HARRISBURG – State Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) today announced he has been appointed by Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R-39) to serve as chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee for the 2023-24 legislative session.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as chairman of this important committee,” Mastriano said. “Ensuring that we take care of our Commonwealth’s veterans, national guard and active-duty military who have and continue to serve our nation will be a top priority. I look forward to working with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and with veteran support groups across Pennsylvania to ensure those who fight for our freedoms are receiving the utmost care, benefits and services they have rightfully earned.”
Mastriano served 30 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as a colonel in 2017. He was commissioned in the U.S. Army in 1986 and served on the Iron Curtain with the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment in West Germany. He’s also a combat veteran who was deployed to Iraq during Operation Desert Storm and Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.
As chair of the committee, Mastriano will additionally oversee legislation dealing with the Commonwealth’s efforts to prepare for disasters and respond to emergencies.
“Our brave first responders have faced significant tribulations in recent years,” Mastriano said. “From mounting public safety challenges to issues of recruitment, it has never been more important to ensure the General Assembly is passing legislation to give our first responders the tools and support they need. Under my chairmanship, this committee will always have the backs of our police, fire and EMS personnel.”
The Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee oversees the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, and the Bureau of Emergency Medical Services under the Department of Health.
Residents can learn more about Mastriano by visiting his website at www.SenatorMastriano.com, following him on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SenatorDougMastriano and on Twitter @SenMastriano.
Media Contact: Josh Herman
JHerman@PaSen.Gov
717-787-9603