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In this Update:
Robinson’s Landmark Advanced Manufacturing Initiative Signed into Law
June was a busy month in Harrisburg! I am thrilled to announce that my legislation to enhance Pennsylvania’s manufacturing industry, Senate Bill 497, has been officially signed into law! The Max Manufacturing Initiative Act, now Act 24 of 2024, will offer grants and loans to eligible applicants in advanced manufacturing. The act enables state universities to collaborate with engineering firms to enhance research, foster business partnerships, and create well-paying jobs. I am grateful for the bipartisan support and collaboration that moved this bill across the finish line, and I appreciate Governor Shapiro signing it into law. You can read my full press release here. Robinson’s Ireland Trade Commission Bill Approved by Senate
I’m pleased to see my bill with Senator Tim Kearney and Senator Marty Flynn pass the Senate with such strong bipartisan support. Senate Bill 1121 would create the Ireland Trade Commission to focus on strengthening educational, economic, governmental, and personal links between Pennsylvania and Ireland. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. You can read more here. Robinson Companion Bill to Enhance Cancer Treatment Access Approved by Full Senate
June was National Cancer Survivor Month. I’m so proud to see the Senate commit to advancing life-saving legislation, including the House version of my biomarker testing bill. HB 1754, the companion bill to SB 954, was approved in the full Senate! Biomarker testing is a crucial tool in pinpointing the best treatments for cancer and other diseases. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to ensure a future with more cancer survivors in Pennsylvania. You can read my full press release here. Robinson License Plate to Honor Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal Approved in Committee
My initiative to allow recipients of the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal to apply for specialty license plates was approved in the Senate Transportation Committee as part of House Bill 2301. The plate would honor Pennsylvania veterans who have earned the distinguished medal through their service overseas in the War on Terror. The bill now heads to the full Senate for consideration. You can read more here. Robinson Bill to Increase the Number of Qualified Sign Language Interpreters Approved in Committee
Individuals who are deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing rely on qualified interpreters to fully participate in society, including accessing education, healthcare, legal services and employment opportunities. As Chairman of the Senate Labor and Industry Committee, I was pleased to work with my co-chair, Senator John Kane, to sponsor legislation to modernize the Sign Language Interpreter and Transliterator State Registration Act. The bipartisan bill, Senate Bill 1274, would allow additional pathways for individuals to become registered interpreters and was unanimously passed out of committee this week. Legislature Continues Negotiations for Pro-Growth, Responsible State Budget
State budget negotiations are ongoing in Harrisburg, and we are encouraged by the dialogue between the Senate, House and Governor Shapiro. While there was not a full budget agreement by June 30, we are hopeful to reach a consensus very soon and avoid any negative impacts on the people of Pennsylvania. We continue to push for a spending plan that respects taxpayers, ensures existing resources are used wisely, and leads to economic and demographic growth in Pennsylvania. The Senate returned to session on Monday, July 1, at 3 p.m. Learn more about the process of enacting the 2024-25 state budget and watch the Senate in session here. Senate Votes to Stand with Israel
The Senate approved with strong bipartisan support legislation that would prohibit the PA Treasury’s Office, the State Employees’ Retirement System, the Public School Employees’ Retirement System and the Pennsylvania Municipal Retirement System from boycotting or divesting from Israel. The measure also would cut off state tax dollars from going to higher education institutions that boycott or divest from Israel. Senate Bill 1260 sends a loud message that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania stands with its top ally in the Middle East – Israel. On Oct. 7, 2023, more than 1,000 Israelis, mostly civilians, were murdered by Hamas terrorists. In the wake of these terrorist attacks, Pennsylvania’s Treasurer Stacy Garrity, who supports the legislation, invested an additional $20 million in Israel bonds, bringing the Treasury’s total investment in Israel to more than $56 million. I’m glad to see my Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle support this measure. Set for Enactment: Senate Bill Expanding Access to Telemedicine Services
Legislation expanding access to telemedicine in Pennsylvania received final Senate approval and will be sent to the governor for enactment. Telemedicine allows individuals to access health care services online using a computer, tablet or smartphone. It allows medical services to be provided to some of the most vulnerable Pennsylvanians who otherwise would not be able to receive them due to location or other circumstances. Senate Bill 739, which I co-sponsored, sets a base for how telemedicine will be covered by insurance companies and medical providers in Pennsylvania. The legislation requires:
Happy 4th of July!
Independence Day is right around the corner, which means many of us will enjoy celebrations that include an American tradition: fireworks. Being aware of restrictions on consumer fireworks can help prevent injuries and property damage. They cannot be discharged within 150 feet of a building or vehicle, regardless of whether the building or vehicle is owned by the user of the consumer fireworks. Fireworks cannot be discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or another drug. My offices will be closed on Thursday, July 4th in honor of Independence Day. I wish you a wonderful, safe holiday celebrating our nation and the freedoms we hold dear. We are the home of the free, because of the brave.
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