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Matzie elected chairman of the House Majority Caucus

(Nov 12, 2024) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Nov. 12 – State Rep. Rob Matzie was elected today by his House legislative colleagues to serve as Majority Caucus Chair for the 2024-25 legislative session. “I’m honored and excited to lead the House Majority Caucus forward,” Matzie said. “Our caucus members may represent different regions of the state with diverse needs and priorities, but every single member shares the same overriding goal: to improve the lives of the people we serve. “We do that best when we come together and collaborate to craft a legislative agenda that responds to the real-world needs of the people we serve. Our caucus has always been driven by a special energy that comes from a desire to bring positive, practical change. “I intend to keep that energy going as we work to promote the priorities that matter to Pennsylvanians – better jobs, quality public schools, more affordable housing, health care and child care – and more of the opportunities that make life promising for people.” The Caucus Chair is part of the House of Representatives leadership team and is responsible for preparing other members for legislation being considered in the House, running caucus meetings, and ensuring legislators can effectively represent their districts. Matzie was elected to the Pennsylvania House in 2008, and this term has served as majority chair of the House Consumer Read more

 

National Popular Vote Introduced in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

(Nov 12, 2024) Rep. Christopher M. Rabb

HARRISBURG, Nov. 12 – A group of Republican and Democratic legislators introduced the National Popular Vote bill (H.B. 2662) in Harrisburg today. The bill would include Pennsylvania in the growing number of states who want to guarantee the presidency to the candidate who wins the most popular votes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The bill is called the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. “As the lead author of the National Popular Vote bill, I think it is imperative to work across party lines and am grateful my Republican colleagues are lending their voice and support to this effort,” said state Rep. Chris Rabb, D-Phila. “Every voter, of every party, should have an equal voice in every presidential election and the National Popular Vote bill is the only plan that credibly delivers on that promise.” The National Popular Vote bill has been enacted in 17 states and the District of Columbia, totaling 209 electoral votes. The bill guarantees the presidency to the candidate who wins the most popular votes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia and takes effect when states with 270 electoral votes have passed the bill. The legislation has passed Republican- and Democratic-controlled chambers in seven additional states with 74 electoral votes, more than the 61 required for the bill to be in place for the 2028 presidential elections. “One-person, one-vote is not a Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation releases statement on SEPTA proposals

(Nov 12, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

The Philadelphia House Delegation today released the following statement in reaction to this morning’s announcement from SEPTA regarding major fare increases and service cuts proposed to begin on Jan. 1. The following statement can be attributed to Philadelphia House Delegation Chairwoman Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila.“This morning's announcement from SEPTA is not a surprise and lays squarely at the feet of Senate Republicans,” Cephas said. “The House approved funding for mass transit three times over the last session, with no real action and vague concepts of ideas from the Senate in return. Our delegation is hopeful that 2025 will bring a more productive collaboration on a responsible solution that will serve the daily needs of nearly one million daily SEPTA riders and the increased tourism expected for our region in 2026. In the short term, Philadelphians who are already struggling through difficult finances will brace for another impact to their wallets and time.”The current legislative term ends on Nov. 30, after which any legislation not signed into law will need to be reintroduced and restart the legislative process in the new term, which begins on Jan. 7. Read more

 

PA House Democrats Ready to Keep Fighting for Every Pennsylvanian

(Nov 08, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“For the past two years, House Democrats worked on the issues people care about, like cutting costs for working families, record investments in public education, delivering much-needed property tax and rent relief, keeping prescription costs down for seniors, strengthening our workforce and economy and making government work. Read more

 

South Asians celebrate Diwali, Pennsylvania's newly proclaimed state holiday

(Nov 07, 2024) Rep. Arvind Venkat

Last week, South Asians and Hindus across Pennsylvania celebrated their first Diwali since Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a law making the festival of lights an official state holiday in Pennsylvania. Read more

 

Ciresi and Pennycuick announce $2.5 million in grants for capital improvement projects in Montgomery County

