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In this Update:
Setting the Record Straight in Pottsville
I strongly rebut the recent remarks made by Pottsville mayoral candidate Andy Wollyung regarding the City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) program. His claims are simply false. My record on supporting Pottsville’s revitalization speaks for itself. For years, I’ve worked closely with local officials, business leaders, and community organizations to attract new investments, create jobs, and revitalize downtown Pottsville. That includes strong, bipartisan efforts to secure a CRIZ designation—with my support clearly documented in a letter sent to DCED Secretary Rick Siger following the city’s application in October 2024. My office consistently advocated for Pottsville’s inclusion and kept city leaders informed well in advance of all deadlines. Beyond CRIZ, I’ve worked on a bipartisan basis with Rep. Twardzik and former Rep. Goodman and others to deliver millions in state grants to strengthen infrastructure, improve housing, support small business growth, and advance redevelopment projects through the Pottsville Redevelopment Authority and PADCO. Some of the grants include:
My team and I have been deeply engaged in Pottsville’s progress for years—and we’ll continue to be every step of the way. You can read my full statement here. Senate Passes My Corrections Officer Staffing Legislation
The PA Senate has passed my bill, Senate Bill 111, with strong bipartisan support to help address the staffing crisis in Pennsylvania’s correctional institutions. Introduced at the request of the PA State Corrections Officers Association, this bill removes an outdated residency requirement so qualified candidates from nearby states can help fill critical vacancies—while keeping hiring preference for Pennsylvania residents. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Passes Telemarketer Registration Act
The PA Senate passed Senate Bill 992, sponsored by Sen. Michelle Brooks (R–Mercer), to modernize Pennsylvania’s Telemarketer Registration Act and strengthen consumer protections against scammers and deceitful telemarketers. This legislation updates state law to keep pace with new technology, including new limits on robocalls, new penalties and a ban on using AI or fake caller IDs to deceive consumers. This bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Moves to Cut Costs and Increase Oversight of State-Owned Aircrafts
After a lengthy debate, the Senate passed Senate Resolution 89, sponsored by Sen. Jarrett Coleman (R-Lehigh), calling for a comprehensive review of all state-owned aircraft to find ways to improve efficiency, enhance safety, and cut costs — particularly when it comes to the Governor’s use of state planes, which has been the subject of several TV news accounts. Senator Coleman noted that the Governor has been using State Police aircraft VERY frequently —including sixteen private flights, including at least one to New Jersey, since August. The Governor has come under scrutiny for the high cost of utilizing this service, especially as compared to his predecessor. Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R–Montgomery) also raised an important point: the Commonwealth owns numerous aircraft including the State Police, PennDOT, and the Attorney General’s Office. We owe it to the taxpayers to ensure these resources are not wasted. We must do better for the taxpayers. Senate Passes State Budget… Again!
Quickly ending our state budget impasse requires Governor Shapiro to come to the table to negotiate — not travel to other states. All we need is one vote for House Leadership and the Governor to join us in enacting the temporary budget the Senate passed last week. Pennsylvanians deserve action, not more delay. The Senate is ready to get this over the finish line. Welcoming Visitors to the State Capitol
Between important votes at the Capitol on Tuesday, I was asked to meet some important visitors from our Senate District, and beyond! Representing the Association of Independent Colleges & Universities of Pennsylvania, from my alma mater, Lycoming College — Chip Hinton, Vice President for Enrollment Management; Suzanne O’Driscoll, Vice President for Student Affairs & Success; and of course, Lycos the Warrior, our brand-new mascot! From Alvernia University’s Pottsville and Reading campuses: John Wanner, Trustee Emeritus, and Bernie the Golden Wolf. We were also joined by Rep. Eric Weaknecht (R-Berks).
This year’s Schuylkill County Fair Queen, Ms. Emilee Clews of Saint Clair, and her family also visited the House and the Senate as a part of her official duties.
