PA Senate Floor Journal — 2026-06-09

It is an honor to stand before you today representing the enduring spirit and hardworking families of southwestern Pennsylvania as the 70th annual Pennsylvania Bituminous Coal Queen. I extend my sincere gratitude to Speaker McClinton and President pro tempore Kim Ward for granting me the privilege of this floor and to my home district leaders, Representative Charity Grimm Krupa and Senator Patrick Stefano, for their incredible leadership in Fayette County, as well as Representative Bud Cook and Senator Camera Bartolotta for their steadfast support of Greene County and the King Coal Association. I would also like to thank Rachel Gleason and the PA Coal Alliance for hosting us this week, as well as Katlyn Fox and the entire Coal Queen committee for entrusting me with this enormous honor. Representing the coal region has been an absolute dream and honor, and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to share what this experience has meant to me. Last April, with the encouragement of my family, I took a leap of faith and decided to audition to represent Uniontown Area School District in the 2025 Pennsylvania Bituminous Coal Queen Pageant. If you know me, you know this was something very much out of my comfort zone, but being crowned Coal Queen was always a dream of mine. Growing up at my dance studio, I have gotten the opportunity to know many young women from Fayette, Greene, and Washington County school districts who have participated in and even won this pageant. Each one of these young women were such incredible role models and showed me what it means to be dedicated, respectful, and proud of our region's heritage. I strive to be half the woman that they were and to wear this crown with the same sense of responsibility and honor. Dance has taught me important life lessons, such as hard work, determination, and the value of a strong support system, qualities I have also seen in the kind and hardworking people of the coal industry I have been honored to meet during my time as Coal Queen. Throughout the past year, I have had many opportunities to travel throughout different counties in PA volunteering at local festivals, riding in various parades, and, most importantly, getting to meet these hardworking people who keep our coal region thriving. Most notably, thanks to Mr. Joseph Sbaffoni, I had the privilege to travel to Sycamore, PA, and visit Harvey Mine. Not only did I get to see the intricate process that is coal mining, but I got to see just how much work these brave men and women put in every day to power the communities around us. I gained a totally new perspective and appreciation for the coal mining industry as a whole, and it was an experience that I will never forget. It also confirmed that I am much better qualified to wear a crown than a hard hat. The title of Coal Queen has taught me that coal is more than an energy resource. It represents history, tradition, and generations of dedication. While our industries may evolve, the spirit of the coal region remains constant. It is a spirit built on perseverance, loyalty, and a deep sense of community. For me, being crowned Coal Queen was never about the sparkly crown and sash. It was about honoring the Coal Queens who have come before me, honoring the hardworking men and women of the coal industry, and giving a new, youthful perspective to the coal industry that is the backbone of southwestern Pennsylvania. Thank you. [Applause.] The PRESIDING OFFICER. Congratulations, and thank you, Ms. Mihalko. GUESTS OF SENATOR CAROLYN T. COMITTA The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Chester, Senator Comitta. Senator COMITTA. Mr. President, I rise today to welcome Madeline Barbezat, Tyler Troutman, and James Ruffin, college students who are working as summer interns in my West Chester district office. Maddie is a student at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she plans to graduate with degrees in political science and women and gender studies next year. In addition to serving as a summer camp counselor at the YMCA, she has volunteered as an advocacy organizer and communications officer for March for Our Lives, an organization that is very near and dear to my heart, advocating for gun violence prevention. Tyler is a student at Lafayette College, where he is studying government and law and English with a writing concentration. At Lafayette, Tyler is a member of the Speech and Debate Team and has been recognized for excellence at several forensic competitions. He was the 2025 Pennsylvania Forensic Association State champion in debate and rhetorical criticism and the 2026 State champion in persuasive speaking. James is studying at Penn State University. He is a graduate of Bayard Rustin High School in West Chester. James is a certified soccer referee and has helped teach the sport to young children at summer clinics and as a counselor at the United Sports Training Center. He has also spent his summer working for the West Chester Area School District as a technology assistant, ensuring school facilities, computers, and classrooms were ready for students to return in the fall. Maddie, Tyler, and James have already been a great addition to our district office. It is my pleasure to welcome them here to the State Capitol to see the legislature in action. Again, thank you, and please join me in welcoming my 2026 summer interns, Maddie Barbezat, Tyler Troutman, and James Ruffin, to the Pennsylvania Senate. Thank you. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guests of Senator Comitta please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Allegheny, Senator Robinson. Senator ROBINSON. Mr. President, I rise today to welcome the members of the North Allegheny [Senior High School] Speech and Debate Team to the Pennsylvania Senate. This team, led by coach Dominic Moore, was crowned the 2026 Pennsylvania High School Speech League State champions. Not only did the Tigers triumph in the Large School Division, but their victory ended a 4-year reign of a rival school. The Tigers dominated this year's competition, earning the titles of champions of debate and congress and runners-up in public address. Out of 48 students on the team who competed, 32 advanced to the elimination rounds. This team's performance was exceptional, and our community is so proud of their remarkable success. Please join me in welcoming the North Allegheny [Senior High School] Speech and Debate Team to the Pennsylvania Senate. Thank you, Mr. President. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guests of Senator Robinson please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] GUESTS OF SENATOR TIMOTHY P. KEARNEY The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Delaware, Senator Kearney. Senator KEARNEY. Mr. President, I rise to introduce Lowell Tarr and Jaylen Davis, our two summer interns who are seated in the gallery with us today. They joined my office last week and have already shown the focus and the drive that will serve them well in their future careers. Lowell joined my office as a summer intern to better understand how legislation is developed, debated, and enacted into law and to learn how researching policy issues helps shape the decisions and conversations that guide our work here. A native of Secane in Delaware County and a graduate of Ridley High School, Lowell is now a rising senior at Temple University majoring in economics. On campus, he has served as treasurer of Temple's pre-law Black Law Students [Association] chapter and is an active member of the Game Theory Club, where students explore strategic decision-making through discussions, simulations, and logic-based games. Before joining my office, Lowell worked as a research assistant at First Up, a nonprofit improving early childhood education by strengthening providers, supporting families, and promoting effective policy solutions regionally. Following graduation, Lowell plans to pursue a joint Juris Doctor and a master's in public policy with the goal of becoming a policy fellow at a nonprofit organization so he can continue advocating for meaningful change. Jaylen Davis joined my office to gain more hands-on experience in constituent services and to see how policy is implemented into practice. Jaylen grew up in Ridley Park and graduated from Ridley High School, so we have two Ridley Raiders with us today. Jaylen is a rising junior at Pennsylvania State University, where he is pursuing a bachelor's degree in political science and economics with plans to attend law school after finishing his undergraduate studies. There, he serves as the president of Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity, and, previously, he joined the Delaware County District Attorney's Office as an intern. Outside of work, Jaylen enjoys golfing, spending time with friends, and learning more about financial markets. His decision to pursue this internship came from a strong interest in understanding the factors that drive policy implementation and how these decisions affect communities. Jaylen plans to build a career at the intersection of law, lobbying, and financial markets. I hope the Senate will join me in welcoming Lowell and Jaylen with its customary warm reception. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guests of Senator Kearney please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Northumberland, Senator Culver. Senator CULVER. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce a special group of guests who are with us in the Senate gallery in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and their ongoing work to strengthen protections for older Pennsylvanians and care-dependent individuals. Joining us today is Lynn Fiedler, the founder and president of Journey to Justice, a nonprofit based in the 27th Senatorial District with a mission to protect older adults through advocacy, education, and awareness. Journey to Justice was born out of a tragedy. Lynn's mother, Alice Longenberger, was a beautiful woman who, like so many, developed dementia and was non-verbal living in a trusted care facility. Unfortunately, Alice suffered horrific abuse at the hands of two young workers over the course of months and could not speak up to defend herself or tell someone what was being done to her. Due to the inability of the DA to charge the abusers with anything but misdemeanors and Lynn's continued observance of abusers moving from one facility to another, Lynn made a promise to her mother to fight for justice in her memory. Lynn's advocacy is helping to bring important attention to the issue of elder abuse and the need for greater accountability when vulnerable individuals are harmed. We are working together on legislation I have introduced, called Alice's Law, to create an elder abuse registry, and this morning we held a press conference ahead of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which is June 15. While Alice is no longer with us, she has an army of warriors in the gallery, many in their purple Journey to Justice shirts, led by her daughter, Lynn. Lynn is joined by her husband, Nevin; her sons, Brandon and Jared; her daughter-in-law, Caroline; and her sweet granddaughters, Grace, Malena, Stella, Alorah, and Lianna. We are also JUNE 9, joined by Kim and Duane Rigel. Kim has been a dedicated partner in the Journey to Justice education efforts and the continued work surrounding Alice's Law. Also joining us are representatives from the Union-Snyder Area Agency on Aging, including Kimberly Campbell, protective services supervisor; and Breanna Wise and Alaina Taylor. And there are also a number of other Journey to Justice supporters who have traveled to Harrisburg today, and I want to thank them all for believing in Lynn's vision and mission and working to protect older adults in our communities. Mr. President, I ask my colleagues to please give Journey to Justice a warm Senate welcome. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guests of Senator Culver please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] GUESTS OF SENATOR STEVEN J. SANTARSIERO The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Bucks, Senator Santarsiero. Senator SANTARSIERO. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize a special guest joining us in the Senate whose advocacy and leadership helped inspire my resolution designating June 2026 as Scoliosis Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. Mr. President, I am pleased to welcome Anna Von Hohen of Newtown, a member of Girl Scout Troop 226 and a student at Pennsylvania Virtual Charter School. Anna is currently pursuing her Girl Scout Gold Award through a project called "Beating the Bend," which focuses on increasing awareness, education, and support for individuals living with scoliosis. As part of her project, Anna has established a support group for students with scoliosis at her school, created educational resources through her social media outreach, and partnered with organizations and medical professionals dedicated to helping patients and families navigate this condition. Mr. President, scoliosis affects thousands of children and adults, and early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in the long-term health outcomes and quality of life for these people. Through her dedication and service, Anna is helping to ensure that more families have access to information, support, and encouragement while raising awareness of a condition that is often misunderstood. Mr. President, I commend Anna for her outstanding advocacy, community leadership, and commitment to helping others, and I ask my colleagues to join me in giving her and her parents our customary warm Senate welcome. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guests of Senator Santarsiero please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Blair, Senator Judy Ward. Senator J. WARD. Mr. President, I would like to introduce my summer intern, Nicholas Kupniewski. Nick is interning at my Hollidaysburg district office in Blair County. He currently resides in Erie. Nick is a graduate of Cathedral Preparatory School in Erie and is a current student at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Cambria County, and will enter his sophomore year this fall majoring in political science. Along with his course studies, Nick was selected by college administration to participate in a prestigious campus program, Alta Via, where students enter into an intense study of theology and their faith for personal growth. Nick is also part of the cross country and track and field teams at Saint Francis. In his spare time, Nick enjoys running, spending time with family and friends, and keeping up to date on local and national politics. Nick aspires to one day be an elected official in State or Federal government, where he can serve his community. Look out, Senator Laughlin. Will you please join me in giving Nicholas a warm Senate welcome. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guest of Senator Judy Ward please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] GUESTS OF SENATOR VINCENT J. HUGHES The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Philadelphia, Senator Hughes. Senator HUGHES. Mr. President, I rise today to welcome two interns who will be working in our Harrisburg office this summer, Jessica Firestone and Adam Johnston. I would first like to recognize Jessica Firestone, a lifelong resident of Yardley, Pennsylvania, and a recent graduate of Penn State University. She holds degrees in political science and philosophy with a minor in economics. During her time at Penn State, Jessica was an active member of the Lion Caucus, a student advocacy group that bridges the gap between students and elected officials regarding legislation impacting the Penn State community. In her senior year, she completed a thesis examining the intersection of ideology, patriotism, and support for the right to protest. Jessica brings valuable experience to our office, having previously interned with the Penn State Office of Government and Community Relations, as well as the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress in Washington, DC. As she enters the workforce, Jessica is looking forward to applying her research skills toward the betterment of the Commonwealth. And joining Jessica is Adam Johnston. Adam just finished his sophomore year at Penn State--I assume you hear a thread here, Mr. President, about Penn State. Okay, Mr. Leader? All right? Adam just finished his sophomore year at Penn State, where he is majoring in economics with minors in mathematics, business, legal studies, and the legal environment of business. During his time at Penn State's Harrisburg campus, Adam led the campus chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America and earned fourth place in an economics competition. He was also a standout competitor with the sales club, earning accolades in eight different competitions ranging from first to sixth place. Now at Penn State's University Park campus, Adam is a member of the liberal arts peer advisors, Kappa Alpha Pi, and the economics association. He will also be leading a backpacking trip around State College to connect with incoming freshmen and provide an alternative transition into college life. As he begins his junior year in the fall, Adam will focus on his honors coursework and LSAT preparation. After he graduates, he intends to pursue law school-Senator Costa, you heard that, okay? After he graduates, he intends to pursue law school and aspires to work in antitrust litigation. We are thrilled to have both Jessica and Adam join our office this summer. I know their genuine interest in public policy and solutions will be a valuable addition to our team. I ask that the Chamber join me in giving Jessica and Adam a traditional warm Senate welcome. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guests of Senator Hughes please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Cambria, Senator Langerholc. Senator LANGERHOLC. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce an impressive young woman, Jordyn Powell, who is my job shadow for the day. Jordyn is a rising junior from Greater Johnstown [Senior] High School, where she is involved in many activities: the yearbook club, Aevidum [Club], Key Club, Interact Club, School Wide Positive [School] Behavior [Interventions and Supports] Club, morning announcements, and she also plays on both the softball and soccer teams. I got to know Jordyn from her participation in my Senator for a Day Program, where she provided much meaningful discussion and dialogue. Jordyn's participation in her community and our democratic process is impressive. She is a member of the Johnstown Youth City Council, and this year she took the lead in helping organize a major local youth-led community festival known as Central Celebration in Johnstown. Jordyn is currently doing dual enrollment at Penn Highlands Community College, where she will obtain an associate's degree upon her graduation from high school--very impressive. After high school, she plans to continue advocacy, become an attorney--a noble profession, I would like to note for the record--and work toward a career in State government. Mr. President, it is clear that Jordyn's future is bright, and it is an absolute honor to have her here with us today. I would ask for a traditional warm Senate welcome. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guest of Senator Langerholc please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Philadelphia, Senator Saval. Senator SAVAL. Mr. President, today I am honored to welcome to our Capitol and introduce as my guests, Abigail Cooley and Elliet Schriver, who have joined my office and team this summer as interns. Abigail Cooley joins us as a rising senior at Lafayette College in Easton, where she is studying community planning with a foundation of policy, economics, and environmental studies. Abby is an organizer at heart, having built projects to support the communities she has lived in in Philadelphia and in Easton in their pursuit of environmental and social justice. Elliet Schriver joins us as a rising senior at Temple University, where she is studying political science and film and media arts. Elliet is a gifted storyteller and documentarian who is committed to advancing policy and programs that bring forth a thriving future for everyone. Though they had never met before coming to our office, their paths have overlapped. Both are rising seniors, both showed up in support of Philadelphia's Chinatown when billionaires threatened to put an arena in the heart of this historic neighborhood, and both are committed to service. Both are curious and kind. Both are excited to learn how to craft and advance policies that meet people's real material needs, and both have jumped into their summers with my office headfirst, offering crucial support with the ICE Out of Pennsylvania package that we launched earlier today, and both coincidentally have been here to our Capitol just once before. Today, I am honored to welcome them back to their Capitol, and I am humbled for their decision to spend their summers in service of the people, communities, and lands of the First Senatorial District, and I am inspired and excited for all that lies ahead on their respective paths and all that we will do together along the way. In the work of building a world free from exploitation and extraction, we need not just a few leaders, but thousands of people, acting in solidarity with those around them to create a world in which all of us can thrive. Please join me in extending to Abigail Cooley and Elliet Schriver our usual warm Senate welcome. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guests of Senator Saval please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] The PRESIDING OFFICER. Senator Picozzi and Senator Flynn have returned, and their temporary Capitol leaves are cancelled. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Dauphin, Senator Kim. Senator KIM. Mr. President, today I am proud to introduce two bright individuals who are joining my office as interns this summer. Yashica Chhetri is a rising senior at American University in Washington, DC, majoring in international studies and minoring in international business and dance. On top of her academic pursuits, Yashica is passionate about serving immigrant communities. She has worked on research focused on the immigrant diaspora in the DMV region and, here in Harrisburg, works closely with the Asian Refugees United, which provides leadership and youth development opportunities for the Bhutanese and Nepali communities in the area. We are also joined by Susan Kargbo, who is a rising junior at Penn State University majoring in political science and African studies. In addition to her studies, Susan is part of the mock trial team which competed at nationals this past year. She has spent the last few months studying in Mexico, Greece, and Japan and completing over 100 service hours across the three countries before coming back home to serve her neighbors here in the 15th Senatorial District. I am so grateful Yashica and Susan chose to spend their summer working and learning alongside us. They have already been great assets to my team, and I am excited to see where the future takes them. Yashica and Susan are seated in the gallery. Please join me in giving them the usual warm Senate welcome. Thank you, Mr. President. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the guests of Senator Kim please rise and be welcomed by the Senate. [Applause.] JUNE 9, The SECRETARY. Pursuant to Senate Rule 14, the Committee on Judiciary, which was scheduled to meet at 11 a.m. in room 8E-B, will now meet off the floor in the Rules room during Session today. The committee will meet to consider Senate Bill No. 1335 and House Bill No. 1344. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Indiana, Senator Pittman. Senator PITTMAN. Mr. President, I request a recess of the Senate first for the purpose of a meeting of the Committee on Judiciary, to be followed by a meeting of the Committee on Rules and Executive Nominations, both of which will be held immediately in succession in the Rules room. At the conclusion of those meetings, Senate Republicans will caucus in the Majority Caucus Room. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Allegheny, Senator Costa. Senator COSTA. Mr. President, at the conclusion of the meeting of the Committee on Judiciary and the meeting of the Committee on Rules and Executive Nominations, Senate Democrats will meet in the rear of the Chamber for a caucus as well. The PRESIDING OFFICER. For purposes of a meeting of the Committee on Judiciary, followed by a meeting of the Committee on Rules and Executive Nominations, both of which will be held off the floor in the Rules room immediately, followed by Republican and Democratic caucuses to be held in their respective caucus rooms, without objection, the Senate stands in recess. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Senator Cris Dush) in the Chair. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The time of recess having expired, the Senate will come to order. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Senator Pisciottano has returned, and his temporary Capitol leave is cancelled. Senator BAKER, from the Committee on Judiciary, reported the following bills: SB 1335 (Pr. No. 1728) An Act amending the act of November 22, 1978 (P.L.1166, No.274), referred to as the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency Law, providing for Investigation and Prosecution of Internet Crimes Against Children Program. HB 1344 (Pr. No. 3058) An Act amending Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses) and 53 (Municipalities Generally) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for definitions; and, in employees, further providing for canine training standards for police officers. Senator PITTMAN, from the Committee on Rules and Executive Nominations, reported the following bill: SB 908 (Pr. No. 1804) (Amended) (Rereported) An Act amending the act of August 15, 1961 (P.L.987, No.442), known as the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act, further providing for definitions, for specifications and for duty of secretary. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Indiana, Senator Pittman. Senator PITTMAN. Mr. President, I request a recess of the Senate for the purpose of a Senate Republican caucus, which will be held immediately in the Majority Caucus Room. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Allegheny, Senator Costa. Senator COSTA. Mr. President, Senate Democrats will meet in the rear of the Chamber for a caucus as well. The PRESIDING OFFICER. For purposes of Republican and Democratic caucuses to be held in their respective caucus rooms, without objection, the Senate stands in recess. The PRESIDENT (Lieutenant Governor Austin A. Davis) in the Chair.

