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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
###
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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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
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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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.
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
###
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!
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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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
###
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
###
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
###
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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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
###
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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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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