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Fleming, Policy Committee highlight childcare crisis

(Feb 21, 2025) Central PA Delegation

“Childcare has overwhelming positive benefits, including preparing children to learn in a school setting as well as shaping expectations for behavior and interactions with adults and other children,” said state Rep. Justin Fleming, who represents portions of Dauphin County. “It’s nearly impossible for parents and guardians to make a living without childcare, so it’s important for the state to explore solutions to the childcare staffing crisis.” Read more

 

Conklin: More than $115,200 awarded to District 77 fire and EMS companies

(Feb 20, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Feb. 20 – New resources are coming to fire and EMS companies in the 77 th Legislative District thanks to $115,202 in new grant funding, state Rep. Rep. Scott Conklin, D-Centre, announced today. “Our firefighters and EMS workers answer the call 24/7, even as their companies face constant challenges from tight budgets, equipment and facility needs and recruitment and retention issues,” Conklin said. “The new funding will help defray some of those expenses to help these frontline heroes continue their lifesaving work.” Conklin said the grants include: $16,322 to Alpha Fire Company. $15,030 to Hope Fire Company No. 2. $15,000 to Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services. $15,000 to Mountain Top Fire Company (EMS). $12,663 to Mountain Top Fire Company (Fire). $15,000 to Port Matilda Emergency Medical Services. $13,739 to Port Matilda Volunteer Fire Company. $12,448 to Reliance Volunteer Fire Company. The funding was awarded through the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, which is administered by the Office of State Fire Commissioner and is available for volunteer and career fire companies, emergency medical services and rescue squads. Eligible projects include facility upgrades, equipment, debt reduction, training and certification, education and public outreach, and recruitment and retention efforts. Additionally, fire companies were permitted to Read more

 

Guzman Talks Future of Reading Passenger Train with PennDOT

(Feb 19, 2025) Rep. Manuel Guzman

Pa. state Rep. Manny Guzman questioned Secretary of Transportation Mike Carroll on the funding of mass transit throughout the commonwealth, specifically as it pertains to the proposed Reading to Philadelphia passenger train project with federal funding potentially being a major issue in the project’s future. Read more

 

Guzman Talks Minimum Wage & PA First Program with DCED

(Feb 18, 2025) Rep. Manuel Guzman

During the first #PABudget hearing of the year, state Rep. Manny Guzman took the opportunity to ask the Secretary of Department of Community & Economic Development Rick Siger about the economic impacts of increasing the state’s minimum wage as well as how they will coordinate programs such PA First if they were to get a funding increase. Read more

 

Rivera announces nearly $100K in state funding for local fire, EMS companies

(Feb 11, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Feb. 11 – State Rep. Nikki Rivera, D-Lancaster, today announced local fire and EMS companies have been awarded $98,328 in grants through the state’s Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program. “I’m very glad to see our tax dollars being spent on such critical services,” Rivera said. “Our fire and EMS companies are struggling to provide lifesaving services in spite of dwindling resources and a lack of recruits. I will advocate in Harrisburg for funding to support our fire and emergency responders so that our communities remain safe.” Local fire and EMS companies that were awarded grants include: East Petersburg Fire Co. No. 1 $16,322 City of Lancaster Bureau of Fire $16,322 Manheim Township Ambulance Association $13,362 Manheim Township Fire Rescue $52,322 The Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program is administered by the Office of State Fire Commissioner and is available for volunteer and career fire companies, emergency medical services and rescue squads. Eligible projects include facility upgrades, equipment, debt reduction, training and certification, education and public outreach, and recruitment and retention efforts. Additionally, fire companies were permitted to apply for construction savings accounts for the purposes of new facility construction. Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Feb 11, 2025) Central PA Delegation

