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Williams’ bill to expand Medicaid access in Pennsylvania passes state House

(Jun 24, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

HARRISBURG, June 24 – Bipartisan legislation introduced by state Rep. Dan Williams, D-Chester, that would help Pennsylvanians take advantage of new federal Medicaid rules that give patients and clinicians more telehealth options for behavioral health services passed the PA House today with overwhelming support. “The longstanding and outdated ‘four walls’ requirement has limited Medicaid reimbursement to services within the physical walls of a clinic,” said Williams. “This only creates barriers to care, particularly in rural areas and regions experiencing mental health workforce shortages.” The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services gave states the option to waive the requirement on Jan. 1. In response, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has submitted a State Plan Amendment to adopt this flexibility, which is currently awaiting federal approval. House Bill 1590 would repeal state regulations that conflict with the new federal flexibility. Importantly, the bill would not change existing rules requiring in-person treatment hours for outpatient behavioral health clinics. “Under this bill, Pennsylvania can fully implement the change, expanding access to behavioral health services and reducing care gaps for our vulnerable populations across the Commonwealth,” Williams said. The bill now moves to the state Senate for consideration. Read more

 

Williams: Over $2.6 million secured for Chester County affordable housing

(Jun 11, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

HARRISBURG, June 11 – State Rep. Dan Williams, D-Chester, announced today that state funding of $2.6 million was awarded to entities that focus on bringing more safe, stable housing for residents in Chester County. In the 74th Legislative District, two entities were awarded a combined total of $300,000: $150,000 to W.C. Atkinson Memorial Community Service Center Inc. for individualized intensive case management and homeless prevention. $150,000 for Brandywine Valley Active Aging to maintain the Community Resource Navigator/Intensive Case Management program, which supports people who are homeless, at-risk for homelessness or disaster survivors. “Everyone deserves a safe, stable place to call home, and the dedicated support of these organizations helps make this a reality,” Williams said. “This funding will help fulfill a great need in our community. I am happy to see the state investing in our local efforts to ensure safe and affordable housing for many people.” Additionally, the following organizations were awarded grants across Chester County: PA Home of the Sparrow - $170,000 Housing Partnership of Chester County - $700,000 Safe Harbor of Chester County Inc. - $150,000 Housing Partnership of Chester County - $50,000 Housing Authority of the County of Chester - $250,000 ACT in Faith of Greater West Chester - $25,000 Open Read more

 

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

(Jun 11, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commonwealth Financing Authority: Mixed-Use Revitalization Program Who May Apply: Developers (person or business entity with a demonstrated history of advancing commercial or mixed-use redevelopment projects Use: A community revitalization project that promotes economic growth and includes commercial assets. Eligible projects must be on at least 15 acres of land, contain at least 200,000 square feet of proposed development that has not received a certificate of occupancy as of 7/11/24, and be zoned for planned end use. Funds: Grant amount shall not exceed more than twice the amount of matching funds provided by the developer or $3,000,000, whichever is less. Application Deadline: August 31, 2025 More information: CFA Website Department of Agriculture: Agricultural Research Grant Who May Apply: Individuals or organizations focused on agriculture research Use: Research on topic areas listed here Funds: All funding is contingent upon 2025-2026 budget appropriations Application Deadline: July 25, 20225 More information: PDA 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 organizations. Use: To develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within Pennsylvania. Funds: Read more

 

Williams’ bill to open door to chip-enabled EBT cards passes House

(Jun 10, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

HARRISBURG, June 9 – A bipartisan bill by state Reps. Dan Williams, D-Chester, and Doyle Heffley, R-Carbon, that would require a report on transitioning to chip-enabled EBT cards passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today with overwhelming bipartisan support. “I’ve had a growing number of constituents share their stories about theft of their SNAP benefits through skimming schemes,” said Williams. “Unlike debit and credit cards, EBT cards lack security chips, making them highly vulnerable to fraud. Since October 2022, Pennsylvania has recorded more than 23,000 cases of EBT theft.” Criminals use skimming devices at point-of-sale terminals to steal card information and PINs, allowing them to clone EBT cards and wipe out the funds in an instant, leaving people unable to buy food. House Bill 1429 would require the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services to work with the General Assembly to ensure an efficient transition to chip-enabled EBT cards. The legislation would require the department to deliver a report to the chairs of the House Human Services Committee and the chairs of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. The report would highlight costs, fraud prevention efforts and relevant statistics to enhance the security of SNAP benefits. “With only two other states transitioning to chip-enabled EBT cards, this bill would make Pennsylvania one Read more

