Emailed Newsletter - January 27, 2023
1/29/2023
 
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
 
Rep. Kutz Sits Down with CBS21 to Give House Session Update

This week, I spoke with CBS21 about the House’s session schedule and the work I have been doing both in the district and in Harrisburg while we await the House returning to session. You can watch the interview here.

I have been using this time to meet with constituents in all parts of the 87th District. I’m thankful to be able spend so much time in our community and learn more about your concerns, so I can best advocate for you in Harrisburg.

If you are a constituent who would like to weigh in on how state government affects your day-to-day life, I invite you to do so using this form.
 
 
Policy Committee Hearing Highlights Constitutional Amendment Proposals

Click here to view video.

The House Republican Policy Committee held its first hearing of the session Monday, focusing on legislation proposing three separate amendments to the Pennsylvania Constitution.

The proposals include opening a two-year window for victims of childhood sexual assault to file civil lawsuits, even if the statute of limitations in the case has expired; ensuring the General Assembly can disapprove regulations without agreement by the governor; and requiring voters to present identification each time they cast a ballot.

I’m hopeful that the House will have the chance to vote on all three of these proposals soon.

The hearing may be viewed in its entirety here.  
 
 
GOP Appropriations Committee Starts Budget Conversation

We got an early jump on the upcoming budget by participating in a roundtable discussion about the state’s finances this week with Matthew Knittel, executive director of the Independent Fiscal Office (IFO). In the coming months, the House Appropriations Committee will be tasked with taking up the Commonwealth’s annual budget.

As Cumberland County continues to grow, I asked Director Knittel about housing trends and the impact rising housing costs and rising consumer debt will have on our economic outlook.

To learn more about the state’s economic outlook, click here.

Newly elected Gov. Josh Shapiro will deliver his budget proposal to a joint session of the General Assembly in early March.
 
 
Kutz Welcomes Green Ridge Elementary Students to the Capitol


Last week, I was pleased to welcome fourth grade students from Green Ridge Elementary School in Cumberland Valley School District to the Capitol. It’s an absolute privilege to be able to share our beautiful Capitol building with our next generation. Visit this page to schedule your own group tour.
 
 
Rep. Kutz Tours Cumberland Perry Area CTC



I recently toured the Cumberland Perry Area Career & Technical Center and met so manny students who are excelling in preparation for a number of careers. Students spend half of their school day at their high school before coming here for their technical program. Programs include computer programming, HVAC technology, emerging health professions, masonry, welding, and more. The most recent state budget increased career and technical education funding by $6 million.
 
 
Harrisburg Regional Chamber Hosts Legislators’ Forum



On Wednesday, I took part in the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC Legislators Forum. I spoke about improving the economic environment for small businesses and addressing our critical infrastructure.
 
 
Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission Hosts Legislative Roundtable



I joined the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission Thursday to learn more about issues affecting the state’s waterways. We talked about trout season, the process to obtain a fishing license, and the importance of wearing a life jacket.
 
 
Kutz Meets with Silver Spring Township Staff, Police



On Thursday, I enjoyed the opportunity to address the team at Silver Spring Township during their weekly meeting. Following our discussion about how we can collaborate on upcoming projects, we went on a driving tour of the parks and township projects and wrapped up with a meeting and tour of the police station. Thank you to Township Manager Ray Palmer and the entire Silver Spring team for hosting.
 
 
Rep. Kutz Meets with Upper Allen Staff, Public Safety Team



On Wednesday, I met with township management and the police department in Upper Allen Township. We took a walking tour of their municipal complex and were treated to an inside look at the new fire station. I’ll be back soon to tour Upper Allen’s parks and public works facilities.