Below are multiple grant programs that are currently open for applications. NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: All-Terrian Vehicle and Snowmobile Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, non-profit and for-profit organizations Use: All-Terrain Vehicle and Snowmobile projects include the planning, acquisition of land, development, rehabilitation, maintenance, purchase of equipment for maintenance and construction, and development of educational programs related to ATV and/or snowmobile trails and facilities. Funds: Funding comes from the ATV Management Restricted Account and the Snowmobile Restricted Account as authorized by Act 97 of 2016. There is no match requirement for this funding; however, applications that provide match funding will be given additional consideration. Application Deadline: March 31, 2025 More information: DCNR Website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Medical & MH Pilots for CSA Victims Who May Apply: Any for-profit entity, non-profit entity, an entity affiliated with a CAC or MDIT (e.g., public agency or hospital), or unit of local government. Schools (including colleges and universities) are considered governmental units and are eligible to apply. Use: The goal of this specific solicitation is to support the development and implementation of innovative pilot projects that enhance or expand medical and mental health services for Read more

 

Fleming announces over $88K in state funding for local fire, EMS companies

(Feb 11, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Feb. 11 – A strong advocate for robust local safety infrastructures, state Rep. Fleming, D-Dauphin, today announced local fire and EMS companies have been awarded $88,218 in grants through the state’s Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program. “Our lives literally depend on our fire and emergency responders, but they have been struggling to respond to emergencies with limited resources and fewer recruits,” Fleming said. “Fundraising initiatives can only do so much. This funding will allow our fire and EMS companies to continue providing life-saving services. I will continue to advocate for funding to support our fire and emergency responders to keep our communities safe.” Local fire and EMS companies that were awarded grants include: Lower Paxton Township Bureau of Fire Fire $12,233.63 Susquehanna Township Emergency Medical Services Inc. EMS $15,000.00 Citizens Fire Co. 1, of Penbrook Fire $12,879.17 Progress Fire Company Fire $16,322.02 Rescue Fire No. 1 Fire $15,461.31 Colonial Park Fire Co. No. 1 Fire $16,322.02 The Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program is administered by the Office of State Fire Commissioner and is available Read more

 

Madsen comes out in support of Shapiro’s 2025-2026 budget plan

(Feb 06, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Feb. 6 – State Rep. Dave Madsen, D-Dauphin, today released his statement in support of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s 2025-2026 budget plan: “Governor Shapiro’s 2025-2026 budget plan is a smart, people-focused plan to improve Pennsylvanians’ lives by making strategic investments in education, housing and our workforce. “I wholeheartedly support Governor Shapiro’s increased investments in our public school system. Studies have shown that a strong public school system can lift up individuals and their communities, but historic inequality in our funding system left richer school districts better funded at the expense of poorer ones, creating a legacy of structural inequality in our schools and across our commonwealth. Though last year’s historic investments in education made headway in rectifying this imbalance, there’s still a lot of work to be done to roll back years of neglect. This budget would deliver a needed $75 million increase in basic education and a $40 million increase in special education. “The governor’s plan to recruit and retain teachers lays the foundation for a great school system. I approve of his plan to provide stipends to student teachers and invest in professional development for current teachers to help them stay on the cutting edge of education. “One issue plaguing Pennsylvania is a lack of affordable housing. People should not have to spend their entire paychecks on Read more

 

Madsen congratulates LocalDutch USA LLC on $40K state grant

(Feb 05, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Feb. 5 – State Rep. Dave Madsen, D-Dauphin, today congratulated LocalDutch USA LLC on its award of $40,000 in state grant funding from the nation’s first Agricultural Innovation Program. LocalDutch USA LLC’s community-driven Urban Farm Shops offer locally grown food in food deserts. Urban Farm Shops aim to reshape the local food landscape by resolving issues with the availability of fresh and nutritious produce. LocalDutch USA LLC will use the funds to plan an indoor urban farming facility. “For people living in food deserts, access to fresh, affordable produce is rare,” Madsen said. “Harrisburg-based LocalDutch USA LLC offers an innovative and sustainable community-based farming model: an indoor farming facility that will increase a locality’s availability of healthy produce for residents year round. It’s exciting to see Harrisburg lead the way with this revolutionary idea that will have a positive impact on our communities.” The Agricultural Innovation Grant Program was proposed as part of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s 2024-2025 budget, and the corresponding legislation passed with broad bipartisan support. The program’s goal is to help Pennsylvania agricultural businesses adopt innovative technologies and practices that will benefit not only farmers but the long-term sustainability and productivity of the entire region. Agriculture is critical to Pennsylvania’s economy, with more Read more

