The Justice Department says an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) will lead the efforts in connection with the department’s nationwide program for the upcoming general election on November 3rd. Eric Pfisterer has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. He is responsible for overseeing complaints of election fraud and voting rights concerns. The Justice Department’s Election Day Program seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open. Complaints of possible violations can be made to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC at 800-253-3931. In the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, call 911 immediately, and before contacting federal authorities.

Mifflin and Perry counties are expanding high-speed internet access to hundreds of customers, expanding on SEDA-COG’s broadband project with Juniata County. Centre WISP will provide high-speed internet to 210 residents and five businesses in the River Road region south of McVeytown, and to 100 residents and three businesses in the Horse Valley Road area in west Perry County. Centre WISP has already begun service to some Juniata County residents and businesses. The counties worked with SEDA-COG to secure state and federal funds to incentivize the internet expansion project.

The Pennsylvania Senate has approved legislation to ensure safe visitation and enhanced care for residents of long-term care facilities. Senate Bill 1279 would require facilities to designate at least one essential family caregiver per resident that would be permitted to visit and care for a loved one during a disaster emergency. Under the bill, caregivers would be able to remain in contact with family members and provide companionship. Many Pennsylvania families faced COVID-19 restrictions that prevented them from visiting loved ones for months – even when all state and federal safety protocols could have been followed. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.