Emailed Newsletter - March 31 2025

March 31, 2025


 
Capitol Report
#Listrak\DateStampLong#
  
The latest news from the State Capitol
 
Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account.
You are welcome to contact me through this link
 


Last week, I hosted the first of two scheduled Concealed Carry Seminars. We were joined by Pike County District Attorney Ray Tonkin and Pike County Sheriff Brian Vennie, and I want to thank them for their informative and valuable presentations. A huge thank you to everyone who attended and participated! 
 
 
Checks are in the Mail for Money Match Program Recipients


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(S) at
 
 
Meet the District Office Staff!


Hi, I’m Doug. When I’m not in the office helping you, I can be found out and about traveling with Rep. Olsommer visiting local businesses and individuals in our district. I am an avid golfer and a passionate fan of the Los Angeles Rams and New York Mets.
 
 
Pike County Proud!

 

I met up with Isaak Courtright last week in the Main Rotunda. Isaak, the 2022 Delaware Valley High School valedictorian from Delaware Valley School District, currently attends Alvernia University studying analytical chemistry and doing research to explore the theories of hydrogen storage. Isaak credits the opportunities from DVHS to hit the ground running on this research. 
 
 
New Turnpike Texting Service Launched


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 constructed-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.
 
 
Good Eats!


The Ledgedale Volunteer Fire Co. Ladies auxiliary soup sale was delicious! The homemade soups made by the ladies were amazing, and it's all for such a great cause. So happy to support this wonderful event!
 
 
Honoring Vietnam War Veterans


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.
 
 
Upcoming District Events

 
 

In addition, my staff and I have a lot of events planned in the coming months. More details to follow, but here is a sneak peek:

July 12th – Damaged License Plate Event
July 19th – Shredding Event
August 9th – Damaged License Plate Event
September 5th – Senior Expo

 

Sign Up to Receive Legislative Email Updates

Keep up-to-date on the latest legislative and community news. Your email address will be used strictly for legislative purposes.