 

Conklin: Proposed budget boosts education, real-world needs

(Feb 05, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, Feb. 5 – State Rep. Scott Conklin issued the following statement in response to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget speech yesterday. “The governor’s budget proposals would deliver some powerful investments, and ones I believe we need to keep us moving in the right direction,” Conklin said. “The plan proposes investing more than a half-billion dollars into our schools and communities to continue our commitment to ensuring that students in less affluent ZIP codes get the same quality education as their peers in wealthier districts. The proposed budget also includes more than $100 million to ensure students have the mental health and safety resources they need to stay safe and thrive. “I was especially pleased to see the proposal to continue the $25 million set-aside for the Solar for Schools program I helped pass. With energy bills representing some of the largest expenses our school districts face, the program is an important way to help districts cut costs while reducing harm to the environment. I urge all districts to apply once the next round of grants opens. “To boost higher education, the proposed plan would keep last year’s scholarships in place and include a $60 million increase to fully fund the performance-based formula for Penn State, Pitt and Temple. It would also include a $40 million increase for PASSHE to continue keeping tuition flat. “Beyond Read more

 

Fleming responds to Shapiro’s 2025 budget address

(Feb 04, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Feb. 4 – State Rep. Justin Fleming, D-Dauphin, today issued the following statement in response to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget address: “I found that many of Gov. Shapiro’s proposals directly address current needs in the communities I represent. “A great education is the surest way to invigorate communities and raise people up into the middle class, but historic inequality in our funding system left richer school districts better funded at the expense of poorer ones, creating a legacy of structural inequality. Though last year’s budget made headway in rectifying this imbalance, there’s still a lot of work to be done. This budget would deliver a needed $75 million increase in basic education and a $40 million increase in special education. “We need to ensure that our schools are staffed with top-notch educators by filling the teacher pipeline with highly qualified candidates. I’m impressed by Gov. Shapiro’s plan to put more teachers in the classroom from pre-K to grade 12, by supporting student teachers and investing in professional development that will help our educators stay on the cutting edge of education. “Governor Shapiro sees how working parents have been struggling to juggle work with the rising cost of childcare and how some parents have had to drop out of the workforce altogether, negatively impacting their careers, their families’ income and even Read more

 

Conklin bill to allow agents at the Office of State Inspector General to carry weapons clears committee, heads for House

(Feb 03, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – A strong bipartisan majority of the state House Judiciary Committee today approved state Rep. Scott Conklin’s bill that would permit agents working for the Office of State Inspector General to arm themselves on the job. Conklin said he introduced H.B. 36 to provide greater protection for OSIG agents, whose law enforcement duties often expose them to the risk of danger. “As members of a government watchdog agency, OSIG agents investigate fraud and other misconduct in government programs and operations,” Conklin said. “Like other law enforcement officers, they have the power to issue subpoenas and search warrants and to file criminal complaints. Unlike other officers, however, OSIG agents are not permitted to carry a weapon – even though their work often places them in dangerous situations. “These agents deserve the same protections as their counterparts in other law enforcement agencies to help them stay safe on the job. I’m pleased the committee has advanced my bill, and I’ll be urging my colleagues in the legislature to pass it quickly.” The committed approved the bill by a 25-1 vote. It now heads to the full House for consideration. Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Jan 28, 2025) Central PA Delegation

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Conservation and Natural Resources: Community Conservation Partnerships Program Who May Apply: Counties, municipalities, municipal agencies, nonprofit organizations, state heritage areas, prequalified land trusts, for-profit organizations (for some grant types). Use: Funds may be used for projects related to parks, recreation, and conservation, including, but not limited to, park and recreation rehabilitation and development, recreation and conservation planning, trail planning and construction, land acquisition and conservation, river access and conservation, community and riparian tree planting, and regional and statewide partnerships to better develop and manage resources. Funds: Funds for this program come from a mix of state and federal sources, including the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, the Environmental Stewardship Fund, the Snowmobile Restricted Account, the All-Terrain Vehicle Restricted Account, and more. Application Deadline: April 2, 2025 More information: DCNR Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Community and Economic Development: PA SITES Who May Apply: Municipalities, economic development organizations, redevelopment authorities, municipal authorities, industrial development agencies, and for-profit organizations. Use: To develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within Pennsylvania. Funds: $400 Read more

