HARRISBURG, July 20 – State Rep. Mark Rozzi, D-Berks, released the following statement in response to Judge Norman Krumenacker’s ruling today that some redacted briefs filed in the Fortieth Statewide Investigating Grand Jury be made public. “The legal maneuverings that the Catholic Church is going through to prevent the release of the statewide grand jury report is nothing short of reprehensible. “First, the bishops of the six dioceses under investigation were provided the entire 884 pages of the report, not just the portions relative to unindicted named persons. Why this concession and what did they do with it? “Next thing, scores of petitioners, represented by high-powered attorneys, filed motions with the state Supreme Court to stay the release of the report based on of all things: that reputations might be harmed. One can only imagine how the victims felt or feel about those motions. “Then, the cleric petitioners were granted the opportunity to challenge statements of sworn testifiers and make appeals for whole pages of redactions to the report, citing due process. If they want due process, that’s fine: give the victims their day in court and the predators and those who are in charge of them can go to town protecting their reputations. “There are really only two ways that victims’ voices can be heard and get to the truth: through the court room or grand jury investigations. Read more
WHITEHALL, July 20 – State Rep. Jeanne McNeill toured the Coplay Aggregates Quarry Thursday afternoon and met with the owners who explained the processes used at the Whitehall Township facility. Read more
Schweyer to host public hearing on his protecting pre-existing conditions bill Wednesday in Allentown ALLENTOWN, JULY 20 – As part of the House Democratic Caucus’ Plan4PA, state Rep. Peter Schweyer, D-Lehigh, is hosting a House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing on his legislation ( H.B. 2552 ) that would prohibit health insurers from denying or excluding coverage based on a pre-existing condition in Pennsylvania. The hearing will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 25 at Lehigh County Government Center, Public Hearing Room 111, South 7 th St., Allentown. Schweyer requested the hearing to discuss how to protect Pennsylvanians with pre-existing medical conditions and ensure that they can still acquire health insurance despite the various ACA repeals by the federal government. He will be joined by legislators from across the state, including Policy Committee Chairman Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster. The current agenda is: 10 a.m. – Welcome and Opening Remarks 10:10 a.m. – Allison Beam 10:40 a.m. – Ken Bertka Luke’s Care Network 11:00 a.m. – Doug Furness Blue Cross 11:20 a.m. – Alvaro Castillo Access Network 11:40 a.m. – Closing Remarks The meeting is one in a series being held across the state on the House Democrats’ Plan4PA ( www.plan4pa.com ), which includes putting people first, good jobs, quality Read more
ERIE, July 19 – A shared interest in animal rights drew community members, elected officials and animal rights workers to an event today celebrating the one-year anniversary of the signing of Libre’s Law, according to the law’s author, state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie. Bizzarro, who co-hosted the event with local and national representatives of the Humane Society and the ANNA Shelter of Erie, said he was thrilled by the turnout. “It’s so encouraging to know that so many people in our community came out to show their support for animal rights and the new anti-cruelty legislation,” Bizzarro said. “Animals bring so much joy into our lives. It’s unfortunate that we need laws like this to protect them, but it’s heartening to know they have so much support.” Guest speakers included Erie Mayor John Schember; Braddock Mayor John Fetterman; and Kristen Tullo, Pennsylvania director of the Humane Society. Bizzarro worked hard to ensure passage of the state’s tougher animal cruelty law, which was named for Libre, the Boston terrier pup rescued from a Lancaster County farm in 2016 after suffering severe neglect. The new law, which ensures that animal abusers face tougher punishments, was signed by Gov. Wolf last summer. Read more
BELLEFONTE, July 18 – As part of the House Democratic Caucus’ Plan4PA, state Rep. Mike Hanna, D-Clinton/Centre, will host a House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing on retirement security. The hearing will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, July 23 at Bald Eagle Area High School, 751 S. Eagle Valley Road. Hanna requested the hearing to discuss the necessity of helping Pennsylvanians with saving for retirement. The discussion will include Hanna's legislation ( H.B. 465 ), which would provide private sector employees without access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan the opportunity to save for retirement through automatic payroll deduction. Hanna will be joined by legislators from across the state, including Policy Committee Chairman Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster. The current agenda is: 2 p.m. – Welcome and opening remarks 2:10 p.m. – Keith Welks , deputy treasurer, Pennsylvania Treasurer's Office 2:40 p.m. – Wendy Young Carter , vice president and D.C. practice director, public sector, The Segal Group 3:10 p.m. – Ray Landis , government relations manager, AARP Pennsylvania 3:40 p.m. – Closing remarks The meeting is one in a series being held throughout Pennsylvania on the House Democrats’ Plan4PA ( www.plan4pa.com ) that includes putting people first, good jobs, quality schools and fair taxes. Visit www.pahouse.com/policycommittee for Policy Committee materials. The Read more
