Mike's Memo - Week of April 4, 2011
4/5/11

School Mandate Relief Bills to be Voted

Tomorrow, Tuesday, April 5, the Senate Education Committee is scheduled to consider the package of bills designed to relieve school districts of some of the mandates imposed upon them by the state. The meeting is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., in Room 8 East Wing, Main Capitol. Supporters argue that without this mandate relief, school property taxes will increase, because of decreased state and federal funding. Opponents argue lifting these mandates will compromise the quality of education for students.

My Senate Bill 612, legislation to empower schools to make furloughs for economic necessity, just as it is in private industry, is set to be considered, as is:

Senate Bill 202 - allow alternative certifications for principals and teachers;

Senate Bill 293 and 296 - link bid thresholds to consumer price index;

Senate Bill 329 - suspend certain reporting requirements in years when state education funding declines;

Senate Bill 537 - require 2/3 school board vote to raise property taxes;

Senate Bill 801 - permit single prime bidding

Senate Bill 802 - give districts the option to hire either school certificated nurses or Registered Nurses;

Senate Bill 803 - permit districts to advertise from a menu of options, including the internet;

Senate Bill 814 - reauthorize Mandate Waiver program allowing school construction project bids by both multi- and single prime;

Senate Bill 857 - repeal obsolete sections of the Public School Code that require districts to use increases in basic education funding for new programs and expansion of existing programs;

Senate Bill 858 - permit districts the option of hiring certificated superintendents or candidates who have a graduate degree in business or finance; and

Senate Bill 884 - waive administrator training requirements for districts demonstrating measured growth in performance.

Senate Communications &Technology Committee Hearing

One of my goals for the Senate Communications & Technology Committee is to develop an "inventory" of Pennsylvania technology projects and expenditures to ensure the state is squeezing every penny out of each tax dollar spent on communications and technology. Part of this effort will focus on state investments in research and development – key components of future economic opportunities – including research done by colleges and universities.

The Center for Measuring University Performance annually ranks major research universities and their 2009 rankings include a number of private and public institutions at or near the top of their list, including: the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania State University, and Carnegie Mellon University. The Senate Communications and Technology Committee will hold a public hearing to receive testimony from the research leaders of these universities. This hearing will be held Wednesday, April 6, 9:30 a.m., Room 8 E-A, East Wing, Main Capitol.

Hearing Follow Up

As a follow up to the Communications & Technology Committee hearing held earlier this month on electronic sharing of health information records and other patient information, there are a number of issues being pursued, including establishing a directory of providers of health information record exchanges; certifying networks (perhaps using established or to-be-established) federal standards; sharing best practices and other information and polices through a to-be-created governing board; and allowing consumers to "opt out" of health information exchanges. Additional information will follow as it is further developed.

Town Hall Meeting Scheduled

I will host a town hall meeting this Thursday, April 7, at 7 p.m., at the Ono Fire Hall. Please plan to join me!

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of March 28, 2011
3/29/11

School Mandate Relief Package Unveiled

Senators Piccola and Dinniman, the Republican and Democratic chairs of the Senate Education Committee, unveiled a comprehensive mandate relief package to help school districts better control their costs. Included in the set is my Senate Bill 612, legislation to empower schools to make furloughs for economic necessity, just as it is in private industry. Other bills in the package include:

Senate Bill 202 - allow alternative certifications for principals and teachers;

Senate Bill 293 and 296 - link bid thresholds to consumer price index;

Senate Bill 329 - suspend certain reporting requirements in years when state education funding declines;

Senate Bill 537 - require 2/3 school board vote to raise property taxes;

Senate Bill 801 - permit single prime bidding;

Senate Bill 802 - give districts the option to hire either school certificated nurses or Registered Nurses;

Senate Bill 803 - permit districts to advertise from a menu of options, including the internet;

Senate Bill 814 - reauthorize Mandate Waiver program allowing school construction project bids by both multi- and single prime;

Senate Bill 857 - repeal obsolete sections of the Public School Code that require districts to use increases in basic education funding for new programs and expansion of existing programs;

Senate Bill 858 - permit districts the option of hiring certificated superintendents or candidates who have a graduate degree in business or finance; and

Senate Bill 884 - waive administrator training requirements for districts demonstrating measured growth in performance.

Additional legislation is planned to:

Repeal requirements for paid sick and sabbatical leaves (leaving these issues to collective bargaining between districts and teachers' unions); Suspend (for two years) teachers' continuing education and professional development requirements; Give districts more flexibility to determine dual enrollment policies; Require the Secretary of Education and State Board of Education to review and overhaul Department of Education's processes for school construction and reimbursement; and Lift the mandate on schools to provide transportation for students who attend out-of-state private schools.

The Senate Education Committee is scheduled to discuss these bills on Tuesday, April 5, at 10:30 a.m. in Room 8EW, Main Capitol.

Public Hearing

The Senate Education Committee also conducted an informational briefing on the proposed Keystone Exams, Implementation of Pennsylvania's Value Added Assessment System (PVAAS), and new graduation rate information. All of these initiatives are designed to give schools more flexibility in educating students in light of the severe fiscal challenges facing both schools and the state.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of March 7, 2011
3/8/11

Budget Address Scheduled

Governor Corbett will deliver his first budget address to a joint Session of the House and Senate on Tuesday, March 8, starting at 11:30 a.m. Given the state of the current economy and the multi-billion dollar structural deficit he inherited from the previous administration, I am sure the plan will be filled with cuts and freezes to various programs. The budget address can be viewed live on my website, by clicking "Live Senate Feed."

Corbett Cabinet

I have had the opportunity to talk with many of Governor Corbett's cabinet nominees, and within the next few weeks, respective Senate Committees will meet to recommend the executives for full Senate confirmation. For those requiring approval by the full Senate, votes are expected shortly.

School Choice Plan Reported from Committee

Senate Bill 1, a plan to give students and their parents a measure of school choice, was reported from the Senate Education Committee by a vote of 8 – 2. Numerous amendments to the bill were considered, and three were approved, including:

Prohibit athletic recruiting of voucher recipients by either school districts or participating nonpublic schools; Ensure nonpublic schools adhere to IRS guidelines and give parents information on the academics, extracurricular activities, admissions, tuition, religious studies, and disciplinary procedures; and Clarify the eligibility of students, reimbursement of travel expenses, award of scholarships, transitional funding, EITC deadlines, and related requirements.

Information on the various hearings held on the issue and other related information can be found on Senator Jeff Piccola's website.

Senate Communications & Technology Committee Hearing Held

The Senate Communications & Technology Committee met for a public hearing on health information exchanges last week. The goal of the hearing was to gather information about electronic health information systems in other states, if Pennsylvania doctors and hospitals would support such a system, and examine barriers existing systems have faced in getting their respective networks up and running. A copy of the hearing testimony, as well as video, is available on my website.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of February 14, 2011
2/15/11

School Choice Hearing

The Senate Education Committee will hold an important public hearing on Senate Bill 1, the Opportunity and Educational Improvement Tax Credit Act (i.e., school choice), on Wednesday, February 16, from 9:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The Hearing will be held in Hearing room #1, North Office Building. Department of Education Secretary-Designate Ron Tomalis will offer testimony, as will representatives from REACH Alliance & Foundation, and American Federation of Teachers. For a complete hearing agenda, visit my website.

Senate Gets Down to Business

Senate committees have begun to meet and report a number of measures to the full Senate for consideration. Bills include:

Senate Bill 3 - exempts abortions from insurance coverage under health insurance exchanges established by the new federal health care law;

Senate Bill 9 - requires proof of citizenship to receive public benefits;

Senate Bill 42 - closes a loophole in Pennsylvania's "Megan's Law;"

Senate Bill 58 - adds additional protections for the victims of sexual violence;

Senate Bill 59 - establishes complaint procedures for judges under the Judicial Conduct Board;

Senate Bill 79 - establishes procedures for foreign depositions and subpoenas;

Senate Bill 88 - provides oversight of unincorporated nonprofit associations;

Senate Bill 110 - requires for logs in the use of state aircraft;

Senate Bill 157 - establishes a task force on Homeless Children's Education;

Senate Bill 159 - authorizes the Commonwealth to join the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children;

Senate Bill 200 - establishes standards for the management of concussions and traumatic brain injuries of student athletes;

Senate Bill 203 - provides for the transfer of credits among institutions of higher learning;

Senate Bill 224 - expands the list of convicted offenses that prohibit a person from being employed in a school;

Senate Bill 244 - requires schools to offer CPR training classes at least once every three years as an option to all school employees;

Senate Bill 251 - requires schools to post certain contracts online;

Senate Bill 328 - establishes a mechanism for the restoration of student drivers' licenses

Senate Bill 343 - restricts the Pennsylvania Department of Education from sharing certain student identity information; and

Senate Bill 344 - provides for public-private transportation partnerships.

THANK YOU, Governor Corbett!

Governor Tom Corbett recently rescinded the contract awarded in the waning days of the Rendell Administration for the proposed Pennsylvania Health Information Exchange (PHIX), a planned automated information system designed to electronically share patient information among health care providers confidentially.

The previous Administration proposed paying for this $31.7 million contract with $17.1 million in federal stimulus moneys. This gap, combined with the plan to award the contract through a sole-source/no-bid award subsequently modified through an RFP, resulted in many – including myself – questioning whether the process was fair, open, and transparent. I see the suspension of the PHIX contract as a victory for taxpayers and want to extend my thanks and appreciation to Governor Corbett for fixing PHIX!

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of January 24, 2011
1/25/11

Work Begins for 2011 Session

The 2011 – 2012 Legislative Session began in earnest as the Senate scheduled Session days for the first six months of the year:

January: 24, 25, and 26
February: 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, and 28
March: 1, 2, 7, 8, and 9 (with budget hearings 16, 17, and weeks of 21st and 28th) April: 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 26, and 27
May: 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 23, and 24
June: 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, and 30

Committee Assignments

In addition to remaining Chairman of the Communications and Technology Committee, I will serve as Vice Chair for the Education Committee. My other committee assignments include: Inter-Governmental Operations; Labor and Industry; State Government; and Urban Affairs and Housing.

Bills Reintroduced

I recently reintroduced a number of my past legislative initiatives, including:

Energy efficiency in state buildings, Senate Bill 153 (previously SB 784); Cord Blood Banking, Senate Bill 154 (previously SB 382); Securing loads in agriculture vehicles, Senate Bill 155 (previously SB 926); Bicycle safety, Senate Bill 156 (previously SB 776); and State Sovereignty, Senate Resolution 9 (previously SR 51)

Lawsuit Abuse Reform

I am pleased to join Senator Corman and a number of other Senate colleagues in seeking passage of the "Fair Share Act," changes to the principle of "joint and several liability," the archaic legal doctrine a person with as little as 1 percent responsibility for an accident or injury can be held liable for paying 100 percent of the damages.

The language of Senate Bill 2 was passed by the General Assembly in 2002, but was later found to be unconstitutional as the bill contained more than one subject. The same language was passed again in 2003, but was subsequently vetoed by former Governor Rendell – even though as a 2002 gubernatorial candidate he said he would sign it.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of January 3, 2011
1/4/11

Happy New Year

Happy New Year!! I hope 2011 will be a good one for you, your family, and friends. I look forward to continue working hard to represent the people of the 48th Senatorial District and advancing my "Promise to Pennsylvania."

