Latest news with #ShapiroAdministration
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Officials remind drivers to put down the phone; Paul Miller's Law to take effect June 5
May 27—WILKES-BARRE — Paul Miller's Law is about saving lives, PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said on Tuesday. "Your choices behind the wheel can change lives forever," he said. "Make the safe choice. Put your phone out of reach and don't text and drive. One text, one glance down — it could kill someone. And it's not worth it." On Tuesday, in keeping with Gov. Josh Shapiro's commitment to safety on Pennsylvania roads, the Shapiro Administration urged drivers to put down the phone while driving, ahead of the June 5 effective date for Paul Miller's Law, which makes it illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike), and Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) joined Sen. Rosemary Brown and national advocate Paul Miller Sr. and Eileen Miller, Paul Miller Jr.'s parents, to urge drivers to make safe choices behind the wheel. As part of his mission to provide a safe transportation system for all Pennsylvanians, Gov. Shapiro signed Senate Bill 37 into law on June 5, 2024. Effective June 5, 2025, the law — known as "Paul Miller's Law" — prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light, or other momentary delay. Pennsylvania already enforces a texting-while-driving ban that prohibits drivers from using mobile devices to send, read, or write text-based communications while their vehicle is in motion. Beginning June 5, law enforcement will begin issuing written warnings for violations of Senate Bill 37. Law enforcement will have the ability to issue summary citations to violators beginning June 6, 2026. Under Paul Miller's Law, drivers can still use their phones to alert emergency responders and, if they are using hands-free technology, to make phone calls, use a GPS, and listen to music. "As the Prime-Sponsor of Senate Bill 37, now Act 18 of 2024, seeing this law go into effect is incredibly rewarding knowing it will save lives," said Sen. Brown, R-Monroe County. "Since day one I have always believed in this commonsense policy. It's important that drivers remember that the cellphone has become the most consistent, repetitive, and lengthy distraction behind the driver's wheel causing significant public safety concerns. This law will change behaviors and save lives. The legislature passed Senate Bill 37, now Act 18, with overwhelming bi-partisan support, and I am confident that my efforts, along with the efforts of my friend Eileen Miller, have Pennsylvania going in the right direction for public safety." The law is named for Paul Miller Jr., who was tragically killed in a crash with a tractor-trailer in 2010 in Monroe County, as the result of a distracted driver who reached for their phone while driving. Since his death, Paul's mother Eileen Miller has become a national advocate for stronger laws to curb distracted driving. "Nearly 15 years ago, two Dunmore state troopers knocked on my door to tell me that my son was killed," said Eileen Miller, Paul Miller Jr.'s mother. "My son did everything right — he was killed by someone else's unsafe choices behind the wheel. This law is for every family in Pennsylvania that doesn't have to experience two state troopers knocking on their door to tell them that their loved one was killed by distracted driving. Paul Miller's Law will be a beacon of protection for every driver and passenger in Pennsylvania." Paul Miller's Law will also work to prevent bias in policing by requiring law enforcement to collect data on drivers pulled over during traffic stops, including race, ethnicity, and gender. The data will be made publicly available in an annual report. "The Pennsylvania State Police will enforce the new law to its full extent," said PSP Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris. "Distracted driving is not a minor offense. Just one second of inattention can result in irreversible consequences. We urge all drivers to stay focused behind the wheel." According to PennDOT data, in 2024 there were 9,950 crashes involving a distracted driver, resulting in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities. Distracted driving crash data, however, is believed to be under-reported due to many drivers' reluctance to admit to being distracted at the time of a crash. Safe driving tips —If you are expecting a text message or need to send one that can't wait, pull over and park your car in a safe location before using your device. —Ask a passenger to be your "designated texter." Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages. —Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving. —Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone's "Do Not Disturb" feature, silence notifications, or put your phone in the trunk, glove box or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination. Cell phone use is not the only distraction while driving. Anything that takes your attention away from driving, your eyes off the road, or your hands off the wheel is a distraction. Driver behavior is the leading factor in 83% of the crashes that occur annually in Pennsylvania. These behaviors include driving distracted, impaired or aggressive. For information on distracted driving, visit PennDOT's media resources web page offers social media-sized graphics for numerous transportation-related campaigns, including safety topics such as aggressive driving, speeding, distracted driving and seat belts for organizations, community groups, or others who share safety information with their stakeholders. Find PennDOT news on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
DCED analysis: PA secured $5.2B private sector investments, created 9,500 jobs
