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Capitol Report
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#Listrak\DateStampLong#
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The latest news from the State Capitol
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Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account.
You are welcome to contact me through this link.
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In the Fifth
Girl Scouts, Take the Lead!
I had the amazing opportunity to attend the Girl Scouts of America’s Take the Lead Berks County event, where they recognized incredible women leaders from our community.
Thank you to all the amazing women who continue to be great role models in and for our community.
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School Tours of the Capitol
Last week, amidst the hustle and bustle of Session, I had the privilege of hosting Students from Green Valley Elementary and Schuykill Valley Elementary, and joining them on tours of our beautiful Capitol.
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Checks are in the Mail for Money Match Program Recipients
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The Pennsylvania Money Match initiative, which automatically returns certain unclaimed property from the state, is disbursing more than $1.7 million to its rightful owners this week.
According to Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity, 7,380 checks are being issued in this first round of the Money Match program. In May, as many as 40,000 additional checks could be issued to single owners of unclaimed property valued at up to $500, following a thorough identification and verification process.
This program was made possible by the bipartisan passage of Senate Bill 24, which was signed into law as Act 81 of 2024.
Pennsylvanians are encouraged to check the state’s unclaimed property database for any property valued at more than $500 that may be owed to them. A more formal claim process must be followed to have that property returned.
You need not pay anyone to help reunite you with property that belongs to you. For assistance with an unclaimed property claim, please contact my office at 610-378-4407.
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New Turnpike Texting Service Launched
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The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) has officially launched a new text messaging service, offering customers real-time communication during unexpected traffic backlogs.
This service is free, available 24/7 and designed only for PA Turnpike customers experiencing unexpected backlog. By texting “info” to 47676, drivers receive automated, location-specific information about the incident, anticipated clearance times and roadway updates.
Here’s how it works: While at a complete stop in a location where it is safe to remain stationary, through hands-free devices and voice command, or through a passenger in the car, text “info” to 47676. Users will be walked through prompts to verify their backlog location using GPS. Once confirmed, the service provides automated updates every 15-20 minutes, including what happened, how long it will take to clear and other roadway updates. Texts stop after an incident clears. To reactivate the service for a new incident, text 47676 again. This is not used for daily commuter traffic or construction-related delays.
Turnpike officials also remind drivers that Paul Miller’s Law goes into effect in June, prohibiting the use of hand-held mobile devices while driving. Drivers are expected to follow this and all other applicable laws and regulations related to the use of mobile devices in vehicles.
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Honoring Vietnam War Veterans
This past Saturday, March 29, was National Vietnam War Veterans Day, but thanks and honors for these warriors will continue throughout the year, as 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of when the last U.S. personnel were evacuated from Vietnam.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) estimates that today there are between 6 million and 7 million U.S. Vietnam veterans throughout the world. In Pennsylvania, this number is nearly 217,000 Vietnam-era veterans.
The state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is reminding the men and women who served during the Vietnam War and all veterans of the services it provides, including assistance with locating lost military documents, particularly their DD Form 214, which is vital when it comes to receiving the benefits they deserve. Learn more by visiting the DMVA website.
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Trout Season, Coming Soon!
Next Saturday, April 5, is the first day of trout season. If you haven’t already, be sure to buy your fishing licenses and permits and get your gear organized. Visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) online at www.fishandboat.com or the FishBoatPA mobile app for more information.
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Let's Get Connected
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Our District
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Web Site
rep .com
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| Office Locations |
| District Office: Reading Regional Airport - Main Terminal, 2501 Bernville Road, Box 4, Reading, PA, 19605 | Phone: (610) 378-4407, FAX: (610) 378-4412 | Open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
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| Capitol Office: 432 Irvis Office Building, Harrisburg, Pa 17020-2005 | PO Box 202005 | Phone: 717-772-9940 |
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