Click here to learn more about the Allegheny County Democratic Delegation's priorities for the region on public health, the economy, transportation and public education. Read more
HARRISBURG, April 21 – The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority and the West View Water Authority in Pittsburgh have received a total of $45 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority to make needed water quality and sewer infrastructure repairs, including lead line replacement, state Rep. Emily Kinkead announced today. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said $38.5 million in funding will be used by the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority to replace 25,000 feet of piping, along with 59 fire hydrants and 592 lead service lines. $6.6 million will be used by the West View Water Authority to replace aged water infrastructure, including lead service lines. “These projects will ensure residents get reliable access to safe water by the removal of lead pipes and also reduce water loss that can come from aged infrastructure,” said Kinkead. “Investments like these will protect our water and sewer systems now and in years to come.” Pennvest provides communities across Pennsylvania with funding for sewer, stormwater and drinking water projects. More information can be found at the following link: https://www.pennvest.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx Read more
On Thursday, April 29th, I will be hosting an event focused on “The Intersection of Transportation, Labor and the Environment” from 1-3 pm. Read more
HARRISBURG, April 21 – Several experts, including those in the business and agriculture industries, joined state Rep. Jake Wheatley on Tuesday in a discussion of his efforts to legalize adult-use cannabis in Pennsylvania. “Having this thoughtful dialogue was extremely beneficial and gave us the opportunity to hear from stakeholders across Pennsylvania, because it’s imperative we demystify cannabis,” said Wheatley, D-Allegheny. “Currently, we have several states surrounding our commonwealth selling cannabis, and my plan would help us to set up a comprehensive, fair and safe industry to help disadvantaged communities, expunge non-violent offenses related to cannabis, grow our agriculture sector and provide much-needed revenue to our state.” “I am proud to support Chairman Wheatley’s legislation, as it will ensure we provide opportunities to our communities of color to participate in this growing industry and to help support our commonwealth, notably in the areas of school funding and vital infrastructure,” said House Democratic Leader Joanna McClinton, D-Phila./Delaware. “It’s clear that we can implement an adult-use cannabis program in a safe way to benefit all Pennsylvanians.” “It’s not a matter of if legalization is going to happen, but when,” said Brandon Flood, secretary, Pennsylvania Board of Pardons. “While we’re waiting on state or federal action, our Read more
HARRISBURG, April 7 – Approximately $8.5 million in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan will make a significant and positive impact to communities throughout the district, state Rep. Nick Pisciottano, D-Allegheny, announced today. The American Rescue Plan, signed last month by President Joseph Biden, includes funds earmarked for local municipalities and counties to use to offset economic losses due to the pandemic. The funding can also be used toward water, sewer and infrastructure projects and toward projects to safely reopen schools. “This financial support is certainly welcome relief for our residents and our communities, who have been struggling for more than a year since the pandemic hit,” Pisciottano said. “These funds will be essential in providing vital economic support to our local and county governments and ensure our communities continue to operate and remain connected.” Municipalities in the 38 th Legislative District that are slated to receive the funds are as follows: Baldwin Borough: $1.9 million. Dravosburg Borough: $170,349. Glassport Borough: $426,615. Liberty Borough: $242,622. Pleasant Hills Borough: $793,514. Port Vue Borough: $360,967. South Park Township: $1.3 million. West Mifflin Borough: $1.9 million. Whitehall Borough: $1.3 million. Read more
Funding to help Baldwin Borough with Elm Leaf Park Phase III Read more
HARRISBURG, April 1 -- State Representative Rob Matzie, Democratic Chairman of the House Consumer Affairs Committee, led yesterday’s House Democratic Policy Committee on bridging the digital divide. The hearing is the third in a series this week focused on net neutrality and bridging the gap to improve future outcomes for educators, students, health care access and Pennsylvania businesses. “This hearing was a great cap on the weeks’ discussions on how we can make sure Pennsylvania is digitally connected. The last year has shown us that reliable internet, computers and phone help keep us learning, working, entertained, managing health and in touch with family and friends. I thank Chairman Matzie for leading the discussion and look forward to a public-private partnership that helps close the divide,” said Ryan Bizzarro, chairman of the Democratic Policy Committee. “Quick, reliable Internet access isn’t a luxury in today’s world – it’s a necessity,” said Matzie. “Those without it face major disadvantages when it comes to competing for jobs, accessing health and education services and connecting to state programs. I’m hosting this hearing because we need to develop solutions to bridge this digital divide now, before it threatens to disenfranchise more Pennsylvanians.” The committee heard testimony from Brian Barno, Broadband Cable Association of Pennsylvania; Joseph Glinka, government Read more