Swearing In Day

Tuesday, January 4, is swearing in day for all members of the General Assembly. In accordance with Article II, Section 4 of the Pennsylvania Constitution, both the Senate and the House will convene at noon with the following Orders of Business for the Senate:

• Presentation of the Election Returns for Governor and Lieutenant Governor
• Presentation and reading of the Election Returns for Senators-elect
• Administration of the Oath of Office to Senators-elect
• Nomination and Election of the President Pro Tempore
• Administration of the Oath of Office to the President Pro Tempore, to be followed by Remarks and the Introduction of Guests
• Adoption of Resolutions putting forth Operating Rules and Ethical conduct Rules for the Senate
• Adoption of the Weekly Recess Resolution

The Senate Session will be followed by a Joint Session with the House to certify the Election Returns for Governor and to elect the Director of the Legislative Reference Bureau.

Senate Session

The full Senate will convene for Session Tuesday, January 18, for inaugural activities for Governor-elect Corbett and Lieutenant-Governor-elect Cawley. At 10 a.m., the Senate will convene to facilitate the Administration of the Oath of Office to the Lieutenant Governor-elect. Following the inaugural ceremony and remarks from the Lieutenant Governor, senators will proceed to the Inauguration Ceremony for Governor-elect Corbett.

The Senate will also convene at 10 a.m., Wednesday, January 19, but no roll call votes are anticipated.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of December 13, 2010
12/14/10

Thank You for Suggestions

Thanks to everyone who offered ideas and suggestions for continued outreach as I close my Robesonia District Office and incorporate its services into the Lebanon Office. While I continue to believe the legislature needs to "walk the talk" by finding ways to reduce costs, in light of the anticipated $5 billion budget shortfall next year, I also want to ensure the needs of my constituents are met. Among the many suggestions I have received regarding the closing of the Robesonia Office are: office hours at diverse locations in western Berks County, additional town hall meetings, and individual meetings at various locations. Hopefully, the transition to close the Robesonia office will be as smooth as the closing of the Elizabethtown District Office in 2008.

2011 Senate Leadership

Senate President Pro Tempore Scarnati recently announced the appointment of Senator Gordner as Senate Caucus Administrator. The position is responsible for scheduling clergy from various senatorial districts to serve as Chaplain of the Senate on Session days. The complete Senate leadership team is comprised of:

• Joe Scarnati, President Pro Tem – responsible to appoint standing committee chairs and represent the Senate in initiatives with the Governor and the House of Representatives;
• Dominic Pileggi, Majority Leader – oversees the legislative agenda, develops policies and strategies for the Senate Republican Caucus, and plays a key role in floor debates and initiatives with the Governor and House;
• Pat Browne, Majority Whip – acts as assistant floor leader and works to gain support for legislation;
• Jake Corman, Majority Chairman, Appropriations Committee – reviews all legislation for fiscal impact and plays a key role in developing the annual state budget;
• Mike Waugh, Majority Caucus Chair – presides over Republican Caucus meetings when bills are discussed and strategies developed; and
• Bob Robbins, Majority Caucus Secretary – oversees the executive nominations made by the Governor which require the advice and consent of the Senate;

PHIX Twist

As I anxiously await the Administration's answers to my questions about the proposed contract to implement a Pennsylvania Health Information Exchange (PHIX), there has been an interesting turn of events involving Medicity, Inc., the chosen contractor. Aetna Inc. is buying Medicity for $500 million. This may further complicate issues I have with the project, which include the lack of legislative authorization to establish a system like PHIX while encumbering un-appropriated funds to do so and the inability to sustain such a program.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of November 29, 2010
11/30/10

Bills Become Law

Last week Governor Rendell signed my Senate Bill 906, legislation that adds bioterrorism to the Pennsylvania Crime Code and amends the agricultural trespasser offense, and makes it a misdemeanor of the first degree to enter without authorization an agricultural bio-security area or enter an area without first performing bio-security measures. This is my fifth bill to become law. In addition to Senate Bill 906, the Governor also signed the following bills into law:

• House Bill 174 (Act 106): increases government oversight of food inspections;
• House Bill 196 (Act 107): limits the sale of certain over-the-counter cold medicines sometimes used by criminals to illegally manufacture methamphetamine;
• Senate Bill 441 (Act 123): changes responsibilities for school nurse practitioners;
• Senate Bill 642 (Act 124): provides for provisional licenses under the Sign Language Interpreter and Transliterator State Registration Act;
• Senate Bill 976 (Act 126): changes in the Amber Alert system;
• House Bill 708 (Act 108): establishes a statewide electronic waste recycling program;
• House Bill 1394 (Act 109): permits landowners enrolled in the Clean and Green program to allow development of wind and solar power generation;
• House Bill 1482 (Act 110): requires health care facility employees to wear a photo ID badge while working;
• House Bill 1609 (Act 111): amends the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code to provide for traditional neighborhood development
• House Bill 1639 (Act 112): makes child custody changes;
• House Bill 2139 (Act 113): creates the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System (PASS);
• House Bill 2172 (Act 114): increases the jurisdictional amounts in the Philadelphia Municipal Court and all magisterial district judge courts;
• House Bill 2258 (Act 115): amends the Juvenile Act to provide for sibling placement and visitation;
• House Bill 2273 (Act 116): provides for a fee for cervidae livestock operation licenses;
• House Bill 2321 (Act 118): applies the E-911 surcharge to prepaid wireless phones;
• House Bill 2338 (Act 119): outlines principles for children in foster care by foster parents and county and private agencies;
• House Bill 2497 (Act 120): makes various changes in Pennsylvania's public pension systems (SERS and PSERS) to attempt to address their ongoing financial problems;
• House Bill 2521 (Act 121): enacts the Anatomic Pathology Services Disclosure Act; and
• House Bill 2547 (Act 122): provides exceptions to license fees for manufactured homes

Bills Vetoed

Aside from signing numerous bills into law, Governor Rendell vetoed three pieces of legislation, bringing his total number of vetoes this year to six.

• House Bill 1231: creates a presumption of cancer under Pennsylvania's Occupational Disease law for certain firefighters;
• House Bill 1926: changes the registration requirements for sex offenders and establishes a Pennsylvania "Castle Doctrine;" and
• House Bill 2477: gives counties the option of eliminating jury commissioners and exempts coroner reports from the Right to Know Law.

We Spend How Much

For those of you, who like me, are concerned about out-of-control government spending, taxing, and borrowing, check the new feature on my website. The 2010-2011 state budget is $28 billion, which translates to daily spending of $76 million, hourly spending of $3.2 million, $53,354 each minute, and $889 every second. When you visit my website, you will see how much the state has spent of YOUR hard-earned money in the time you have been on the site.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of November 15, 2010
11/16/10

Cutting Costs

With Pennsylvania facing a budget shortfall by as much as $5 billion, I believe the legislature needs to "walk the talk" and examine ways to reduce spending. With this in mind, I plan to close my Robesonia District Office and incorporate the operations into my Lebanon District Office. My goal is to make a seamless transition. Berks County constituents will continue to have access to state services through the Lebanon office located in the Lebanon County Courthouse, or by calling 1-877-222-1897. Information regarding our services can also be found in the "Constituent Services" section of my website.

Among the continued services I envision for constituents of the 48th Senatorial District are: office hours at other locations in western Berks County, additional town hall meetings in the area, and individual meetings at convenient locations. I look forward to any additional ideas you may have.

PHIX Saga Continues

Last month I reported on the Rendell Administration's plans to award a $31,701,550 contract to Medicity to move forward with a planned Pennsylvania Health Information Exchange (PHIX). Medicity is the same vendor the Rendell Administration proposed awarding a sole-source, no bid contact to earlier in the year, but backed off due to my protests. With the General Assembly in recess and awaiting the January swearing-in of new legislators and Governor, legislative options are rather limited. Fortunately, AT&T, a competing bidder, has filed a protest with the Department of General Services. A copy of the AT&T protest can be found on my website.

Net Neutrality

With the electoral changes in Congress, a number of issues are outstanding – including one of concern to me – "net neutrality." While the name is not indicative of the purpose (i.e., regulation of the internet), proponents argue such government regulation is needed to keep the internet free and open by keeping companies from dominating access or otherwise creating a monopoly (i.e., charging more for high-speed service and/or other actions resulting in a two-tiered system of those who can pay more for internet access and those who cannot). I disagree. I believe government control is unnecessary, and a threat to our First Amendment right to freedom of speech. Also, I believe this is a deterrence for further (private) investments in the internet as private businesses and individuals build the data networks, write the software, own the servers and computers, and develop the content and websites.

I believe this issue is similar to the development of Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs). Initially, one could only use their ATM card at their bank - it was difficult, if not impossible, to use an ATM card at other banks. Later, some banks began to charge fees, resulting in calls for government oversight and/or limitations. As ATM services and access increased, most fees disappeared with banks competing for customers. Government oversight could never have kept pace and we would not have the ability today to use an ATM card at almost any bank throughout the world. I will continue to watch this issue carefully.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of November 8, 2010
11/9/10

Thank You

I am truly humbled by the overwhelming support I received in seeking my second term to the Pennsylvania Senate and would like to thank everyone for your encouragement, kind words and prayers. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU! Rest assured, I will continue to fight for the initiatives in the "Promise to Pennsylvania" - legislative and political reform, tax and spending reform, and legal and labor law reform. My goal is to continue to be a strong and consistent voice for taxpayers – people like you who pay bills on time and worry about the future for themselves and their families. I will continue to work to squeeze every penny out of every tax dollar so that government is a better steward of YOUR tax money!

At the same time, I will continue to push for changes that will put "We the People" back in charge of our state government. Some of these needed reforms include:

• A Taxpayer Protection Act;
• A Citizens' Constitutional Convention;
• Accountability in the use of state vehicles;
• Increased accountability about taxpayer-paid ads; and
• Getting Congress to recognize state sovereignty as guaranteed by the 10th Amendment

I take your trust seriously and am honored to serve as your State Senator for the next four years.

Senate Session

The Senate will meet for a ceremonial session at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, November 17, to say farewell to departing members, sign legislation received from the House (i.e., bills previously approved by the Senate and not amended in the House), and adopt congratulatory and condolence resolutions. No legislation will be considered.

In accordance with Article II, Section 4 of the state Constitution, the Senate will convene at noon, Tuesday, January 4, for the 2011 – 2012 Session to swear in newly and reelected Senators. The three new Senators being sworn in include:

John Yudichak - 14th Senatorial District (Carbon, Luzerne, and Monroe Counties – the seat is presently held by Senator Musto). Senator-elect Yudichak is the current State Representative for the 119th Legislative District.

John Blake - 22nd Senatorial District (Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Monroe Counties – the seat is presently held by Senator Mellow)

Tim Solobay - 46th Senatorial District (Allegheny, Beaver, Greene, Washington, and Westmoreland Counties – the seat is presently held by Senator Stout). Senator-elect Solobay is the current State Representative for the 48th Legislative District.

The Senate will also be in Session Tuesday, January 18, when the Governor and Lieutenant Governor are sworn in. Other 2010 scheduled Session Days are:

• January 19, 24, 25, and 26
• February 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, and 28
• March 1 and 2

Governor-Elect Corbett's first budget is due to be presented to the General Assembly no later than the first full week in March. Subsequent budgets are due no later than the first full week of February.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Citizen Mike Town Hall Meeting at Ono Fire Hall
10/19/10

Join Senator Mike Folmer to hear a mid-term report on the Promise to Pennsylvania. This town hall meeting will be held on October 28, 2010 at the Ono Fire Hall, located at 10805 Jonestown Road, Ono, PA 17077 (Lebanon County). The meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

Download a flier here and share with your friends!

Mike's Memo - Week of October 18, 2010
10/19/10

Senate Session

Last week, the Senate ended the 2009 – 2010 Legislative Session with no plans to reconvene after Election Day for a "Lame Duck" session (the 28 days between November 2 and 30). The Senate also did not hold a Lame Duck Session in 2008.

