| Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee Legislation Highlights
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| As a member of the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, I was proud to co-sponsor many Veterans Affairs, Fire, and EMS bills that were passed by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives so far this session year.
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| HB 269 – Protecting Veterans’ Records of Discharge (My Bill!)
Extends the time period when a veteran’s record of discharge or separation may not be disclosed – other than to the subject of the records, immediate family, or authorized representatives – to 85 years from 75 years.
Passed the House 203-0.
HB 804 – Guaranteeing In-State Tuition for Reassigned Military Families
Would guarantee in-state tuition at public institutions of higher education in Pennsylvania for dependents of military members, veterans, and civilian defense employees in cases where the family relocates between the time a student accepts admission and the start of the first semester.
Passed the house 201-0.
HB 892 – Establishing the Veterans’ Outreach and Support Network
Would establish a network that coordinates with partners that provide services to veterans and their families and distribute information regarding available resources within the network that can support veterans.
Passed the house 203-0.
HB 1094 – Allowing Advance Enrollment for Military Children
Would create an easier transition for a child whose parent or guardian is an active-duty member of the military and has received official military orders to transfer into or within the Commonwealth. They would be able to establish residency for purposes of enrollment in the school district in which they will be residing prior to their official residency. The proof of residency requirement would be waived until the student begins school.
Passed the House 201-0.
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| HB 246 – Changes to FEMA Flood Maps
Would require municipalities to contact residents if their flood plain status has changed based on information received from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. This communication would include resources to aid residents in receiving further information and preparing for potential floods.
Passed the House 160-41.
HB 404 – Helping Military Medics Transition to Civilian EMT/Paramedics
Would ensure that a service member's military education and training are taken into consideration for the purpose of fulfilling requirements for professional credentials related to emergency medical services providers. This will help to avoid duplication of training and help veterans transition to civilian life.
Passed the House 203-0.
HB 735 – Establishing the Flood Insurance Premium Assistance Task Force
Would establish the Flood Insurance Premium Assistance Task Force. The task force would provide avenues to combat high flood insurance premiums and incentivize local governments to support flood mitigation efforts.
Passed the House 166-35.
HB 1304 – Ensuring Support for a Modern 911 System
Would set the uniform 911 surcharge at $1.97 to account for inflation since the current surcharge was set in 2015. This would help in providing the most up-to-date and safest equipment, operations, and technologies to keep Pennsylvanians safe.
Passed the House 121-82.
All bills listed are now waiting in the Senate for consideration and final passage.
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| Upcoming Community Events
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| If you are looking for something to do in our community, there are a few family-friendly events happening this week and next!
Tonight – Lower Providence’s Movie in the Park night will show Disney’s “Lightyear”. The event starts at 7:30pm but the movie begins at dusk at Eagleville Park in the Community Lawn. The event is free, and it’s recommended to bring chairs and/or a blanket to enjoy the movie.
Friday, July 28th – Collegeville / Ursinus College is hosting their Movies on the Lawn and will show Disney’s “Luca”. The event begins at 7pm but the movie will begin at about 8:30pm. This event is also free and families are suggested to park around Corson Hall or in the lots near the Facilities building. Also suggested to bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Wednesday, August 2nd – Trappe Borough is hosting their “Midweek Music and Meals” at the Pavilion at Water Works Park. Live music from 6-8pm, make sure to bring chairs!
Saturday, August 5th – Montco-Norristown Public Library is hosting their 5th Annual Montco Comic Fest from 10am-3pm. There will be artist panels, vendors, trivia, food, merchandise and even a costume/cosplay contest – registration required. Admission is free!
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| ICYMI: My 2023 Summer Collection Drive is now live!
My office is collecting crucial items to donate to Daily Bread Community Food Pantry and St. James Outreach House like laundry detergent, personal care items, paper products, school supplies, canned meals, juice pouches, and school snacks.
Please drop off items to my district office at 35 Evansburg Road, Collegeville, PA 19426.
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| Please continue to stay safe, healthy and well-informed.
And, if you have questions about any state-related issue, please contact my office at 484-200-8263 or email [email protected].
Sincerely,
Rep. Joe Webster
State Representative
150th Legislative District
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