(Nov 01, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov. 1– State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, and state Sen. Tracy Pennycuick, R-Montgomery/Berks, announced today that they secured $2.5 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants for projects in Montgomery County. “This $2.5 million in capital funding for Pottstown and Limerick will improve the quality of life in our district by restoring and expanding business operations to a disused historic building in Pottstown, improving transportation infrastructure in Limerick, and building up our area’s pharmaceutical and sustainable energy sectors,” Ciresi said. “This money will create jobs in our district, strengthening our district’s reputation as a thriving economic area.” “I am thrilled to see that these projects were approved. This funding will have a significant impact on our regional economy by creating high-paying jobs and expanding our local transportation network to allow for a more efficient movement of people and goods,” Pennycuick said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with my fellow legislator, Rep. Ciresi, to secure these grants for our constituents.” The grants awarded are: Downtown Pottstown Job Retention and Creation Initiative Montco Tech Center, LLC Pottstown Borough $500,000 RACP funds will be used for construction to renovate the old Harp Taxi Building, a Read more

 

Williams secures $1 million in state grants for the Shoppes of Sadsbury project

(Nov 01, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov. 1 – State Rep. Dan Williams, D-Chester, today announced that he secured $1 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants for projects in the 74 th Legislative District. “This $1 million in capital funding for the Shoppes of Sadsbury will help create family-sustaining jobs and increase consumer spending in the 74 th District,” Williams said. “I’m proud to have brought in this state grant, which will enhance the quality of life and contribute to our area’s economic growth.” Shoppes of Sadsbury II Sadsbury Commons LP Sadsbury Township $1,000,000 This is the proposed Phase 3 of the overall project which will focus on sitework, stormwater systems, parking areas, and early construction efforts for a new 360,000 square-foot retail facility in The Shoppes of Sadsbury mixed-use development. The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program is a Pennsylvania grant program for the design, acquisition, and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs. Read more

 

Fleming secures $3.5 million in capital investments for the 105th district

(Nov 01, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov. 1 - State Rep. Justin Fleming, D-Dauphin, today announced that he secured $3,500,000 in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants for projects in the 105th Legislative District he serves. “I’m proud to have secured $3.5 million in RACP grants that will enhance community life in our district. Funds will be used to build out a central green in Susquehanna Township and to construct a community room accessible to various group and also used for public health education,” Fleming said. “These state grants will help improve connections in our community, offering opportunities for education and recreation for all.” The projects funded in the district are: $3,000,000 to Capital Blue Cross for renovations to the facility on Elmerton Avenue, including the construction of a multi-purpose community meeting room that would be used for public health activities and would be accessible for community groups, and the renovated cafeteria area. $500,000 to Hawthorne SPE LLC for the build-out of the central green at Susquehanna Union Green including site development, landscaping and construction of a 2,850 square foot pavilion and a utility/storage kiosk. Funds would also be used to purchase materials and equipment for an outdoor ice rink. The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program is a Pennsylvania grant program for the design, acquisition, and construction of regional economic, cultural, Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El announces over $1.5 million in state grants for capital improvements

(Nov 01, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

LANCASTER, Nov. 1 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, today announced that $1,567,000 in state investments that his office helped to secure would be coming to Lancaster City through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. “For many people in Lancaster County, they don’t have a healthcare system that works,” Smith-Wade-El said. “This $1.5 million in state grants will help provide lifesaving medical services to those in need. My office staff and I are thrilled by this investment in critical health infrastructure in Lancaster County and we are proud to have played a part in securing it.” Union Community Care Community Health Center Union Community Care $500,000 In this project, Union Community Carewill will complete phase one of the renovation for the planned community health center build-out at its recently purchased property. Specifically, interior demolition and fit out to include finishes (framing and installation of medical grade casework, drywall, flooring and painting); interior excavation and demolition; plumbing upgrades; electrical upgrades; and sprinkler system retrofit, along with replacement of the existing rubber roof; full HVAC system replacement; and the demolition of an existing parking deck. Lancaster EMS Fairview Avenue Lancaster Emergency Medical Read more

 