The Senate will meet for a ceremonial session on Wednesday, November 17, at 1 p.m., to say farewell to departing members, sign legislation received from the House (i.e., bills previously approved by the Senate and not amended in the House), and adopt congratulatory and condolence resolutions. No legislation will be considered.

Bills Signed Into Law

The following are among the bills signed into law by the Governor:

• Senate Bill 260 (Act 69 of 2010): gives the Attorney General concurrent jurisdiction with county district attorneys to prosecute "sexual abuse of children" offenses;
• Senate Bill 699 (Act 70): establishes an Adult Protective Services Program to be administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare;
• Senate Bill 1327 (Act 71): increases the fees for river pilot services on the Delaware River and Bay beginning in 2012;
• House Bill 105 (Act 61): imposes new penalties for impersonating a police officer in Cities of the Second Class (Pittsburgh);
• House Bill 106 (Act 62) and House Bill 107 (Act 63): imposes new penalties for impersonating a police officer and new penalties for wearing a police badge in Cities of the First Class (Philadelphia);
• House Bill 181 (Act 64): further defines the powers and duties of Game Commission enforcement officers in regard to stops, searches, inspections, and demands for identification;
• House Bill 1281 (Act 65): creates the "Privately Operated Community Corrections Facility Act;"
• House Bill 1376 (Act 66): requires examinations of continuing care providers;
• House Bill 1671 (Act 67): increases the membership of county records committees; and
• House Bill 1774 (Act 68): separates marketing and administration of service contracts from insurance.

Bills Sent to Governor

The following are bills sent to the Governor. All bills passed unanimously, unless otherwise indicated.

• Senate Bill 53: updates to the Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code and changes to the Corporations Code;
• Senate Bill 168: gives boroughs the authority to take part in power supply and electric generation projects;
• House Bill 196: limits the retail sale of certain over-the-counter cold medicines that can be used to illegally manufacturer methamphetamine;
• Senate Bill 298: eliminates inconsistent interpretations of the Clean and Green law while providing exemptions from roll-back taxes;
• Senate Bill 411: changes to teachers' certificates and where certain students are allowed to attend other high schools;
• Senate Bill 900: gives municipalities additional tools to prevent and remediate blighted and abandoned properties;
• Senate Bill 910: makes civil service requirements for firefighters and police in boroughs consistent with federal and state anti-discrimination;
• Senate Bill 912: makes civil service requirements for firefighters in incorporated towns consistent with federal and state anti-discrimination law;
• Senate Bill 918: reenacts the General County Assessment Law;
• Senate Bill 922: changes the Trauma Stabilization Act to add out-of-state trauma centers;
• Senate Bill 1161: allows inmates with short minimum sentences to be moved to community corrections centers for community-based treatment;
• Senate Bill 1169: requires defendants to pay court costs after sentencing (passed 44 – 5);
• Senate Bill 1429: provides for municipal consolidations and mergers;
• House Bill 1196: provides a one year moratorium on the requirement that all new homes have sprinkler systems installed (passed 37 – 12);
• House Bill 1609: amends the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning code to provide for "traditional neighborhood planning developments;"
• House Bill 2172: increases the jurisdictional limits of the Pennsylvania Municipal Court and magisterial district judges and changes the number of judges in Chester County;
• House Bill 2258: encourages the joint placement of siblings and/or visitation;
• House Bill 2273: provides for a $150 application fee for license renewals for the Cervidae Livestock Operation Account (passed 48 – 1);
• House Bill 2338: enacts the Children in Foster Care Act;
• House Bill 2497: efforts to address Pennsylvania's pension problems (passed 41 – 8, I was unable to support this measure); and
• House Bill 2521: enacts the Anatomic Pathology Service Disclosure Act.

Bills Sent to House

The following bills were sent to the House for further consideration. All bills passed unanimously, unless otherwise indicated.

• Senate Bill 428: increases from 10 years to 15 years convicted sex offenders need to register with the State Police;
• Senate Bill 873: requires counsel be provided to children at every state of judicial proceedings (passed 48 – 1, Senator Earll lone no vote);
• Senate Bill 1379: establishes a recycling program for old textbooks;
• Senate Bill 1409: amends the Workforce Development Act to provide for industry partnerships (passed 40 – 9);
• Senate Bill 1481: requires disclosure and notice of private transfer fee obligations;
• Senate Bill 1490: makes changes in the Delaware River Port Authority (passed 47 – 2);
• House Bill 60: establishes the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Program (passed 47 – 2, Senator Eichelberger and I were no votes);
• House Bill 174: makes changes to the Public Eating and Drinking Place Law; (passed 39 – 10, I was unable to support this measure);
• House Bill 664: changes the definition of "employee" under the Workers' Compensation law and permits sole proprietors to receive Workers' Compensation benefits (passed 27 – 22);
• House Bill 708: establishes a statewide electronic waste recycling program (passed 48 – 1, Senator Orie was a no vote);
• House Bill 1231: establishes a presumption of cancer for certain firefighters under Pennsylvania's Occupational Disease Law (passed 45 – 4);
• House Bill 1394: authorizes leasing of preferential assessment lands for wind power generation;
• House Bill 1482: requires healthcare workers to wear photo identification tags while working;
• House Bill 1639: makes child custody changes;
• House Bill 1926: changes the registration requirements of sex offenders and establishes a Pennsylvania Castle Doctrine (passed 45 – 4, Senators Earll, Hughes, Kitchen, and Tartaglione were no votes);
• House Bill 2139: enacts the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System Act;
• House Bill 2321: applies the E-911 surcharges to prepaid wireless phones (passed 44 – 5);
• House Bill 2477: changes for the Erie Convention Center, abolishes jury commissioners, and exempts certain coroner records from the Open Records Law (passed 41 – 8); and
• House Bill 2547: makes exceptions to licensing requirements under the Mortgage Licensing Act.

Time Runs Out for PHIX Bill

House Bill 2106, the establishment of a Pennsylvania Health Information Exchange (PHIX) finally reached the Senate Communications & Technology Committee, after passing the House 146 – 44. However, there was insufficient time in the 2009 – 2010 legislative session for it to be considered further.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

###

Mike's Memo - Week of October 11, 2010
10/12/10

Bills Sent to Governor

The following are among the bills sent to the Governor for further consideration:

• Senate Bill 260: gives the Attorney General concurrent jurisdiction with county district attorneys to prosecute "sexual abuse of children" offenses
• Senate Bill 699: establishes an Adult Protective Services Program to be administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare
• Senate Bill 1327: increases the fees for river pilot services on the Delaware River and Bay beginning in 2012
• House Bill 105: imposes new penalties for impersonating a police officer in Cities of the Second Class (Pittsburgh)
• House Bill 106: imposes new penalties for impersonating a police officer in Cities of the First Class (Philadelphia)
• House Bill 107: imposes new penalties for wearing a police badge in Cities of the First Class (Philadelphia)
• House Bill 181: further defines the powers and duties of Game Commission enforcement officers in regard to stops, searches, inspections, and demands for identification
• House Bill 1376: requires examinations of continuing care providers
• House Bill 1671: increases the membership of county records committees
• House Bill 1774: separates marketing and administration of service contracts from insurance
• House Bill 1281: creates the "Privately Operated Community Corrections Facility Act"

Governor Questions RealID Bill

The Governor sent the attached letter on my Senate Bill 621, which unanimously passed the full Senate in June, seeking to exempt Pennsylvania from the mandates of the federal RealID Act.

Senate Questions Marcellus Shale Legislation

Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati has requested the Legislative Reference Bureau to issue an advisory opinion regarding the likely constitutionality of Senate Bill 1155, which unanimously passed the Senate, as a proposal to create the "County Officer and Employee Fiscal Security Act" to provide for bonding or insurance of elected and appointed county officers and officials who handle money or property. However, SB 1155 was amended in the House to include a severance tax on Marcellus Shale. Article III, Section 1 of the Pennsylvania Constitution stipulates: "No law shall be passed except by bill, and no bill shall be so altered or amended, on its passage through either House, as to change its original purpose." Article III, Section 3 states: No bill shall be passed containing more than one subject, which shall be clearly expressed in its title, except a general appropriation bill or a bill codifying or compiling the law or a part thereof."

Also attached is the Governor's letter to Senators Scarnati and Pileggi.

Senate Session

The Senate plans to finish the 2009 – 2010 legislative Session with three scheduled Session Days: October 12, 13, and 14. The Senate announced, prior to the summer recess, it would not convene for a regular "Lame Duck" Session for 2010. The 28 days between November 2 and November 30 are known as the "Lame Duck" Session because some members of the General Assembly can vote on legislation – despite the fact their successors have already been elected. The Senate did not hold a Lame Duck Session in 2008.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

###

Citizens Alliance of Pennsylvania PAC Endorses Senator Folmer
10/11/10

Citizens Alliance of Pennsylvania PAC (CAP PAC) today endorsed state Senator Mike “Citizen Mike” Folmer’s re-election bid as well as seven candidates for the state House of Representatives: Eli Evankovich (Dist. 54), Rick Saccone (Dist. 39), Joe Emrick (Dist. 137), Richard Yeager (Dist. 50), Rob Ferguson (Dist. 58), Todd Stephens (Dist. 151), and Dan Truitt (Dist. 156). “The battle this election year is not between Democrats and Republicans but them and us—career politicians who’ve crushed our standard of living vs. we the people, who want Harrisburg to grow the economy rather than government, and live within a budget the way we have to,” said CAP PAC executive director Joe Sterns.

“In Eli Evankovich, Rick Saccone, Joe Emrick, Richard Yeager, Rob Ferguson, Todd Stephens and Dan Truitt we have an outstanding class of candidates with real world experience and unimpeachable integrity who are eager to cut wasteful spending and taxes and reform the way Harrisburg does business.”
Senator Folmer, Eli Evankovich, Rick Saccone, Joe Emrick, Richard Yeager, Rob Ferguson, Todd Stephens and Dan Truitt bring to 10 the number of candidates for the General Assembly that CAP PAC has endorsed in 2010. They join state House candidates Justin Simmons (District 131) and Stephen Bloom (District 199).

CAP PAC is a non-partisan organization dedicated to raising the standard of living of all Pennsylvanians by restoring the Constitutional principles of limited government, economic freedom, and personal responsibility. By empowering the Commonwealth’s employers and taxpayers to break Harrisburg’s Iron Triangle of career politicians, bureaucrats, and Big Government lobbyists, this restoration will occur and Pennsylvania will prosper.

Mike's Memo - Week of October 4, 2010
10/5/10

Bills Sent to Governor for Action

The Senate unanimously approved a number of measures and sent them to the Governor for consideration, including:

• House Bill 105: imposes new penalties for impersonating a police officer in Cities of the Second Class (Pittsburgh)
• House Bill 106: imposes new penalties for impersonating a police officer in Cities of the First Class (Philadelphia)
• House Bill 107: imposes new penalties for wearing a police badge in Cities of the First Class (Philadelphia)
• House Bill 181: clarifies powers and duties of Game Commission officers during stops, searches, inspections, and demands for identification
• House Bill 1376: requires examinations of continuing care providers

The Senate also confirmed Basil Merenda as Secretary of the Commonwealth, replacing Pedro Cortez.

