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Public input is wanted on a plan to redesign and improve PA Link, which helps seniors and Pennsylvanians with disabilities find local services. Review the plan, sign up for a Jan. 27 information session and submit comments here: https://bit.ly/45bUrpJ
Students in grades K–6 have until Jan. 31 to submit art, writing or video for the @keeppennsylvaniabeautiful “Celebrate America250 – Keep It Beautiful” anti-litter campaign. A Capitol ceremony awaits the winners. Find details and applications here: https://bit.ly/4qjeH14
In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, my offices will be closed on Monday, January 19, and will reopen on Tuesday, January 20.
Dr. King’s legacy reminds us of the importance of service, equality, and community—values that continue to inspire us today.
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Redding and I sat down to discuss this year`s PA Farm Show. Thank you to all who make this week so special and successful year after year.
🥛 Whole Milk is Back in Schools! 🥛
I’m proud to share that the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act has been signed into law — allowing schools nationwide to once again offer whole and 2% milk to students!
This is a win for our kids and our Pennsylvania dairy farmers, who work hard every day to provide nutritious, high-quality milk for our communities.
A big thank-you to Glenn Thompson for leading the charge and to my colleagues who supported this effort. Together, we’re helping our students grow strong and supporting our local dairy industry. 🐄
Read full press release here: https://www.senatoreldervogel.com/2026/01/16/pa-state-lawmakers-and-agriculture-leaders-applaud-the-signing-of-federal-whole-milk-for-healthy-kids-act/
How can AI improve work zone safety? That’s the latest @PennsylvaniaDepartmentofTransportation Innovations Challenge for PA high school students.
Teams must submit entries by Jan. 30 for a chance at a prize. Submission information here: https://bit.ly/3Lb5usy
Yesterday I joined Governor Shapiro and Secretary Redding for a tour at the Farm Show. I’m always grateful that as elected officials we can come together in support of agriculture and the hardworking men and women who keep the industry moving forward.
In case you missed it:
Earlier today, I joined Representative Eddie Day Pashinski to lead a joint hearing of the Senate and House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committees at the PA Farm Show to talk about an issue that doesn’t get nearly enough attention — the mental health crisis facing Pennsylvania’s farmers.
We heard powerful stories from farmers, advocates, and experts about the real challenges our agriculture community faces every day — from financial stress and health care shortages to the stigma that too often keeps people from asking for help.
I’m so grateful to everyone who shared their experiences. As I’ve said before, our farmers are the backbone of our nation, and we need to do everything we can to support their well-being.
You can watch the full hearing below 👇
https://agriculture.pasenategop.com/ag-011426/
If you or someone you know is a farmer in crisis, please reach out:
📞 AgriStress Helpline: 833-897-AGRI (2474)
💬 Text PA to 741-741
📞 Or call/text 988 for the National Suicide Hotline
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