 

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

(Jun 04, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

Below are multiple grant programs that are currently open for applications. NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Transportation: School Bus Safety Grant Program Who May Apply: Independent school bus contractors, school entities, and municipalities Use: To promote and increase school bus safety, education, and training, as well as pay for education, training, and other associated costs related to an individual earning their commercial learner's permit, commercial driver's license, or school bus endorsement for the purpose of driving a school bus in Pennsylvania. Funds: $1.2 million in funds are available through the School Bus Safety Grant Program. Grant awards will not exceed $100,000. Application Deadline: July 3, 2025 More information: PennDOT website Department of Environmental Protection: Pennsylvania Grid Resilience Grant Program Who May Apply: An electric grid operator, an electricity storage operator, an electricity generator, a transmission owner or operator, a distribution provider, a fuel supplier, and any other relevant entity, as determined by DEP in consultation with DOE. Use: To implement resilience measures throughout PA intended to mitigate the impact of electric grid disruptive events. Funds: $8 million in grant awards is available through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. Application Deadline: Concept Paper submission availability will close at Read more

 

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

(May 22, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commission on Crime and Delinquency: PACTT (Pennsylvania Academic and Career/Technical Training) Grant Who May Apply: All residential facilities, community-based, and/or juvenile probation office providers that are not currently PACTT Affiliates and serve primarily adjudicated delinquent youth. Use: Applicants must ensure that the proposed program and associated expenses directly align with the PACTT affiliation areas (Academics, Job Skills Training, or Work-Related Services) the agency intends to pursue Funds: A total of $160,000 in state JRI funds is being announced to support this initiative among residential facilities, community-based providers, and juvenile probation departments. PCCD expects to fund eight grants with budgets not to exceed $20,000 over a 12-month project period. Application Deadline: July 7, 2025 More information: PCCD Website Department of Agriculture: Farm Vitality Planning Grant Program Who May Apply: Farmers, prospective farmers, and others Use: Create or obtain business plans, management strategies, transition plans, ownership plans, or plans to maintain the long-term economic viability of a farm. Funds: Up to $500,000 is available in grant funding. Individual grants shall not exceed $15,000. Application Deadline: Applications are accepted until funds are exhausted. More information: PDA Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR Read more

 

PA House passes Williams’ bill to increase pensions for blind, disabled veterans

(May 12, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

HARRISBURG, May 12 – State Rep. Dan Williams’ bill that would increase pension amounts for injured veterans passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today. “Pennsylvania offers pension programs for veterans who are blind, have lost limbs or are paralyzed. Under our current law, the program pays $150 per month to qualified veterans, but that amount has not been raised since 1999,” Williams said. House Bill 1144 would increase the pension amount from $150 per month to $200 for both the Blind Veterans and the Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans pension programs. “This $50 increase is the first step in right-sizing this program for the veterans who have served and sacrificed for our country,” Williams said. “This increase is meant to repay a small part of the debt we owe to those who put their lives on the line for our protection.” State Reps. Jared Solomon (D-Philadelphia), Mark Gillen (R-Berks) and Dane Watro (R-Schuylkill/Luzerne) joined Williams in sponsoring the bill. The bill now moves to the state Senate for consideration. Read more

 

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

(May 07, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Community and Economic Development: Sports Marketing and Tourism Grant Who May Apply: A municipality, a local authority, a nonprofit organization, or a legal entity that meets all of the following criteria: • the applicant participates or plans to participate in a competitive selection process; • the site selection process is conducted by a Site Selection Organization not located in this Commonwealth; • The applicant is seeking to secure a single year or multiyear commitment from a site selection organization to conduct high quality, amateur and professional sporting or esports events at one or more locations in this Commonwealth. Use: To attract high-quality, amateur, and professional sporting and e-sports events to this Commonwealth with the goal of advancing and promoting year-round tourism, economic impact, and quality of life through sport. Application Deadline: June 6, 2025 More information: DCED Website Historical & Museum Commission: Historical and Archival Records Care Grant Who May Apply: Non-profit organizations that have been incorporated for at least two years. Use: To enhance the preservation and accessibility of valuable historical records across the Commonwealth Funds: Grants will be awarded up to $5,000. Application Deadline: August 1, 2025 More information: PHMC Website PROGRAMS OPEN Read more