 

Guzman Speaks with Tec Centro

(Jan 27, 2025) Rep. Manuel Guzman

Chair of the House Central PA Delegation state Rep. Manny Guzman joined colleagues to hold an information session with heads of Tec Centro from across the Commonwealth to hear about what they can do to help their organizations succeed and continue to provide job training opportunities for their communities. Guzman says that as technology continues to evolve, we need to make sure that folks have the tools they need to grow and thrive in their new careers. Read more

 

Central Pennsylvania House Delegation to discuss labor force growth in Midstate counties with leaders of Tec Centro Workforce Network

(Jan 23, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 23 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr., chair of the Central Pennsylvania House Democratic Delegation, today announced that the group will join directors and leaders of Tec Centro Workforce Network to discuss labor force development in Midstate counties. The event will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, Jan. 27 at Tec Centro Capital Region, the newest extension of the network, located at 1426 N. Third Street, Harrisburg. Guzman said the delegation is looking forward to the meeting. He explained that one of the top priorities of the delegation during the 2025-26 legislative term is to help strengthen workforce and skill development in central Pennsylvania. “Our delegation is invested in fortifying resources and services that will help empower underserved communities and, in this sense, the role of Tec Centro in each of the counties that they serve is remarkable,” he highlighted. “These institutions are enabling individuals to break language and economic barriers to education. They are helping people to navigate the state’s system and place themselves in a path toward a better future,” he added. Carlos Graupera, CEO of Tec Centro Workforce, expressed that Tec Centro Workforce Network was founded on the mission of empowering individuals with the skills they need to transform their lives and drive the economic vitality of the region. Read more

 

Madsen announces $150,000 emergency grant to combat homelessness in Dauphin County

(Jan 17, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 17 – State Rep. Dave Madsen today said Dauphin County is receiving $150,000 in Emergency Grant Funds from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development to address homelessness in the county. “The pandemic supercharged the affordable housing crisis, leaving many Pennsylvanians without a home to call their own,” Madsen said. “This money will help Dauphin County combat homelessness and provide safe, affordable housing through a three-pronged approach with their partner, Christian Churches United: homelessness prevention, rapid rehousing and street outreach.” The county was also awarded funding to operate its Homeless Management Information System with both hardware, software and training costs to ensure accurate collection of data about the homeless population. Priority for funding is given to groups that represent areas of Pennsylvania that do not already receive a direct allocation of Emergency Solutions Grant funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Gov. Josh Shapiro recently signed an Executive Order mandating the first comprehensive Housing Action Plan to address the state’s housing shortage, homelessness, and to expand affordable housing options. DCED is leading the plan’s development and is working with stakeholders across Pennsylvania to identify housing needs and devise a strategic response. Read more

 

Conklin encourages public schools to apply for ‘Solar for Schools’ grant before Jan. 31 deadline

(Jan 15, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Jan. 15 – With the application deadline approaching, state Rep. Scott Conklin is encouraging public schools in the 77 th Legislative District to apply to the Solar for PA Schools Grant Program. Conklin said the program is a win-win for school districts and other eligible public schools, which can realize substantial savings for little or no up-front costs. “There are no drawbacks for school districts, which only stand to benefit,” said Conklin, who co-sponsored legislation to establish Solar for Schools. “The program provides up to half the costs related to the purchase and installation of solar panels, while federal funding through the Inflation Reduction Act allows schools to recoup 30% to 50% of project costs. That means schools can realize substantially lower energy costs – some of the largest expenses they face – with a minimal outlay. “These projects save taxpayer dollars, they bring cleaner air and they create jobs for the community. It’s a win all around. I’m encouraging all public schools in our district to apply now, before the Jan. 31 deadline.” Conklin said eligible applicants include school districts, intermediate units, charter schools, career and technical schools and community colleges. Private schools are not eligible. Organizations including the PA Solar Center and Generation180 can offer schools free technical assistance as capacity Read more

