One bill sponsored by state Sen.

Bob Robbins, R-50th, and another bill he strongly supported, have been signed into law by Gov.Ed Rendell.Robbins' Senate Bill 736 — now Act 95 of 2005 — makes the Pennsylvania Construction Code more flexible. He introduced the bill as a result of businesses being told that they could not expand onto their facilities unless they brought their entire facility up to code since they did not have their original occupancy permit.Robbins noted for these businesses, remodeling their current facilities is cost-prohibitive.The new law provides such businesses an opportunity to obtain an occupancy permit if they meet several common-sense safety requirements, such as adequate lighting, ventilation and exits. They would then be exempt from having to bring their building up to the construction code.Rendell also signed into law House Bill 1690 supported by Robbins that allows the state Game Commission to create a mentored youth hunting program.The program will provide a hands-on experience for youngsters ready and willing to learn about hunting. The hunt would consist of one adult, one youth and one hunting device.The youth hunter would be within arm's length of the licensed hunter at all times. Hunting would be limited to deer, turkey and smaller game.Earlier this year, Robbins introduced legislation that would have established the program. He also inserted the same provisions into the House bill that is now law.———

Hundreds of children benefited from the generosity of Butler County residents this December through the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program's collection centers at each district office of Rep. <b>Brian Ellis</b>, R-11th, he announced."Local residents donated more than 300 toys this year at my Lyndora office alone," Ellis said. "It was through the generosity of our community that many children had the pleasure of experiencing a magical Christmas."Both Ellis' Cabot and Lyndora offices were collection centers.Between both offices, more than 325 toys were collected.For information about the Toys for Tots program, visit www.toysfortots.org.