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In this Update:
Robinson Introduces Former POW, Army PFC Jessica Lynch at Chamber of Commerce Event
The Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce (PAACC) hosts their Annual Celebration of Excellence Awards event each year, recognizing individuals for their outstanding efforts to better our community. This year, I had the honor to introduce their featured speaker and my friend, Jessica Lynch. Army Private First Class Lynch was the first American Prisoner of War to be successfully rescued since WWII. My Marine unit, the Marines of Task Force Tarawa, aided in her rescue mission in 2003 after she was captured by Iraqi forces in the city of An Nasiriyah. Our post-Iraq paths first crossed at a Steelers game in 2022. In September 2023, I had the honor of introducing her on the Senate floor, twenty-two years to the day after she began her Army training in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Thank you to the PAACC, Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport, and the Pittsburgh International Airport for putting together this special event.
Robinson Honors 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima
I was honored to speak on the Senate floor commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. Fought from February 19-March 26, 1945, Iwo Jima was one of the bloodiest battles in Marine Corps History. During this battle, the United States Armed Forces lost 6,821 troops, and more than 19,000 were wounded or captured. While the loss was incomprehensible, the valor was unmatched. More medals of honor were awarded during this battle than any other in American history. May we always honor those who served and sacrificed during this moment in history 80 years ago. I am also introducing a Senate resolution to commemorate it as well. You can view my floor remarks here. Funding Announced for Fire, EMS Agencies
I am thrilled to see funding awarded to more than 40 fire and EMS agencies in the 37th Senatorial District! This grant funding is awarded by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. A complete list of agencies that received this funding across the Commonwealth is available here. Senate Concludes First Week of Budget Hearings
The Senate Appropriations Committee began public hearings this week on the proposed 2025-26 state budget. Among the highlights: The Department of Revenue hearing focused on the inflated revenues the Governor used to balance his spending proposal. Revenue Secretary Pat Browne confirmed the state is only expected to bring in approximately $47.5 billion in revenue under existing law. Balancing Governor Shapiro’s budget would require elimination of the state’s entire existing fund balance of nearly $3 billion and a transfer of $1.6 billion from the state’s emergency savings, known as the Rainy Day Fund. At the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) budget hearing, the committee sought information about how PASSHE is working to right-size the system given steep declines in enrollment and efforts to minimize student debt. The new Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program, which I was pleased to sponsor, provides $25 million in funding for students earning degrees and completing job training programs in high-demand industries. The State Police budget hearing highlighted Governor Shapiro’s proposal that would slow the phase-out of funding the State Police from the Motor License Fund, making $375 million less available for road and bridge repairs. There were also questions about how the State Police would handle Governor Shapiro’s plan to legalize recreational cannabis use. At the Department of Health budget hearing, members shared health-focused concerns regarding Governor Shapiro’s plan to legalize recreational cannabis use. While most doctors prescribe fewer than 100 medical marijuana certifications, three doctors prescribed more than 11,000. Access to health care, particularly in rural areas where hospitals have been closed, was also discussed. Find the hearings schedule, livestreams of budget hearings, daily recaps and video from prior hearings at PASenateGOP.com. Support for Veterans Struggling with Substance Use
Adapting from military life to civilian life comes with serious challenges. Most veterans, with the support of their loved ones, overcome these difficulties. Others, sadly, resort to using substances as a coping mechanism and develop substance use disorder. More than one in 10 veterans have been diagnosed with a substance use disorder, which is higher than the general population. Help is available for veterans, family members and their advocates at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Find local treatment options here. The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is active in communities throughout the state to connect impacted veterans to the resources they need for recovery. In a partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, the state agencies work together to provide supportive services that are person-centered and focused on achieving overall wellness. Tips to Protect Your Family in a Power Outage
More than just an inconvenience, power outages can also present safety threats. In extreme cold temperatures, do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home as it increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, fires and burns. It’s best to go to a community location with power – particularly for those at greatest risk. Another concern is keeping food at the proper temperature. Keep freezers and fridges closed; a fridge will keep food cold for about four hours, and a full freezer will maintain the temperature for about 48 hours. Dispose of food if the temperature exceeds 40 degrees. Find out how long refrigerated medication can be stored at higher temperatures and contact your doctor for a new supply if necessary. Generators can minimize the challenges associated with power outages, but they present their own risks if not used properly. Read more about how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Staying Safe in Winter’s Cold Temps
Not only are the cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing unpleasant, they can also be quite dangerous when frostbite or hypothermia take hold. If someone’s temperature is below 95 degrees, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. When body temperature is too low, brain activity is compromised and the victim is unable to think clearly or move as usual – which makes it difficult for them to know they need help or get it if they do. Knowing the risk factors and warning signs can help to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers helpful information about how to stay safe in the winter. Upcoming Property Tax, Rent Rebate Clinic
My office will host another public property tax/rent rebate clinic on Tuesday, February 25 at the Western Allegheny Community Library. Appointments are not required. If you are unable to attend the clinic and would still like assistance with your application, please contact my district office. Applications for the 2024 rebate are open through June 30, 2025. More information is available from the PA Department of Revenue here.
I’m proud to represent you in Harrisburg. Please contact me if my team can assist you with any state-level issues or services, including PennDOT, PA Department of Revenue, PA Department of Aging, PA State Treasury, etc. I’m always happy to hear from constituents, but if you need assistance or have concerns regarding a federal issue, you may want to contact your U.S. Senators and/or your member in the U.S. House of Representatives. Thank you. 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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