Senator Pennycuick, Senator Keefer, and Senator Gebhard have returned, and their respective leaves are cancelled.

For the purpose of a meeting of the Committee on Rules and Executive Nominations, which will be held off the floor in the Rules room immediately, without objection, the Senate stands in recess.

The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Indiana, Senator Pittman. Senator PITTMAN. Mr. President, I request that Senator Coleman's leave be changed from a temporary Capitol leave to a legislative leave.

The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Indiana, Senator Pittman. Senator PITTMAN. Mr. President, I request a recess of the Senate for the purpose of a meeting of the Committee on Appropriations, which will be held immediately in the Rules room.

The time of recess having expired, the Senate will come to order. HB 2411 (Pr. No. 3491) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act making appropriations from the restricted revenue accounts within the State Gaming Fund and from the restricted revenue accounts within the Fantasy Contest Fund and Video Gaming Fund to the Attorney General, the Department of Revenue, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. HB 96, SB 469, SB 535, SB 536, HB 538, SB 743 and SB 806 -- Without objection, the bills were passed over in their order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. Considered the third time and agreed to, And the amendments made thereto having been printed as required by the Constitution, SB 866 (Pr. No. 1082) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act amending the act of April 14, 1972 (P.L.233, No.64), known as The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act, further providing for schedules of controlled substances and for secure storage of xylazine; and adding provisions relating to medetomidine. The yeas and nays were taken agreeably to the provisions of the Constitution and were as follows, viz: Farry Flynn Fontana Gebhard Haywood Hughes Hutchinson Kane Kearney Keefer Kim Langerholc Laughlin Malone Martin Mastriano Miller Muth Pennycuick Phillips-Hill Picozzi Pisciottano Pittman Robinson Considered the third time and agreed to, YEA-48 Argall Baker Bartolotta Boscola Brooks Brown Cappelletti Collett Comitta Costa Culver Dush Rothman Santarsiero Saval Schwank Stefano Street Tartaglione Vogel Ward, Judy Ward, Kim Williams, Lindsey Yaw

The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Philadelphia, Senator Saval. Senator SAVAL. Mr. President, today I rise in opposition to Senate Bill No. 866, which would classify medetomidine as a Schedule III controlled substance and criminalize its possession. No one can dispute that the growing presence of medetomidine is alarming. Medical practitioners have reported that medetomidine is contributing to severe withdrawal symptoms amongst patients, forcing health symptoms to develop new medical protocols and leading to sharp increases in emergency room and intensive care utilization. This is introducing greater strain on our medical systems that already face enormous pressure. The authors of this bill and I share the same commitment, to grapple, as a General Assembly, with the continued crisis of overdose, addiction, and an evolving drug supply. My opposition to Senate Bill No. 866 stems from the fact that we have traveled down this road before. The opioid crisis has wrought unfathomable hardship not just in our individual counties, but across our whole Commonwealth, and not just in Pennsylvania, but across our whole country, and it continues to evolve and change, often requiring us to take rapid action in order to protect and care for the communities we serve. Yet, in the years that I have served in this Chamber, the solutions we have put forward to this crisis have been onefold: the scheduling and criminalization of each new substance that enters the drug supply. Unfortunately, this response has not been enough to stem the tide. If Senate Bill No. 866 were to pass, it would, at best, marginally reduce the presence of medetomidine in the drug supply. It would also push more patients and community members into the criminal justice system, where treatment is scarce and overdose deaths are statistically more likely. Nor will Senate Bill No. 866 prevent the emergence of a new adulterant in the supply. In fact, it may speed up the introduction of another, and it will not increase capacity or further prepare our healthcare systems proactively to take on the opioid crisis. Our role as policymakers is now to look towards solutions that work rather than policies that punish, jail, and put people in debt who are struggling. We must focus on what works: expanding care, treatment, and prevention, like testing strips and housing solutions for those ready for care, infusing more resources into our healthcare system, and listening to the providers, researchers, and people with lived experiences who are asking for something different. These approaches are popular. Three-quarters of Americans support an addiction response that prioritizes public health solutions, and we have the opportunity and the responsibility to honor the call of our constituents. As the number of overdoses across our Commonwealth and country remain devastatingly high, I ask my colleagues to join me in voting "no" on Senate Bill No. 866. Thank you, Mr. President. And the question recurring, The yeas and nays were taken agreeably to the provisions of the Constitution and were as follows, viz: YEA-47 Argall Baker Bartolotta Boscola Brooks Brown Cappelletti Coleman Collett Comitta Costa Culver Dush Farry Flynn Fontana Gebhard Haywood Hughes Hutchinson Kane Keefer Kim Langerholc Laughlin Malone Martin Mastriano Miller Muth Pennycuick Phillips-Hill Picozzi Pisciottano Pittman Robinson Rothman Santarsiero Schwank Stefano Street Tartaglione Vogel Ward, Judy Ward, Kim Williams, Lindsey Yaw NAY-2 Kearney Saval A constitutional majority of all the Senators having voted "aye," the question was determined in the affirmative. Ordered, That the Secretary of the Senate present said bill to the House of Representatives for concurrence. SB 1105 (Pr. No. 1694) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act amending Title 16 (Counties) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in hotel tax, further providing for hotel room rental tax in third through eighth class counties. Considered the third time and agreed to, And the amendments made thereto having been printed as required by the Constitution, The yeas and nays were taken agreeably to the provisions of the Constitution and were as follows, viz: YEA-46 Argall Baker Bartolotta Boscola Brooks Brown Cappelletti Collett Comitta Costa Culver Dush Farry Flynn Fontana Gebhard Haywood Hughes Hutchinson Kane Kearney Kim Langerholc Laughlin Malone Martin Miller Muth Pennycuick Phillips-Hill Picozzi Pisciottano Pittman Robinson Rothman Santarsiero Saval Schwank Stefano Street Tartaglione Vogel Ward, Judy Ward, Kim Williams, Lindsey Yaw NAY-3 Coleman Keefer Mastriano A constitutional majority of all the Senators having voted "aye," the question was determined in the affirmative. Ordered, That the Secretary of the Senate present said bill to the House of Representatives for concurrence. SB 1150, SB 1261 and SB 1262 -- Without objection, the bills were passed over in their order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. SB 1269 (Pr. No. 1582) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act providing for the installation of electrified security systems on commercial entities' property and property of exclusively nonresidential use. Considered the third time and agreed to,

The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Cumberland, Senator Rothman. Senator ROTHMAN. Mr. President, Senate Bill No. 1313 tackles two growing problems in our Commonwealth. The first is the number of declining sportsmen. Over the last 35 years, we have seen a declining number of hunting license sales. We also have a decline in our youth population. Our demographics for young people are not coming back to Pennsylvania to work and raise their families. This bill will provide native Pennsylvanians an opportunity to buy a hunting license at the same rate that inState residents pay. Currently, residents pay $20.97 if you are a Pennsylvania resident, but if you are a non-resident, you pay over $100 to hunt in Pennsylvania. The idea is that native-born Pennsylvanians, who affirm that this is where they were born, can pay the in-State resident license number, which means they will come back to Pennsylvania to hunt, and while they are back in Pennsylvania hunting, realizing what a great Commonwealth this is to live in, and they will move back here, and we will reverse this trend in demographics where people between the ages of 22 and 64 are leaving our State. Senate Bill No. 1313, coming "home to hunt," it also exists in States like Tennessee, Montana, who have already seen successful changes in the number of people hunting. Mr. President, I urge our colleagues to support this bill and help people come home to hunt, and when they come home to hunt, that they stay here. Thank you, Mr. President. And the question recurring, The yeas and nays were taken agreeably to the provisions of the Constitution and were as follows, viz: YEA-48 Argall Baker Bartolotta Boscola Brown Cappelletti Coleman Collett Comitta Costa Culver Dush Farry Flynn Fontana Gebhard Haywood Hughes Hutchinson Kane Kearney Keefer Kim Langerholc Laughlin Malone Martin Mastriano Miller Muth Pennycuick Phillips-Hill Picozzi Pisciottano Pittman Robinson Rothman Santarsiero Saval Schwank Stefano Street Tartaglione Vogel Ward, Judy Ward, Kim Williams, Lindsey Yaw The yeas and nays were taken agreeably to the provisions of the Constitution and were as follows, viz: YEA-49 Argall Baker Bartolotta Boscola Brooks Brown Cappelletti Coleman Collett Comitta Costa Culver Dush Farry Flynn Fontana Gebhard Haywood Hughes Hutchinson Kane Kearney Keefer Kim Langerholc Laughlin Malone Martin Mastriano Miller Muth Pennycuick Phillips-Hill Picozzi Pisciottano Pittman Robinson Rothman Santarsiero Saval Schwank Stefano Street Tartaglione Vogel Ward, Judy Ward, Kim Williams, Lindsey Yaw NAY-0 A constitutional majority of all the Senators having voted "aye," the question was determined in the affirmative. Ordered, That the Secretary of the Senate present said bill to the House of Representatives for concurrence. HB 1442 -- Without objection, the bill was passed over in its order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. HB 1963 (Pr. No. 