 

PA House OKs Williams bill to help municipalities fight blight by tightening LLC permit rules

(Apr 22, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

Legislation introduced by state Rep. Dan Williams to give local governments the tools they need to fight blight in their communities passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today. Read more

 

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

(Apr 22, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Environmental Protection: Watershed Planning and Restoration Grant Who May Apply: Incorporated watershed associations, counties or municipalities, county conservation districts, council of governments or other authorized organizations including nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and municipal authorities. Use: Examples of eligible projects include existing WIP revision or updates and design and construction of BMPs, including riparian forest buffers, streambank fencing, agricultural erosion and sediment control and nutrient and manure management practices; animal waste storage systems, animal concentration area/animal heavy use area protection and barnyard runoff controls; design and construction of stormwater control measures; AMD treatment systems and other projects that will reduce nonpoint source pollution in watersheds where streams are impaired. Funds: Funds are provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and authorized through Section 319(h) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Application Deadline: June 20, 2025 More information: DEP Website Department of Environmental Protection: Growing Greener Plus Grant Who May Apply: Counties Use: To update a county’s Act 167 plan. Funds: Funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2024-25 state budget and grants will range from $40,000 to $60,000 depending on the county’s Read more

 

Members of PA House Southeast Delegation respond to SEPTA's proposed service cuts & rate hikes

(Apr 10, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

Pennsylvania House lawmakers who represent Delaware, Chester and Montgomery counties are expressing concern in response to the budget proposal SEPTA released today that would make drastic service cuts and fare increases to address its budget deficit. Read more

 

PA House OKs Williams bill to enhance reporting on state drug and alcohol initiatives

(Apr 10, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

HARRISBURG, April 10 – Legislation introduced by state Rep. Dan Williams to improve the annual report that the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs submits to the General Assembly passed the Pennsylvania House Wednesday. Williams said that since its inception, DDAP has played a critical role in advancing education, intervention, treatment and recovery initiatives across Pennsylvania. As the state continues to fight the opioid crisis and other emerging drug threats, DDAP has strengthened its collaboration with the departments of Health, Corrections, Human Services and other key agencies. Given DDAP’s growing responsibilities and evolving initiatives, H.B. 640 would update the department’s annual reporting requirements. “Enhancing reporting would allow the General Assembly to better assess program effectiveness, allocate resources where they are most needed and explore new strategies for addressing substance misuse, treatment and recovery,” Williams said. Williams said updating the reports would improve communication and collaboration with the public, advocacy organizations and service providers, providing greater transparency and informed public policy. “With uncertainties surrounding health initiatives and data collection on the federal level under a new administration that does not seem particularly concerned about those things, having the Department of Drug and Alcohol Read more

 

Chester County lawmakers to introduce bill that would require approval from the Department of Health before hospitals can be purchased

(Apr 09, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

HARRISBURG, April 9 – State Rep. Dan Williams is introducing legislation alongside Reps. Kristine Howard and Melissa Shusterman, all D-Chester, that would require approval from the Department of Health before a hospital or hospital system can be purchased. One in three hospital mergers and acquisitions lead to a full or partial hospital closure . In Chester County , Tower Health purchased Jennersville and Brandywine Hospitals, which both closed less than 5 years after the acquisition. These sales often lead to broken promises, unexpected closures and reduced services to customers, Williams said. “When hospitals close, jobs disappear and patients are forced to travel further distances for potentially lifesaving care. These closures create major challenges for our communities,” Williams said. “When a life is on the line, the miles and minutes matter, which is why we are introducing this bill to protect residents and frontline workers from such abrupt closures.” The bill would require the Department of Health to review applications, hold public hearings and prepare impact statements on the effect of the buying and selling of the healthcare services that the hospital or hospital system provides. We cannot allow our health to be dictated by business interests,” said Howard. “Department of Health approval will ensure continued access to quality care and keep the focus on patients, not profits.” Read more

