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Davis: Increase to first-responder loan program passes House

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Driscoll introduces legislation to help protect Pa. workers, businesses

(Oct 31, 2019) Rep. Michael Driscoll

HARRISBURG, Oct. 31 – State Rep. Mike Driscoll, D-Phila., today announced he has introduced legislation that would help protect Pennsylvania employers and their workers from payroll processing fraud. House Bill 1976 would require a payroll processing company operating in the commonwealth to be fiscally bonded to cover any financial mistakes or fraudulent activity. The businesses served by the payroll processor would be protected in the event of errors or criminal activity. “Pennsylvanians work hard, and they should not have to worry whether the proper taxes are being taken out of their paychecks. Yet, there are some payroll processors that could create errors, resulting in both workers and employers paying in the end,” Driscoll said. “My legislation is designed to help avoid such issues and make the processors be responsible for their financial mistakes.” Under the legislation, the processing company would have to report annually to the Department of Revenue to ensure proper bond coverage is maintained. If found to not have proper coverage, a payroll processor would be fined $1,000 for the first offense and $5,000 for each subsequent offense. Read more

 

Isaacson to introduce legislation to regulate lead in playground areas

(Oct 30, 2019) Rep. Mary Isaacson

HARRISBURG, Oct. 30 – In the wake of published reports spotlighting the high levels of lead on playground equipment and in soil, state Rep. Mary Isaacson, D-Phila., is introducing legislation that would help reduce those toxic levels. The legislation would lower the acceptable limit of lead in playground soil in Pennsylvania to 200 parts per million. Currently, the limit is 400 parts per million as set in federal regulations by the Environmental Protection Agency. “Philadelphia has a serious lead issue and as a result, our children are facing serious health risks. Lead has no place where we live, where our kids go to schools and especially where they play,” Isaacson said. “My legislation is just one way to help lower the health hazards of lead while helping families keep their children safe and healthy.” In September, Philadelphia’s Parks and Recreation Department reportedly closed the Monkiewitz Playground along with Hieztman and Samuels recreation centers due to elevated levels of lead found in the soil. The department had also reportedly shut down the athletic field at Chew Playground for similar reasons in June. Isaacson noted she has also introduced legislation ( H.B. 79 ) that would require all children in Pennsylvania to be tested for lead at ages one and two. Read more

 

Philadelphia legislators oppose bill that eliminates straight ticket voting

(Oct 29, 2019) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 29 – State Rep. Jason Dawkins, chairman of the Philadelphia House Delegation, released the following statement on behalf of a majority of delegation members who are against S.B. 421 , which would eliminate the straight ticket voting option in Pennsylvania. “The majority of the Philadelphia House Delegation is deeply concerned with the elimination of straight ticket voting. The governor’s office has touted Senate Bill 421 as the most comprehensive change to the way people vote in Pennsylvania since suffrage. While members of the Philadelphia Delegation have supported and do support many of the individual pieces contained within Senate Bill 421, the short timeline as well as lack of funding and big picture planning make it impossible for Philadelphia to implement these changes in time for the 2020 primary and general elections. Many of our constituents already face large challenges participating in the voting process, whether they have physical disabilities or access issues, and without funding to educate voters about the dramatic change, we cannot in good conscience support this legislation. “Governor Wolf released a statement in which he agreed with our concerns on July 5: ‘This policy choice removes a convenient voting option which is used by voters of any party affiliation. To implement such a change, particularly as new machines are being used for the first time, could lead to voter Read more

 

Kenyatta selected for NCSL Task Force on Cybersecurity

(Oct 25, 2019) Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta

HARRISBURG, Oct. 25 – As part of his ongoing fight to protect the commonwealth’s cyber infrastructure, state Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta announced he has been selected as a Pennsylvania representative to serve on the National Conference of State Legislatures’ bipartisan Executive Committee Task Force on Cybersecurity. The NCSL task force brings together state lawmakers, legislative staff and other stakeholders to discuss how state legislatures can create sound frameworks for protecting against, responding to, and prosecuting perpetrators of cyberattacks. “I am honored to have been chosen to sit on this important committee. It’s no secret that cyberattacks are not only a major concern in Pennsylvania, but across the entire country. With everyone constantly connected on their phones, computers and other electronic devices, the amount of potential attacks will only increase,” Kenyatta said. “I look forward to working with members on the task force to learn what’s being done in other states to protect citizens from cyberattacks and bring that back to craft legislation on strengthening safeguards here in Pennsylvania.” Kenyatta is the prime sponsor of H.B. 225 , which would create a Cybersecurity Innovation Commission to safeguard Pennsylvania’s data by conducting cybersecurity audits, improving security and privacy standards and analyzing the protocols. According to the Read more

 