2598) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in licensing of drivers, further providing for Medical Advisory Board. NAY-1 Without objection, the bill was passed over in its order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. Pursuant to Senate Rule 9, the bill was laid on the table. A constitutional majority of all the Senators having voted "aye," the question was determined in the affirmative. Ordered, That the Secretary of the Senate present said bill to the House of Representatives for concurrence. Brooks SB 1353 (Pr. No. 1762) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act amending the act of December 22, 1983 (P.L.306, No.84), known as the Board of Vehicles Act, in preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in vehicles, further providing for unlawful acts by manufacturers or distributors, for area of responsibility and for limitations on establishing or relocating dealers. Considered the third time and agreed to, And the amendments made thereto having been printed as required by the Constitution, HB 2017 -- Without objection, the bill was passed over in its order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. SB 142, SB 357, HB 453, SB 599 and SB 746 -- Without objection, the bills were passed over in their order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. HB 852 (Pr. No. 3511) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act amending the act of December 31, 1965 (P.L.1257, No.511), known as The Local Tax Enabling Act, in collection of delinquent taxes, further providing for collection of delinquent per capita, occupation, occupational privilege, emergency and municipal services, local services and income taxes from employers, etc., for notice and for costs of collection of delinquent per capita, occupation, occupational privilege, emergency and municipal services, local services and income taxes. Considered the second time and agreed to, Ordered, To be printed on the Calendar for third consideration. Upon motion of Senator PITTMAN, and agreed to by voice vote, the bill just considered was rereferred to the Committee on Appropriations. HB 853 (Pr. No. 3512) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act amending the act of May 25, 1945 (P.L.1050, No.394), known as the Local Tax Collection Law, further providing for notices of taxes; providing for removal of deceased spouse; further providing for installment payment of taxes; and providing for imposition of fees for collection of delinquent per capita, poll and occupation taxes. Considered the second time and agreed to, Ordered, To be printed on the Calendar for third consideration. Upon motion of Senator PITTMAN, and agreed to by voice vote, the bill just considered was rereferred to the Committee on Appropriations. SB 857, SB 907 and SB 923 -- Without objection, the bills were passed over in their order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. JUNE 9, An Act providing for a tax credit for retrofitting residential high-rise structures with an automatic fire sprinkler system and associated monitoring or detection devices. Considered the second time and agreed to, Ordered, To be printed on the Calendar for third consideration. Upon motion of Senator PITTMAN, and agreed to by voice vote, the bill just considered was rereferred to the Committee on Appropriations. SB 1321 and SB 1324 -- Without objection, the bills were passed over in their order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. SB 1374 (Pr. No. 1786) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act amending the act of December 1, 1977 (P.L.237, No.76), known as the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance Act, further providing for title of act, for construction, for definitions, for deteriorated areas, for exemption schedule and for procedure for obtaining exemption; and providing for public registry. Considered the second time and agreed to, Ordered, To be printed on the Calendar for third consideration. Upon motion of Senator PITTMAN, and agreed to by voice vote, the bill just considered was rereferred to the Committee on Appropriations. HB 1862 -- Without objection, the bill was passed over in its order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. SB 1088 (Pr. No. 1758) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: An Act amending Title 38 (Holidays and Observances) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in veteran recognition, providing for First Defenders Day. Senator MARTIN, from the Committee on Appropriations, reported the following bills: Considered the second time and agreed to, Ordered, To be printed on the Calendar for third consideration. Upon motion of Senator PITTMAN, and agreed to by voice vote, the bill just considered was rereferred to the Committee on Appropriations. HB 1261 -- Without objection, the bill was passed over in its order at the request of Senator PITTMAN. SB 1299 (Pr. No. 1644) -- The Senate proceeded to consideration of the bill, entitled: SB 49 (Pr. No. 1805) (Rereported) An Act establishing the Cannabis Control Board; providing for powers and duties of the Cannabis Control Board; establishing the Cannabis Regulation Fund; providing for permits and for dispensing cannabis to patients and caregivers; and making repeals. SB 1260 (Pr. No. 1763) (Rereported) An Act providing for