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July 16, 2010

Senator John Pippy E-News

Bill Sponsored by Senator Pippy Becomes Law

Allows Colleges to Offer In-State Tuition Rates
for Online Courses to Military Personnel

Harrisburg –Legislation sponsored by Senator John Pippy that will allow colleges to offer lower, in-state tuition rates for on-line courses to military personnel has been signed into law.

Act 57 of 2010 permits a community college, state-related or state-owned institution of higher learning to charge resident tuition rates to active duty military personnel and dependents receiving courses or other services through the Internet or other electronic means.

Previous state law did not allow these institutions to offer the in-state tuition rate to servicemen and women unless they are state residents.

“Active duty military personnel and their families make multiple sacrifices to defend our country. This is a relatively modest but meaningful change in state law to show our appreciation and improve education opportunities for military families,” said Pippy.

The Senator drafted the legislation with input from the State System of Higher Education, which is working to expand their course offerings to military personnel.

“Universities requested this change because it offers great benefits to both sides,” said Pippy. “Schools get a new pool of committed students, and military families gain access to new education opportunities. I am very happy that we were able to enact this legislation.”

Bicycle Safety Tips to Prevent Injuries and Deaths

Following two years of declining death rates among Pennsylvania bicyclists, the PA Department of Transportation (PennDOT) notes the rate doubled from 8 in 2008 to 16 fatalities in 2009 prompting a renewed push for adopting safe bicycle practices.  Four children under the age of 18 were among the fatalities and more than 550 youths were injured in crashes last year.

While PA law requires children 12 and under wear an approved safety helmet, PennDOT recommends all bicyclists wear an approved helmet and other protective gear.  The Department also advocates following a series of safety practices:

• Properly inflate tires

• Check and adjust brakes

• Ride on the right in the same direction as traffic

• Promptly signal your intentions

• Maintain at least one hand on the handlebars

• Steer clear of road hazards such as potholes or broken glass

• Include reflectors on your equipment, clothing, and shoes

In Pennsylvania, a bicycle is considered a vehicle and is governed by a general set of rules applicable to all vehicles and a specific set of rules intended for bicycles.  Access Pennsylvania’s 37-page Bicycle Driver’s Manual for specific laws and review safety tips for bicyclists and motorists who must be prepared to share the roadways.

Start of Atlantic Hurricane Season Serves as Reminder to Prepare

The start of the Atlantic hurricane season serves as a reminder to prepare for the unexpected and avoid common misunderstandings related to disaster assistance, according to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA).

Eight to 14 hurricanes are forecast for June through November of 2010 by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.  Three to seven of those are expected to be major storms with winds of at least 111 miles per hour.

PEMA is urging Pennsylvanians to familiarize themselves and the members of their family with disaster assistance.  The importance of properly reporting damages cannot be over-emphasized, according to PEMA.

Access a copy of “Are You Ready? An Indepth Guide to Citizen Preparedness” published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.  The Agency encourages familiarizing yourself with all aspects of emergency preparedness contained in the Guide.

PA Opens New “Fishing Hole” Webpage

“Meet me at the fishing hole.”  The words conjure up images of storytelling with old friends about good times and great fishing.  No need to keep wishing, according to the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PF&BC).

The Fishing Hole is a new webpage designed to give you accurate information to enhance your PA fishing experience.  Find fishing fundamentals, regulations, maps, stocking information, and more.  Get the details on the 3 ways you can obtain a PA fishing license.  You can also direct questions about local waters to one of 6 regional Commission Offices.

The Fishing Hole is also available to assist in reporting violations, pollution, or fish kills.  Urgent situations should be reported by phoning the appropriate Commission regional law enforcement office or county control.