Freeman bill to help Main Street program signed into law

(Nov 01, 2024) Rep. Robert L. Freeman

State Rep. Robert Freeman said his legislation that allows communities to extend their participation in the state’s Main Street program for up to a total of 10 years was signed into law Thursday by Gov. Josh Shapiro. Read more

 

Statement from state Reps. Bizzarro, Merski and Harkins regarding Erie County voting

(Oct 30, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

"We are committed to ensuring that all of our constituents in Erie County – Democrat, Republican, or Independent – have the information they need to vote and participate in our democracy. Our primary concern is holding free and fair elections, and always making sure that people’s voting rights are preserved and protected." Read more

 

Cephas, Dream.org applaud new law to better protect incarcerated pregnant juveniles

(Oct 30, 2024) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

“No one should be deprived of compassionate care or respect or be forced to risk the health of their child, even when they are a child themselves under the law. Better prenatal, pregnancy and post-natal protections and support for incarcerated people in Pennsylvania is a matter of compassion and common decency,” Cephas said. Read more

 

Haddock details efforts to save volunteer firefighting

(Oct 30, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“I have the utmost respect for the men and women who willfully answer the call in the middle of the night to race into a dangerous situation to save the lives of complete strangers,” said Rep. Jim Haddock, who hosted the hearing and represents portions of Lackawanna and Luzerne counties. “If we cannot find a remedy to save our volunteer fire companies, our hometowns will be at a tremendous loss.” Read more

 

Shapiro signs Cephas bill to strengthen doula services in Pa.

(Oct 30, 2024) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

“Research has shown that doula support leads to improved birth outcomes, including reduced rates of cesarean sections, shorter labor durations and higher rates of breastfeeding initiation. By providing continuous support throughout pregnancy and the important first year following birth, doulas contribute to safer and more positive experiences for families," Cephas said. "Lack of coverage for doula services in Medicaid leads to a vast disparity in care for women who are already statistically at risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes, with Black birthing people at the highest risk of maternal and infant mortality and morbidity compared to other racial and ethnic groups. This new law will give these parents a proven network of support needed to produce better mental and physical health outcomes during their birthing journey. " Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities For Your District

(Oct 29, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Community and Economic Development: Mixed-Use Housing Development Pilot Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, Economic Development Organizations, Redevelopment Authorities, Municipal Authorities, Industrial Development Authorities, For-Profit organizations. Use: Mixed-use site development, conversion projects, rehabilitation projects, a combination of the three afore-mentioned projects. Funds: $10 million in PA Sites funding has been allocated for this program. There is no limit on the amount of grant funding that may be awarded to an applicant. Application Deadline: December 6, 2024 More information: DCED Website Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Recovery Support Services (RSS) Who May Apply: Applicant must have at least two years of experience as of July 1, 2024, providing RSS and demonstrate the capacity to provide RSS to individuals in recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD) and other concurrent substance use disorder (SUD). Use: Expand or enhance RSS to individuals in recover from OUD and other concurrent SUD. Funds: Approximately six grants totaling $1,500,000 each will be awarded. Application Deadline: November 15, 2024 More information: DDAP Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Community and Economic Development: PA SITES Who May Apply: Municipalities, economic Read more

 

Testifiers detail need to bolster state support of senior citizens

(Oct 29, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

The House Majority Policy Committee convened a hearing Tuesday morning to discuss ways the state can boost support for its senior population, hosted by Reps. Jim Haddock (D-Lackawanna, Luzerne) and Eddie Day Pashinski (D-Luzerne). Read more

 

Lawmakers highlight impact of tax credits for PA families, workers

(Oct 28, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“House Democrats are laser focused on helping working families and workers,” said state Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, who hosted the hearing. “As we heard today, Pennsylvania is losing young families and young workers to neighboring states – because Pennsylvania needs to bolster its investments in its working families, its workforce and its future.” Read more

 

