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In this Update:
Senate Approves State Budget that Funds Essential Services Without Raising Taxes
For the second time this year, the Senate approved a state budget that respects taxpayers and protects the financial stability of our commonwealth while ensuring that counties, school districts, and other state government partners receive needed funding. The amended budget bill, Senate Bill 160, totals $47.9 billion, a responsible spending level that does not impose tax hikes on Pennsylvania families, and ensures Pennsylvania’s credit rating remains strong. It is crucial to be sure we are not spending more than we can afford so we can ensure Pennsylvania continues to thrive. The Senate also recently passed a stopgap measure to fund these programs in the interim, until a final budget is approved by both chambers and the Governor, but unfortunately, this was not considered in the House of Representatives. SB160 was sent to the House of Representatives for its consideration this week, and we are hopeful to come to an agreement soon. Cell Phones in Schools Senate Hearing
Thank you Senator Lynda Culver (R-27), Chair of the Senate Education Committee, for hosting a hearing to highlight the issue of student cellphone use during school and how administrators across the Commonwealth are responding. The data is clear- smartphones are not only intentionally addictive and distracting, but are also harmful to students’ mental health, academic performance, and social skills. We must get these devices out of the classroom and let kids learn without a constant distraction in their pockets. Thank you also to PSEA for their support of my bell-to-bell ban bill, which has strong bipartisan support. I’m hopeful that the Education Committee will consider this legislation soon. Learn more about my legislation to prohibit student cellphone use during school here. Senate Again Acts to Repeal RGGI Electricity Tax
Bipartisan legislation preventing a new electricity tax by repealing Pennsylvania’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) was approved by the Senate. RGGI, a multi-state compact, would increase electricity rates on families and employers, cut energy and manufacturing jobs and cause Pennsylvania power plants to close. Senate Bill 1068 formally repeals Pennsylvania’s participation in RGGI, ensuring that any decision to impose electricity taxes or emissions programs must go through the legislative process rather than being enacted unilaterally by the governor. The Commonwealth Court has ruled that RGGI is a tax and cannot be implemented without legislative approval. However, the governor appealed the decision to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. His action has deepened concerns about energy grid reliability and affordability, prolonged uncertainty for workers and businesses across the commonwealth – and caused electricity prices to go up for hardworking families. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. EOS Energy Coming to Marshall TownshipPittsburgh’s legacy of building superior products will continue thanks to a massive $350 million capital investment by Eos Energy into our region. The zinc battery company will add more than 700 clean energy jobs while sourcing nearly 100% of its materials from the U.S. Welcome to your new home in Pittsburgh and Marshall Township, and thank you for your commitment to Western PA! Learn more about the investment here. Landmark Bill to Modernize PA’s Broken Permitting Process Approved by Senate
A sweeping permitting reform measure to bring greater accountability, transparency, and efficiency to how state agencies handle permit applications was approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 6 sets clear timelines for state agencies to review permit applications, creates a permit tracking system, and ensures applicants receive timely, consistent answers – not endless delays. The measure, which passed with bipartisan support, also requires regular performance reporting so Pennsylvanians can hold their government accountable. Permitting reforms like this are an important part of expanding opportunity in Pennsylvania. Reforming our slow and archaic permitting process will make Pennsylvania more competitive when attracting new businesses and investment into the Commonwealth, ensuring Pennsylvanians are the ones to reap the economic benefits of new opportunities and job creation that these businesses bring with them. Eos Energy Enterprises’ announcement earlier this week is a prime example of the importance of reforming our permitting process! Senator Robinson in the NewsThis week, I was pleased to participate in the Senate Education Committee hearing on student cellphone use policies in schools across Pennsylvania as well as the passage of a resolution commemorating the U.S. Navy’s 250th birthday. Here is a roundup of my news coverage from this week:
Tuesday is the Deadline to Apply to Vote by Mail in the Nov. 4 Election
If you plan on voting by mail in Nov. 4 election, your application for a ballot must be received by your county election office by 5 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28. You can apply online, by mail or at your county election office. Find details for each along with other useful information here. Military or overseas civilian voters can find information here on how to obtain a mail ballot. County election offices must receive completed mail ballots by 8 p.m., Nov. 4. Recognizing Colonel Raymond L. Hyland
