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Venkat and Marcell introduce legislation to ease restrictions on physician assistants; add PA to a health professional interstate compact

(Jan 09, 2025) Rep. Arvind Venkat

HARRISBURG, Jan. 9 – State Reps. Arvind Venkat and Kristin Marcell have introduced bills that would enhance licensure flexibility for physician assistants related to their supervising physicians and allow Pennsylvania to join an interstate medical compact. The legislative package, H.B. 75 and H.B. 76 , would amend the physician licensure acts in Pennsylvania to allow physician assistants to work with either classification of physician -- a Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine -- without having to align with the physician’s license type. Current law requires that physician assistants and supervising physicians must be licensed by the same state board. “Something as innocuous as red tape can mean the difference between life and death for patients, and it’s my duty as a physician-legislator to eliminate such unnecessary barriers,” Venkat, D-Allegheny, said. “Representative Marcell and I are steadfast in our resolve to get these bills signed into law and safeguard the health of all Pennsylvanians.” “This legislation is a practical step toward reducing administrative burdens, allowing physician assistants and their supervising doctors to collaborate more effectively for the benefit of patients," Marcell, R-Bucks, added. "By streamlining licensing requirements, we can help healthcare professionals dedicate more time to delivering high-quality care and less time navigating unnecessary red Read more

 

Neilson introduces legislation to protect consumer’s online data

(Jan 09, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 9 – Today, state Rep. Ed Neilson introduced legislation (H.B. 78) along with state Rep. Stephenie Scialabba to establish a Consumer Data Privacy Act, which would ensure that consumers are able to make informed decisions about how their data is being used online or sold to a third party. “Unlike other states, Pennsylvania has no safeguard to protect our constituents’ privacy,” Neilson said. “Pennsylvanians should be able to interact online without worrying how their information is used; they deserve the option to protect themselves from targeted advertising and other nefarious ways their information can be used.” Neilson added that it’s unfair to consumers who expect their private information to be safely stored with one business, but they are incentivized to sell it to third parties for targeted advertising purposes. “Many other states have protections for consumer data, but we are falling behind in Pennsylvania,” Neilson continued. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to establish important privacy laws.” House Bill 78 is based on similar legislation from last session (formerly H.B.1201), which received bipartisan support in the House but failed to receive a vote in the Senate before the end of the year. Read more

 

Rivera announces House committee assignments

(Jan 09, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 9 – State Rep. Nikki Rivera today announced her committee assignments for the 2025-26 legislative session. Rivera took the oath of office Tuesday and was sworn in to serve her first term representing the 96th Legislative District. Rivera said she looks forward to serving on the following House committees: Communications & Technology Aging & Older Adult Services Environmental & Natural Resource Protection Human Services Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations Tourism, Recreation & Economic Development “I want to thank Speaker Joanna McClinton and Leader Matt Bradford for the honor of serving on these committees,” said Rivera, D-Lancaster. “I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective to the bipartisan crafting of legislation that will impact millions of Pennsylvanians. I am committed to learning about the unique issues surrounding state government.” The 96 th District includes parts of the city of Lancaster and Manheim Township, and East Petersburg Borough. Read more

 

Madsen sworn in for second term as state representative for 104th District

(Jan 09, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Dave Madsen, D-Dauphin, was sworn in to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today, beginning his second term serving the 104th Legislative District. “I’m honored that my constituents here in Dauphin County once again chose me as their advocate in the Capitol,” Madsen said. “As in my first term, my guiding principle as their legislator will be introducing, supporting and passing legislation that will create jobs that pay, schools that teach, and government that works, to borrow a phrase. “In my work last term as a member of Appropriations Committee, I helped craft and pass a budget supporting these key pillars,” Madsen said. “As state representative for my communities, I’ve collaborated with my fellow legislators and local and state stakeholders to advance initiatives that helped to improve the quality of life here in our communities in Dauphin County through strategic investments in our local schools, small businesses and municipalities. “I am looking forward this term to continuing this critical work on behalf of the people of the 104th District.” In his second term, Madsen said he will be focused on the following issues to improve life in his home communities and throughout Pennsylvania: Bringing in more good paying union jobs, which is the surest route to the middle class. Increasing investments in quality education for all Pennsylvania’s Read more