Senate Sends Bills to House

The following are among the bills the full Senate sent to the House of Representatives for consideration:

• Senate Bill 162: provides for veteran-owned business participation in procurement contracts (passed 43 - 4: Senators Earll, Smucker, Vance, and MJ White)
• Senate Bill 384: my bill to give police at military installations (like Fort Indiantown Gap) the same powers as municipal police (passed 47 – 1: Senator Ferlo)
• Senate Bill 890: mandated school reporting on athletic opportunities of male and female students (passed unanimously)
• Senate Bill 906: my ag biosecurity measure to establish penalties for trespassing in designated bio-secure areas (passed 32 – 16); a companion bill (HB 511) is also on the Senate Calendar for consideration
• Senate Bill 976: expands the Amber Alert System Law to include a Missing Endangered Person Advisory System (passed unanimously)
• Senate Bill 1280: continues the MCARE Fund for another seven years (passed 38 – 9)
• Senate Bill 1429: amends the Municipal Code relating to mergers and consolidations (passed unanimously)
• Senate Bill 1469: various changes in the Right to Know Law (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 47: creates the "Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Education and Prevention Program Act" (passed 32 – 15; I was not able to support this measure)
• House Bill 101: various changes to the School Code (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 400: defines "employee" and "independent contractor" (passed 34 – 13; I was not able to support this measure)
• House Bill 727: further provides for trademark counterfeiting (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 1515: brings civil service requirements for firefighters and police in Townships of the First Class into compliance with federal and state anti-discrimination laws (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 1516: conforms state law to federal law relative to firefighter civil service (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 1517: conforms state law to federal and state anti-discrimination law for police in Cities of the Third Class (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 1518: conforms state law to federal and state anti-discrimination laws for police in incorporated towns (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 1671: increases the membership of county records committees (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 1774: separates marketing and administration of service contracts from insurance (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 1990: provides for necessary expenses for annual meetings of directors of veterans' affairs (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 2172: increases the jurisdictional limits of the Philadelphia Municipal Court and magisterial district judges and change the number of judges in Chester County (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 1281: creates the "Privately Operated Community Corrections Facility Act" (passed unanimously)
• House Bill 2212: renames the "Manufactured Home Community Rights Act" (from the "Mobile Home Park Rights Act") with various other changes (passed 46 – 1: Senator Earll)
• House Bill 2246: Vehicle Code changes – MINUS a previously approved amendment to argue damages prior to jury deliberations (passed 44 – 3: Senators Earll Smucker, and MJ White – despite REMOVAL of the arguing damages amendment prior to final passage)
• House Bill 2291: the 2010 – 2011 Capital Budget (passed 41– 6: myself and Senators Mensch, Orie, Vance, Vogel, and Ward)
• House Bill 2375: provide indemnity agreements for motor carrier transportation contracts (passed unanimously)

Senate Session

The Senate recessed until after the Columbus Day Holiday (Monday, October 11). These are the last scheduled Session Days for the 2009 – 2010 legislative Session: October 12, 13, and 14.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

###

Mike's Memo - Week of September 20, 2010
9/21/10

Update on Reform Initiatives

As the full Senate prepares to return to voting Session, here is an update on some of my reform initiatives:

• Senate Bill 7 ("Taxpayer Protection Act"): Limits state spending to rate of inflation/population growth – Senate Finance Committee
• Senate Bill 104 (accountability for use of state vehicles): Requires the listing of all state-owned vehicles online – unanimously passed full Senate; in House State Government Committee
• Senate Bill 109 ("Taxpayer Funded Advertising Transparency Act"): Requires "Paid for with Pennsylvania Taxpayer Dollars" on all Commonwealth advertising – unanimously passed full Senate; in House State Government Committee
• Senate Bill 252 ("Voters' Choice Act"): Reduces ballot barriers for independent and third party candidates – Senate State Government Committee
• Senate Bill 340 (Citizens' Constitutional Convention): Allows people (non-legislators and non-lobbyists) to develop proposed changes (except Article I) to Pennsylvania's Constitution for consideration by the electorate – Senate State Government Committee
• Senate Bill 394 ("Tax Me More Fund"): Allows those who believe state government does not spend or tax enough to make voluntary contributions to their favorite program(s)
• Senate Resolution 51 (State Sovereignty): Calls upon Congress to abide by the 10th Amendment to the United States Constitution – reported from Senate State Government Committee; tabled
  Other Initiatives

Here is the status of some of my other legislative initiatives:

• Senate Bill 211 (Small Games of Chance): Increases the weekly limits for Small Games of Chance from $5,000 – reported from Senate Finance Committee; tabled
• Senate Bill 382 (Statewide Public Cord Blood Banking Act): Provides for the collection and banking of placental and umbilical cord blood for therapeutic transplantation and research – Senate Public Health & Welfare Committee
• Senate Bill 384 (police powers at military installations): Gives police at military installations (like Fort Indiantown Gap) the same powers as municipal police – unanimously reported from Senate Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee; re-referred to Senate Appropriations Committee
• Senate Bills 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 507, 508, 509, 510, 511 ("Healthy Pennsylvania"): Consumer-driven/market-driven initiatives to reduce health care costs while enhancing the quality and access to care – Senate Bill 507 (High Risk Pool) passed Senate 49 – 1; referred to House Insurance Committee
• Senate Bill 621 (RealID): Exempts Pennsylvania from the costly and intrusive mandates of the federal Real ID Act – unanimously passed full Senate; unanimously reported from House Transportation Committee; tabled in House
• Senate Bill 784 (Energy Efficiency in State Government Buildings Act): Makes the Commonwealth lead by example in adopting, implementing, and promoting energy efficiency and alternative fuels – Senate State Government Committee
• Senate Bill 906 (Ag biosecurity): Establishes penalties for bioterrorism – unanimously reported from Senate Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee; tabled
• Senate Bill 1312: Exempts Pennsylvanians from federal health care law mandates – Senate Banking & Insurance Committee
• Senate Resolution 133: Provides guidelines for state expenditures of federal stimulus moneys for broadband – unanimously passed full Senate
  Senate Committees

Here is a listing of scheduled Senate Committees meetings, including the September 22 meeting of the Senate Communications & Technology Committee, which I chair.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

###

Mike's Memo - Week of September 13, 2010
9/14/10

Happy Birthday: US Constitution

September 17 marks the 223rd anniversary of the United States Constitution as on that date in 1787 it was signed by 39 of the 55 delegates to the Constitutional Convention. The document then went to the states (13) for their approval, with nine (three-quarters) being the required number for ratification.

Delaware (December 7, 1787) was the first to ratify, Pennsylvania (December 12, 1787) the second, and New Hampshire (June 21, 1788) the ninth and deciding state. The first Congress, consisting of 20 Senators and 59 Representatives, convened on March 4, 1789 in New York City. George Washington, the first President (and only President unanimously elected by the Electoral College), took the oath of office on the balcony of the Senate Chamber at Federal Hall on Wall Street on April 30, 1789.

Some delegates at the Constitutional Convention would not sign the document because it lacked a Bill of Rights. These concerns carried over to the states' ratifying conventions and the subsequent debates. Some of these fears were addressed through the 85 Federalist Papers, written by Alexander Hamilton (52), James Madison (28), and John Jay (5).

The 1st Congress of the United States recommended 12 Constitutional amendments to the states to put these concerns to rest. When the 10th state (Virginia) approved 10 of these amendments on December 15, 1791, America had a formal Bill of Rights.

• The First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of press, freedom of assembly, and freedom of petition.
• The Second Amendment guarantees the right to keep and bear arms.
• The Third Amendment prohibits the quartering of soldiers in private homes.
• The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.
• The Fifth Amendment protects against self-incrimination.
• The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to a speedy trial, an impartial jury, the ability to confront witnesses, and the right to counsel.
• The Seventh Amendment guarantees the right to a trial by jury.
• The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive bail and cruel and unusual punishment.
• The Ninth Amendment guarantees people's rights – even those not listed: "the enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people."
• The Tenth Amendment guarantees state sovereignty: "the powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people."

Every elected official – federal, state, and local – swears or affirms they will "support, obey, and defend the Constitution of the United States and Constitution of this Commonwealth." We'd have a lot fewer problems if they did.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

###

Mike's Memo - Week of August 30, 2010
8/31/10

Taxation With Representation

"No taxation without representation" was a key principle of the American Revolution. How far have we come since that time?

In 1765, Americans opposed the quartering of troops in their homes. In 2010, Americans are subject to the REAL ID Act, which seeks to create a national identification card and database (including biometric photos of people’s faces). Some would like to add RFID (radio frequency identification) chips to these ID cards so that personal information could be in one place and readily available and easily transmitted to others.

In 1767, Americans opposed taxes on stamps, lead, paint, paper, glass, and tea. In 2010, Americans pay taxes on amusements, capital gains, cigarettes, corporations, earned income, services, estates, gas, liquor, sales, per capita, personal income, personal property, property, realty transfers, Social Security, telephone calls, utilities, and unemployment.

In 1773, Americans questioned special licenses, such as the one giving the English East India Company a monopoly on the importation of tea. In 2010, Pennsylvania taxpayers are helping to foot the bill for the special Arlen Specter library and the Jack Murtha facility. In addition, Americans pay a host of license fees, including: building permits, dog licenses, fishing licenses, hunting licenses, marriage licenses, and vehicle and boat registration fees. You need either a license or a permit to do home repairs, open and operate a business, or do business in certain professions.

In 1774, Americans opposed the "Intolerable Acts", which extended royal control over the colonies and their citizens. In 2010, Americans face a myriad of government regulations, such as zoning, state and local building codes, restrictions on the amount of water in toilets, and environmental requirements on gas and cars. In addition, Americans pay a variety of fines and other fees, including: parking meter fees, speeding tickets, traffic fines, and government late fees/penalties. The new federal health care law mandates people buy insurance and imposes additional penalties for failure to do so.

In 1776, Americans declared independence, saying: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." In 2010, Americans may need to ask themselves if we have these inalienable rights.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

###

Mike's Memo - Week of August 23, 2010
8/24/10

2010 – 2011 State Budget (continued)

Senate Republican leaders recently sent recommendations to the Governor on plans to close the remaining gap in Pennsylvania’s 2010 – 2011 state budget. Senators Scarnati, Pileggi, and Corman would like more attention devoted to Pennsylvania’s impending pension crises. I share this concern, which is why I have scheduled a briefing on this important issue for my Business and Local Government Advisory Committees: 7:30 a.m., Thursday, September 2 in the Met Ed Auditorium, 600 S. 5th Avenue, Lebanon. This important briefing is being sponsored by the Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce and the featured speakers will be Senator Pat Browne, Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and Rick Dreyfuss, Senior Fellow, Commonwealth Foundation for Public Policy Alternatives.

No issue threatens the financial health of our Commonwealth more than the unfunded liability of Pennsylvania’s pension systems: an estimated $1.45 billion 2010 – 2011, $6 billion 2012 – 2013, and $7.4 billion 2015 – 2016. My goal is to inform key business leaders and local government officials of the magnitude of these problems and provide some of the solutions the General Assembly may need to consider to address these many problems. As seating is limited, please contact Fallon Binner of my staff if you have an interest in attending: fbinner@pasen.gov or (717) 274-6735.

Transportation Caucus Meeting

While the Governor continues to push for legislative action to meet Pennsylvania’s transportation infrastructure needs, he has not offered specifics on how to meet these many problems. For this reason, House Speaker Keith McCall has called for a bipartisan, bicameral Transportation Caucus meeting for today (Monday, August 23): 11:30 a.m., 140 Main Capitol. This meeting will feature a presentation from Allen Biehler, PA Secretary of Transportation, which will include – for the first time – the administration’s specific proposals and recommendations for the Commonwealth’s transportation crisis. I look forward to learning of these specifics.