Reverend David Poissant, Lead Pastor of the Pottsville Foursquare Church, served as the Guest Chaplain in the Senate this week, leading the Chamber in open prayer. You can watch his opening prayer here. Thank you to my many visitors this week! While I was only able to meet with you for a few minutes between our votes in the Senate, I still very much enjoyed your visits. As always, if you are interested in visiting the state capitol, please contact my Harrisburg office at (717) 787-2637, and we will be pleased to assist you. Touring Mine Reclamation Project in Branch Township
Rep. Tim Twardzik and I toured an ongoing mine reclamation project in Branch Township between Branchdale and Phoenix Park, led by Woodlands for Wildlife. The project received a $550,000 state grant through Pennsylvania’s Abandoned Mine Lands and Acid Mine Drainage Program. Growing up near abandoned coal pits in Tamaqua’s east end, I’ve seen the damage left behind by long-gone mining operations—and the progress we’ve made since. This project will eliminate dangerous 100-foot cliffs, coal refuse piles, and surface pits while improving water quality in West Creek and strengthening the Schuylkill River Watershed. The Senate-approved state budget continues funding for vital conservation projects like this one —restoring our land, protecting our waterways, and ensuring future generations only read about these devastated landscapes in history books, not see them from their homes. Meeting with Grandparents and Caregivers in Pottsville
To prepare for continued budget negotiations in Harrisburg, at the invitation of the Schuylkill County Office of Senior Services, I met with grandparents and caregivers in Pottsville on Friday to hear about their experiences. The Senate’s budget, passed last Tuesday, funds the programs we discussed—vital resources for families across our region. I was joined by Reps. Tim Twardzik and JoAnne Stehr and Schuylkill County Commissioner Larry Padora for this important conversation. Celebrating Businesses in Schuylkill County
After a busy day of state budget related meetings last week, I attended the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce’s Awards Gala. Congratulations to all this year’s winners and nominees, and thank you for choosing to invest your time, talent, and passion in Schuylkill County!
You can read more about the winners and nominees here. Celebrating Businesses in the Hazleton Region
The Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce announced the winners of their Annual Business and Community Awards at their Awards Luncheon on Thursday. Brad Hurley from my office attended this event on my behalf. Congratulations to all this year’s winners and nominees, and thank you for choosing to invest your time, talent, and passion in Luzerne County!
You can read more about the winners and nominees here. Students Benefitting from Farm-to-Table Lunch Program in Pottsville
While I was in Harrisburg this week working on the state budget, my Communications Director, Seth Hubler, visited students and educators at the DHH Lengel Middle School to celebrate National Farm-to-School Month. Under the leadership of Leah Zerbe, the Pottsville Area School District continues to expand its investment in local farms for school lunches. The district also maintains school pollinator gardens, supports elementary students in vegetable gardening, and helps them learn to make healthier nutrition choices. Additionally, students in the afterschool program take part in local food tastings and farm field trips — a great example of hands-on learning in action! Visiting Students at Tri-Valley Community Night
The Tri-Valley Area School District recently hosted their annual Community Night. Brenda Swank from my office attended to talk with students and share information about state resources. Thank you for having us! Join Us to Discuss the Future of Penn State Schuylkill
Our community-wide efforts to save Penn State Schuylkill succeeded earlier this year – now, we’re looking to the future. On Monday, Nov. 3rd, Reps. Tim Twardzik, Jamie Barton, Joanne Stehr, Dane Watro, and I will host a public roundtable to review opportunities to expand the number of students. Courses, and partnerships at Penn State Schuylkill. We believe this campus can thrive for decades to come, serving more students and further contributing to the economic growth of our region. Email shubler@pasen.gov to reserve your seat. November 4: Election Day
The 2025 Municipal Election is coming up on Tuesday, November 4. County, municipal and school board positions will be on the ballot, along with statewide judicial elections. Voters will fill one open position each on the Commonwealth and Superior courts and consider the retention of three Pennsylvania Supreme Court justices—Christine Donohue, Kevin Dougherty, and David Wecht – and two appellate court judges – Alice Dubow and Michael Wojcik. The PA Supreme Court race is drawing significant statewide attention. While proponents of the three justices argue that they deserve additional 10-year terms, others are proposing “no” votes on their retention due to a series of court decisions regarding covid-era restrictions and other controversies. The choice is ultimately up to the voters on November 4. For more information about voting in the Commonwealth, including how to check your registration and voting location, visit www.vote.pa.gov. November 6: Financial Aid Webinar
I am teaming up with the PA Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) to host a Financial Aid Night Webinar on Thursday, November 6. This presentation provides an early understanding of the financial aid process. Participants will gain an understanding of the types and sources of aid available to help cover the cost of attendance at post-secondary schools. Participants will also learn how to apply for financial aid, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), which is required to determine eligibility for most student aid programs, such as the Pennsylvania State Grant, Federal Pell Grant, and more. To register, please click here. Upcoming Veterans Events in Jim Thorpe, Orwigsburg
Together With Veterans NEPA and the Carbon County Office of Veterans Affairs is hosting their 4th Annual Veterans Day Dinner on Wednesday, November 5th at Penn’s Peak. Doors open at 5:00PM. Tickets are complimentary for veterans and one guest. Please register by calling 570-325-3986
The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce is hosting their Annual Veterans Breakfast on Friday, November 7th at the Orwigsburg Veterans Memorial Hall. The Keynote Speaker for this event is State Director to U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick, and former State Senator, Ryan Aument. This event is free to all veterans. For more information, please call the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce at (570) 622-1942.
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