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In this Update:
* Event: Victory over Japan Day 80^th Anniversary
* Public Hearing on the Susquehanna Defense Logistics Agency
* Celebrating Ray Kauffman’s 90^th Birthday
* Celebrating Earl Nitterhouse’s 101^st Birthday
* Tour of Shalom Christian Academy Building Project
* The Day of the Bible
* SB600, Smart Meter Opt-Out
* Book Donations Needed
* Improving Health Care
* New Law Streamlines Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans
* 2026-27 PA Student Aid Guide Available
* Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law
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** Event: Victory over Japan Day 80th Anniversary
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Senator Dush and I invite you to join us in celebrating the 80th Anniversary of Victory over Japan Day on Tuesday, September 2nd, at 11 AM. This event will take place at the Eldred World War II Museum, located at 201 Main St. Eldred, PA. Join us as we remember the end of World War II and pay tribute to the enduring legacy of peace.
Please register at: Victory in Japan Day (80th Anniversary) – Senator Mastriano ([link removed])
** Public Hearing on the Susquehanna Defense Logistics Agency
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Monday, the Senate Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee held a public hearing on the Susquehanna Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) — a critical asset for our Nation, our Commonwealth, and our Region.
The DLA serves as a backbone for our Armed Forces, ensuring that America’s military has the supplies and logistical support needed to defend freedom at home and abroad. Its impact goes far beyond national defense:
* National Security – Providing essential equipment and supply chain support for our military readiness.
* Statewide Value – Strengthening Pennsylvania’s role as a hub for military and defense operations.
* Regional Benefits – Supporting thousands of jobs and boosting the economy in our local communities.
Our responsibility is to protect and sustain this vital mission. The Susquehanna DLA isn’t just a facility — it’s a lifeline for our troops, our state, and our families.
** Celebrating Ray Kauffman’s 90^th Birthday
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Tuesday, I presented a 90th birthday Senate Citation to Rev. Ray Kauffman! He is a US Air Force veteran and has inspired countless lives through his service at St. John’s U.M. Church. Thank you for your service!
** Celebrating Earl Nitterhouse’s 101^st Birthday
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I was honored to present a Senate Citation & WWII Medal to Earl Nitterhouse! He celebrated his 101st birthday earlier this month! Thank you for your service!
** Tour of Shalom Christian Academy Building Project
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On Tuesday, I took a tour of the building expansion project in progress at Shalom Christian Academy! Why This Matters Now:
Shalom’s student population has grown dramatically—from just 87 at its founding in 1976 to nearly 700 students today, effectively doubling in the past decade.
This growth has strained space for events, shared meals, and assemblies. Many central events had to be scaled down or eliminated due to limited facilities. The new building aims to reclaim and enhance these experiences.
** The Day of the Bible
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I introduced a resolution to designate September 12th as “The Day of the Bible” in Pennsylvania. On this date in 1782, Congress—meeting in Philadelphia—authorized the first complete English-language Bible printed in America, the Aitken Bible.
The resolution honors Pennsylvania’s role in this historic moment and recognizes the Bible’s enduring influence on our culture, values, and civic life. It’s a reflection of my continued commitment to preserving our Judeo-Christian heritage and core American principles.
** SB600, Smart Meter Opt-Out
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I’ve introduced legislation to give Pennsylvanians the freedom to choose whether or not they want a smart meter installed in their home.
* No fees for opting out
* Replace existing smart meters upon request
* 60-day deadline for utilities to comply
* Penalties for utilities that ignore consumer rights
Right now, Pennsylvania law forces residents to accept smart meters with no opt-out option. My bill changes that by putting power back in your hands.
SB 600 is now in the Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee. Stay tuned for updates!
** Book Donations Needed
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My office is supporting the Keystone State Challenge Academy at Fort Indiantown Gap, a life-changing program helping at-risk youth ages 16–18 find discipline, purpose, and new opportunities.
** Improving Health Care
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The Senate approved several measures this year to improve the delivery of health care in our communities.
Among the new laws we passed was a measure establishing a statewide stroke registry ([link removed]) to deliver vital information to EMS providers and hospitals, ensuring the best treatment possible. Other laws aim to reduce overdose deaths ([link removed]) by incorporating real-time reporting by EMS providers into the statewide overdose mapping system, and giving EMS personnel permanent authority to leave behind a dose of naloxone at overdose scenes, placing this lifesaving medication ([link removed]) in the hands of a caregiver or loved one.
Critical measures passed by the Senate and awaiting action in the House of Representatives include bills to strengthen Pennsylvania’s no-cost breast cancer screening law ([link removed]) by ensuring diagnostic imaging is fully covered, and preserving prescription drug coverage ([link removed]) for more than 10,000 seniors.
You can review other measures we passed to improve health care and address other subjects here ([link removed]) .
** New Law Streamlines Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans
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A new law we passed earlier this year is now in effect removing the annual fishing license fee and application for veterans with 100% disability.
Previously, only those disabled veterans with a 100% permanent disability determination from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs could receive free lifetime fishing licenses. Disabled veterans with a 100% disability determination also receive free licenses but must apply for them on an annual basis.
Act 21 of 2025 ([link removed]) takes away the annual fee and application part of the process and allows all disabled veterans with a 100% disability determination, whether or not it is a permanent determination, to purchase free lifetime fishing licenses.
** 2026-27 PA Student Aid Guide Available
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For parents and students planning for college, the new Student Aid Guide ([link removed]) from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) provides a complete overview of the financial aid process.
The guide can help you:
* Estimate costs
* Access state and federal aid
* Fill out applications
* Set up a timeline to make the process manageable
For more help planning for college, check out PHEAA webinars ([link removed]) and EducationPlanner.org. ([link removed])
** Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law
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Students are heading back to class, so we all need to be on the lookout for children around school buses and bus stops.
Some reminders about Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law:
* Motorists must stop at least 10 feet away from school buses that have their red lights flashing and stop arm activated.
* Motorists must stop when they are behind a bus, meeting the bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped.
* Motorists following or traveling alongside a school bus must also stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn and all children have reached safety.
School districts are permitted to install automated camera systems on buses to enforce the law. You can find more information about the law and penalties, and safety tips for children, here ([link removed]) .
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