BETHLEHEM, July 19 – As part of the House Democratic Caucus’ Plan4PA, state Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-Lehigh, is hosting a House Democratic Policy public hearing on human services for the disabled community next week. The public hearing will occur 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 24 at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg, Educational Conference Center, Room B, 2545 Schoenersville Road. McNeill requested the hearing to discuss the importance of state and local services in helping those with the physical and intellectual disabilities. She will be joined by state legislators from across the state, including Policy Committee Chairman Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster. The current agenda is: 2 p.m. – Welcome and opening remarks 2:10 p.m. – Sheila Theodorou Intellectual Disabilities, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services 2:40 p.m. – anel of Providers: Dr. Ed Norris , Department of Psychiatry chairman, Lehigh Valley Health Network Shane Adams , supports coordinator supervisor, Service Access and Management 3:10 p.m. – Panel from Lehigh County Human Services Department Josh Bridges , administrator of mental health and intellectual disabilities Mike Paulvik , deputy administrator for mental health 3:40 p.m. – Panel from Pennsylvania Waiting List Campaign: Ned Whitehouse , advisor Tom Caraiti , advisor 4 p.m. – Panel of Parents Read more
PHILADELPHIA, July 18 – State Rep. Joanna McClinton, D-Phila./Delaware, and Sayre Health Center will host an information session for seniors about the new shingles vaccine. The session will be held from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 25 at Christian Compassion CDC, 6150 Cedar Ave., Philadelphia, 19143. "Older adults and people with a weakened immune system are at greatest risk for developing shingles. As part of my ongoing effort to promote better health in our communities, I want to make sure those at highest risk know how to protect themselves," McClinton said. Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It's caused by reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox. Staff from McClinton’s office will be on hand at the July 25 event to provide senior literature and to answer questions about state issues and programs. For more information, contact McClinton’s office at (215) 748-6712. ### Read more
PITTSBURGH, July 18 – According to State Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster, the House Democratic Policy Committee today held a public hearing at the University of Pittsburgh on the Pennsylvania Promise Act ( H.B. 2444 ), which would improve college access and affordability. Policy Committee Chairman Sturla was joined by state legislators from across the commonwealth. The committee discussed H.B. 2444’s potential impact on students and their families by removing substantial financial burdens associated with higher education, and making college more affordable for those attending one of the commonwealth’s community colleges, state universities and state-related institutions. “Today’s hearing was a great discussion on the need to make college more affordable for commonwealth students and their families,” Sturla said. “Every student in Pennsylvania should have the opportunity to pursue higher education, regardless of a family’s financial status. House Bill 2444 would help create a practical, efficient path for them to achieve their education goals without being left with overwhelming debt.” The committee heard testimony from Dr. Kenneth Mash, president of the Association of Pennsylvania State College & University Faculties; and Dr. Diana Polson, policy analyst for the Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center. Testimony, photos and video from today’s hearing will be available at www.pahouse.com/policycommittee . Read more
HARRISBURG, July 18 – The city of Johnstown was approved for a $10.9 million sewer infrastructure project, announced state Rep. Bryan Barbin, D-Cambria/Somerset. The Pennvest funding consists of a $6.9 million grant and a 1 percent, $3.9 million, 30-year loan, which will provide financing to eliminate sewer overflows from reaching the Conemaugh River. The project includes the construction of 31,000 feet of sewer line, manholes, and lateral inspection ports in the Kernville neighborhood of Johnstown. The project is expected to start in October and take a year to complete. Barbin thanked the governor and the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority for continuing to help address Johnstown’s infrastructure needs. Read more
