HARRISBURG – Today, the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee reported four bills to the full Senate, according to Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32), committee chairman.
Senate Bill 1016, sponsored by Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33), would permit the awarding of military decorations to members of strategic allies.
“Pennsylvania has had a long-standing relationship with Lithuania [since 1993] through the National Guard’s State Partnership Program. As military tensions arise across the globe, it’s important for us to be able to recognize strategic allies, like Lithuania, and their exemplary service that they have provided to our Commonwealth,” said Sen. Stefano.
Senate Bill 1027, sponsored by Sen. Stefano, would permit junior firefighters, aged 17, to train on live fires – with their parent’s permission and local fire chief’s permission.
“This legislation, which is a result of discussions with my local fire companies, is important for recruitment and retention purposes as it will help our junior firefighters complete their training prior to turning 18,” said Sen. Stefano.
Senate Bill 1028, sponsored by Sen. Stefano and Sen. Devlin Robinson (R-37), would establish the Purple Star School Program for military-connected students.
“The Purple Star School Program is a state-sponsored recognition designed to acknowledge a public or charter school that has committed to supporting the unique educational and social-emotional needs of military-connected students,” said Sen. Stefano.
Senate Bill 1047, sponsored by Sen. Chris Gebhard (R-48), expands the State Armory board’s ability to rent or lease out building and allows the board to oversee the utilization of its 89 readiness centers and 18 field maintenance shops.
“This legislation modernizes the State Armory Board statute and clarifies the powers and authority of the Adjutant General in conjunction with the State Armory Board to ensure greater collaboration,” said Sen. Stefano.
Having received unanimous support from the committee, all four bills now advance to the full Senate for consideration.
Click here for a link to the video of the hearing.
CONTACT: Nathan Silcox, 717-787-7175, nsilcox@pasen.gov