News Center

House Majority Policy Committee tours Google, talks artificial intelligence and internet safety

(Mar 13, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Building off recent conversations on artificial intelligence, the House Majority Policy Committee toured Google’s Pittsburgh offices and participated in a roundtable Wednesday morning to learn more about this new technology and discuss efforts to maintain child internet safety. Read more

 

House Democratic Leadership Praises Gov. Shapiro’s Leadership on Clean Energy

(Mar 13, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Harrisburg, PA – Pennsylvania House Democratic Leadership issued the following statement today on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s new clean energy plan: “Tackling the growing climate crisis demands a comprehensive approach – one that balances protecting our environment, strengthening our economy and cutting costs for families. Governor Shapiro recognizes that Pennsylvania can and should be a clean energy leader, and House Democrats commend him on his leadership and for prioritizing this critical issue. “House Democrats are committed to reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions while strengthening our economy and energy infrastructure, investing in our communities and cutting costs for families. Governor Shapiro has brought together many different sectors to explore how Pennsylvania can be a clean energy leader, and today’s announcement represents a step forward toward that goal. We look forward to reviewing this comprehensive plan further and working with the Shapiro Administration on this.” ## House Democrats are committed to promoting better jobs, better schools and better communities. Putting people ahead of politics, House Democrats are leading the charge to lower taxes, help workers save for retirement, put more teachers in local schools, and make communities safer. More information on these successful efforts is at pahouse.com/deliveringforpa . Read more

 

Matzie touts governor’s new energy proposal

(Mar 13, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“The governor’s announcement highlights policies we have been promoting for some time, the key being an ‘all of the above’ approach when it comes to our energy mix. For me, the inclusion of emerging nuclear and fusion technology in the plan is essential and has been a key initiative I have long supported. " Read more

 

Testifiers, lawmakers discuss positive impact unions have on business

(Mar 12, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Unions have long delivered for workers with higher wages and dignified benefits, but the House Majority Policy Committee and Rep. Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) learned how the presence of unions benefits local business owners across Pennsylvania through improved productivity, increased retention of workers and productive collaboration between the employer and employees. Read more

 

Testifiers detail need to address blight, increase affordable housing in PA

(Mar 11, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Community leaders highlighted the need to build more affordable housing in in Allegheny County and across Pennsylvania but pointed to blighted homes and deserted buildings as a major barrier during a House Majority Policy hearing Monday morning. Read more

 

Same Job? Same Pay. It's that simple.

(Mar 09, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Tuesday, March 12 is Women’s Equal Pay Day – it’s how far into 2024 a woman has to work to earn the same money a man did by the end of 2023 when they both started counting on New Year’s Day 2023. Read more

 

Main Street Matters

(Mar 08, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

It was a great morning touring Fishtown businesses with DCED Secretary Siger as part of Governor Shapiro’s Main Street Matters initiative! Our local small businesses are the pulse of each of our neighborhoods and Main Streets, and I am proud to stand behind Governor Shapiro and Secretary Siger in bringing home state resources to make certain they thrive. Read more

 

House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee holds informational hearing on electric vehicle infrastructure

(Mar 08, 2024) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 8 – With more Pennsylvania drivers turning to electric vehicles, state Rep. Rob Matzie said the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee met Wednesday for an informational hearing on the state’s EV infrastructure. Matzie, who is majority chairman, said the committee heard testimony from stakeholders and discussed key issues such as the role public utilities will play, ratepayer protections, public demand and expectations for EV charging and other issues that will guide development of policy and legislation. “Electric vehicle infrastructure is a hot topic, with federal money pouring in to help expand that infrastructure,” Matzie said. “Today, we heard from stakeholders regarding what kind of legislative guidance is needed and how things are progressing. “We know utilities must have long-term plans in place to ensure that the needed infrastructure is ready, and I anticipate we’ll be having more conversations about those plans. Right now, we want to make sure we’re having conversations with all the stakeholders to make sure PA does it right.” Matzie added that Pennsylvania’s energy independence and ability to maintain a diverse energy portfolio will remain a central part of the dialogue. “I have said many times how important the grid is and how important it Read more

 

Hanbidge works to bring Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to Pennsylvania

(Mar 07, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“Children participating in the Imagination Library show increased readiness for kindergarten and maintain higher reading achievement scores through ninth grade compared to their non-participating peers,” Hanbidge said. Read more

 

House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee hears testimony on mechanical insulation bill

