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Dougherty sworn-in as state representative for Northeast Philadelphia district

(Jan 07, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – Today, State Rep. Sean Dougherty, D-Phila., was sworn in to begin his first term as state representative for the Pennsylvania’s 172 nd Legislative District. The district encompasses the Northeast Philadelphia neighborhoods of Bustleton, Burholme, Fox Chase, Pine Valley and parts of Rhawnhurst. Dougherty grew up in his district (Pine Valley) and expressed excitement as he begins his term. “Being sworn in to the Pennsylvania State House to serve the community where I grew up and live is the honor of my lifetime,” Dougherty said. “I can’t wait to hit the ground running by fighting for legislative initiatives to benefit Northeast Philadelphia and providing my neighbors with important state government-related services.” Dougherty stated that his legislative priorities include community safety, proper education funding, jobs and protecting reproductive freedom. More information about Dougherty can be found on his website and in his biography . Read more

 

Conklin takes oath of office to begin 10th term representing Pennsylvania’s 77th Legislative District

(Jan 07, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Scott Conklin took the oath of office today at the state Capitol to begin his 10 th term representing Pennsylvania’s 77 th Legislative District. Conklin said he is looking forward to starting work in the 2025-26 legislative session and will continue to focus on strengthening the district’s public schools, keeping resources flowing to first responders, bringing new dollars home to fund district projects, and passing measures to address domestic violence. “The new term gives us a new chance to advocate for our communities, to ensure residents’ voices are heard in Harrisburg and to make progress on bills that can improve life in the district,” said Conklin, D-Centre. “In the months ahead, I will be working to ensure that our public schools receive every dollar to which they’re entitled – for education and mental health resources as well as facility improvements that make our schools safer and healthier.” Conklin said he hopes to see more public schools in the district embrace the recently enacted Solar for PA Schools Program. “The program is a great deal for our schools,” Conklin said. “By tapping into state and federal funding, they can implement the technology with minimal to no project costs and reap substantial energy savings.” Conklin said he will also continue his legislative efforts to reduce domestic violence in the state. Read more

 

Matzie takes oath of office to begin ninth term representing Beaver County

(Jan 07, 2025) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Rob Matzie took the oath of office today at the state Capitol to begin his ninth term representing Pennsylvania’s 16 th Legislative District. As he joins his colleagues to begin the 2025-26 legislative term, Matzie said he is looking forward to his new leadership role as chairman of the House Majority Caucus. “I’m ready to start the new term and my new leadership role with the caucus,” Matzie said. “We have important work ahead and real issues that need addressed for everyday folks. “We’ll be focusing on jobs, schools, health care – the priorities that matter to the people of Beaver County. As caucus chair, I will be working to ensure that those issues remain front and center in our legislative efforts. “Most importantly, I will continue to bring state dollars back home to Beaver County, making sure we get our fair share and more.” Last term, Matzie brought tens of millions of dollars in funding back to Beaver County and introduced more than 35 bills and resolutions. Under his leadership as majority chairman of the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee, the committee advanced – and the governor signed – multiple consumer protection laws, including a motorcycle Lemon Law, the Solar for PA Schools Act, the Max Manufacturing Act to boost industry, and Matzie’s bill Read more

 

Takac sworn in to second term representing state’s 82nd Legislative District

(Jan 07, 2025) Takac

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, proudly took the oath of office today, officially beginning his second term representing the 82nd Legislative District. The ceremony took place at the state Capitol, where Takac was joined by family, friends and colleagues. “I am deeply honored to continue serving the people of the 82nd District,” said Takac. “Our community has once again placed their trust in me, and I am committed to continue working tirelessly on their behalf. Together, we will address the many challenges we face and seize the opportunities ahead to continue delivering real results for the people and communities of Centre County and the commonwealth.” During his first term, Takac focused on key issues such as education, health care, economic development and sustainability. He successfully advocated for historic funding increases for our local public schools, expanded access to affordable health care and supported initiatives that create jobs and economic opportunity while continuing to guarantee Pennsylvanians’ constitutional right to clean air and water. Looking ahead, Takac intends to build on these accomplishments and tackle new priorities, including renewable energy and natural resources, innovative economic and infrastructure investments and ensuring liberty and justice for every Pennsylvanian. “We have made significant progress, but there is still much work to be done,” Read more