 

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

(Mar 12, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commonwealth Financing Authority: Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF) Who May Apply: Municipalities, councils of government, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agency, ports (rail/freight) Use: The MTF provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure a safe and reliable system of transportation exists in Pennsylvania. The program is intended to provide financial assistance in order to improve public transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit revitalization. Funds: Requests must have a total eligible cost of $100,000 or more and no request shall exceed $3,000,000 for any project. Application Deadline: July 31, 2025 More information: DCED 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 organizations. Use: To develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within Pennsylvania. Funds: $400 million in funding is available. Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and approved on a quarterly basis More information: DCED Website Department of Agriculture: Farm Vitality Planning Grant Who May Apply: Farmers, prospective farmers, and others may apply. Use: Strategic business Read more

 

Williams announces over $1.2 million in roadway improvements for Chester County

(Feb 24, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

HARRISBURG, Feb. 24 – State Rep. Dan Williams said he is pleased to announce that Chester County communities have been awarded a total of $1.2 million in grants through the state’s Multimodal Transportation Fund to support infrastructure improvements that will enhance safety, accessibility, and economic development. “These investments are crucial to ensuring our roads remain safe and functional for residents, businesses, and visitors,” said Williams, D-Chester. “By securing this funding, we are not only improving transportation infrastructure but also strengthening our local economy and enhancing quality of life for our communities.” The following municipalities and entities in Chester County have been awarded Multimodal Transportation Fund grants: Caln Township – $450,000 City of Coatesville – $200,000 Parkesburg Borough – $450,000 Valley Square Development Associates LP – $100,000 “These infrastructure upgrades will make a real difference in the daily lives of our residents,” Williams added. “I look forward to seeing these projects take shape and will continue advocating for investments in our transportation network.” The Multimodal Transportation Fund provides grants to support economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable transportation system is available across Pennsylvania. The fund helps communities upgrade roads, Read more

 

Williams announces nearly $300,000 in funding for Chester County fire and EMS departments

(Feb 14, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

HARRISBURG, Feb. 14 – State Rep. Dan Williams, D-Chester, announced today that local fire companies and emergency medical services organizations across the 74 th Legislative District have will receive nearly $300,000 in funding through the state Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program. This annual grant provides critical financial support to both volunteer and career fire companies, EMS agencies, and rescue squads, helping them maintain and enhance their lifesaving services. The funding supports essential needs such as facility improvements, equipment purchases, training programs, debt reduction, and recruitment efforts. The following fire and EMS departments in Chester County have been awarded grants: City of Coatesville Bureau of Fire – $15,246.13 Honey Brook Fire Co. No. 1 – $16,322.02 Keystone Valley Fire Department – $64,106.84 Keystone Valley Fire Department – $45,000.00 Modena Fire Co. No. 1 – $16,322.02 Modena Fire Co. No. 1 – $15,000.00 Sadsburyville Fire Co. – $16,322.02 Thorndale Fire Co. – $15,030.95 Wagontown Volunteer Fire Co. – $16,322.02 Washington Hose Co. No. 1 – $15,000.00 Westwood Fire Co. – $16,322.02 Westwood Fire Co. – $15,000.00 Westwood Fire Company Ambulance Wagontown Division – $15,000.00 “These grants are Read more

 

Williams announces over $168 thousand in funding for Minch Park Improvements

(Jan 29, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

HARRISBURG, Jan. 29 – State Rep. Dan Williams, D-Chester, announced that Minch Park in Parkesburg Borough has been awarded $168,074 in state funding through the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program. The funding, approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, will support critical renovations to Parkesburg’s most utilized municipal park, including needed ADA accessibility improvements, playground updates and enhancements to the park’s tennis courts and pedestrian pathways. “This funding will revitalize Minch Park, which has served as a central gathering place for generations of Parkesburg residents,” Williams said. “Over the years, the park’s equipment and facilities have deteriorated, limiting its accessibility and usability. With this investment, we can ensure that Minch Park remains a safe and inclusive space for all members of our community, including children with disabilities. “As someone who has enjoyed Minch Park for many years, it has been heartbreaking to see its deterioration,” Williams added. “Ensuring that every child -- regardless of ability -- can fully enjoy our community’s most beloved park is a priority. I’m proud to support this investment, and I look forward to seeing these improvements come to life.” Funding for the project comes from Act 13 of 2012, which allocates a portion of unconventional gas well impact fees to support Read more