HARRISBURG, March 31 – An estimated $33.6 million in federal funding is expected to be allocated to area school districts to assist them in reopening safely and to address learning losses as more students and teachers return to classrooms, state Rep. Nick Pisciottano announced. “Teachers and school staff have faced many challenges during this time while they continue to educate our children and keep them safe,” said Pisciottano, D-Allegheny. “These federal funds will help our schools by providing them with the support they need to help students, whether it’s additional instructional materials, equipment upgrades, professional training and mental health and related services. This investment will help our schools in their efforts to navigate a safe, in-person learning environment.” The funding is part of nearly $5 billion allocated to Pennsylvania in federal relief under the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund. The estimated funding for school districts in the 38 th Legislative District is as follows: Baldwin-Whitehall School District - $5.1 million. McKeesport Area School District - $16.9 million. South Allegheny School District - $3.4 million. South Park School District - $1.3 million. West Jefferson School District - $1 million. West Mifflin Area School Read more
HARRISBURG, March 30 – Landslides have devastated families across Allegheny County and are only becoming more of a problem throughout Pennsylvania, so state Rep. Emily Kinkead is spearheading a bill that would create a program to help. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said H.B. 1054 would establish the Landslide Insurance and Assistance Program with the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. The program would establish a special insurance and assistance funds to ensure Pennsylvanians are properly protected from the destructive and devastating force of landslides. “In my district, an entire house fell off the side of a hill because of landslides and because it was not caused by mine subsidence, there was absolutely no insurance coverage to help the family rebuild their lives from the loss. While landslides resulting from mining practices receive special insurance coverage, those that occur due to excessive rain or snowfall aren’t typically covered, and that leaves far too many residents vulnerable to financial ruin,” said Kinkead. “These landslides can occur anywhere if the right conditions are present. With warmer weather here, it’s vital we take action now on this issue.” Several Allegheny County representatives, including state Reps. Austin Davis, Dan Deasy, Sara Innamorato and Nick Pisciottano, have signed on in support of Kinkead’s bill. “People in my district have seen their share of disruptive landslides. Read more
AMBRIDGE, March 30 – Schools in the 16 th Legislative District are expected to receive $25.4 million in federal funding to ensure students and staff enjoy a safe and productive return to the classroom, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said schools will be able to use the funding for a broad range of needs, from basic education, transportation and food services to program-based student supports. “Learning is a dynamic process, and a successful return to the classroom will involve more than simply replenishing supplies and resuming regular programs,” Matzie said. “Educators will need to assess student progress and address gaps in learning. Securing this funding will give schools the resources needed to ensure that all students – despite pandemic-related setbacks – are ready to move forward and thrive.” Matzie said the following allocations are expected: Aliquippa School District – $8.1 million. Ambridge Area School District – $4.6 million. Baden Academy Charter School – $1.8 million. Central Valley School District – $2.4 million. Freedom Area School District – $2.2 million. Hopewell Area School District – $2.1 million. Quaker Valley School District – $1.4 Read more
Projects would open region for economic turnaround, investment in communities Read more
PITTSBURGH, March 29 – In an effort to help residents who want to obtain a pardon or expungement of a past criminal conviction, state Rep. Jake Wheatley will be hosting a virtual community event to help educate the public about the pardons process. Wheatley, D-Allegheny, said the “Pathway to Pardon” virtual event will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 31 via his Facebook page ( facebook.com/RepWheatley ). “Far too many Pennsylvanians are impacted by past convictions, preventing them from having the life they want – including a job and a home – even after they’ve paid their debt to society,” Wheatley said. “This event will help participants learn how to navigate the pardon process during COVID-19.” Registration is available by clicking the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/representative-jake-wheatley-jr-pathway-to-pardon-tickets 145737084543?fbclid=IwAR1oD9jUDEbOiRC5x5mZEZNnEg8v-DQbELYvcCiN4-Th_t5CFhqErhnSuwU . Interested participants can also contact Rep. Wheatley’s office at 412-471-7760 to register or for more information. Read more
PITTSBURGH, March 26 – Recent incidents involving some Pittsburgh-area law enforcement officers have prompted state Rep. Jake Wheatley to reintroduce legislation that would establish an oversight board to set standards for training, certification and provide ongoing education for law enforcement. Wheatley, D-Allegheny, said a recent article highlighted some disturbing posts on a private Facebook group with current and retired police officers, which included transphobic posts and bullying against members of law enforcement who marched with or supported Black Lives Matter protests. “Their conduct was and is unbecoming and disturbing, to say the least,” Wheatley said. “These are officers we trust to protect the public and keep us safe, and they should be property vetted and trained. That means meeting professional standards, education requirements and proving good moral character, the same criteria we expect from other licensed and certified professions, including doctors, lawyers and veterinary technicians.” Wheatley’s legislation would implement certification and decertification standards for law enforcement, including state police troopers, municipal and correctional officers, and sheriffs. The measure would also establish a venue to address behavioral misconduct concerns. “While certification and training standards currently exist for these positions, the certification and training standards are separate, based on Read more
Registration now open for event, the largest of its kind in western PA Read more
