Emailed Newsletter - 10/9/2026

October 9, 2026

Capitol Report
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The latest news from the State Capitol
 
 Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account.
You are welcome to contact me through this link. 
 
Policy Hearing on Rising Costs in the Community

I had the privilege of attending a policy hearing in Dillsburg on the important work community organizations and nonprofits are doing to help families amid rising costs.

We have a gulf when it comes to affordable childcare, especially in "childcare deserts," yet state regulations restrict organizations that are trying to address a clear need. Watch my exchange with Pastor Matt Castillo of Believers Learning Center in York Haven.

Click here to watch the video.
 
 
Unclaimed Property Event Happening Today!



Did you know the PA Treasury keeps track of unclaimed financial assets such as lost paychecks, unused bank accounts and more? Many times, this property goes unclaimed because of simple mistakes, like misspelled names or out-of-date home addresses. Over the past month and a half, my office has submitted over $50,000 in claims for constituents for unclaimed property.

To see if you or a relative have unclaimed property:
  •   Come to my event TODAY, any time from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at my district office. (Drop in/no appointment needed and no need to RSVP.)
  •   Submit online at PATreasury.gov/Unclaimed-Property.
  •   Call the Treasury at 800-222-2046.
  •   Call my office at 717-840-4711 or use my website contact form for assistance.

We’re here to help! This is money that already belongs to you — it’s time to get it back in your hands. Event attendees should bring their driver’s license/state ID and, if managing a deceased person’s unclaimed property, a death certificate.
 
 
New Straight to the Point Episode: Understanding the NFA and PA Gun Rights



What does the recent federal court case mean for Pennsylvania gun owners? Rep. George Margetas and I chatted about this and more in the most recent episode of Straight to the Point.

Click here to listen.                                     
 
 
Commemorating the Conewago Canal



It was an honor to commemorate Pennsylvania’s first operating canal, the Conewago Canal, with a historical marker! Thanks to all who participated and brought the rich history of northeastern York County to life!                                     
 
 
A Visit to The Healing Farm



The Healing Farm in Springettsbury Township is a local non-profit with a heart for the community. Whether it's veterans, people with disabilities or just those looking for a peaceful retreat, they incorporate care and the therapeutic ability of animals to serve their neighbors. It was my pleasure to visit recently and learn about their mission.


 
 
Upcoming Skill Game Ban Could Hurt Local Legions and Clubs

Skill games, without a legislative fix, are set to become illegal on Oct.14. Regardless of your feelings about them, many local legions and clubs rely on them to keep their halls afloat. Watch my exchange with the director of Dillsburg's American Legion about these machines.

Click here to watch the video.
 
 
Joining the SPCA for Annual Summit



It was great to join the York County SPCA for their fourth annual 'State of Animal Affairs Summit.' The York SPCA is a no-kill animal shelter that serves as an example to not only shelters in the state but across the country. We're lucky to have them, and I'm proud to partner with them.
 
 
Veteran’s Appreciation Breakfast: Registration Open



Veterans of the 47th District: Register for our Nov. 6 Veterans Appreciation Breakfast by Oct. 26 or until seats are filled! U.S. Representative Scott Perry, Brigadier General, U.S. Army Retired will be the special guest speaker.

Veterans and one guest are invited to attend this FREE event.

RSVP to RepJoeD.com/events or call 717-840-4711.

Join us as we honor and thank the veterans of the 47th Legislative District for their service and sacrifice.
 
 
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

To honor those who have fought breast cancer or who are fighting it now, the fountain at the Pennsylvania State Capitol has been dyed pink again this year in recognition of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers. It accounts for about 30% (or one in three) of all new female cancers each year. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, second only to lung cancer.

The pink fountain is also a reminder to all women of the importance of mammograms and early detection. People with low to moderate income who are uninsured or underinsured and meet certain age requirements may qualify for testing through the Pennsylvania Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. To learn about the program and eligibility, click here.
 
 
Where Can I See the Best Fall Colors?

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year in the Commonwealth! If you want to do some leaf peeping, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is once again offering its weekly fall foliage reports to help you pick out the best places to visit for the best color!

The reports are available here.


 
 
PennDOT Driver License, Photo Centers Closed for Columbus Day Holiday

All PennDOT driver license and photo centers, including the Riverfront Office Center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, Oct. 10, through Monday, Oct. 12, in observance of Columbus Day. Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services online through PennDOT's Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.pa.gov.

 
 
Bill Supports Families of Fallen Law Enforcement Officers

I recently joined in the unanimous support of legislation that would ensure the dependents of fallen municipal police officers continue to have health insurance coverage.

House Bill 911 would provide insurance to the surviving spouse of the officer for his or her lifetime, and children would be covered until age 26. The proposal mirrors the benefits already available to Pennsylvania State Police families experiencing line-of-duty deaths.

When an officer gives his or her life in service to our Commonwealth, their mourning family members should not have to worry about access to insurance benefits. The bill is now pending consideration by the Senate.
 
 
Be Smart Activity Book Contest for Students!

This October, we’re joining the Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General to celebrate Financial Planning Month!

Students in grades K-12 can participate in the department’s Be Money $mart Activity Book Cover Contest. Create a drawing or design and submit it for consideration by Oct. 30. The winning submission will be announced by the auditor general at the end of the month!

Learn more, access templates and participate here.
 

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