 

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

(Jan 29, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Conservation and Natural Resources: Community Conservation Partnerships Program Who May Apply: Counties, municipalities, municipal agencies, nonprofit organizations, state heritage areas, prequalified land trusts, for-profit organizations (for some grant types). Use: Funds may be used for projects related to parks, recreation, and conservation, including, but not limited to, park and recreation rehabilitation and development, recreation and conservation planning, trail planning and construction, land acquisition and conservation, river access and conservation, community and riparian tree planting, and regional and statewide partnerships to better develop and manage resources. Funds: Funds for this program come from a mix of state and federal sources, including the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, the Environmental Stewardship Fund, the Snowmobile Restricted Account, the All-Terrain Vehicle Restricted Account, and more. Application Deadline: April 2, 2025 More information: DCNR 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 organizations. Use: To develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within Pennsylvania. Funds: $400 Read more

 

E-News: My Faith Inspires Me to Represent

(Jan 17, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

In this week’s e-newsletter, I’m kicking off a video series about how my faith inspired me to enter political life and how it has shaped the issues I care about most. I’m also sharing with you information about government programs that I hope you will find helpful, such as the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, which just opened for 2025. Read more

 

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

(Jan 15, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Education: Dual Credit Innovation Grant Program Who May Apply: Public institutions of higher education. Use: Funding may be used to offer college coursework to high school students enrolled in eligible school entities. Funds: $14 million in state funding was allocated through the 2024 School Code. Application Deadline: February 10, 2025 More information: PDE Website Department of Environmental Protection: Abandoned Mine Land and Abandoned Mine Draining Grant Program Who May Apply: An authority, incorporated nonprofit, political subdivision, or conservation district. Use: Funds may be used for abandoned mine land reclamation and abandoned mine drainage treatment or abatement. Funds: $75 million in funding is available. Application Deadline: April 25, 2025. Applicants must contact DEP ( ra-epamgrantprogram@pa.gov ) prior to applying for an initial project consultation. More information: DEP Website Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Integrated Health Solutions Who May Apply: Physical health care providers, hospitals, rural health centers, or federally qualified health clinics. Use: T o promote full integration and collaboration in clinical practice between behavioral health care and primary physical health care. Funds: $3 million in funding is available from the Publicis Health Opioid Settlement. Read more

 

Williams’ bill to expand Medicaid access in Pennsylvania passes state House
Jun 24, 2025

Williams: Over $2.6 million secured for Chester County affordable housing
Jun 11, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jun 11, 2025

Williams’ bill to open door to chip-enabled EBT cards passes House
Jun 10, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jun 04, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
May 22, 2025

PA House passes Williams’ bill to increase pensions for blind, disabled veterans
May 12, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
May 07, 2025

PA House OKs Williams bill to help municipalities fight blight by tightening LLC permit rules
Apr 22, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Apr 22, 2025

Members of PA House Southeast Delegation respond to SEPTA's proposed service cuts & rate hikes
Apr 10, 2025

PA House OKs Williams bill to enhance reporting on state drug and alcohol initiatives
Apr 10, 2025

Chester County lawmakers to introduce bill that would require approval from the Department of Health before hospitals can be purchased
Apr 09, 2025

Transportation, Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Mar 12, 2025

Williams announces over $1.2 million in roadway improvements for Chester County
Feb 24, 2025

Williams announces nearly $300,000 in funding for Chester County fire and EMS departments
Feb 14, 2025

Williams announces over $168 thousand in funding for Minch Park Improvements
Jan 29, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jan 29, 2025

E-News: My Faith Inspires Me to Represent
Jan 17, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jan 15, 2025