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Madsen secures $350K in state funding for structural repairs at Harrisburg International Airport

(Feb 24, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Feb. 24 – State Rep. Dave Madsen, D-Dauphin, helped secure $350,000 in state funding for structural repairs at Harrisburg International Airport through the disbursement of Multimodal Transportation Fund dollars by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. “I am glad to have been able to help the Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority secure critical funds that will help make the Harrisburg International Airport maintain its high level of safety and security,” Madsen said. “HIA has helped make the Capital Region a vital link in the eastern corridor for goods and serves. This project aligns with my focus on increasing the economic strength of the Harrisburg area and the wider Central Pennsylvania region through strategic investments and partnerships.” The Commonwealth Financing Authority was established in 2004 as an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages. For more information about the program, visit here . Read more

 

Guzman secures $850,000 in MTF grants for a local project

(Feb 24, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

READING, Feb. 24 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, today announced that one local transportation project will benefit from an $850,000 grant from the Multimodal Transportation Fund program through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Guzman said the funds are aimed at improving pedestrian protection and accessibility upgrades to the Penn Square Redevelopment Project in Reading. The grant was awarded to: Philly Office Retail LLC. - $850,000. To revitalize pedestrian safety and accessibility upgrades to Penn Square. The funding will go toward new ADA-accessible sidewalks, pedestrian lighting, planters, street trees, bicycle racks and benches at the corners of Fifth and Penn streets. “I am excited to welcome these grants to my district to support pedestrian protection and to create pedestrian-safe roads.” Guzman said. “Infrastructure development is a critical component for economic growth.” “Now as a proud member of the House Transportation Committee, I feel even more committed and equipped to help improve the quality of the transportation systems in our community,” he added. “I am working to advance infrastructure improvement plans. I am advocating for more efficient and accessible systems for all users.” Read more

 

It’s time to get serious about cyber charter school reform

(Feb 21, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

We’ve got to get serious about cyber charter school reform. Don’t just take my word for it. This week, Republican Auditor General Timothy DeFoor released a blockbuster report that called for comprehensive charter school reform. And you know what, the report says the same things I’ve said for YEARS about cyber charter schools and makes the same calls for reform that I’ve tried to enact through legislative initiatives: A single statewide tuition rate for cyber charter schools that’s more related to the actual cost of cyber education. Additional oversight of cyber charter schools by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Limits on excessive cyber charter school fund balances. Despite all that I know about how cyber charter schools rip off Pennsylvania taxpayers, my blood still boiled when I read this audit of five PA cyber charter schools showing that from 2020 to 2023 the schools legally increased their revenues by $425 million and reserves by 144%. And what did the schools do with this extra taxpayer money? While our kids struggled in underfunded traditional public schools, these cyber charter schools legally used taxpayer dollars on staff bonuses, gift cards, vehicle payments and fuel stipends. While our seniors fought to pay property taxes so they could stay in their homes, one of the audited schools, Commonwealth Charter Academy, spent $196 million to purchase and/or renovate 21 buildings. What does a Read more

 

Fleming, Policy Committee highlight childcare crisis

(Feb 21, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“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

 

Policy hearing focuses on elevated lead levels in PA school buildings

(Feb 20, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Testifiers at a House Majority Policy Committee hearing on Thursday described the urgent need to address elevated levels of lead found in the drinking water of school buildings in Pennsylvania. Read more

 

Powell introduces bill to keep Pennsylvanians seeking reproductive healthcare services safe

(Feb 20, 2025) Rep. Lindsay Powell

HARRISBURG, Feb. 20 – State Rep. Lindsay Powell, D-Allegheny, has introduced a state version of a federal law that protects patients from violence and harassment when visiting sites where abortions and reproductive healthcare services are provided. Powell’s legislation ( H.B. 670 ) would establish a state version of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act to guarantee the rights of Pennsylvania mothers and birthing individuals. The FACE Act prohibits intimidation, obstruction and/or violence against those seeking reproductive healthcare services and providers, while also prohibiting defacement/damage to sites offering such services. “As long as abortion is legal in PA, all efforts must be made to not only keep reproductive healthcare readily accessible, but to keep both patients and providers safe during these processes. Intolerance of any kind runs counter to the constitutional rights of residents and has no place in this Commonwealth,” Powell said. “My bill would help curb potential threats and put the health and well-being of Pennsylvanians first.” President Bill Clinton signed the federal FACE Act into law in May 1994. Read more