Davis: Increase to first-responder loan program passes House

(Oct 23, 2019) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Tina Davis today applauded her House colleagues for unanimously passing H.B. 1816 , her plan to increase the amount of money that emergency response units can borrow for critical equipment through the Volunteer Loan Assistance program. The VLAP provides low-interest loans to volunteer fire companies and emergency medical services so that they may purchase up-to-date equipment and vehicles and maintain and upgrade their facilities. The 10% increase in loan limits set forth by the bill address the rate of inflation. The maximum limit on loans was last raised in 2013. “Current loan limits have restrained vital fire companies and emergency medical services,” said Davis, D-Bucks. “As a result, these organizations are spending too much time fundraising because VLAP’s loan rates haven’t increased with the rate of inflation. “This bill would provide these vital organizations with the ability to buy or upgrade essential equipment and maintain facilities across the state.” In addition, the bill would annually increase all loan limits by the inflation rate from the previous year to ensure that fire companies and emergency medical services have lasting access to financial assistance. “Having to go to the legislature every couple of years to raise loan rates is inefficient, as we know the rate of inflation is going to increase,” Davis said. “This bill Read more

 

House Democrats stand with union workers for manufacturing jobs

(Oct 21, 2019) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Oct. 21 − House Democratic Leader Frank Dermody said members today welcomed United Auto Workers Local 677, currently striking for job security, benefits and wages at Mack Trucks manufacturing plants, to speak about the ongoing battle to rebuild the middle class. “We couldn’t be prouder to stand in solidarity with these hard-working Pennsylvanians as they fight to make sure the economy helps everyone, not just the corporate executives down in North Carolina,” Dermody said. “You can’t sustain the middle class without these workers on the job, and we’re ready to do what we can to support them.” Dermody said the workers were invited by Rep. Peter Schweyer, D-Lehigh, home of the United Auto Workers Local 677, whose members work at Mack Trucks facilities throughout Pennsylvania. “There’s nothing more American than a Mack truck, unless you’re talking about a union job that pays a wage you can raise a family on, offers benefits to support that family, and makes sure every worker has a chance to retire and let a new worker join the team,” Schweyer said. “These men and women want to get back to work, the local managers want these hard-working professionals back on the lines, and the greater Allentown area needs these people shopping and supporting local businesses. I have their backs 100 percent.” “It’s been nearly 40 years since a Read more

 

Driscoll bill to assist families of fallen first responders passes House

(Oct 21, 2019) Rep. Michael Driscoll

HARRISBURG, Oct. 21 – State Rep. Mike Driscoll, D-Phila., applauded today’s House passage of his realty transfer tax legislation that would assist the family members of police, fire and other first responders who've died in the line of duty. "Thankfully, the number of families who lose a loved one as a first responder and therefore are eligible for the Emergency and Law Enforcement Personnel Death Act benefits is relatively low," Driscoll said. "But relief from this tax burden for their beneficiaries will continue to show our appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of Pennsylvania's first responders and their families." House Bill 269 would exclude a surviving spouse or minor children of a first responder who receive benefits under the Emergency and Law Enforcement Personnel Death Benefit Act from paying the realty transfer tax, if their family home is sold within five years of the first responder's death. "First responders have made a tremendous commitment to our communities and are ready and willing to put their lives on the line every day," Driscoll said. "Offering their family this bit of relief is the least we can do to help repay that sacrifice." Driscoll’s legislation now awaits consideration in the Senate. Read more

 

Daley, Policy Committee discuss Waters of Pennsylvania

(Oct 21, 2019) Rep. Mary Jo Daley

“With over 85,000 miles of rivers and streams and 99,000 acres of lakes, our state features some of the nation’s most beautiful and bountiful waterways. With that abundance, though, comes crucial challenges that we must face together in order to keep our waters clean and pollutant-free.” Read more

 

Sappey, Policy Committee examine stormwater management and infrastructure

(Oct 16, 2019) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

State Rep. Christina Sappey, D-Chester, hosted a House Policy Committee hearing at the East Bradford Township Building on severe weather’s impact on infrastructure and stormwater management. Read more

 

House Democratic Leader Applauds Governor’s Action on Climate Crisis

(Oct 04, 2019) Rep. Frank Dermody

HARRISBURG, Oct. 4 − House Democratic Leader Frank Dermody applauded Gov. Tom Wolf’s Executive Order directing Pennsylvania to begin the process to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. RGGI is a market-based collaboration among nine Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change while generating economic growth. “The governor is demonstrating the leadership Pennsylvanians are looking for from their elected officials to address the climate crisis,” Dermody said. “ A long-range plan to reduce carbon emissions will also significantly reduce other toxic air pollutants that cause asthma and disproportionately impact the health of children the elderly and the poor. The House Democratic Caucus will continue to work with Governor Wolf to ensure our air is clean and electricity prices remain affordable.” Read more