KINBER Hearing

As previously noted, I have had many questions on the proposed Pennsylvania Research & Education Network (PennREN), which is receiving $99.7 million in federal stimulus moneys and is to be administered by the Keystone Initiative for Education & Research (KINBER). I attempted to obtain some answers to these questions through a June public hearing of the Senate Communications & Technology Committee and I have scheduled a second hearing for: 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 22 (Room 8E-B, East Wing). In the interim, I am pleased Senate Majority Caucus Chairman Mike Waugh is joining with me to secure answers to the questions that have been asked.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

###

Mike's Memo - Week of August 16, 2010
8/17/10

Senate Committee Meetings

A number of Senate Committees are meeting, including:

• Transportation: 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 18th (Hearing Room No. 1, North Office Building) – public hearing on rail and ports
• State Government: 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 17th (Allegheny College, 520 North Main Street, Meadville) – campaign finance reform (Senate Bill 576 and Senate Bill 1269)

Click here for a complete and up-to-date list of Senate Committee meetings, times, dates, and locations.

Dog Law Regulations

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) will also be meeting to review a variety of proposed regulations, including proposed dog law regulations being recommended by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture: 10:00 a.m., Thursday, August 19th (1st Floor Conference Room, 333 Market Street, Harrisburg).

Continuing Questions on Proposed Network

In June, the Senate Communications & Technology Committee, which I chair, held a public hearing on the Pennsylvania Research & Education Network (PennREN), which is receiving $99.7 Million in federal stimulus moneys and is to be administered by the Keystone Initiative for Education & Research (KINBER). As I have continuing questions, I sent a follow up letter to gather additional information. Given the lack of answers in KINBER’s response, I have scheduled another hearing on this initiative: 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 22 (Room 8E-B, East Wing). Further information will follow prior to the hearing.

PA Fair Care Launched

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department recently announced a new program to provide health care for uninsured adults with pre-existing conditions. PA Fair Care will be administered through a contract with Highmark Blue Shield and promised benefits are to include preventive care, physician services, diagnostic testing, hospitalization, mental health services, and prescriptions. Applications may be completed online at www.PAFairCare.com.

As the Rendell Administration chose to launch this new program without legislative authorization (such as my Senate Bill 507 establishing a High Risk Pool), I am concerned applications will far exceed resources (which are coming through the federal stimulus package). As I have said throughout the health care debate, there will never be enough money to fulfill the many promises being made about the new federal health care law. This is demonstrated by the dire actuarial warnings for both Medicare and Social Security, which predict insolvency in the years ahead.

PennDOT Applications

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has begun to implement changes in procedures for paperwork processed through legislative offices. These changes include:

• Legislative offices can no longer process paperwork from a notary under contract to PennDOT
• Any service that collects a fee over and above PennDOT’s fees, including messenger services, cannot be processed through our office.
• Legislative offices can no longer process MV-1 (title and registration for a new vehicle) or MV-4ST (transfer of existing title to new owner), however, we can process rejected paperwork by sending the corrected work back to PennDOT.
• Legislative offices CAN renew individual licenses and registrations
• Legislative offices CAN give you information on your driving or vehicle records

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

###

Citizen Mike Receives Lebanon 9-12 Project’s 2010 Patriot Award

Scott Russo speech with comments and pictures:

George Washington: General Orders, August 23, 1776

The hour is fast approaching, on which the Honor and Success of this army, and the safety of our bleeding Country depend. Remember officers and Soldiers, that you are Freemen, fighting for the blessings of Liberty and that slavery will be your portion, and that of your posterity, if you do not acquit yourselves like men.

If you are like me, and many of you are, you feel like you are slowly topping over that frightening hill on the rollercoaster and sense that heightened feeling that comes before you lurch forward.

Whatever is coming, it is not likely to be boring.

We have come so far in a year. This is the week a year ago that Katy Abram told Arlen about the sleeping giants he awoke. He thought we were going to be a flash in the pan, but here we are…. And he is not.

We are not as emotional as some groups, we don’t protest as often, we do not attract as much media attention, but still waters run deep. We work. We identify road blocks and problems and we set about solving them. We fill political seats and hold the elected accountable. Through hard work we have toppled the untouchable, and our reach grows daily.

That would be ominous if not for the core principles and values we have anchored ourselves to. Most other groups have a cause, but no stated principles. No restrictions to steer the actions. Like ships without rudders, many groups have crashed. We deal with very serious and powerful opponents, this ship had better be built to handle the stress of sea duty or we better stay securely docked. Thus far the sea trials have been a success, and the state of Lebanon 9-12s union is excellent.

William Ellery put it into perspective, Difficulties are meant to rouse, not discourage

it seems like we emerge from each challenge stronger and more determined.

(So Mike is listening along….. His wife and Laurie Jo know what is coming but he does not.)

You know, Katy and I have gotten plenty of pats on the back along the way, but let me talk about what it is to be exceptional.

Please excuse me if I am a little emotional here….. if Glenn can be than I get to be.

(I was.)

You know, I don’t think Patriot is something you declare about yourself, it is a title of honor given to you by others. Often times the patriot is not the one getting the accolades, it is the one who selflessly sacrifices to serve the nation and its people. Often with no thanks or recognition at all.

It is important to stop and say thank you, especially in times like these. No, I am not talking anything whatsoever about the cheap and tawdry thanks we are used to seeing in todays world. Not a scratch your back… I’ll endorse you…. Horse trading typical thanks. I mean turning to a person, an individual, outside of their station in life, job, family name. or any other claim to fame, and honoring them for their personal and individual character.

(Wish I had a picture…. Mike looked puzzled about what I was getting at , now I start to turn the subject to him.)

There are members in this 9-12 group that never get the recognition that they truly deserve, but tonight I am thinking of one in particular, who has been there with us the whole way, regardless of the cost to them. Their attitude in life has been best described by Benjamin Franklin.

The best thing to give your enemy is forgiveness; to an opponent, tolerance; to a friend, your heart; to your child, a good example; to a father, deference; to your mother, conduct that will make her proud of you; to yourself, respect; to all men, charity.

I went to the board and requested that we stop to recognize an honorable citizen. Unanimously it was agreed that we give a first annual award to a deserving person who has exemplified sacrificial citizenship in service to the Constitution, and we the people.

Tonight I am going to ask you to come forward and accept the first Lebanon 9-12 Patriots award, not as our Senator, but as a loyal citizen, Mike Folmer.

Mike’s first reaction was shock, then this moment of humble savoring.

Mike comes to the front.

I read this to him...

The certificate said:

The Lebanon 9-12 Patriot Award recognizes exceptional citizens who have demonstrated a profound and abiding love of country and community and whose inspirational leadership and selfless dedication symbolize our nation’s ideals, values and principles.

The award said:

Lebanon 9-12 Project
2010 Patriot Award
Michael J. Folmer
For exemplary citizenship and service to the Constitution

It was very emotional, by this time there were tears in many eyes. Our feelings run deep for Mike.

A good night...

A Patriot...

Mike's Memo - Week of August 9, 2010
8/10/10

Who's Certifiable?

"He's certifiable!" That's what Governor Rendell said about me in 2006 during my first state budget when I doubted his cost estimates. Four years later, I'm still questioning the Governor about his spending, taxing and borrowing. You just can't tell me $10 million for an Arlen Specter library and/or a Jack Murtha facility makes any sense.

To me, controlling spending is the key to reforming governments, protecting taxpayers, and avoiding higher taxes. Unfortunately, with billion dollar state budgets and trillion dollar federal budgets, tax money is treated like play money: there's little understanding of the costs.
Most people understand what $100 is because they can hold it in their hands and they know what it can buy. However, few really know, understand, or appreciate what $100,000,000 ($100 million) or $100,000,000,000 ($100 billion) is. Yet, such figures are regularly thrown around by state and federal officials.

When Governor Rendell came to office, the state budget was $20,306,542,000. During his eight years, spending has grown by 38 percent ($7,736,595,000): to $28,043,137,000 (don't forget: he proposed spending nearly $1 billion more, $29,029,507,000). Neither Pennsylvania's population nor the cost of living has risen this fast over these past eight years. Government has simply grown faster than the ability of the taxpayers to pay for it.

During my nearly four years in office, I have worked to ensure the Commonwealth is squeezing every penny out of each tax dollar. Among the many expenditures I have questioned are no-bid, sole source contracts, agreements between the Pennsylvania Department of Education and Intermediate Units, and the use of federal stimulus money (I'll never understand why some people think federal money doesn't come from the same place – taxpayers).

While the General Assembly was successful this year in stopping tax increases – so far (we return in September to consider possible natural gas taxes) – we face a structural deficit of approximately $5 Billion next year as federal moneys dry up, the costs of eight years of borrowing come due, and other costs continue to rise (most notably state pension costs).
In the interim, consider how much we are spending under Pennsylvania's new 2010 – 2011 budget of $28,043,137,000: approximately $76 million per day, $3 million an hour, $53,000 a minute, and $889 a second.

Imagine holding nine $100 bills in your hand. Look: they're gone in the blink of an eye (one second)! That's how fast the Commonwealth is spending your tax money. Who's certifiable?

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of July 12, 2010
7/13/10

New Staff (sort of)

I'm pleased to announce the birth of Caroline Lynn Williams, second daughter of Lynn and Beth Williams (my director of communications): July 7th @ 2:04 p.m., 7 lbs., 19-½".

Bills Signed Into Law

With passage of the 2010 – 2011 state budget, a number of measures were signed into law, including:

• House Bill 687 (Act 39 of 2010): allows government entities to enter into guaranteed energy saving contracts
• Senate Bill 174 (Act 41): amends the Workforce Development Act to establish the Pennsylvania Center for Health Careers and the Health Careers Leadership Council within the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry
• Senate Bill 928 (Act 44): requires the divestiture of public retirement system moneys from companies doing business in Iran and Sudan
• Senate Bill 1074 (Act 45): prohibits the shackling of pregnant incarcerates
• Senate Bill 1042 (Act 46): Fiscal Code changes which provide budget implementation language
• House Bill 2279 (Act 1A): 2010 – 2011 budget appropriations ($28.04 Billion)
• House Bill 2280 (Act 2A): appropriations for the Small Business Advocate
• House Bill 2281 (Act 3A): appropriations for the licensure boards (Bureau and Professional and Occupational Affairs, Pennsylvania Department of State)
• House Bill 2282 (Act 4A): appropriations for the Office of Consumer Advocate
• House Bill 2283 (Act 5A): appropriations for the operations of the Public School Employees' Retirement Board (PSERS)
• House Bill 2284 (Act 6A): appropriations for the operations of the State Employees' Retirement Board (SERS)
• House Bill 2285 (Act 7A): appropriations for gaming oversight (Gaming Board, Department of Revenue, State Police, and Attorney General)
• House Bill 2286 (Act 8A): appropriations for the administration of the Workers' Compensation system and the Office of Small Business Advocate
• House Bill 2287 (Act 9A): appropriations for the Public Utility Commission
• House Bill 2292 (Act 10A): appropriations for Penn State University
• House Bill 2293 (Act 11A): appropriations for the University of Pittsburgh
• House Bill 2294 (Act 12A): appropriations for Temple University
• House Bill 2295 (Act 13A): appropriations for Lincoln University
• House Bill 2296 (Act 14A): appropriations to the University of Pennsylvania

Reform Measures

Here's the status of a number of my proposed reform measures:

• Senate Bill 7 ("Taxpayer Protection Act"): Senate Finance Committee
• Senate Bill 104 (Accountability in the use of state vehicles): unanimously passed Senate; in House State Government Committee
• Senate Bill 109 ("Taxpayer Funded Advertising Transparency Act"): unanimously passed Senate; in House State Government Committee
• Senate Bill 252 ("Voters' Choice Act"): Senate State Government Committee
• Senate Bill 340: ("Citizens' Constitutional Convention"): Senate State Government Committee
• Senate Bill 394 ("Tax Me More Fund"): Senate Finance Committee
• Senate Resolution 51 (State Sovereignty): Senate tabled bill calendar

Other Measures

Here's the status of a number of my other legislative initiatives:

• Senate Bill 211 (Small Games of Chance): Senate tabled bill calendar
• Senate Bill 382 (Cord Blood Bank): Senate Public Health & Welfare Committee
• Senate Bill 384 (Police powers at military installations): unanimously reported from Senate Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee; re-referred to Senate Appropriations Committee
• Senate Bill 507 (State High Risk Pool): passed Senate 49 – 1; referred to House Insurance Committee
• Senate Bill 621 (RealID): unanimously passed Senate; referred to House Transportation Committee
• Senate Bill 906 (Trespassing in agricultural biosecurity areas): unanimously reported from Senate Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee; Senate tabled bill calendar

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of July 5, 2010
7/6/10

Budget Details

As widely reported by the media, both the Senate (37–13) and the House (117–84) passed the state budget (House Bill 2279) for 2010 – 2011. I was not able to support this measure as I do not believe it represents a balanced budget as required by Pennsylvania's Constitution – especially since next to no one thinks we will actually receive any or all of $850 million in federal funding. The $28.04 billion budget represents state spending of approximately $76 million per day, $3 million an hour, $53,000 a minute, and $889 a second. To view a listing of line items within the approved budget click here.