Fleming bill for diabetes awareness headed to governor’s desk

(Oct 25, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Oct. 25 – A bill sponsored by state Rep. Justin Fleming directing Pennsylvania schools to send home information about type 1 diabetes and its warning signs passed the state House and Senate and is now headed to the governor’s desk. “The warning signs of type 1 diabetes can often go unnoticed, so knowing what to look for is literally lifesaving,” Fleming, D-Dauphin, said. “This legislation will help empower individuals with diabetes education so they can act when warning signs appear. This bill is also very personal as my daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in June 2020.” Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the pancreas shuts down, failing to provide insulin that the body needs to regulate blood glucose. Those who have type 1 diabetes are dependent on pharmaceutically manufactured insulin for life. For many, the signs of type 1 diabetes can go unnoticed for longer periods of time resulting in a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, leading to serious health complications that may even be fatal. Recognizing the signs of diabetes early, along with targeted screening and monitoring, have been shown to reduce the incidence of DKA, reduce rates of hospitalization and, most importantly, save lives, Fleming said. "The most common age range for a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes is between 6-16. This legislation will make sure that parents and guardians are equipped Read more

 

Williams praises Nonprofit Security Grant Program Awards

(Oct 25, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Oct. 25 - State Rep. Williams, D-Chester, said today he was proud to report state investments to protect people who could be vulnerable to acts of hate. The following organizations received awards from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Domestic Violence Center of Chester County $70,000 Masjid Al Rahman of Chester County Inc. $25,000 “Every Pennsylvanian deserves the right to feel safe, whether in their own home or in their space of worship,” said Williams. “This funding will go to proven measures that deter violence at home and be targeted towards specific religious communities, and help foster a community that continues to stand up to hate. I applaud the administration for protecting people in harm’s way, and I look forward to supporting this life-saving program in future budgets.” PCCD administers the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program , which has provided $25 million in funding to more than 580 organizations since its inception. This latest, seventh round of grants will go to 208 nonprofit organizations, including 102 organizations that had never received funding through this program. More information about the 208 selected applicants, the county served and award amounts can be found on the PCCD website . Read more

 

Shusterman family law arbitration bill signed into law by Gov. Shapiro

(Oct 24, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“Resolving family law disputes through court proceedings can be a bitter and financially ruinous process,” Shusterman said. “The partner with deeper pockets and access to the best legal counsel often has an advantage, frequently placing children in the middle of drawn-out legal battles. This law will give families another option to settle disputes, which can be especially helpful in matters of domestic violence as arbitration can lead to quicker resolutions." Read more

 

Matzie elected chairman of the House Majority Caucus
Nov 12, 2024

National Popular Vote Introduced in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Nov 12, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation releases statement on SEPTA proposals
Nov 12, 2024

PA House Democrats Ready to Keep Fighting for Every Pennsylvanian
Nov 08, 2024

South Asians celebrate Diwali, Pennsylvania's newly proclaimed state holiday
Nov 07, 2024

Ciresi and Pennycuick announce $2.5 million in grants for capital improvement projects in Montgomery County
Nov 01, 2024

Williams secures $1 million in state grants for the Shoppes of Sadsbury project
Nov 01, 2024

Fleming secures $3.5 million in capital investments for the 105th district
Nov 01, 2024

Smith-Wade-El announces over $1.5 million in state grants for capital improvements
Nov 01, 2024

Freeman bill to help Main Street program signed into law
Nov 01, 2024

Statement from state Reps. Bizzarro, Merski and Harkins regarding Erie County voting
Oct 30, 2024

Cephas, Dream.org applaud new law to better protect incarcerated pregnant juveniles
Oct 30, 2024

Haddock details efforts to save volunteer firefighting
Oct 30, 2024

Shapiro signs Cephas bill to strengthen doula services in Pa.
Oct 30, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities For Your District
Oct 29, 2024

Testifiers detail need to bolster state support of senior citizens
Oct 29, 2024

Lawmakers highlight impact of tax credits for PA families, workers
Oct 28, 2024

Fleming bill for diabetes awareness headed to governor’s desk
Oct 25, 2024

Williams praises Nonprofit Security Grant Program Awards
Oct 25, 2024

Shusterman family law arbitration bill signed into law by Gov. Shapiro
Oct 24, 2024