 

Fiedler named chair of newly established House Energy Committee

(Jan 07, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – Today, State Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., was appointed majority chair of the newly established Pennsylvania House Energy Committee. Pennsylvania is the nation’s second largest supplier of energy, and hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians work in the energy sector. As chair of the House Blue-Green Caucus , Fiedler has worked to advance energy policy that preserves these family-sustaining jobs while increasing production of renewables. “I’m honored that Speaker McClinton and Leader Bradford have entrusted me with such an important role, and I’m ready to do big things with the new committee,” Fiedler said. “Demand is rising, and Pennsylvania has an opportunity to strengthen our role as an energy leader. I believe we can do that and more by expanding our energy production -- especially in the growing renewables field -- while creating good jobs and protecting our environment.” Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton, D-Phila./Delaware, said: “Representative Fiedler is a proven leader who, since being elected, has championed policies that support her neighbors and people across the state. Her interest in the environment and energy issues, coupled with her intense focus on building a better future for all Pennsylvanians, equip her to be an effective chair of the new House Energy Committee.” This new committee will review bills related Read more

 

Merski takes oath to begin fourth term representing 2nd Legislative District

(Jan 07, 2025) Rep. Robert Merski

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Bob Merski, D-Erie, proudly took the oath of office today, marking the beginning of his fourth term representing the 2 nd Legislative District. With a steadfast commitment to serving district residents, Merski is eager to continue his work in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. “As we embark on this new term, I’m so excited to roll up my sleeves and get back to work for you,” Merski said. “I remain dedicated to advocating in Harrisburg for the needs and priorities of our Erie community. Together, we will build on the momentum we have established on issues like affordability, economic growth, improved education and enhanced public safety for all residents.” Throughout his previous terms, Merski has passionately championed workers’ rights, secured historic funding for education initiatives and fostered community development. He looks forward to building on these efforts and addressing new challenges in the upcoming legislative session. Merski also expressed his gratitude to the constituents who have entrusted him with this responsibility. “Thank you to the people of Erie County for your continued support and trust,” Merski said. “I dedicate myself to you. I am committed to working tirelessly on your behalf and ensuring that our voice is heard in Harrisburg. “As always, we're here to help you. Visit our district office at 3921 Buffalo Rd. Read more

 

Guzman: Reading is prepared to maximize its full potential, a more vibrant and better city is now within our reach

(Dec 30, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

READING, Dec. 30 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, said today that Reading has stepped into a defining new phase of economic growth following the announcement made by the Shapiro administration on Monday that the city has been granted the City Revitalization and Improvement Zone program designation. Guzman, who has been key in the efforts that led to the city’s victory, indicated that this win comes a result of years-long work at the city and state level. Earlier this year, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed the 2024-25 bipartisan budget into law, which opened the program to allow qualified communities to participate in CRIZ for the first time since 2013. “I am overjoyed. We are going to welcome 2025 with renewed hopes in our beloved city. This state-sponsored program is a resource that would help us advance the city and transform neglected areas into vibrant hubs,” said Guzman. “This is a massive triumph for me as legislator, but mostly as a resident who is committed to turning around the city and make it brighter and better. What seemed for years a hard-to-attain goal is now within our reach; this is a tangible reality.” Mayor Eddie Moran indicated that securing the CRIZ designation for Reading is a transformative step for the city. “This achievement reflects our shared commitment to revitalizing our downtown, attracting new Read more

 

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

(Dec 30, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Recovery Housing for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and Other Drugs Who May Apply: Community-based organizations, community action agencies, or public health programs that focus on assisting individuals in accessing recovery housing. Use: Personnel services, consulting services, subcontract services, patient services, equipment, supplies, travel, and other costs associated with assisting individuals access recovery housing. Funds: DDAP expects to award five grants totaling $500,000 each. Application Deadline: January 10, 2025 More information: DDAP Website Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Integrated Health Solutions Who May Apply: Community-based organizations, community action agencies, or public health programs that focus on assisting individuals in accessing recovery housing. Use: Personnel services, consulting services, subcontract services, patient services, equipment, supplies, travel, and other costs associated with assisting individuals access recovery housing. Funds: DDAP expects to award five grants totaling $500,000 each. Application Deadline: January 10, 2025 More information: DDAP 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 Read more