The following measures were also passed in conjunction with the budget, including:

• Senate Bill 1042: provides budget implementation language and a number of other provisions not directly related to the budget; passed the Senate 39 – 11 (I was not able to support this measure)
• House Bill 254: changes to the Public Welfare Code authorizing moneys appropriated for welfare under the General Fund budget
• House Bill 2280: appropriations for the Small Business Advocate
• House Bill 2281: appropriations for the licensure boards (Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs, Pennsylvania Department of State)
• House Bill 2282: appropriations for the Office of Consumer Advocate
• House Bill 2283: appropriations for the operations of the Public School Employees' Retirement Board
• House Bill 2284: appropriations for the operations of the State Employees' Retirement Board
• House Bill 2285: appropriations for gaming oversight (Gaming Board, Department of Revenue, State Police, and Attorney General)
• House Bill 2286: appropriations for the administration of the Workers' Compensation system and the Office of Small Business Advocate
• House Bill 2287: appropriations for the Public Utility Commission
• House Bill 2289: the 2010 – 2011 Capital Budget (passed the Senate 38 – 12) (I was not able to support this measure)
• House Bill 2290: raises the Commonwealth's debt limit by another $600 Million (to $4,050,000,000 from $3,450,000,000, with concomitant debt services over the next 20 years); passed the Senate 38 – 12 (I was not able to support this measure)
• House Bill 2292: appropriations for Penn State University
• House Bill 2293: appropriations for the University of Pittsburgh
• House Bill 2294: appropriations for Temple University
• House Bill 2295: appropriations for Lincoln University
• House Bill 2296: appropriations for University of Pennsylvania

Bills Signed Into Law

A number of other bills were also sent to the Governor for action, including:

• Senate Bill 174 (Act 41 of 2010): establishes the Pennsylvania Center for Health Careers and the Health Careers Leadership Council of the Pennsylvania Center for Health Careers in statute
• Senate Bill 928 (Act 44): requires the divestiture of public retirement system moneys from companies doing business in Iran and Sudan
• Senate Bill 1074 (Act 45): prohibits the shackling of pregnant prisoners
• House Bill 9 (Act 37): extends the sunset date for the Pennsylvania Conservation Corps by 10 years (from June 30, 2010 to June 30, 2020)
• House Bill 48 (Act 35 of 2010): makes a number of Liquor Code changes

A number of other bills were sent to the Governor and are awaiting action, including:

• Senate Bill 87: allows institutions of higher education to charge resident tuition rates for active duty military personnel and their dependents
• Senate Bill 260: amends the Crimes Code as it applies to the corruption of minors and the sexual abuse of children
• House Bill 1186: establishes a new Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs and makes changes to the PHEAA Board; passed 42 – 8 and 40 – 10 after additional amendments by the House (I was not able to support this measure after the House amendments were added)

Other Actions

The full Senate unanimously passed a number of measures to the House for additional consideration, including:

• Senate Bill 460: provides for the regulation of indoor tanning facilities
• Senate Bill 699: protections for abused, neglected, exploited, or abandoned adults
• Senate Bill 900: creates the Neighborhood Blight Reclamation and Revitalization Act
• Senate Bill 1305: raises the weight limit exemptions for the regulation of farm vehicles from 17,000 to 26,000 pounds as allowed by federal law
• Senate Bill 1334: exempts service contracts from insurance regulations
• House Bill 1251: attempts to bring Pennsylvania's insurance laws into conformity with model law of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
• House Bill 1800: makes a number of changes to the Vehicle Code (passed 49 – 1, Senator Ferlo)
• House Bill 1859: various changes to the Game Code
• House Bill 1890: authorizes land transfers adjacent to the Rockville prison facility (including a long-sought transfer to Penn State University, which was also part of House Bill 2275: involving a number of other land transfers)
• House Bill 2493: various changes to the Municipal Retirement Law relating to DROPs (Deferred Retirement Option Plans)

The Senate also unanimously confirmed:

• Austin Burke as Secretary of Community & Economic Development
• Robert Freedberg as Judge, Superior Court
• William Lieberman as a member of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission

The Senate also adopted a number of Resolutions, including:

• Senate Resolution 348: calls for a performance audit of Pennsylvania's methadone treatment programs and the medical assistance transportation program (adopted 33 – 17).
• Senate Resolution 229: urges the United States Preventive Services Task Force to reexamine its recommendations on mammograms for women over 40.
• Senate Resolution 323: directs the Local Government Commission to study the number and types of mandates placed upon local governments

The Senate recessed until Monday, September 20th (unless recalled sooner by the Senate President Pro Tempore).

Committee Actions

• I was pleased the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee unanimously reported out my Senate Bill 906, establishing penalties for trespassing in agricultural biosecurity areas
• The Senate Labor and Industry Committee unanimously reported out Senate Bill 1409, codifying the Department of Labor & Industry's Industry Partnership Program
• The Senate Policy Committee held a public hearing on Senate Bill 1304, calling for term limits of House and Senate members. To review the hearing, click here.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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A Folmer for State Senate Campaign Celebration
7/1/2010

Senator Mike Folmer is running for Re-election in 2010 and your help will be key! Since joining the General Assembly, Senator Folmer has worked hard to advance his “Promise to Pennsylvania”: Political and Legislative reform, tax and spending reform, and legal and labor law reform. While much has been accomplished, much remains to be done. We are hosting A Folmer for State Senate Campaign Celebration: September 10, 2010 at 6:00PM at All About You Catering in Lebanon. This event will include a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, light buffet and a silent/live auction, and dancing.

This is our major Fundraiser for the campaign. Our goal is $10,000. There are a number of sponsorship opportunities from $450 to $3,500. If a sponsorship opportunity does not fit into your budget, please consider a donation of products or service for our silent/live auction. Every dollar that you can contribute, no matterhow minimal, will help us to return “Citizen Mike” to Harrisburg.

Mike ran as a reformer. He has kept his promises to the people. This event offers an opportunity to show our gratitude and to maintain the momentum by becoming a sponsoror contributor. If you would like to make a donation or become a sponsor, please complete and return the downloadable form below. Also, if you would like to help plan the event or help with the arrangements, please call Lauri-Jo Folmer at (717) 865-0120. We hope we can count on you to help the Folmer For State Senate Re-Election by supporting the Folmer for State Senate Re-Election event.

Sponsorship Form: Download Here

Mike's Memo - Week of June 28, 2010
6/29/10

Happy Fourth of July!

This Sunday marks the 234th birthday of the United States. If only we had a state budget to celebrate! Talks with the Governor and the House continue. A key hang-up is whether $850 Million in federal (Medicaid) dollars will actually be forthcoming. Most indications say it will not. However, the Governor insists on counting these funds, which is a concern to me as Article VIII, Section 13 of Pennsylvania’s Constitution requires the General Assembly to pass a balanced budget: "Operating budget appropriations made by the General Assembly shall not exceed the actual and estimated revenues and surplus available in the same fiscal year."

Bills Signed Into Law

The Governor signed a number of measures into law, including:

• House Bill 1641 (Act 32 of 2010): requires circulating nurses in operating rooms
• House Bill 1720 (Act 33): adds "organized retail theft" to the Crimes Code
• House Bill 48, making a number of Liquor Code changes, was also sent to the Governor for action.

Senate Sends Bills to House

The full Senate unanimously passed a number of measures to the House for additional consideration, including:

Senate Bill 929: requires publishers to provide schools with information on textbooks and supplemental materials, including price

Senate Bill 1250: requires 25% of any fine imposed by DEP under the Air Pollution and Control Act be shared with the municipality where the violation(s) occurred

Senate Bill 1328: limits service contracts offered by automobile manufacturers and dealers

House Bill 687: amends the Procurement Code to allow governmental units to enter into guaranteed energy savings contracts with qualified providers

The Senate also passed Senate Resolution 343 calling for a study and review of the Library Code for modernization.

Committee Actions

The Senate Urban Affairs & Housing Committee reported out (10 – 1) House Bill 60, which would establish the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Program to be administered by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency using Sallie Mae and Freddie Mac as models. I was unable to support House Bill 60 as it does not specify how the costs of this new program would be covered

The Senate Communications & Technology Committee, which I chair, held a public hearing on the Pennsylvania Research & Education Network (PennREN), which is receiving $99.7 Million in federal stimulus moneys and will be administered by the Keystone Initiative for Education & Research (KINBER). Additional hearing(s) are planned. Testimony from the June 17th hearing is posted on my website.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of June 14, 2010
6/15/10

Happy National Flag Day!

Today marks the 233rd anniversary of the American Flag. On June 14, 1777, Congress passed a resolution saying: "Resolved: that the flag of the United States be made of thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation." Flag Day, the anniversary of the 1777 Flag Resolution, was officially established by proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30, 1916. On August 3, 1949, President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14 of each year as National Flag Day.

Governor Signs Bills into Law

The Governor signed a number of measures into law, including:

• Senate Bill 383, Act 30 of 2010 – provides for the establishment of problem solving courts and
• Senate Bill 828, Act 31 – the "Pie Bill," which exempts home-baked goods for nonprofit organizations from Department of Agriculture enforcement.

Senate Sends Bills to House

The full Senate passed a number of bills and sent them to the House for further consideration. All bills passed unanimously, unless otherwise indicated.

• Senate Bill 1145 – new sentencing guidelines for those convicted of crimes;
• Senate Bill 1161 – new probation, parole, and pre-release measures (passed
  26 – 21);
• Senate Bill 1275 – penalties for parole violations (passed 45 – 2, Senators Robbins and Vogel were no votes); and
• House Bill 48 – Liquor Code changes (passed 41 – 6). I was a “no” vote on the bill.

The Senate also unanimously approved House Bill 1641 to require circulating nurses in operating rooms. The bill is now before the Governor.

State Revenues Continue to Fall Behind Projections

Senate Republicans remain committed to passing a fiscally responsible state budget before the June 30 deadline. However, like last year, and years past, the Governor continues to call for higher spending and higher taxes. The Governor also insists on more spending, despite underperforming revenues. These are two major factors which could cause another lengthy budget impasse.