May 23—WILKES-BARRE — The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) this week completed new analysis showing that the Shapiro Administration has secured more than $5.2 billion in private sector investment, creating more than 9,500 new jobs, since taking office. "Since day one, my administration and I have been laser focused on making Pennsylvania a leader in economic development, job creation, and innovation," said Gov. Josh Shapiro. "From historic investments in site development, to cutting red tape, we're showing the world how we get stuff done — and we'll continue to make bold, strategic investments that create real opportunity for Pennsylvanians." As part of the Shapiro Administration's work to implement the 10-year Economic Development Strategy, DCED created the BusinessPA team — an experienced group of economic development professionals dedicated to Getting It Done for businesses looking to thrive in Pennsylvania. "Economic development is a team sport, and the DCED team is committed to partnering with regions across our Commonwealth to make sure Pennsylvania is open for business," said DCED Secretary Rick Siger. Pennsylvania's appeal to businesses has not gone unnoticed. DCED was recently named a top state economic development group by Business Facilities Magazine. The Commonwealth recently ranked 10th overall in Site Selection Magazine's Governor's Cup — and third among Northeast states. Additionally, BusinessPA was honored with a Deal of the Year — Impact Award from Business Facilities Magazine for its role in GSK's expansion in Lancaster County. US House passes bill to simplify veterans forms The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan, Jr.'s legislation — H.R. 1286, the Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act. The bipartisan bill, which passed by a vote of 386-1, would simplify forms required by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for veterans and survivors. Bresnahan, R-Dallas Township, introduced this bill on Feb. 13, 2025, and it passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Veteran's Affairs on May 6. This is the first piece of legislation Bresnahan introduced and is his first legislation to pass the House. "When our military members return home from serving our country, they are often tasked with filling out dozens of pages of paperwork in order to receive the benefits they've rightfully earned," Bresnahan said. "Veterans and their families should not be subjected to a VA claims process that is more difficult and stressful than necessary, which is why I am incredibly proud to see my legislation, the Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act, pass out of the House this evening. "Pennsylvania's Eighth Congressional District is home to nearly 40,000 veterans, and I am proud to spearhead this legislation for each and every one of them and their families." The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) requires veterans and survivors to complete standard forms to initiate and pursue claims for VA benefits, including disability compensation, pension and survivors' benefits. These forms can often be arduous and difficult to understand for veterans or their survivors, and failure to do correctly fill them out can result in delays in processing their claim, delays in receiving a decision on their claim, or even a denial of their claim. Bresnahan said he introduced the Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act to simplify the forms process to make VA standard forms more user-friendly. The legislation would require VA to contract with a nonpartisan, federally funded research entity to conduct a study on, and provide recommendations for, revising VA forms to be more understandable for veterans and their survivors. Following this study, the VA Secretary would be required to report findings to Congress and implement recommendations. AG: Congress needs to fund PSAs Attorney General Dave Sunday this week joined a bipartisan coalition of 38 Attorneys General calling on Congress to pass the Youth Substance Use Prevention and Awareness Act — a federal bill that aims to reduce youth drug use through research-based public education and community outreach. The bill would employ prevention methods proven to be effective in forming public service announcements and initiatives — produced by student peers — aimed at young people when they have first exposure to dangerous substances. "Protecting children is a core function of the Office of Attorney General, and it is crucial that young people receive this positive messaging at a time when they are most impressionable," Sunday said. "Without a doubt, the best way to solve a problem or crisis is to prevent it from happening. As a father, I am well aware of the challenges and influences facing our children. We must do all we can to equip them with the tools they need to make healthy choices." The legislation, introduced by U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), would amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide targeted federal funding for public service announcements (PSAs), youth-led campaigns, and other outreach tools that help prevent early substance use. All campaigns funded under the bill must be grounded in evidence, designed for cultural relevance, and adapted to meet the specific needs of local communities. "This thoughtful and timely legislation represents a critical, evidence-based step toward reducing youth substance use through strategic public education and engagement," write the attorneys general in a letter to Senate leadership. The Youth Substance Use Prevention and Awareness Act would fund a range of efforts to better reach youth with timely, credible and accessible information, including: —Culturally relevant PSAs tailored specifically to youth. —Youth-led PSA contests to drive peer-to-peer engagement and creativity. —Federal grants for outreach across TV, radio, social media, streaming platforms and other media. —Annual reporting requirements to measure reach and effectiveness, ensuring transparency and accountability. PUC: Add energy efficiency to 'summer utility checklist' With summer fast approaching and new default electric generation prices taking effect on June 1, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) this week is urging residents and businesses across the Commonwealth to #SaveInPA by taking proactive steps now to manage their utility bills — with a strong focus on energy efficiency, conservation and understanding supply options. "As temperatures rise, so do energy costs — especially when demand for air conditioning peaks," said PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank. "Now is the time to review your past energy usage, make smart adjustments at home or work, and explore tools that can help you take control of your summer electricity bills." —Why now? Understanding June 1 price changes Every June 1 and Dec. 1, electric distribution companies (EDCs) in Pennsylvania adjust their "Price to Compare" (PTC) — the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) charged to customers who have not selected a competitive supplier. These prices are based on wholesale market rates and can significantly impact monthly bills. Note: These changes only affect customers receiving "default service" from their electric utility — that is, those who have not selected a competitive supplier. Customers already shopping with a supplier will continue paying the generation price set by their contract, but they should also be aware of these broader market trends to prepare for potential impacts when their current contract ends. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Officials remind PA primary voters where to find election information