 

House Democratic Leaders' statement on the passing of President Jimmy Carter

(Dec 29, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Pennsylvania House Democratic leaders issued the following statement on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter:  Read more

 

Neilson lauds cooperative effort to reduce vehicle fees for retirees and veterans

(Dec 18, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

State Rep. Ed Neilson today expressed his gratitude toward Gov. Josh Shapiro and his House colleagues, state Reps. Joe Ciresi and Rob Merski, for the successful effort to allow more seniors and certain military veterans to be eligible for reduced or eliminated vehicle registration fees at PennDOT. Neilson’s legislation, H.B. 2301, was signed into law by Shapiro as Act 60 on July 15, 2024 and went into effect this month. It included a proposal offered by Merski to increase the annual income cap for a retiree to qualify for a reduced vehicle registration fee of $11. Previously, the annual income cap for a retired customer to qualify for a reduced registration fee of $11 was $19,200, which had not been increased since 1998. Due to the newly enacted state law, the annual income cap is now $29,906, and it will be adjusted annually for inflation going forward. Because of the expansion of the annual income threshold, many more retired persons will be eligible for the reduced registration fee of $11. “As people age and retire, they are usually restricted to a fixed income,” Neilson said. “Every dollar helps, and the expansion of the eligibility threshold will allow these retirees to save more money on their vehicle registration.” Neilson’s legislation also included a proposal offered by Ciresi to eliminate registration and titling fees for one passenger vehicle or truck weighing 9,000 pounds or less Read more

 

Policy Committee announces leaders for 2025-26 legislative session

(Dec 18, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“We are committed to uplifting Pennsylvania workers, advancing bread-and-butter issues that will make life more affordable for working people across our commonwealth,” said Bizzarro, who represents portions of Erie County. Read more

 

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

(Dec 17, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Below are multiple grant programs that are currently open for applications. NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Community and Economic Development: Historically Disadvantaged Business Assistance Program Who May Apply: Community-based non-profit organizations with a history of at least 3 years operating experience, educational institutions, and non-profit economic development organizations with a history of at least 3 years operating experience. Use: Creation or support of a Business Assistance Service Center for the purpose of serving small, historically disadvantaged businesses. Funds: $20 million in funding was appropriated in the 2024/25 state budget. Application Deadline: January 22, 2025 More information: DCED Website Council on the Arts: Entry to Arts Organizations and Arts Programs (EAOAP) Who May Apply: Non-profit agencies with a history of at least two years of consistent arts programming in Pennsylvania and an annual average arts revenue over $200,000. Use: Entry track is the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts’ (PCA) point of entry for organizations or programs to the AOAP. Applicants must apply in Entry track until recommended for AOAP, which is based on panel review and assessment totals Funds: Grants totaling $5,000 will be awarded. Application Deadline: February 15, 2025 More information: Arts Website Council on the Arts: Arts Read more

 

Chester County lawmakers laud grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed

(Dec 12, 2024) Chester County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Dec. 12 – Members of the Chester County state legislative delegation are pleased to report a state and federal investment in keeping the Chesapeake Bay Watershed clean from its tributaries in Chester County. The Chester County Conservation District was awarded more than $67,000 in funding directed by the Department of Environmental Protection. "Investing in cleaning the waterways that flow into the Chesapeake Bay is more than an environmental effort – it's a commitment to safeguarding a vital ecosystem, supporting local economies and preserving a legacy of natural beauty and abundance for generations to come," said state Rep. Danielle Friel Otten, D-Chester. The DEP awarded grants through the 2025 Countywide Action Plan (CAP) Implementation Grants to county teams across Pennsylvania’s share of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. “Stormwater runoff and agricultural runoff remain leading sources of water quality impairment in Chester County and Pennsylvania,” said state Sen. Carolyn Comitta, minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “These investments will help prevent pollution and restore and protect the local watersheds that are crucial to environmental health, public health, and the strong quality of life in our communities.” Pennsylvania has made historic progress in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Earlier this year, the Read more

 

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

(Dec 12, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Here are the latest grant opportunities that are open for applications. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El lauds grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed

(Dec 11, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Dec. 11 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El said he is pleased to report a state and federal investment in keeping the Chesapeake Bay Watershed clean from its tributaries in Lancaster County. The Lancaster County Conservation District was awarded more than $5.92 million in funding directed by the Department of Environmental Protection. "This significant investment is a promise to our natural environment and represents a commitment to protecting a vital ecosystem, supporting our economy, and preserving a new legacy of investments for our part of the watershed," said Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster. The DEP awarded grants through the 2025 Countywide Action Plan Implementation Grants to county teams across Pennsylvania’s share of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Pennsylvania has made historic progress in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Earlier this year, the Shapiro Administration announced that for the first time in history, the Chesapeake Bay showed steady overall improvement, earning a C+ grade from the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and Watershed Report Card – the highest grade ever awarded to the overall health of the bay since the report was created. The 2025 CAP Implementation Grants include $9.6 million from the state Environmental Stewardship Fund and $14.4 million in federal EPA funding, including $7.1 million in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds to support counties’ Read more

 

Krajewski, Frankel plan to introduce legislation to legalize adult-use cannabis, prioritizing public health, community repair

(Dec 02, 2024) Rep. Rick Krajewski, Rep. Dan B. Frankel

HARRISBURG, Dec. 2, 2024 – State Reps. Rick Krajewski and Dan Frankel announced Monday their co-sponsorship memo for landmark legislation to finally decriminalize cannabis in Pennsylvania , vowing to create a strong marketplace that centers public health, raises state revenue and supports individuals and communities harmed by the criminalization of cannabis. Krajewski, who led the House Health Subcommittee on Health Care, chaired five hearings to examine the successes and failures of cannabis programs in other states in the previous legislative session. “We’ve heard from public health experts. We’ve heard from criminal justice and social equity advocates. We’ve learned directly from states across the country how to get this done safely and efficiently, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in public revenue,” said Krajewski. “It’s time to move forward in Pennsylvania before we fall further behind.” Twenty-four other states – including nearly every state that shares a border in Pennsylvania – have already legalized recreational marijuana. Polls show that cannabis decriminalization is popular among Pennsylvanians across all political parties . Frankel, who is majority chair of the House Health Committee, said that the criminalization of cannabis has been disastrous for the commonwealth, particularly within communities of color. “We have a moral obligation to not Read more

 

Solar for Schools grant program now accepting applications

(Dec 02, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Dec. 2 – A new state grant program designed to benefit Pennsylvania schools is now accepting applications until Jan 31, 2025. Solar for Schools , introduced by state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., will help school districts install solar panels on their roofs or grounds. Solar is a cheap energy source that can free up funds for schools that currently rely on fluctuating, market-rate energy. “While Solar for Schools will undoubtedly deliver tremendous savings to schools, I believe its positive impact will be even bigger,” Fiedler said. “The workers who install these solar panels will earn living wages that support their families. Kids in classrooms will get to see firsthand the careers of skilled trades workers and use the solar panels as an educational tool. And this is all while their school is contributing to a healthier environment for them to live in.” Some forward-thinking districts across Pennsylvania have already installed solar arrays and are reaping millions in savings . But not all schools have the necessary flexibility in their budgets to make such investments. In fact, the contrary is often true -- many PA school districts are recovering from decades of unconstitutional underfunding or face shrinking tax bases, expiring COVID-19 recovery funds and other financial challenges. Solar for Schools grants cover up to 50 % of the Read more

 

Neilson applauds Gov. Shapiro for redirecting federal funding to SEPTA

(Nov 22, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

House Transportation Committee Chair, state Rep. Ed Neilson made the following statement on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s redirection of $153 million in federal highway capital funds to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority to allow for continued service, avoid immediate service cuts and delay more significant fare increases until July 1, 2025: “I want to thank Governor Shapiro for his leadership and support of Pennsylvania’s most complex and robust transit authority. SEPTA is a lifeline for people in Philadelphia and the outlying counties, providing almost 800,000 people daily with transportation that they might not otherwise have. “We have been sounding the alarm around public transit funding for months. On our statewide tour about the transportation needs of urban, suburban and rural Pennsylvania, we heard from countless experts who spoke of the dire consequences that would come without action from the General Assembly. “The PA House Democrats took that input seriously, passing bipartisan legislation to properly fund public transit in all 67 counties on three different occasions, which was never brought up for consideration in the Senate. “This isn’t just about buses; this is about jobs. This is about making sure that our businesses can still get their employees to work. Transit is an investment, not an expense. For every dollar invested in transit, we generate Read more