“Today the Pennsylvania Supreme Court upheld the Philadelphia Beverage Tax (PBT). I am thrilled that this passage will unleash the power of Rebuild to transform our recreation centers, expand high-quality pre-K education, and increase the number and quality of community schools in Northeast Philadelphia and the city as a whole. “There will always be the specter of preemption from Harrisburg as long as bills like H.B. 2241 are around, but I will work with my colleagues from Harrisburg and Philadelphia to ensure that we continue to allow local governments to determine what is best for their people. “Not everyone may like the PBT, but it was imposed by a duly elected city council and mayor and we must allow local leaders, empowered as they are by the Sterling Act, to make such decisions and for local people to hold them accountable. With this two-year legal battle behind us, hopefully now we can focus on making all the programs funded by the PBT as successful for Philadelphians as possible.” Read more
HARRISBURG, July 17 – State Rep. Helen Tai announced today that Council Rock School District was awarded a $2 million state grant for energy-saving renovations and additions to Rolling Hills Elementary School. The district was awarded the Alternative and Clean Energy Program grant for the project in Northampton Township, which is expected to reduce energy and water consumption and earn gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. Energy-saving features planned for the building include geothermal heating and cooling, energy efficient lighting, automated energy control systems, low-flow water-saving fixtures, occupancy based temperature and lighting, a solar array and more. The total project cost is $22 million. “We all need to find ways to reduce our energy consumption, and I’m happy to see Council Rock School District leading the way with this project,” said Tai, D-Bucks. “I’m pleased that the district was awarded this grant and look forward to the state continuing to encourage others to adopt energy-efficient practices.” The school district’s grant was approved Tuesday by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. The Alternative and Clean Energy Program provides grant and loan funds to be used for clean energy projects, infrastructure associated with compressed natural gas and liquefied natural gas fueling stations, plus energy efficiency and Read more
LEVITTOWN, July 17 – State Rep. Tina Davis today announced legislation she is proposing to direct the proceeds of sports betting to property tax relief in Pennsylvania. “Far too many homeowners across Pennsylvania are feeling the burden of rising property taxes,” said Davis, D-Bucks. “Senior citizens on fixed incomes are often faced with struggling to pay for their food and medication without losing their homes.” Davis will soon introduce a bill that would have the 34 percent tax on daily gross sports betting revenue directed to the Property Tax Relief Fund. Davis announced the legislation at a news conference at the Levittown home of Gemma Livolsi, a senior citizen on a fixed income. Estimates from the Department of Revenue indicate the sports betting program could bring in as much as $50 million per year once the program is fully phased in. Davis’ proposal would not affect the 2 percent local share assessment that sports betting hosts pay – which is distributed through the Commonwealth Financing Authority as grants for projects of public interest. “When gambling was introduced in Pennsylvania, we were assured property tax relief. Unfortunately, we haven’t seen as much relief as we were promised,” Davis said. “I am committed to making sure that the proceeds from any further expansion of gambling will go toward property tax relief. This is not a silver bullet, but it is one way we can help make Read more
PITTSBURGH, July 17 – A number of newly awarded grants will increase early education opportunities for at-risk children in the 24 th Legislative District, state Rep. Ed Gainey, D-Allegheny, announced today. The grants to a school district and two organizations in Gainey’s district will fund slots in the state’s Pre-K Counts program. “Early education programs for at-risk youth are the cornerstone to ensuring every child across the commonwealth gets their fair share of educational opportunities before entering kindergarten,” Gainey said. “Those who attend public preschool programs have shown to be much more academically prepared than kids who did not have this opportunity prior to starting public school.” The list of Pre-K Counts recipients in Gainey’s district include: Hosanna House, Inc. Imani Christian Academy Wilkinsburg Borough School District Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts provides free, high-quality pre-K services to at-risk 3- and 4-year-olds. Children in families earning up to 300 percent of poverty, or a family of four earning $75,300 annually, are eligible to apply. Statewide, about 2,125 new slots in Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts were made available. Read more
ERIE, July 17 – State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie, will host an event to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the signing of Libre’s Law from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, July 19 at Veteran’s Park in Millcreek Township, 3735 Zimmerly Road. Bizzarro fought hard to ensure passage of his bill, which overhauled Pennsylvania’s animal abuse laws to ensure that abusers face tougher punishments. The law – signed by Gov. Tom Wolf last summer – was inspired by Libre, the Boston terrier puppy who was rescued from a Lancaster County farm in 2016 after suffering severe neglect. Bizzarro, who is hosting the event with local and national representatives of the Humane Society, as well as the ANNA Shelter of Erie, is encouraging constituents to attend. The event will feature guest speakers and Libre himself, who will be available for photos. Read more