(Mar 07, 2024) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 7 – The Pennsylvania House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee heard testimony Tuesday about legislation that would facilitate the use of mechanical insulation by electric distribution companies, Majority Chairman Rob Matzie announced. Matzie said H.B. 491 clarifies that the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission may not disapprove an EDC’s required energy efficiency and conservation plan solely because it contains mechanical insulation. “Mechanical insulation is a key component when you’re talking about energy conservation,” Matzie said. “This is a fairly simple bill that would create an opportunity to expand the use of mechanical insulation, and we think we’re finally in a position to get it across the finish line.” At the hearing, Jim Cassidy, business manager for the Insulators Union Local No. 2, testified that mechanical insulation – which is used to insulate pipes, equipment, machinery and industrial processes – provides cost savings, prevents burns, inhibits mold growth that causes sick buildings and keeps equipment running longer. Act 129 of 2008 requires electric distribution companies to complete an energy efficiency and conservation plan that is approved by the PUC. Although the commission does not prohibit the use of mechanical insulation, the Read more

 

Williams announces development loan for local company

(Mar 07, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE State Rep. Dan Williams D-Montgomery www.pahouse.com/Williams Williams announces development loan for local company HARRISBURG, March 6 – State Rep. Dan Williams today announced Metalum LLC, a local metal fabricator, was approved for a 10-year, $2 million loan through the Chester County Economic Development Council, at a 4% reset interest rate to assist with the construction of a new 51,834-square-foot manufacturing warehouse and an attached 5,234-square-foot office area in Honey Brook Township. This will be an addition to the existing 14,000-square-foot manufacturing/warehouse area and office space. This expansion project will provide Metalum with the space necessary to take on larger/heavier fabrication jobs that come with higher profit margins and enable them to compete with larger fabricators The total project cost is $8 million. This project will create five jobs and retain 35 existing jobs within the next three years. “This is another example of how economic redevelopment in Chester County benefits, not only the company and its employees, but the entire surrounding area,” Williams said. “As the company will be purchasing more goods and services, hopefully making a larger profit, which creates a larger tax base for the area. Read more

 

Testifiers, lawmakers maintain push for minimum wage increase

(Mar 06, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

The House Majority Policy Committee gathered testimony from minimum wage earners and public policy experts during a hearing Wednesday as the push to finally increase the wage in Pennsylvania continues. Read more

 

Gallagher, Khan, Warren call for PA to update insurance laws around colorectal cancer screenings

(Mar 05, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 5 – Today, state Reps. Pat Galagher, Tarik Khan, both D-Phila., and Perry Warren, D-Bucks, hosted a news conference at the state Capitol announcing that they plan to introduce legislation that would update state insurance laws to expand coverage for colorectal cancer screenings. Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths even though it is a very treatable form of cancer when caught early. When detected in its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 90%. The legislators said their legislation would update Pennsylvania’s Insurance Company Law to reduce the age when colorectal cancer screenings are covered to 45 from 50. This legislation also prevents prior authorizations and advance notice for screening colonoscopies for individuals 45 and above. Current law requires health insurance coverage for routine colorectal cancer screenings starting at age 50 based on American Cancer Society standards published in 2008. Multiple other states have updated their law to reflect more recent American Cancer Society guidelines from 2018. The updated recommendations call for people to begin screening at age 45 rather than 50. Gallagher, who is a colorectal cancer survivor, said the legislation could result in more early detections and ultimately save lives. “As a survivor of colorectal cancer, I know firsthand the impact that early detection and proper care Read more

 

Unfair education funding and its problems detailed by experts

(Mar 05, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

After years of chronic underfunding, experts detail issues, need for change Read more

 

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Educational, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Mar 05, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Agriculture: Commonwealth Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Who May Apply: State and local organizations, producer associations, academia, community-based organizations, and other eligible specialty crops stakeholders. Use: The purpose of the Program is to enhance, but not replace, the Federal Specialty Crop Block Grant Program by establishing a Commonwealth Specialty Crop Block Grant Program for specialty crops that are not currently eligible for grant payments under the Federal Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, or that are otherwise designated high-priority specialty crops by the Secretary. Funding for the Program will assist the growth, certification of seed and marketing of these eligible specialty crops. Funds: $460,000 in funding is available. Application Deadline: April 19, 2024 More information: Pennsylvania Bulletin PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Agriculture: Farm Vitality Planning Grant Who May Apply: Farmers, prospective farmers, and others may apply. Use: Strategic business planning to expand or diversify farms or support transition of ownership. Funds: $500,000 in funding is available. Grants shall not exceed $7,500. Application Deadline: Applications will be received until funds are exhausted. More information: Pennsylvania Bulletin Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Recruitment Incentives for Law Enforcement Who May Apply: Local law enforcement Read more

 

O’Mara bill removing barrier to first responder care clears House committee

(Mar 04, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“Enduring depression or PTSI should never be normalized as part of the job. Mental health care should be accessible and encouraged, especially to first responders whom we depend on to keep us safe,” O'Mara said. Read more