 

Guzman: I am laser-focused on Reading and Berks County transportation needs

(Jan 08, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 8 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, announced today that one of his top priorities for the 2025-26 legislative session is to help address transportation issues impacting Berks County. In alignment with this goal, he has been appointed to the PA House Transportation committee. “I am glad and proud to share that I am now a member of the Transportation Committee,” said Guzman. “I am excited about the opportunity to bring solutions to critical concerns in our community regarding transportation and infrastructure,” he added. Guzman, who has been vocal and diligent about the proposed Schuylkill River Train to re-establish passenger rail service between Reading and Philadelphia, highlighted that he is looking forward to diving deeper into the current efforts to restore passenger rail service for the first time in more than 40 years with the support of the committee, chaired by state Rep. Ed Neilson. “Berks County will have in me a committed advocate in this committee; I will be bold in my efforts. I want Reading and Berks County to boost its economic growth across all sectors and scales, and transportation and infrastructure are certainly crucial indicators of economic development of a region” he explained. Guzman has also been appointed to four other PA House standing committees. He remains a member of the Appropriations, Gaming Oversight, Liquor Control Read more

 

Salisbury takes oath of office to begin second term in state House

(Jan 08, 2025) Rep. Abigail Salisbury

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Abigail Salisbury took the oath of office today at the state Capitol in Harrisburg to begin her second term representing the 34 th Legislative District. Salisbury said that as she joins her colleagues to begin the 2025-26 session, she will continue working to strengthen resources for residents and small businesses. “I’m excited to begin a new term building on the progress we made last session,” Salisbury said. “Over the past two years, we saw more than $40 million come back to our district to bolster critical programs and services, expand affordable housing and help our small businesses thrive. In the year ahead, I’ll be working to keep that momentum going. I’ll also be continuing my efforts to fight blight and transform more vacant lots for productive community use. “Our local nonprofits have a critical role to play in all of this, as their work delivers essential resources that improve quality of life for residents, from mental health supports to afterschool programs to essential living needs. In the months ahead, I’ll continue working to help these vital community organizations thrive so they can continue working to empower residents.” During the 2023-24 legislative session, Salisbury helped bring $42 million back to the district; introduced legislation to make it easier for municipalities to fight blight, among other bills; and together with Read more

 

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

(Jan 08, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Education: Parent Pathways Grant Who May Apply: Postsecondary institutions that award an associate degree or higher and private licensed schools. Use: To provide funding to institutions to directly support parenting students through tuition assistance, emergency funding, and wrap-around services. Funds: $1.6 million in funding is available. Application Deadline: February 3, 2025 More information: PDE Website Historical & Museum Commission: Keystone Historic Preservation Grant Program Who May Apply: Certified local governments, colleges and universities, conservancies, historic preservation organizations, historical societies, local governments, museums, religious institutions, and other historical organizations. Use: Applications may apply for one construction-related or planning-related grant (not both) for sites that are listed in or eligible to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Construction related grants are available for rehabilitation, preservation, and restoration activities for historic resources that are publicly accessible and under nonprofit or local government ownership. Planning related grants are available for planning and development initiatives that enhance historic preservation in communities. Please note, special consideration will be given to projects that promote the United States Semiquincentennial celebration in 2026 . Funds: Construction grants are available Read more

 

Rep. Dawkins takes oath of office to start legislative session

(Jan 08, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Returns to lead busy House Labor and Industry Committee Read more

 

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

 

Venkat and Marcell introduce legislation to ease restrictions on physician assistants; add PA to a health professional interstate compact
Jan 09, 2025

Neilson introduces legislation to protect consumer’s online data
Jan 09, 2025

Rivera announces House committee assignments
Jan 09, 2025

Madsen sworn in for second term as state representative for 104th District
Jan 09, 2025

Guzman: I am laser-focused on Reading and Berks County transportation needs
Jan 08, 2025

Salisbury takes oath of office to begin second term in state House
Jan 08, 2025

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jan 08, 2025

Rep. Dawkins takes oath of office to start legislative session
Jan 08, 2025

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