I’d like to introduce you to two programs from the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) aimed at supporting and facilitating the most cost-effective and environmentally sound opportunities for Philadelphia residents and business owners to reduce energy use and expense. Read more
CHESTER, July 16 – State Rep. Brian Kirkland, D-Delaware, will hold a health fair, encouraging seniors and families to learn more about a healthy lifestyle from noon to 2 p.m. July 31. The event will take place at Chester Senior Center, 721 Hayes St. The event will be held rain or shine. “Join your neighbors, family, local officials and experts for yoga, Zumba, Chinese medicine and cooking demonstrations during this fun event for the entire family,” Kirkland said. Valuable information will be provided by Pennsylvania health insurers. For more information, those interested can call Kirkland’s office at (610) 876-6420. Read more
Citing the importance of early educational opportunities for children, Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, D-Luzerne, today announced multiple locations in Luzerne County will be receiving grants for 2018-19 Pre-K Counts and the Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program. Read more
SHARON, July 13 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, will host his 12th annual senior fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, July 19 at the Sharon American Legion, 1395 E. State St. Longietti is encouraging constituents to attend so they can learn more about the wealth of state and local programs designed to help Pennsylvania’s seniors live happier, healthier lives. He said that he expects approximately 50 exhibitors. Constituents will find information about health care, the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, prescription drug plans, unclaimed property, free senior farmers market vouchers and more. The event will also feature free health care screenings, giveaways and door prizes. Registration is not required, but constituents with questions may contact Longietti’s office at 724-981-4655. Read more
READING, July 13 – State Rep. Tom Caltagirone, D-Berks, today announced early childhood education grants have been awarded across Berks County, to school districts and other entities that serve children through Pre-K Counts and Head Start programs within the 127 th Legislative District. Funded through the state Department of Education’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning, these competitive grants will help to create nearly 2,125 new pre-K seats and 490 new pre-K slots statewide. Area recipients are: Opportunity House YMCA of Reading and Berks County Berks Community Action Program Inc. Berks County Intermediate Unit 14 Governor Mifflin School District Boyertown Area School District “This infusion will ensure that more kids from Reading and Berks County will be able to attend a pre-K program, enhancing their learning experience and eventually the economy around them,” Caltagirone said. “Studies show that for every dollar we invest in kids to attend preschool, we get seven back in economic gains and savings on public programs and prison spending.” Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts provides free, high-quality pre-K services to at-risk 3- and 4-year-olds. Children in families earning up to 300 percent of poverty, or a family of four earning $75,300 annually, are eligible to apply. Head Start is available to families at or below 130 percent of poverty, or a family of four earning $32,630 Read more
PITTSBURGH, July 13 – As part of the House Democratic Caucus’ Plan4PA, state Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster, announced today that the House Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public hearing on the Pennsylvania Promise Act ( H.B. 2444 ), which would improve college access and affordability. The hearing will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 18, at the University of Pittsburgh, William Pitt Union, Dining Room A, 3959 5 th Ave., Pittsburgh. H.B. 2444 would remove substantial financial burdens on students and their families and make college more affordable for those attending one of the commonwealth’s community colleges, state universities and state-related institutions. Policy Committee Chair Sturla will be joined by a number of state representatives from across the commonwealth. The current agenda is: 10:00 a.m. Welcome and Opening Remarks 10:10 a.m. Dr. Kenneth Mash , president, Association of Pennsylvania State College & University Facilities 10:40 a.m. Dr. Diana Polson, policy analyst, Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center 11:10 a.m. Closing Remarks The meeting is one in a series being held across the state on the House Democrats’ Plan4PA that includes putting people first, good jobs, quality schools and fair taxes. Visit www.plan4pa.com for additional information about the Plan4PA and www.pahouse.com/policycommittee for Policy Committee materials. Read more
Contact form was unable to load. If the problem continues, please contact the webmaster.
Please use the form below to sign up for email updates. By completing this form your are acknowledging your request to receive periodic email updates.
Find your representative by address, district, or member's name. Click a button below to start your search.