Big Lewie | radioNOVO News for New Castle/Youngstown/Butler/Hermitage 05-06-26

Good morning,Several new measures aimed at combating child sex trafficking and exploitation are advancing in the Pennsylvania House — with direct ties to the New Castle area. Local lawmakers, including State Representative Marla Brown of Lawrence County and Aaron Bernstine of Butler and Lawrence counties, are co-sponsoring legislation that would strengthen penalties and expand protections for victims across the state.Meanwhile, another bill moving through Harrisburg could impact local students. Lawmakers have approved a proposal to study whether Pennsylvania should replace Keystone Exams with alternatives like the SAT or ACT — a move that could affect graduation requirements for high schoolers in districts across Lawrence and Mercer counties.And in Youngstown, a man is facing serious charges in a human trafficking case. Thirty-seven-year-old Randy Reese has pleaded not guilty to charges including rape and trafficking in persons. Authorities say he was arrested by U.S. Marshals following an investigation by a regional task force. His bond is set at 500-thousand dollars, with a tentative trial date later this month.More News on our radioNOVO App, Codi Gaboff, radioNOVO News — a service of Seven Mountains Media.