Dec. 15, 2015

HARRISBURG – With support of Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware) and the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, three bills passed the state House today.

“The Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee has made such a positive impact this legislative session, evidenced by the overwhelming support the legislation passed out of committee continues to receive from the House,” Barrar said. “I thank my fellow colleagues for their support and look forward to seeing how the bills begin to enhance the lives of those living in the Commonwealth following the governor’s signature.”

Sponsored by Reps. Stan Saylor (R-Red Lion), Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York) and Patty Kim (D-Dauphin), House Bill 1689 would establish the National Guard Youth Challenge program in Pennsylvania. The program would help at-risk 16-18 year-olds earn their high school diplomas or GEDs. Like the programs in 36 other states, it aims to provide another avenue to success for teens who have struggled.

The House also voted in favor of House Bill 1727, sponsored by Rep. Rick Saccone (R-Allegheny/Washington), which recognizes the accomplishments of military service personnel, veterans and supporters of veterans by adding two new decorations -- the Pennsylvania Medal of Achievement and the Pennsylvania Veterans Service Award -- to the list of existing honors presented by the governor.

Lastly, House Bill 1653, sponsored by Rep. Donna Oberlander (R-Clarion/Armstrong/Forest), would require minority-, woman- and veteran-owned businesses in Pennsylvania to be verified by the Department of General Services before being promoting them as a Pennsylvania Home State-certified businesses. The bill would better position the businesses in the global market.

The bills now advance to the Senate for consideration.

Representative Stephen E. Barrar
160th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
SteveBarrar.com / Facebook.com/RepBarrar
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