 

Delloso, Policy Committee examine jobs, labor market

(Oct 03, 2019) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

State Rep. David Delloso, D-Delaware, hosted a House Democratic Policy Committee hearing at IAM AW Local Lodge 1776 on jobs and the labor market. Delloso requested the hearing to discuss ways Pennsylvania can improve the job market. Read more

 

Delloso to host Policy Committee hearing on Jobs and Labor Market Thursday in Essington

(Sep 30, 2019) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

State Rep. David Delloso, D-Delaware, will host a House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing on Jobs and the Labor Market Thursday, Oct. 3 in Essington. Read more

 

Bill to establish volunteer no firearm purchase list passes House Judiciary Committee

(Sep 24, 2019) Rep. Maria P. Donatucci

HARRISBURG, Sept. 24 – State Rep. Maria Donatucci today said her bill that would help address people with mental health issues and firearms has been voted out of the House Judiciary Committee. House Bill 165 would establish a voluntary "no firearm purchase list" that the Pennsylvania State Police would maintain. A person could request to be placed on the list for at least one year and up to five years. State police also would inform a person 20 days before his or her time ends on the list and provide a way for reenlistment should that person desire. “This bill is similar to legislation that created the existing voluntary gambling self-exclusion list. It would help people who are struggling with mental or physical health issues and who fear they may be a danger to themselves or others,” Donatucci said. “House Bill 165 would also give health care providers, family and friends the opportunity to suggest that a person who is dealing with mental health issues to voluntarily surrender their firearms. If my legislation could save at least one life, then it is truly worth it.” House Bill 165 now goes to the full House for a vote. Donatucci is a member of the PA SAFE Caucus , which is made up of 70 members of the PA House and Senate who believe in reducing all types of violence in society through adequate funding for mental health services; stronger tools for law enforcement; Read more

 

Legislators fight to bring back General Assistance Fund

(Sep 24, 2019) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Sept. 24 – Joining advocates, former recipients of General Assistance and state senators, state Reps. Malcolm Kenyatta, Melissa Shusterman and Elizabeth Fiedler repeated the call for the General Assembly to restart the program that many vulnerable residents depended on in the commonwealth. “Ending General Assistance was one of the cruelest legislative decisions that has been made in this body since I became a member. There is no logical excuse or argument for denying support for the most vulnerable communities when they needed it most. It was like kicking them while they’re down,” Kenyatta, D-Phila., said. “That is why I’ve introduced House Bill 1709 to bring this vital resource back. I’m urging my colleagues across the aisle to understand the severity of the harm this has caused for Pennsylvania families and fix it now.” Kenyatta is the main sponsor of H.B. 1709, which would provide emergency relief to those Pennsylvanians who previously received support through the General Assistance Fund. The program provided $200 a month in cash assistance to those who were unable to work, those caring for loved ones who were sick or disabled, veterans, victims of domestic violence and those receiving treatment for substance abuse, among others. In June, the General Assembly voted to end the program, despite the pleas from many, including Kenyatta and Shusterman, Read more

 

House votes to mandate ethics requirements for Act 47 coordinators

(Sep 23, 2019) Rep. Robert Freeman

HARRISBURG, Sept. 23 – The state House of Representatives today passed legislation that would require compliance with ethics statutes for Act 47 coordinators appointed to assist financially distressed municipalities, according to the bill’s sponsor Rep. Robert Freeman. Read more

 

House OKs Mullery bill to increase penalty for body-gripping traps

(Sep 19, 2019) Rep. Gerald Mullery

HARRISBURG, Sept. 19 – The penalty for illegally setting body-gripping traps would be increased under legislation that passed the House of Representatives unanimously today, according to the bill’s author, state Rep. Gerald Mullery. Read more

 

Bizzarro bill to improve charitable fundraising heads for House vote

(Sep 19, 2019) Rep. Ryan A. Bizzarro

HARRISBURG, Sept. 19 – Legislation that would help non-profit organizations host more successful fundraising events for charity is heading to the House chamber for a vote after being added to another bill approved by the House Liquor Committee today, state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie, announced. Bizzarro’s H.B. 1406 would address a major obstacle affecting nonprofit organizations hosting charitable fundraising events: A provision of the state Liquor Code governing special occasion permits prohibits the companies these non-profits hire to plan and organize the events from managing the funds. As a result, the fundraisers are not as efficient or successful as possible. Bizzarro said his legislation would change all that. “Non-profit organizations such as churches and community groups often turn to event planning and organizing companies because of their expertise when it comes to fundraising events,” Bizzarro said. “Unfortunately, the law prevents these organizers from managing the funds, which greatly affects the success and efficiency of these events. My legislation would remove that obstacle by permitting event organizers and planners to collect and manage the funds as long as the non-profit organization is the primary host of the event and the funds are being raised for a charitable purpose. “I’m delighted that this legislation is advancing to the House. Successful fundraising events are Read more