 

Ghost guns: Fueling real horror in PA communities

(Mar 04, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“It’s infuriating to know, as I mentioned during the judiciary committee hearing on HB 777, how quickly I could use my cellphone to purchase a ghost gun without any meaningful checks,” said meeting host Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, who represents portions of Philadelphia. “We are talking about untraceable firearms that can be assembled with ease. They are completely untraceable, and they are legal to purchase without any age requirement or background checks, and they are contributing to gun violence in all communities throughout Pennsylvania – and the nation.” Read more

 

Guzman wraps up Black History Month by honoring 26 community leaders from Berks County

(Mar 01, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

READING, March 1 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, said that he concluded observations for Black History Month with a ceremony that highlighted the work of 26 community leaders from the city of Reading and other municipalities across Berks County. “On the last day of Black History Month, I had the immense satisfaction of honoring a remarkable group of Black Americans. This group is comprised of individuals that have boldly paved the way in the most diverse areas,” said Guzman about the event held in his district office where he honored his guests with PA House citations. “Their accomplishments have made our community proud. This event was a perfect opportunity to remind them how much we value their tenacity and dedication.” The list of honorees included city District Justices Carissa L. Johnson and Tonya A. Butler; Seleda Simmons, executive director and founder of the nonprofit The Real Deal610; Tonya Henry, acting assistant director at Olivet Boys & Girls Club; and Beloved Pair, an outstanding student from Central Middle School. Read more

 

Roundtable discusses contributions of Children’s Advocacy Centers

(Feb 29, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“When I learned about Child Advocacy Centers and their mission, I was so relieved these organizations and professionals are in place to support children throughout the state,” said Policy Committee roundtable host Rep. Justin Fleming, who represents portions of Lower Paxton and Susquehanna townships as well as the borough of Pennbrook in Dauphin County. “If we really want to support children and their recovery, then we need to prioritize Child Advocacy Centers.” Read more

 

Kenyatta introduces legislation to study impact of ‘benefits cliff’

(Feb 29, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Feb. 29 – State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., has introduced legislation to study the public assistance benefits cliff, which refers to a situation when public benefit programs phase out quickly for families as household earnings increase. This legislation would direct the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study and issue a report on the impact of benefits cliffs in Pennsylvania. In Pennsylvania, roughly 12 percent of all Pennsylvanians live in poverty, with eight percent living in extreme poverty. “In many instances, Pennsylvanians living in poverty become constrained to a life of poverty due to the ‘cliff effect,’ which perpetuates the poverty cycle, rather than incentivizing individuals to become self-sufficient,” Kenyatta said. “This study should give us a better idea of just how much the benefits cliff affects Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable families, and how we can ensure these families get the most out of important public benefit programs.” Kenyatta is joined by state Reps. Morgan Cephas and Roni Green, both D-Phila., and La’Tasha D. Mayes, D-Allegheny, in introducing this bill. Cephas explained how benefits cliffs impact marginalized communities. “Not only are Black women paid less than white or male counterparts, opportunities to escape this cycle of poverty are fewer – leading to the public assistance Read more

 

House Majority Policy Committee tours Google, talks artificial intelligence and internet safety
Mar 13, 2024

House Democratic Leadership Praises Gov. Shapiro’s Leadership on Clean Energy
Mar 13, 2024

Matzie touts governor’s new energy proposal
Mar 13, 2024

Testifiers, lawmakers discuss positive impact unions have on business
Mar 12, 2024

Testifiers detail need to address blight, increase affordable housing in PA
Mar 11, 2024

Same Job? Same Pay. It's that simple.
Mar 09, 2024

Main Street Matters
Mar 08, 2024

House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee holds informational hearing on electric vehicle infrastructure
Mar 08, 2024

Hanbidge works to bring Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to Pennsylvania
Mar 07, 2024

House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee hears testimony on mechanical insulation bill
Mar 07, 2024

Williams announces development loan for local company
Mar 07, 2024

Testifiers, lawmakers maintain push for minimum wage increase
Mar 06, 2024

Gallagher, Khan, Warren call for PA to update insurance laws around colorectal cancer screenings
Mar 05, 2024

Unfair education funding and its problems detailed by experts
Mar 05, 2024

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Educational, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Mar 05, 2024

O’Mara bill removing barrier to first responder care clears House committee
Mar 04, 2024

Ghost guns: Fueling real horror in PA communities
Mar 04, 2024

Guzman wraps up Black History Month by honoring 26 community leaders from Berks County
Mar 01, 2024

Roundtable discusses contributions of Children’s Advocacy Centers
Feb 29, 2024

Kenyatta introduces legislation to study impact of ‘benefits cliff’
Feb 29, 2024