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In this Update:

• Improving PA’s Competitiveness with Bipartisan Tax Reform
• Have You Filled Out My Survey on Energy?
• Thank You to the Martindale Volunteer Fire Company for 75 Years of Service
• Congratulations to Rev. Hummer on the 50th Anniversary of His Ordination
• Vote Now to Win $25,000 for the Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park
• Grants Available for Very Small Meat and Poultry Processors
• Game Commission Seeks Help Counting Wild Turkeys
• Application Period Open for Rail Freight Assistance Programs
• Farmers Markets Mean Fresh, Regional Produce

Improving PA’s Competitiveness with Bipartisan Tax Reform

On Tuesday, the Pennsylvania Chamber welcomed members of the Lancaster state legislative delegation and representatives from the Wolf administration, as well as state and local business leaders, for a business roundtable and press conference at the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce. The conversation focused on how Pennsylvania’s recently enacted state tax reform package will improve Pennsylvania’s competitiveness and chart a new course for the Commonwealth’s economy.

The tax reform package – which was enacted as part of the 2022-23 budget agreement – includes a long overdue reduction to the state’s Corporate Net Income Tax rate from 9.99% to 4.99% over the course of nine years. Based on current state corporate tax rates, once the law is fully implemented, Pennsylvania will go from imposing one of the nation’s highest CNIT tax rates, to the 8^th lowest in the country.

Improving our tax structure and business climate in Pennsylvania will have a ripple effect across every community and job sector by creating more high-paying jobs, enabling working class Pennsylvanians to experience earned success and upward mobility, and allowing our Commonwealth to compete nationally and globally for economic opportunity.

These important updates to the state’s tax structure will improve Pennsylvania’s competitiveness by bringing the Commonwealth in line with other states and federal tax law and leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs looking to start a business here. Read more here.

Have You Filled Out My Survey on Energy?

The energy sector has a significant impact on our Commonwealth and its residents, especially because Pennsylvania is blessed with a diverse mix of energy sources. They power our state’s economy and create high-paying jobs, as well as position the Commonwealth to export our excess energy to power other states. However, some people would prefer to pivot away from certain energy sources in favor of newer, “green” sources.

Because this topic is so relevant for all of us and our way of life, I am interested in your thoughts on energy-related policies. Please tell me what is important to you by filling out the short survey on my website here.

Thank You to the Martindale Volunteer Fire Company for 75 Years of Service

For 75 years, the Martindale Volunteer Fire Company protected its community by performing extraordinary acts of service. The members demonstrate unwavering commitment and dedication in taking the risks necessary to save the lives and property of others.

In recognition of this achievement, I presented a Pennsylvania Senate Citation to the fire company. Like so many others, I am grateful for the tireless devotion of our volunteer firefighters.

Congratulations to Rev. Hummer on the 50th Anniversary of His Ordination

I recently presented a Pennsylvania Senate Citation to Rev. Larry Hummer upon the 50th anniversary of his ordination.

A graduate of Gettysburg College and the Gettysburg Theological Seminary, Rev. Hummer is known throughout the Denver and Ephrata area for his ministry and extensive community service, and he served as the pastor of Saint John Lutheran Church in Denver for many years.

He retired from full-time work in August 2008 after 38 years. Rev. Hummer currently serves the Lutheran churches as a supply pastor and also volunteers as the treasurer and a member of the Finance, Communications and Property Committees at the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Ephrata.

Congratulations and best wishes to Rev. Hummer!

Vote Now to Win $25,000 for the Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park

The Ephrata Unleashed Dog Park, which will be a great amenity for the community, will be breaking ground soon on the Haller Homestead property, Old Mill Road, next to the Community Gardens. A nonprofit economic development organization, Mainspring of Ephrata entered the dog park into Pet Safe’s national competition to win $25,000 for development of the park, and it is one of 30 finalists. Voting will end on Tuesday, Aug. 30, but until then, you can vote every day with simply your email address. Just click here, and enter the zip code 17522.

Grants Available for Very Small Meat and Poultry Processors

The application period for the Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Reimbursement Grant Program is open and will run through Sept. 26. The assistance is aimed at increasing locally produced meat and poultry.

The funding can be used for the start-up costs associated with meeting federal inspection and certification guidelines for very small meat processors, defined as entities with sales of less than $2.5 million and fewer than 10 employees.

Applicants can submit their application through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Single Application for Assistance online application system at www.esa.dced.state.pa.us.

Game Commission Seeks Help Counting Wild Turkeys

The Pennsylvania Game Commission is again seeking input from the public in surveying wild turkeys this summer. The Pennsylvania Wild Turkey Sighting Survey is open through Aug. 31.

Participation is important for turkey population management. Survey data allow the agency to determine total wild turkey productivity and compare long-term reproductive success within Pennsylvania and across states, as this is a standard methodology used across the country. Data also are used in the turkey population model to track population trends.

Turkey sightings can be reported through the Game Commission’s website. The mobile app is no longer available.

Application Period Open for Rail Freight Assistance Programs

Pennsylvania ranks first in the country in the number of operating railroads, and state grants are available to support them through investment in rail freight infrastructure.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation operates the Rail Transportation Assistance Program and the Rail Freight Assistance Program. Both programs have become very competitive and not all applications will receive funding.

For eligible organizations wishing to apply for funding through either program, applications will be available on the application website until 4 p.m., Sept 2.

Farmers Markets Mean Fresh, Regional Produce

National Farmers Markets Week is a timely reminder that fresh, regional, summertime produce can be found at area farmers markets.

Many farmers markets are temporary, but there are several online guides to help you find a market near you.

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