(WBRE/WYOU) — Ahead of the upcoming May 20 Primary election, Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt is reminding Pennsylvania voters they can find comprehensive information on voting online. In a release, officials say that ensuring elections are conducted fairly and freely, and that every eligible voter can make their voice heard, are top priorities of the Shapiro Administration. gives voters resources to verify their voter registration, find their voting place, and learn how to finish and return their mail-in ballot. is a one-stop shop for Pennsylvanians looking for trusted, official information about elections and voting. There, they can verify their voter registration, locate their polling place, learn how to complete and return their mail ballot, and even watch a video of how to cast a ballot on their county`s voting system. Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt This month's election is a closed primary, so only Republicans and Democrats can cast votes for their respective parties, officials say. Primary Election Day is this Tuesday However, all voters can cast their vote on any of the following if they also appear on the ballot: A constitutional amendment question A ballot question A special election in their district Every vote is precious, and municipal elections matter because officials who have direct impact on our daily lives those who set property taxes, oversee schools, and make public safety and local infrastructure decisions, for example are on the ballot. Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt Officials say the deadline for county election offices to receive completed mail ballots is 8:00 p.m. on May 20. Authorities say voters can also deliver their ballot in person to a designated ballot drop box or satellite office, or their county elections office if their county has those resources. Voters are advised to check online to determine if their county has ballot drop box locations and to find the hours for their county elections office. Less than 60% mail in ballots turned in before Primary Election Day Voters who got a mail ballot can vote in person on Primary Day on Tuesday if they bring their ballot materials, including the outer envelope with them to be turned in, officials explained. The press release says voters who requested a mail ballot but did to receive it or do not have it to surrender may vote by provisional ballot at their polling place on Tuesday. Voters who want to vote in person at their polling place can cast their ballot as polls will be open on Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Voters can also call the Department of State's voter hotline all year round, at 1-877-868-3772. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Unique program teaches Pennsylvania students motorcycle safety
MANCHESTER, Pa. (WHTM) — The Shapiro Administration is reminding motorcyclists of a free safety training program offered through PennDOT while also highlighting a safety class that a Midstate school offers to its students. Northeastern High School, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program, offers a basic rider course. During the class, students learn how to operate a motorcycle safely and responsibly. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now The district says this is a one-of-a-kind program offered in any public high school in the United States. 'We launched this program two years ago because we recognized a growing need as more of our students show interest in motorcycle riding, whether for transportation, recreation or work,' Superintendent of Northeastern School District Dr. Jason Bottiglieri said. To date, 21 students have successfully completed the course. 'The lessons learned through PAMSP courses provide riders with important training to mitigate crashes and reinforce the message for all motorists and riders to share the road safely,' said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. 'Drivers and riders alike can should remember to stay aware while driving or riding, obeying speed limits and being responsible while operating any vehicle.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Yahoo
New way to protect your EBT card info from being stolen
(WBRE/WYOU) — The Shapiro Administration announced a new way for SNAP benefit users to digitally lock their EBT cards to prevent benefit theft. The new function allows you to lock and unlock your EBT card with ConnectEBT. There are two options on the ConnectEBT app or website: 'lock my card everywhere' and 'lock my card outside PA'. Kowalonek's get ready for Kielbasi Festival & Heritage Day The Department of Human Services and the Office of State Inspector General said they are aware of SNAP theft in Pennsylvania, especially in incidents of card skimming. This new feature is one way people can protect their EBT cards while they are not in use. You can watch the tutorial on how to use the new security feature. 'When someone's SNAP benefits are stolen from their EBT card, that means they may not be able to feed themselves or their families that month. That is unacceptable. DHS has been working diligently with our partners in OSIG to ensure that the benefits we administer stay with the Pennsylvanians who need them. We are proud to announce this new card lock safety feature that allows you to lock your EBT card when not in use to protect your SNAP and cash benefits from skimming and theft… I encourage all Pennsylvanians who receive SNAP or other cash benefits to download the free, secure ConnectEBT app and take advantage of the easy-to-use locking feature today.'' said Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