 

Bill to protect pets in domestic violence situations signed into law

(Nov 22, 2024) Rep. Christina Sappey

HARRISBURG, Nov. 22 – State Rep. Christina Sappey, D-Chester, today announced that bipartisan legislation ( Act 146 of 2024 ) to better protect victims’ pets in domestic violence situations has been signed into law. The bill (H.B. 1210), introduced by Sappey with state Rep. Natalie Mihalek, R- Allegheny/Washington, amends Pennsylvania’s Protection from Abuse Act to give judges the ability to order defendant to refrain from possessing, abusing or harming a petitioner’s companion animal. Previously, Pennsylvania’s Protection from Abuse Act gave judges the ability to order many kinds of relief to prevent further abuse but did not give explicit authority to order protective measures for a victim’s pets. “We have known for some time the horrific link between domestic violence and animal abuse, Sappey said. “Abusers will use harming pets to further torment the victim or keep them from leaving, exacerbating an already traumatic situation.” According to the Humane Society of the United States, data on domestic violence and child abuse cases reveal that a staggering number of animals are targeted by those who abuse their children or spouses. In one survey, 71% of domestic violence victims reported their abuser also targeted pets. Researchers have found links between coercive control and the abuse of pets, with abusers often using family pets as leverage in the torment of their victims, threatening to harm or kill Read more

 

Matzie: Broadband Development Authority awards more than 9,000 laptop computers to organizations statewide

(Nov 22, 2024) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Nov. 22 – The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority on Thursday approved distribution of more than 9,100 laptop computers to community entities statewide to help connect residents who lack digital technology, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced. Matzie, who sits on the PBDA board, said that under the Digital Connectivity Technology Program, the Baden-based Prevention Network and CLASS Academy will receive 75 laptops, and the Ambridge-based computer training school Tech2Elevate will receive 25 laptops. “Having reliable, high-speed internet means having instant access to job openings, training programs, health and safety information, online shopping and so many other resources,” Matzie said. “But too many people still lack these essential connections. Getting these laptops to organizations that can make them available to residents will help us close that digital divide.” Matzie said that in addition to the laptops going to Beaver County organizations, more than 2,000 laptops will be distributed to 25 Allegheny County organizations, including 200 laptops to the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh. Along with the equipment, Matzie said the PBDA will partner with the state Department of Labor and Industry and PA CareerLink® to introduce program participants to SkillUp™ PA , which offers no-cost online job skills training to the public. The Digital Connectivity Technology Read more

 

Dougherty sworn-in as state representative for Northeast Philadelphia district
Jan 07, 2025

Conklin takes oath of office to begin 10th term representing Pennsylvania’s 77th Legislative District
Jan 07, 2025

Matzie takes oath of office to begin ninth term representing Beaver County
Jan 07, 2025

Takac sworn in to second term representing state’s 82nd Legislative District
Jan 07, 2025

Fiedler named chair of newly established House Energy Committee
Jan 07, 2025

Merski takes oath to begin fourth term representing 2nd Legislative District
Jan 07, 2025

Guzman: Reading is prepared to maximize its full potential, a more vibrant and better city is now within our reach
Dec 30, 2024

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 30, 2024

House Democratic Leaders' statement on the passing of President Jimmy Carter
Dec 29, 2024

Neilson lauds cooperative effort to reduce vehicle fees for retirees and veterans
Dec 18, 2024

Policy Committee announces leaders for 2025-26 legislative session
Dec 18, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 17, 2024

Chester County lawmakers laud grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Dec 12, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 12, 2024

Smith-Wade-El lauds grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Dec 11, 2024

Krajewski, Frankel plan to introduce legislation to legalize adult-use cannabis, prioritizing public health, community repair
Dec 02, 2024

Solar for Schools grant program now accepting applications
Dec 02, 2024

Neilson applauds Gov. Shapiro for redirecting federal funding to SEPTA
Nov 22, 2024

Bill to protect pets in domestic violence situations signed into law
Nov 22, 2024

Matzie: Broadband Development Authority awards more than 9,000 laptop computers to organizations statewide
Nov 22, 2024