Last month revenues were approximately $125 million short of projections, pushing the year-end deficit to $1.23 billion. This makes the budget passed by the House considerably out-of-balance. Any budget over $27.5 billion would result in the need for a tax increase (expenditures would exceed available resources). I continue to believe and advocate for the state to live within its means. As a result, spending no more than $27.5 billion is vital for me.

Committee News

Appropriations - amended and unanimously reported out my Senate Bill 104, accountability in the use of state-owned vehicles, and my Senate Bill 621, exempting Pennsylvania from the mandates of the federal Real ID law.

Education - reported out Senate Resolution 343 (studying modernization of the Library Code); Senate Bill 553 (requiring a two-thirds majority of school directors for millage increases); and Senate Bill 250 (extending the mandate waiver program).

I offered an amendment to SB 250 to give school districts the option of economic furloughs to control costs, especially as they face the impending pension crisis). I withdrew the amendment because of concerns it would threaten the extension of the mandate waiver program.

The Committee also discussed Senate Bill 1321 calling for consolidation of school districts at the county level. However, no actions were taken on this proposal.

Communications and Technology - amended and reported out House Bill 1175, which would prohibit the involuntary implantation of identification devices into individuals over age 18.

The committee will hold a public hearing Thursday, June 17, at 10 a.m. on the Keystone Initiative for Network Based Education & Research (KINBER). The meeting will take place in room 8 E-B of the main Capitol.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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The Promise Continues
6/15/10

Greetings to all. In early January, 2006, a tire salesman named Mike Folmer, declared himself as a candidate for state senate from the 48th District. Those of us who met Mike at this meeting saw a real conservative bound to the belief that government must be run by CITIZENS dedicated to honor our CONSTITUTION. He vowed to work towards government as listed in the Promise to Pennsylvania. He has kept these vows and we are proud of Senator Mike Folmer.

We will be holding an Organizational event for Citizen Mike's 2010 Campaign on Tuesday, June 22, 2010 at 7:00 PM at the Lebanon Valley Livestock (Located beside Esther's Diner on Rt 22 in Fredericksburg)

The purpose of this meeting is to KICK OFF the Citizen Mike Campaign and gather volunteers to permit Mike to further advance his Promise to Pennsylvania.

Please ask your friends and neighbors to join us!

Looking forward to seeing everyone there!

Mike's Memo - Week of May 24, 2010
5/25/10

Senate Returns to Session

The full Senate returned to Session Monday, May 24, and is scheduled to be in Session Tuesday, May 25, and Wednesday, May 26. The Senate is scheduled to recess for the Memorial Day holiday, and return to Session for the remainder of June (or until a 2010 – 2011 state budget is passed).

Bills Signed Into Law

The Governor recently signed a number of bills into law, including:

• Senate Bill 916 (Act 27 of 2010) - extends the filing of county controllers' settlement of accounts with the Department of Community & Economic Development;
• Senate Bill 960 (Act 28 of 2010) - adds a member (Military Officers Association of America) and removes a member (Veterans of World War I) from the State Veterans' Commission;
• House Bill 464 (Act 23 of 2010) - changes the requirements for the sale and resale of admission tickets;
• House Bill 961 (Act 24 of 2010) - extends the sunset date for recycling fees; and
• House Bill 975 (Act 25 of 2010) - changes the continuing education requirements for geologists covered by the Engineer, Land Surveyor and Geologist Registration Law.

The Governor vetoed Senate Bill 81, changes to the Liquor Code. I opposed this bill on two occasions when it was before the full Senate.

Energy Saving Tips and Programs

Warmer weather means more energy use and there are several new programs to help you save both energy and money. Visit www.energysavePA.com to view a list of energy-saving home improvements and products as well as appliance rebate programs.

Committee News

State Government Committee

11 a.m., Tuesday, May 25, Room 461 Main Capitol - review of the Department of General Services' 2010 property disposition plan

Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee

11 a.m., Tuesday, May 25, Senate Majority Caucus Room – consideration of various bills, including my Senate Bill 384, police powers at military installations, such as Fort Indiantown Gap.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of May 10, 2010
5/11/10

High-Risk Pool Legislation Passes Senate

Last week my Senate Bill 507, legislation to establish a state High Risk Pool (HRP), passed the full Senate by a vote of 49-1. Senator Ferlo was the only “no” vote. The bill is a key component of Healthy PA, my plan to reduce health care costs and enhance the quality and access to care for Pennsylvanians.

Many other states have some version of a high risk pool, which does not allow public funds to pay premiums. My legislation aimed to apply this provision to Pennsylvania law while establishing an independent board of directors to oversee the operations of the pool and ensure it is self-sustaining. The new federal health care law forced changes to my bill. The bill now goes to the full House for consideration.

For more information, visit the Senate Newsroom.

Senate Sends Bills to House

In addition to Senate Bill 507, the full Senate sent the following bills to the House. All bills passed unanimously, unless otherwise noted.

• Senate Bill 174 - establishes the Pennsylvania Center for Health Careers;
• Senate Bill 288 - establishes licensing requirements for plumbers. The bill passed by a vote of 32 – 18 (I was unable to support this measure);
• Senate Bill 383 - authorizes the establishment of problem solving courts;
• Senate Bill 629 - amends the School Code to include school social workers under the definition of “professional employee;”
• Senate Bill 928 - requires the state pension systems to divest from companies doing business in Iran and Sudan. The bill passed 42 – 7 (I was unable to support the measure);
• Senate Bill 1155 - establishes the County Officer and Employee fiscal Security Act as a part of the County Code;
• House Bill 975 - extends licensure for engineers, land surveyors, and geologists; and
• House Bill 1041 - brings the Pharmacy Act into compliance with federal law.

Special Session on Transportation Opens

On May 4, the Governor opened the Special Legislative Session on Transportation to address Pennsylvania’s many infrastructure needs. In his remarks to a joint Session of the House and Senate, he outlined three options to address Pennsylvania’s road and bridge needs:

1. Raise the gas tax and/or increase drivers’ license and vehicle registration fees
2. Borrow $1 billion and $80 million in debt service
3. Lease the Pennsylvania Turnpike and/or other Commonwealth assets

Budget Update

Even as the Governor calls for additional spending, taxing, and/or borrowing for transportation, Pennsylvania’s General Fund budget suffered yet another blow. April’s tax revenues were again below forecast, which brings the current budget deficit to more than $1 billion. As in past years, the Governor predicted cuts in spending would result in employee furloughs and/or layoffs and called for new and/or higher taxes and user fees, including a severance tax on natural gas, new taxes on cigars and smokeless tobacco, vastly expanded sales tax (albeit at a lower rate), and increasing state taxes on oil companies.

An interesting side note, the Governor has not addressed the 2012 pension spike.

Committee News

Education

The committee reported out Senate Bill 1248 which would require school districts to develop financial educational materials. I opposed the bill because I believe it is yet another unfunded mandate. Senate Bill 1297, legislation to require 180 school days even with cancellations due to inclement weather, was also reported out. Senate Bill 1314, stricter accountability for charter and cyber charter schools, and Senate Bill 1318, establishing military appointments for state military colleges, also advanced through committee. The bills now go to the full Senate.

Labor & Industry

The committee reported out Senate Bill 1205, legislation to establish “work sharing” under Pennsylvania’s unemployment compensation law.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of May 3, 2010
5/4/10

Governor Signs Bills

Governor Rendell signed two bills to complete a three-bill package targeting the continuing problem of illegal production of methamphetamine in Pennsylvania.

House Bill 485 amends the Crimes Code to provide penalties for operating a methamphetamine lab and the illegal dumping of methamphetamine waste. It is a companion bill to Act 8 of 2010, which amended the Controlled Substances Act.

Senate Bill 126 amends the Controlled Substances Act to require defendants convicted of operating illegal labs to pay for the environmental clean-up costs associated with the lab. Both House Bill 485 and Senate Bill 126 also add additional precursor substances to the list of those already used to manufacture methamphetamine.

The Governor also signed House Bill 602, which amends the Dental Law to expand the functions dental assistants can perform.

Committee News

Education

Tuesday, May 4, 10 a.m. Hearing Room 1 - meeting on Senate Bill 1314, Charter School bill, and Common Core and Health and Nutrition regulations.

Labor and Industry

Tuesday, May 4, 10:30 a.m., 461 Main Capitol Building - consideration of Senate Bill 1205, “work sharing.” Work sharing allows employees whose hours are reduced to receive unemployment compensation benefits.

Communications and Technology

Wednesday, May 5, 10 a.m. Room 8 E-B - consideration of House Bill 1175, legislation to prohibit the requiring or coercing an individual to undergo the implanting of a microchip.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

###

Mike's Memo - Week of April 26, 2010
4/27/10

Senate Sends Bills to House

The full Senate passed a number bills, which now go to the House for action:

• Senate Bill 81 - amendments to the Liquor Code. The bill passed 39 – 10, and I was one of the “no” votes;
• Senate Bill 85 - requires the Department of Environmental Protection to appoint an attorney as independent counsel to the Environmental Quality Board. The bill passed 48 – 1, with Senator Ferlo as the lone no vote;
• Senate Bill 1186 - adds the Washington Crossing Cemetery to the list of authorized cemeteries where the Department of Military & Veterans Affairs has the power to arrange for veterans’ burial details. The bill passed unanimously;
• House Bill 464 - prohibits the resale of tickets purchased online using “ticket purchase software.” Bill passed unanimously; and
• House Bill 961 - extends the sunset date for the Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste Reduction Act (and the $2 recycling fee) through January 1, 2020. The bill passed unanimously.

The full Senate also unanimously confirmed Harriet Dichter as Secretary of Public Welfare.

High-Risk Pool Amended Again, Reported to Floor

Senate Bill 507, my proposal to establish a High Risk Pool (HRP) for Pennsylvania, was again amended and unanimously reported from the Senate Appropriations Committee. My goal for the legislation was to establish an independent, self-sustaining, non-profit association to help fill gaps in care for people denied insurance for medical reasons. A total of 35 other states have some version of a HRP. However, the new federal health care law places so many mandates and restrictions on states that self-sufficiency may be difficult. That is why I have also introduced Senate Bill 1312, legislation to exempt Pennsylvania from these federal mandates.

Empowerment Legislation Sent to Full Senate

The Senate Education Committee amended and reported Senate Bill 1192, reauthorization of Pennsylvania’s Education Empowerment Act, to the full Senate. The current law is positioned to sunset on June 30 of this year. I was the lone committee member to vote “no” since I do not share the belief that state control is better than local control. Additionally, an amendment was added to the bill to extend certain mandates on schools. I believe we should be lifting state mandates, not adding to them.

Town Hall Meeting Scheduled

My next town hall meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Monday, April 26, at the Tulpehocken Area School District Office, 27 Rehrersburg Road, Bethel. Please plan to join me.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of March 22, 2010
3/23/10

Senate Sends Legislation to House

The full Senate unanimously approved various bills, including:

Senate Bill 213 - establishes the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children Act;

Senate Bill 642 - provides for the registration of provisional sign language interpreters;

Senate Bill 747 - establishes procedures for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation when selling land that is no longer needed for transportation purposes;

Senate Bill 1044 - authorizes the Department of Corrections and county prisons to redistribute unused, unopened prescription drugs;

Senate Bill 1074 - establishes requirements for the incarceration of pregnant women and the use of restraint for pregnant prisoners or detainees; and

House Bill 526 - establishes notice requirements when certain insurance policies are terminated prior to the original date of coverage.