 

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

(Feb 19, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Learn more about the multiple grant programs that are currently open for applications. Read more

 

Lawmakers highlight need for legislation to end animal fighting

(Feb 19, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“Animal fighting still exists, and testifiers detailed how and why Pennsylvania needs to fund criminal investigations to combat animal fighting and care for its victims,” said House Majority Policy Committee Vice Chair Rep. Mary Isaacson, who represents portions of Philadelphia. Read more

 

Abney introduces bill for PA to join Social Work Licensure Compact

(Feb 19, 2025) Rep. Aerion Andrew Abney

HARRISBURG, Feb. 19 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, introduced a bill today that would add Pennsylvania to the list of states that are members of the Social Work Licensure Compact. The legislation ( H.B. 554 ) would allow licensed commonwealth social workers or those eligible for a license to apply for the ability to provide their services across multiple states. A comprehensive data system would also be created, so the public could be kept safe and informed regarding social worker license status and any adverse actions associated with a licensed social worker. “As a social worker, I know firsthand how hard they work for their fellow citizens and how their efforts are often overlooked by others,” Abney said. “My bill would help social workers provide for themselves and their families, while ensuring that those in need of their services can improve their own circumstances by seeking them out.” Abney holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh. The bill has been referred to the PA House Professional Licensure Committee. Read more

 

Abney appointed to Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s Board of Directors

(Feb 13, 2025) Rep. Aerion Andrew Abney

HARRISBURG, Feb. 13 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced today that he has been appointed to Pittsburgh Regional Transit ’s Board of Directors by Pennsylvania Speaker of the House Joanna E. McClinton. “I want to thank Speaker McClinton for entrusting me with the responsibility to address transportation needs across Pittsburgh. This role, complemented by serving on the House Appropriations Committee, is a tremendous opportunity to help secure dollars that keep residents connected to home, work and other destinations through this year’s budget and future budgets,” Abney said. “I look forward to collaborating with government colleagues, community leaders and stakeholders on solutions that get neighbors where they need to go every day.” Abney’s term on the board will officially begin on March 1 and run exactly four years. PRT is comprised of 2,600 employees who operate, maintain and support bus, light rail, incline and paratransit services, which translates into providing 60 million rides per year. Until 2022, the agency was known as Port Authority. Read more

 

PA House Democrats Praise Gov. Shapiro for Fighting Back Against Unconstitutional Federal Funding Freeze

(Feb 13, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Federal funding is vital to ensuring that Pennsylvania has the resources needed to continue critical work. The fact that we still don’t have access to $2.1 billion in congressionally appropriated funds is unconstitutional, unacceptable and immoral.  Read more

 

Salisbury: Nearly $185K in new funding for local fire and EMS resources

(Feb 12, 2025) Rep. Abigail Salisbury

BRADDOCK, Feb. 12 – Grants totaling $184,790 will bring new resources to fire and EMS companies in the 34 th Legislative District, state Rep. Abigail Salisbury announced today. “Our fire and EMS workers answer the call 24/7, despite staffing and budgetary issues that make their jobs even more challenging,” Salisbury said. “The new funding will help keep critical resources flowing to these frontline heroes.” The funding includes the following: 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 apply for construction savings accounts for the purposes of new facility construction. A full list of funding awarded statewide is available here . Read more

 

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

(Feb 11, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

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

 

Ciresi announces nearly $162K in state funding for local fire, EMS companies

(Feb 11, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Feb. 11 – A longtime proponent for community safety and first responders, state Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, today announced local fire and EMS companies have been awarded $161,876 in grants through the state’s Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program. “Our fire and emergency responders are with us in our time of greatest need, but they have been struggling to respond to emergencies with limited resources and fewer recruits,” Ciresi said. “These funds are critical so they can continue to provide the life-saving services they do, day in, day out. I continue to advocate 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: Friendship HLH&A Inc – Royersford – $15,000. Goodwill Steam Fire Engine Co No 1 – Pottstown – $31,106.84. Limerick Fire Department – Limerick – $40,000. North End Fire Company Num 1 of Pottstown – Pottstown – $15,000. Philadelphia Steam Fire Engine Co 1 – Pottstown – $15,461.31. Ringing Hill Fire Company – Pottstown – $15,461.31. Royersford Fire Department – Royersford – $14,815.77. Sanatoga Fire Co – Pottstown – $15,030.95. The Fire Company and Emergency Read more

