Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps expands job training programs

WILKES-BARRE — The Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps is expanding to create more job training and workforce development opportunities. On March 22, DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced the program’s plans while visiting Camp Hebron in Dauphin County. Under Governor Josh Shapiro, the initiative is receiving a boost from a $5 million investment in the 2024-25 budget. The Outdoor Corps, which is nearly 10 years old, trains young people aged 15-25 in conservation skills. Participants work on trail restoration, habitat enhancement, and tree planting. The program is run by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) in partnership with the Student Conservation Association (SCA). The funding will support hiring more staff and improving how the program is structured. This aims to attract more young people and enhance community partnerships. Last year, participants made significant contributions, including restoring 95 acres and planting 1,516 native trees. In other news, U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser is helping to co-sponsor a new bill aimed at combating fentanyl trafficking. Meuser said the fentanyl crisis is devastating many communities in Pennsylvania, noting that it was linked to 76% of overdose deaths in the state last year. The bill, known as the CATCH Fentanyl Act, focuses on using advanced technology at U.S. borders to detect hidden fentanyl. Rep. Meuser believes that stronger border security measures are crucial in fighting the spread of this drug. The legislation is currently under review by the House Homeland Security Committee. Additionally, Pennsylvania has been recognized for its efforts in prosecuting Medicaid fraud. A report showed the state is first in the nation for filing fraud charges and third in securing convictions. The Department of Human Services (DHS) works hard to protect Medicaid resources and recover taxpayer funds. DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh emphasized the importance of ensuring taxpayer dollars are used correctly. The agency monitors applications closely and investigates suspicious cases. Over 19,000 applications for public assistance were reviewed last fiscal year, mainly due to DHS referrals.