I was honored to present a citation to Colonel Raymond L. Hyland Jr., to recognize his retirement as the Commander of the 171st Air Refueling Wing. With over 6,000 flying hours and 125 combat missions completed, Colonel Hyland is more than deserving of the honors that were bestowed upon him. It is citizens like him that set the standard of excellence in both our commonwealth and the nation. Thank you for your service, Colonel Hyland, and I wish you a happy retirement! Associated Builders and Contractors Oktoberfest
It was great to connect with those who attended the Associated Builders and Contractors Oktoberfest at Pittsburgh’s oldest German club, the Teutonia Mannerchor, in the heart of Deutschtown! While at the event, I had the opportunity to share what I have been working on, such as efforts to encourage use of local workers on public works projects, impacts of AI on the future workforce, electrician licensure, and efforts to better prepare youths for future jobs and life. Thanks for having me! Pittsburgh Botanic Garden’s Legislative Breakfast
While at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden’s Legislative Breakfast, we discussed expansion, invasive species, environmental concerns, education, conservation, and featured events. The attendance and memberships are growing for this premier destination. I am excited to see how they continue to grow and expand into the future! Veteran Breakfast with Rep. Jill Cooper
I had the honor of addressing my fellow veterans at Representative Jill Cooper’s (R-55) Veterans Breakfast. I was able to provide a reflection on the significance of the Missing Man Honors Ceremony, speak on the significance of America’s 250th birthday in 2026, and provide a legislative update about how I am supporting veterans across the state through my work in Harrisburg. The event had a great turnout, and it was wonderful to connect with the veterans in attendance. It is events like these that remind us of something we can’t say enough – thank you. Pittsburgh Walk of Fame Now Open
The Pittsburgh Walk of Fame is now open! Inspired by other walks of fame across the country, Pittsburgh’s will include people from the region whose talents, skills, and genius have contributed significantly to science and technology, the arts and humanities, and American industry, democracy, and culture. The 2025 inductees include George Benson, Nellie Bly, Andrew Carnegie, Rachel Carson, Roberto Clemente, Michael Keaton, Fred Rodgers, Jonas Salk, Andy Warhol, and August Wilson. Learn more about the inductees here. Adventures in Training with a Purpose
Adventures in Training with a Purpose (ATP) is dedicated to helping those who have fallen through the cracks of traditional healthcare – particularly veterans, first responders, and others struggling with chronic physical and mental health challenges. Through customized services, along with outdoor adventure-based rehabilitation, ATP offers a path to recovery that restores purpose, functionality, and hope. It was wonderful to learn about this great cause. Thank you for all you do for our community! Bridge Renamed to Honor Jan Cmar
In the Borough of Jefferson Hills, the bridge that crosses Peters Creek on Gill Hall Road was recently renamed in honor of the late, well-respected and long-time community leader Janice Bulko Cmar. This bridge will stand in remembrance of her impact on the community. Auditor General’s Activity Book Contest Accepting Submissions
Pennsylvania students in grades K-12 are invited to help the state Auditor General’s office design the cover of its new Be Money $mart activity book. The book will include coloring pages, word searches, word scrambles, crosswords and budgeting sheets – all focused on financial literacy. The deadline to submit a design online is Oct. 31. The winner’s artwork will be featured on the cover of the new activity book and recognized at the PA Farm Show, and will win their school a visit from Auditor General Tim DeFoor. The activity book will be distributed statewide through libraries, YMCAs and credit unions. Volunteer Service Tax Credit Program
The Allegheny County Treasurer’s Office is pleased to announce that the next round of applications for the Volunteer Service Tax Credit (VSTC) has opened on Friday, October 3rd, 2025, and will be open until Sunday, November 30th, 2025. The VSTC provides active service members of volunteer fire companies or nonprofit emergency services with real estate tax incentives for their primary residence. For this cycle, an online tool has been introduced to help make the submission of rosters easier and more accessible. More information about this program can be found on the Allegheny County Treasurer’s Office website. Assessing Your Personal Breast Cancer Risk
The pink ribbon is a symbol of hope, strength, and solidarity in the fight against breast cancer. It reminds us to support those affected, promote early detection, and raise awareness about the importance of knowing your risks. You can assess your personal breast cancer risk using this free online risk calculator.
This past week, all senators joined together and wore pink on the Senate Floor to honor those affected by breast cancer for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Through bipartisan efforts, we have continued to advance early detection efforts to save lives and support Pennsylvanians impacted by this devastating disease.
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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