 

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

(Feb 11, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

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

 

Allegheny County lawmakers propose House bill to require food allergy warnings in restaurants

(Feb 10, 2025) Rep. Arvind Venkat

A bipartisan Pennsylvania House bill on food allergy safety authored by two Allegheny County lawmakers could see a floor vote this week. Read more

 

Two state lawmakers in Allegheny County working on legislation to require restaurants to add allergy warnings

(Feb 10, 2025) Rep. Arvind Venkat

Two Pennsylvania lawmakers who serve Allegheny County are trying to advance a proposed bill that would require restaurants to add allergy warnings for customers and employees. Read more

 

Kazeem applauds Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget plan

(Feb 06, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Feb. 6 – State Rep. Carol Kazeem, D-Delaware, issued this statement in support of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposal: “The budget plan that Governor Shapiro unveiled yesterday would change life for the better for many residents in the communities I represent, and I am excited to help push it over the finish line. “I wholeheartedly support Governor Shapiro’s increased investments in our public school system. Countless 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 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. “Studies have also shown that starting to educate kids in daycare helps them to acquire the social and Read more

 

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

(Feb 06, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

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

 

Isaacson aims to slash fees charged to consumers by ticket resellers

(Feb 06, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

State Rep. Mary Isaacson, D-Phila., is reaching across the aisle to cut costs for Pennsylvanians who buy event tickets through resellers. Issacson joined her House colleague, Rep. Thomas Mehaffie, R-Dauphin, in a plan to introduce legislation that would cap extra fees at 5% for buyers and 5% for sellers, letting event goers save money while still allowing ticket resellers to profit. According to the lawmakers, these fees can be as much as 55% on top of ticket costs and Isaacson cited the upcoming Superbowl between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs as an example of high ticket fees – some tickets had fees that were nearly $3,000 on top of the actual price of a ticket. “These extremely high and arbitrary fees cause too many hardworking Pennsylvanians to be priced out of event tickets purchased through resellers,” Isaacson said. “For example, in Philadelphia, we pride ourselves on celebrating our beloved sports and we will cheer on our beloved Eagles in the Superbowl this weekend. These outrageous fees have robbed dedicated fans from the opportunity to support the team in person.” “Nobody is saying hardworking people can’t buy and sell tickets to events, particularly if they can’t attend those events, but we are saying there needs to be a reasonable limit on the fees an electronic middleman charges the buyers and sellers,” Mehaffie said. Isaacson added that while companies deserve to make a Read more

 

Madsen secures $350K in state funding for structural repairs at Harrisburg International Airport
Feb 24, 2025

Guzman secures $850,000 in MTF grants for a local project
Feb 24, 2025

It’s time to get serious about cyber charter school reform
Feb 21, 2025

Fleming, Policy Committee highlight childcare crisis
Feb 21, 2025

Policy hearing focuses on elevated lead levels in PA school buildings
Feb 20, 2025

Powell introduces bill to keep Pennsylvanians seeking reproductive healthcare services safe
Feb 20, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Feb 19, 2025

Lawmakers highlight need for legislation to end animal fighting
Feb 19, 2025

Abney introduces bill for PA to join Social Work Licensure Compact
Feb 19, 2025

Abney appointed to Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s Board of Directors
Feb 13, 2025

PA House Democrats Praise Gov. Shapiro for Fighting Back Against Unconstitutional Federal Funding Freeze
Feb 13, 2025

Salisbury: Nearly $185K in new funding for local fire and EMS resources
Feb 12, 2025

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

Ciresi announces nearly $162K in state funding for local fire, EMS companies
Feb 11, 2025

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

Allegheny County lawmakers propose House bill to require food allergy warnings in restaurants
Feb 10, 2025

Two state lawmakers in Allegheny County working on legislation to require restaurants to add allergy warnings
Feb 10, 2025

Kazeem applauds Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget plan
Feb 06, 2025

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

Isaacson aims to slash fees charged to consumers by ticket resellers
Feb 06, 2025