 

Nikki's News

(Jan 14, 2025) Central PA Delegation

Hello, Northern Lancaster City, Manheim Township, and East Petersburg Borough! As the representative for our communities (officially known as the Dynamic House District 96!), I’m using this weekly e-newsletter to let you know about how I am working for you here in the community and in the Capitol, as well as share information about local and state resources that I hope will be helpful to you or someone you know. Last Week’s Swearing In Last Tuesday, I was sworn in as your state representative. I am very eager to share my experience and knowledge gained from being a long-time public high school teacher, school board director and president to strengthen our public school system. We must eliminate these structural inequities created and supported by an unfair funding system so all our children – who are the bedrock of Pennsylvania’s future – have a chance of reaching their potential. I am honored to serve as your state representative. I promise to fight every day for our working families, from supporting strong Read more

 

Madsen announces House committees for 2025-26 session

(Jan 13, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 13 – State Rep. Dave Madsen today announced his state House committee assignments for the 2025-26 legislative session. Madsen said he looks forward to serving on the following committees: Appropriations. Housing & Community Development. Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations. Local Government. Transportation. Madsen took the oath of office Tuesday and was sworn in to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to serve his second term representing the 104th Legislative District. “I want to thank Speaker Joanna McClinton and Leader Matt Bradford for the honor of serving on these committees,” said Madsen, D-Dauphin. “I look forward to bringing an informed perspective drawn from my experiences as a union leader, community activist and state representative to the bipartisan crafting of critical legislation that will impact millions of Pennsylvanians.” The 104 th Legislative District comprises part of the City of Harrisburg and Lower Swatara and Swatara and Highspire, Paxtang and Steelton boroughs. Read more

 

Pennie's Deadline is Jan. 15

(Jan 13, 2025) Central PA Delegation

Dear Neighbor, Last week’s swearing in The 2025-2026 legislative session officially began in the Pennsylvania House last Tuesday with the swearing in ceremony. I’m honored that you once again chose me as your advocate in the Capitol for a second term. As in my first term, my guiding principle as your legislator will be introducing, supporting and passing legislation that will create jobs that pay, schools that teach, and government that works, to borrow a phrase. In my work last term as a member of Appropriations Committee, I helped craft and pass a budget supporting these key pillars. As state representative for my communities, I’ve collaborated with my fellow legislators and local and state Read more

 

Fleming, Policy Committee highlight childcare crisis
Feb 21, 2025

Conklin: More than $115,200 awarded to District 77 fire and EMS companies
Feb 20, 2025

Guzman Talks Future of Reading Passenger Train with PennDOT
Feb 19, 2025

Guzman Talks Minimum Wage & PA First Program with DCED
Feb 18, 2025

Rivera announces nearly $100K in state funding for local fire, EMS companies
Feb 11, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Feb 11, 2025

Fleming announces over $88K in state funding for local fire, EMS companies
Feb 11, 2025

Madsen comes out in support of Shapiro’s 2025-2026 budget plan
Feb 06, 2025

Madsen congratulates LocalDutch USA LLC on $40K state grant
Feb 05, 2025

Conklin: Proposed budget boosts education, real-world needs
Feb 05, 2025

Fleming responds to Shapiro’s 2025 budget address
Feb 04, 2025

Conklin bill to allow agents at the Office of State Inspector General to carry weapons clears committee, heads for House
Feb 03, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jan 28, 2025

Guzman Speaks with Tec Centro
Jan 27, 2025

Central Pennsylvania House Delegation to discuss labor force growth in Midstate counties with leaders of Tec Centro Workforce Network
Jan 23, 2025

Madsen announces $150,000 emergency grant to combat homelessness in Dauphin County
Jan 17, 2025

Conklin encourages public schools to apply for ‘Solar for Schools’ grant before Jan. 31 deadline
Jan 15, 2025

Nikki's News
Jan 14, 2025

Madsen announces House committees for 2025-26 session
Jan 13, 2025

Pennie's Deadline is Jan. 15
Jan 13, 2025