on them mentally, emotionally, and academically. Smartphone restrictions have proved successful in reversing these trends. Students deserve to learn without a constant distraction in their pockets, and my proposal would give them that.”

Senate Bill 700 also requires schools to develop and adopt an official policy to prohibit the use of cellphones during the school day in exchange for the grant funding to purchase the smartphone bags. While this requirement and the funding tied to it are currently voluntary for school districts, Aument says that moving forward he plans to pursue a statewide prohibition on cellphone use during school hours.

Senate Bill 700 is now Act 55 of 2024.

Learn more about Sen. Aument’s initiative to create smartphone-free schools in Pennsylvania and the research supporting it at https://www.senatoraument.com/student-cellphone-restrictions-during-school/.

CONTACT: Stephanie Applegate

HARRISBURG – Every school district across the commonwealth will have an armed school security officer thanks to the passage of legislation sponsored by Sen. Mike Regan (R-31).

“This has been a 12-year process to get this important initiative across the finish line,” Regan said. “I am pleased that my colleagues this session recognized the value and necessity of having armed school security personnel in each of our schools.”

Regan’s first legislative proposal when he was a member of the House of Representatives was to require an armed officer in every school building in Pennsylvania. This was prompted by hearing the news of the Sandy Hook shooting just hours after he had welcomed a group of fourth graders to the Capitol at the end of 2012, before he was even sworn into office.

“I knew in that moment that with my background and experience in securing federal courthouses as a U.S. Marshal, I could offer a plan to protect our schools in Pennsylvania,” Regan said.

School security has been a top priority for Regan since then, and he has been a leader working with his caucus, including Sen. Wayne Langerholc (R-35), a former assistant district attorney in Cambria County, to establish the School Safety and Security Committee at the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) and the School Safety and Security Grants Program.

“I am very proud of what we have been able to achieve for our schools to better protect students and staff,” Regan said. “But until now, there has been a major piece missing and that has been uniformity across the commonwealth with having armed security at our schools.”

Regan’s legislation, Senate Bill 907, was amended into Senate Bill 700, an omnibus School Code bill that was passed as part of the budget.  The school security personnel component requires each school entity – defined as a school district, an intermediate unit, an area career and technical school, a charter school or a private residential rehabilitative institution – to have one full-time, trained school security personnel, defined as school resource officers, school police officers, and school security guards. Additional funding is also being made available to assist schools with the hiring of an armed officer.

“As I prepare to bid farewell to my service in the Legislature, it gives me great pride to see this particular issue come to fruition,” said Regan. “My first piece of legislation is also one of my last, and I owe a great deal of gratitude to Senate leadership and my colleagues for their confidence in me on this issue and for their support for the bill.”

CONTACT: Bruce McLanahan
717-787-8524