licensure of electrical contractors, electricians, residential electricians, apprentice electricians and probationary electricians; establishing the State Board of Electrical Licensure; providing for powers and duties of the board; establishing fees, fines and penalties; and making an appropriation. Senator PHILLIPS-HILL. Mr. President, I move that the Senate do now proceed to consideration of all bills reported from committees for the first time at today's Session. The motion was agreed to by voice vote. The bills were as follows: SB 362, SB 366, SB 482, SB 720, SB 730, SB 792, SB 1206, SB 1335, SB 1352, SB 1369, SB 1372, SB 1373, SB 1376, HB 1344, HB 1541, HB 1600, HB 1860, HB 1877 and HB 1972. And said bills having been considered for the first time, Ordered, To be printed on the Calendar for second consideration. The following announcements were read by the Secretary of the Senate: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2026 9:00 A.M. COMMUNICATIONS AND TECHNOLOGY Room 8E-A (to consider Senate Bill No. 1368; and House East Wing (LIVE Bill No. 78) STREAMED) 9:30 A.M. TRANSPORTATION (to consider Senate Bill Room 461 Main Capitol ` LABOR AND INDUSTRY (to consider Senate Room 8E-A Bills No. 406, 906 and 1215) East Wing (LIVE STREAMED) 10:00 A.M. 10:30 A.M. PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE (to consider Senate Bills No. 1133, 1334 and 1182) Room 461 Main Capitol Off the Floor RULES AND EXECUTIVE NOMINATIONS Rules Committee Conference Room (to consider certain Executive Nominations) THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 2026 11:30 A.M. LABOR AND INDUSTRY (public hearing on Carlow University 3333 5th Avenue nursing workforce shortages and the role of Pittsburgh private universities in developing a talent pipeline)

The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Philadelphia, Senator Tartaglione. Senator TARTAGLIONE. Mr. President, I rise today because it has been 7,276 days since Pennsylvania last raised the minimum wage. Mr. President, budgets are more than numbers on a page, budgets are statements of values. They reveal who we choose to fight for and whose voices we choose to ignore. For years, working Pennsylvanians have waited for this legislature to act on minimum wage. While the cost of housing, groceries, childcare, and healthcare continues to rise, our minimum wage remains stuck at [$]7.25 an hour. Meanwhile, some of the largest corporations in America report record profits year after year. When workers ask for a fair share of the wealth they helped create, we are told that raising wages will eliminate jobs, yet many of those same corporations openly celebrate replacing workers with artificial intelligence, automation, and self-service technology when it benefits their bottom line. Apparently, job loss is only a concern when workers stand to gain. The reality is that low wages are a policy choice. We are choosing to subsidize profitable corporations with the labor of workers who cannot afford basic necessities. As we move closer to the budget deadline, we should remember that every day we delay is another day that hardworking Pennsylvanians are forced to make impossible choices between rent, food, medicine, and transportation. This budget needs to include a long-overdue increase in the minimum wage. Working people have waited long enough. Let us show them that their work matters, their dignity matters, and that this Senate is willing to stand with them. Thank you, Mr. President.

Pursuant to Senate Rule 10(e), the remarks will be submitted. (Pursuant to Senate Rule 10(e), the following prepared remarks were made part of the record at the request of the gentlewoman from Northumberland, Senator CULVER, on behalf of the gentleman from Lycoming, Senator YAW:) Mr. President, as Chairman of the Chesapeake Bay Commission along with Senator Martin, a fellow Commission member, I am proud to offer the following resolution designating the week of June 7 through June 13, 2026, as Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week in Pennsylvania. This designation encourages all Pennsylvanians to take part in events and educational efforts that highlight the Bay's tremendous environmental, economic, and recreational value. The Chesapeake Bay is the largest and most productive estuary in the United States, spanning six States and the District of Columbia. It supports more than 3,600 species of fish, plants, and wildlife and its annual harvest is worth over $100 million. Pennsylvania plays a critical role in the Bay's health. The Susquehanna River, our largest river, provides nearly half the Bay's fresh water. This week, we have an opportunity to celebrate Pennsylvania's successes in reducing nutrient and sediment pollution in the Bay and educate residents about the actions each citizen can take to help further this progress. Mr. President, we have proven that small steps at home lead to big impacts downstream, and protecting the Bay starts right here in Pennsylvania. By working together, we can ensure the Chesapeake Bay, and its tributaries, remain vibrant and healthy for generations to come. I am pleased to offer Senate Resolution No. 333, designating the week of June 7 through 13, 2026, as Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week in Pennsylvania. Thank you, Mr. President.