HARRISBURG, March 24 – State Rep. Emily Kinkead has introduced legislation that would effectively reduce carbon dioxide emissions in Pennsylvania to zero. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said her bill, which would be known as the Energy Transition Recovery Act , would direct funds from the sale of carbon allowances sold at auction through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative to methods designed to curb those emissions by 2050. Pennsylvania is expected to become a member of RGGI by 2022. “Earlier this week, the governor announced the Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy, part of the GreenGov initiative, which I fully support, and my legislation fits in with that effort by making a significant impact in lowering carbon dioxide emissions,” said Kinkead. “My colleagues and I took an oath to protect and uphold the state Constitution, which includes the right to clean air and water. It’s imperative we move forward and do all we can to protect our future children and grandchildren, and we can do so right now.” Kinkead’s legislation is currently under consideration in the House Environmental Energy and Resources Committee. Read more
HARRISBURG, March 22 – State Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny, issued the following statement on Gov. Tom Wolf’s announcement on the Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy, part of the GreenGov initiative: “I fully support and applaud the Wolf administration’s efforts, which will positively impact our state and move us further away from a fossil fuel-based economy. “Nearly two years ago, an executive order was introduced that paved the way for our state to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. The fact that we have not moved closer to joining RGGI is beyond frustrating, especially when you consider that in July of last year, our nation tied with July 2016 as the second hottest month on record. Our polar caps are continuing to melt, sea levels and temperatures rise, and forest areas in the Amazon and across our world continue to burn. “It’s imperative we do more to combat climate change, and today’s announcement will make a significant impact. PULSE will launch the largest solar energy commitment by any government entity in our country. It will supply about half the energy used by state government, creating hundreds of jobs and making a huge impact in lowering carbon dioxide emissions. This effort closely aligns with my bill, H.B. 989 , to be known as the Energy Transition Recovery Act, which would direct funds from the sale of carbon allowances sold at Read more
HARRISBURG, March 19 – The House Democratic Policy Committee’s Subcommittee on Progressive Policies for Working People hosted a roundtable discussion focusing on incarcerated parents and the impact of incarceration on families. Led by Subcommittee Chair Elizabeth Fiedler, state Reps. Rick Krajewski and Summer Lee facilitated the meaningful discussion bringing together advocates and formerly incarcerated individuals to discuss ways to best serve our communities and the families impacted by the criminal legal system. “The trauma of family separation impacts the children and families of those incarcerated, and specifically the parent-child bond, as well as the whole community,” Fiedler said. “Those impacts are immediate and severe and they are deep and long-lasting. We deserve a legal system centered on people- and community-focused models of care that operate with transparency and accountability. We must take steps to a better future for our families.” "We live in a society that doesn’t exercise humanity when we look at or talk about incarcerated people," Krajewski said. "So often, we forget that these people have family members who are trying to carry on while they are incarcerated, often including children who are especially vulnerable.” Lee added, “We sometimes lose how incarceration impacts so much more than just the individual. Entire families and Read more
Susan’s and Emily’s Law would allow municipalities to create protected bicycle lanes Read more
HARRISBURG, March 15 – Financial assistance is now available to help Allegheny County residents struggling to pay rent or utilities during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of a program that is partially funded by legislation members of the Allegheny County Democratic Delegation helped to pass. The Allegheny County Emergency Rental Assistance program has a total of $79.9 million to distribute to eligible county residents. Of that funding, $43 million came from Act 1 of 2021, which Gov. Tom Wolf signed into law last month. Eligibility requirements for the program include: having at least one person who qualifies for unemployment, has lost income or suffered financially due to COVID-19. being at risk of experiencing homelessness. having a total income below 80% of the Area Median Income for Allegheny County. ACDD Chairman state Rep. Austin Davis, as well as state Reps. Jessica Benham, Dan Deasy, Tony DeLuca, Dan Frankel, Ed Gainey, Sara Innamorato, Emily Kinkead, Anita Kulik, Summer Lee, Brandon Markosek, Robert Matzie, Dan Miller, Nick Pisciottano and Jake Wheatley, issued the following statement: “People living in Allegheny County have been struggling for over a year during this pandemic. This program has been a long time coming and helps provide direct relief to those who’ve been scrambling to pay their rent and bills during this Read more
PITTSBURGH, March 11 – State Rep. Jake Wheatley is taking his annual minority, women and disadvantaged business entrepreneurs’ event virtual this year, providing them with an opportunity to gain recognition for their business savvy and receive valuable information from local, regional and state business experts. This year’s MWDBE event will be held from 5:30 p.m - 7 p.m. on Monday, March 29 and will feature state agency and department representatives and local organizations, including Community Development Financial Institutions and other financial institutions. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in breakout rooms for further discussion, networking and to ask questions. Organizations scheduled to attend this virtual event include the Pennsylvania Department of General Services, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, PNC Bank, and the Pittsburgh Urban Redevelopment Authority. To register for this event, entrepreneurs can use the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rep-wheatleys-annual-minority-women-disadvantaged-businesses-lobby-day-tickets-145553346979 . More information is available by calling The People’s Office at 412-471-7760. Read more
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