The Senate also passed Senate Bill 435 by a vote of 31-19, which would eliminate jury commissioners in counties of the Second Class A, and Senate Bill 1117 (vote of 31-19), which would eliminate these positions in counties of the third to eighth classes. These measures are similar to my Senate Bill 392, which would give counties of the fifth class the option to eliminate these positions.

Bills Sent to Governor

A number of bills were passed by both the House and Senate and sent to the Governor for action, including:

Senate Bill 206 - prohibits school districts from prohibiting the wearing of official military uniforms authorized by the federal government;

Senate Bill 237 - makes certain information under the Insurance Company Law privileged and confidential;

Senate Bill 297 - requires the filing of certain reports for Marcellus Shale drilling; and

House Bill 416 - makes it illegal to pretend to hold a professional or occupational license.

Taxpayer-Funded Advertising Transparency Act

My Senate Bill 109, which would establish the "Taxpayer-Funded Advertising Transparency Act," was reported from the Senate Appropriations Committee to the full Senate for consideration.

Committee News

Communications & Technology

The Senate Communications & Technology Committee held a public hearing and unanimously reported the following to the full Senate:

Senate Bill 964 - changes the effective date of an exemption on supplying a Social Security number for people applying for hunting and fishing licenses;

Senate Bill 1147 - allows online gathering of alternate forms of identification (other than Social Security numbers) for hunting and fishing licenses; and

Senate Resolution 260 - designates April 20 as "Pennsylvania Health Care Information Technology Day" (a similar measure was passed last year).

Education Committee

The Senate Education Committee recently held a public hearing on mandate waivers and also approved a number of measures, including:

Senate Resolution 243 - directs the Joint State Government Committee to conduct a study of Pennsylvania's most successful and efficient school districts. The previous "Costing Out Study" excluded most of these districts and high cost/low performance districts because they were found to be outside the "standard deviations" of the study. The resolution passed 9-2;

Senate Bill 1202 - requires school districts that choose to not contract for goods or services with Intermediate Units (IU) to post on their website the goods or services being purchased, contract price, provider, and reason why the contract was not through the IU. The bill passed 10 - 1; and

Senate Bill 1252 - creates a program to support the teachers seeking national certification. The bill passed unanimously.

Marriage Protection Amendment

I want to thank the many constituents who called both in support and opposition to the proposal to amend Pennsylvania's Constitution to define marriage as being between one man and one woman (Senate Bill 707). The passion on both sides was strong. Although I do not serve on the Senate Judiciary Committee where the bill was deliberated, I have closely followed the debate. The bill was tabled - or postponed - by the Committee.

Town Hall Meetings Scheduled

Mark your calendars for these events:

Tuesday, March 23, 7:00 p.m. at the Lebanon Valley Livestock, 2929 Route 22 (next to Esther's)

Thursday, March 25, at 6 p.m. - Representative Jim Cox and I will be host a town hall meeting at the Calvary Bible Fellowship Church, 4891 West Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, to answer questions regarding the Wernersville Community Corrections Center. If you plan to attend the meeting, please call Representative Cox's office at (610) 670-0139 or register online.

Table Games Hearing

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) will hold a public hearing Wednesday, March 24, at 10a.m., in the East Hanover Township (Dauphin County) Municipal Building, 8848 Jonestown Road, Grantville, to receive public comments on Penn National Hollywood Casino's application to conduct table games. For those wishing to present oral or written testimony, contact the PGCB by noon, Monday, March 22. Written comments may be mailed to: PA Gaming Control Board, Attention: Board Secretary, P.O. Box 69060, Harrisburg, and PA 17106 or faxed to 717-346-8350. Written comments must be postmarked by March 22.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of March 15, 2010
3/16/10

Senate Returns to Session

With the conclusion of the Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings, the full Senate returned to voting Session on March 8, and unanimously passed a number of measures, including:

Senate Bill 260 - increased authority to the Attorney General to prosecute child sexual abuse that may cross county or state lines;

Senate Bill 766 - statutorily establishes the popular "Science in Motion Program," an initiative the Governor has not included in a number of his previous budgets;

Senate Bill 916 - extends the deadline for the controller of Counties of the Second Class to file annual reports;

Senate Bill 1077 - changes to Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction code relating to log walls;

Senate Resolution 215 - directs the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee to study the potential costs of complying with the agriculture source nutrient reduction goals of the Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy;

House Bill 1533 - extends the sunset date of the "Military Family Relief Assistance Program." The program helps military personnel and their families with grants. The measure is headed to the Governor for signature; and

House Bill 416 - makes it an offense to pretend to hold a professional license.

Communications & Technology

Wednesday, March 17, 10 a.m., Room 8E-B, East Wing - Public hearing and consideration of Senate Bill 964 (alternative identification for hunting and fishing licenses), Senate Bill 1147 (electronic hunting and fishing licenses), and Senate Resolution 260 (designating April 20 as "Pennsylvania Health Care Information Technology Awareness Day")

Wednesday, March 24, 9 a.m., Room 8E-B, East Wing - The Communications & Technology Committee and the Senate Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee will hold a joint hearing on the 911 emergency response system and its funding. The hearing may include a discussion of House Bill 1789, relating to prepaid wireless services, which was recently passed by the House.

Finance

Wednesday, March 17, 9 a.m., Room 8E-A, East Wing - Public hearing on Pennsylvania's public pensions.

Urban Affairs & Housing

Thursday, March 18, 11 a.m., Cora Services, 8540 Verree Road, Philadelphia - Public hearing on urban modernization.

Table Games Hearing

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) will hold a public hearing Wednesday,

March 24, at 10a.m., in the East Hanover Township (Dauphin County) Municipal Building,

8848 Jonestown Road, Grantville, to receive public comments on Penn National Hollywood Casino's application to conduct table games. For those wishing to present oral or written testimony, contact the PGCB by noon, Monday, March 22. Written comments may be mailed to: PA Gaming Control Board, Attention: Board Secretary, P.O. Box 69060, Harrisburg, PA 17106 or faxed to 717-346-8350. Written comments must be postmarked by March 22.

Town Hall Meeting Scheduled

There have been a number of questions surrounding the Wernersville Community Corrections Center, and to address these issues, Representative Jim Cox and I will be host a town hall meeting on Thursday, March 25, at 6 p.m., at the Calvary Bible Fellowship Church, 4891 West Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring. If you plan to attend the meeting, please call Representative Cox's office at (610) 670-0139 or register online.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of February 8, 2010
2/9/10

Governor’s Budget Address Set for Tuesday

Governor Rendell is scheduled to present his 2010 – 2011 spending plan to a joint session of the General Assembly Tuesday, February 9, at 10:30 a.m. The Governor has been calling for additional spending of around four percent – or an increase of $1 billion. This will be his final budget proposal, and it can be viewed live on my website by clicking “Live Senate Feed.” I’ll have my comments on the proposal posted on the site as well.

State Revenues Continue to Lag

As the Governor continues to push for increased spending, state revenues continue to decrease. In December, the state collected $2.1 billion - $120.2 million less than anticipated. To date, the state is $374.4 million below estimates. The Governor has previously said that there will be a $450 million revenue shortfall by the end of the fiscal year (June 30). It appears that estimate will need to be revised upwards.

Senate Sends Bills to House

The full Senate unanimously approved a number of measures for House consideration, including:

Senate Bill 298 - amends the Clean and Green law relating to Marcellus Shale, wind generation systems, temporary pipe storage facilities, alternative energy for farm use, non-coal surface mining, and voluntary opt out of Clean and Green;

Senate Bill 828 - prohibits the state from citing non-profits and charitable groups for selling commonly prepared baked goods (homemade pies, etc.); and

Senate Bill 1169 - addresses a loophole in the law requiring convicted defendants to pay restitution, reparation, fees, costs, and fines and penalties.

The Governor signed House Bill 1847 into law as Act 4 of 2010. The new law addresses conflicts between property owners over coal bed methane wells and access roads. The bill unanimously passed the full Senate in December.

Pennsylvania Health Information Exchange Legislation

With continued concerns over the Administration’s plans to enter into an agreement with Delaware, and piggyback on their existing health information network, Senator Wozniak (Democratic Chair of the Senate Communications & Technology Committee) and I are introducing legislation to require an open and transparent bid process. Additional information can be found on my website.

No Lame Duck Session for Senate

Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati and Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi announced last week that the Senate will not convene for a regular lame duck session in 2010.

The 28 days between November 2 and November 30 are known as a “lame duck” session because some members of the General Assembly can vote on legislation despite the fact that their successors have already been elected.

The idea not convene after the general election is both consistent with the openness and transparency elements of my “Promise to Pennsylvania” and gives the Governor and House and Senate members plenty of advance notice that all legislative initiatives need to be completed in the early Fall.

Sen. Kim Ward has introduced Senate Bill 106, a constitutional amendment which would eliminate regular lame duck sessions. It would allow the legislature to convene if a special session is necessary. A similar bill was approved by the Senate last session but did not advance in the House.

The Senate did not have a “Lame Duck Session” in 2008 and it worked very well.

Committee News

The Senate Communications & Technology Committee, scheduled for Wednesday, February 10, at 10 a.m., has been postponed to Wednesday, March 17. Bills to be considered include:

Senate Bill 964 – legislation to allow individuals applying for hunting and fishing licenses to provide alternative identifications (other than Social Security Numbers) no later than April 10, 2010.

Senate Bill 1147 – legislation to authorize the electronic gathering of driver’s license numbers or non-driver identification card numbers (in place of Social Security Numbers) for hunting and fishing licenses.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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Mike's Memo - Week of February 1, 2010
2/2/10

Committees Reports

Last week a number of Senate Committees met to consider various bills, with some legislation being reported to the full Senate for consideration, including:

Senate Bill 104 - my state vehicle accountability bill
Senate Bill 109 - my “Taxpayer-Funded Advertising Transparency Act”
Senate Bill 766 - proposed “Science in Motion” grants
Senate Bill 895 - making the Pennsylvania Rifle the official state firearm. The bill was discussed at length, and the committee voted 8 – 3 to move it to a full Senate vote.

Proposed Health Information Exchange Discussed

The Senate Communications & Technology Committee recently held a public hearing on the proposed strategic plan for the Pennsylvania Health Information Exchange (PHIX), a proposal to link electronic medical records and electronic health records to doctors and hospitals across the Commonwealth.

Ann Torregrossa, Director, Governor’s Office of Health Care Reform, and Phil Magistro, Deputy Director Implementation, offered testimony on the development and details of the plan. Kelly Lewis, President & CEO of TechQuest Pennsylvania and the Technology Council of Central Pennsylvania, also appeared before the Committee and raised various issues.

Given the questions and concerns over recommendations to enter into an agreement with Delaware, and piggyback on their existing health information network, Democrat Committee Chairman John Wozniak and I sent a letter to Governor Rendell urging delay in signing such contract. Senator Wozniak and I also expressed the need for an expedited process to allow other technology firms to submit proposals and compare with Delaware operations. Additional comments on the PHIX proposal, are available on my website.

The Senate Communications & Technology Committee will meet again Wednesday, February 10, at 10 a.m. to consider:

Senate Bill 964 – legislation to allow individuals applying for hunting and fishing licenses to provide alternative identifications (other than Social Security Numbers) no later than April 10, 2010.

Senate Bill 1147 – legislation to authorize the electronic gathering of driver’s license numbers or non-driver identification card numbers (in place of Social Security Numbers) for hunting and fishing licenses.

Committee News

For a complete list of Senate committee meeting times, dates, and locations, click here.

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us.

As always, please feel free to contact me on any state-related matter that may be of concern to you. I can be reached through e-mail, mfolmer@pasen.gov, or at any one of my district offices.

Sincerely,

Mike Folmer

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