 

Ciresi, Policy Committee focus on economic impact of the arts

(Sep 12, 2019) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

POTTSTOWN, Sept. 12 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, today hosted a House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing on the economic impact of the arts at the Steel River Playhouse. Ciresi requested the hearing on the arts to learn how to ensure that arts organizations are financially stable, promote attendance and participation in arts programs, and determine what overall work can be done to broaden support for the arts. Ciresi was joined by legislators from across the state. “Today’s hearing was a great example of how we can work together to learn from one another in order to create policy decisions that benefit all Pennsylvanians,” Ciresi said. “With the information we have shared with each other today, we will be able to grow our arts programs and move towards an age of ingenuity, creativity and excitement. The arts lead to higher civic engagement, child welfare, and lower crime and poverty rates. They bring about social awareness and a better understanding of our cultures and the world around us. By introducing our children to the arts, and continuing to stay creative in our older age, we create lasting memories and the foundations for skills that can last a lifetime. In addition, the arts provide for three percent of the nation’s GDP alone, an $800 billion industry. When you consider traveling expenses and local merchants that benefit from strong art programs, the numbers begin to add up quickly economically too.” Read more

 

Rep. Zabel, Policy Committee discuss rising cost of prescription drugs

(Sep 11, 2019) Rep. Mike Zabel

“We must get to the point where people who need medicine are able to purchase that medicine without the fear of going broke. The gouging of prices for life-saving drugs needs to be curbed, which is why I’m introducing legislation to cap insulin prices.” Read more

 

Legislators vow to fight Pa. Commission on Sentencing's risk-assessment tool

(Sep 06, 2019) Rep. Joanna E. McClinton

HARRISBURG, Sept. 6 – Following their votes today to reject the new risk-assessment tool by the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing, state Rep. Joanna McClinton and Sen. Sharif Street said they vow to push for their legislation that would repeal the commission’s mandate to create a such a tool. “I voted to reject the risk-assessment tool because I have serious concerns that it is not the best way to reduce recidivism and keep people safe in my community and across the Commonwealth. I strongly believe that the mandate requiring the commission to create a new risk-assessment tool needs to be repealed and I will continue to work closely with Senator Street and my colleagues to pass legislation that would abolish that mandate,” McClinton said. Under this risk-assessment tool passed Thursday, when a person scores high- or low-risk based on the risk-assessment instrument, they would be flagged for further assessment of their risk of recidivism and need for treatment or support. The plan permits county probation departments to put these people through whatever assessment they use. Street said, “For almost a decade, the sentencing commission has worked – under a legislative mandate – to create a risk-assessment tool with the goal of reducing costs and decreasing the prison population. Senator Greenleaf, author of the original legislation, has denounced this version of the risk-assessment tool as having the adverse effect of its Read more

 

Driscoll introduces legislation to help protect Pa. workers, businesses
Oct 31, 2019

Isaacson to introduce legislation to regulate lead in playground areas
Oct 30, 2019

Philadelphia legislators oppose bill that eliminates straight ticket voting
Oct 29, 2019

Kenyatta selected for NCSL Task Force on Cybersecurity
Oct 25, 2019

Davis: Increase to first-responder loan program passes House
Oct 23, 2019

House Democrats stand with union workers for manufacturing jobs
Oct 21, 2019

Driscoll bill to assist families of fallen first responders passes House
Oct 21, 2019

Daley, Policy Committee discuss Waters of Pennsylvania
Oct 21, 2019

Sappey, Policy Committee examine stormwater management and infrastructure
Oct 16, 2019

House Democratic Leader Applauds Governor’s Action on Climate Crisis
Oct 04, 2019

Delloso, Policy Committee examine jobs, labor market
Oct 03, 2019

Delloso to host Policy Committee hearing on Jobs and Labor Market Thursday in Essington
Sep 30, 2019

Bill to establish volunteer no firearm purchase list passes House Judiciary Committee
Sep 24, 2019

Legislators fight to bring back General Assistance Fund
Sep 24, 2019

House votes to mandate ethics requirements for Act 47 coordinators
Sep 23, 2019

House OKs Mullery bill to increase penalty for body-gripping traps
Sep 19, 2019

Bizzarro bill to improve charitable fundraising heads for House vote
Sep 19, 2019

Ciresi, Policy Committee focus on economic impact of the arts
Sep 12, 2019

Rep. Zabel, Policy Committee discuss rising cost of prescription drugs
Sep 11, 2019

Legislators vow to fight Pa. Commission on Sentencing's risk-assessment tool
Sep 06, 2019