Kinkead: North Hills Community Outreach awarded Ag and Youth Grant

(May 12, 2021)

HARRISBURG, May 12 – A nonprofit organization in Northern Allegheny County, which provides food and support services to those in need, are among several organizations statewide to receive funding from the Ag and Youth Grant program, state Rep. Emily Kinkead announced today. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said North Hills Community Outreach was awarded $2,750 to expand the Rosalinda Sauro Sirriani Garden, its community-supported organic garden in Bellevue. “North Hills Community Outreach does so much to help our community and support residents who are experiencing food insecurity,” said Kinkead. “In less than 10 years, the Rosalinda Sauro Sirianni Garden has produced enough produce to serve over a thousand families in need each year, and this grant will allow the NHCO to expand, allowing it to serve more residents in need.” “These funds are greatly appreciated and will enable students to learn at our garden and increase their passion for giving back through volunteerism,” said Tom Baker, NHCO executive director. “The garden is a wonderful place for students to serve. We are fortunate to have a garden coordinator that empowers students in an extremely meaningful way and empowers them to help others.” This grant program, part of the Pennsylvania Farm Bill, funds projects for ag education and workforce development, equipment purchases and capital projects to Read more

 

PA Rescue Plan, $1.7 billion investment in workers’ focus of House Democratic leaders’ rally in State College Wednesday

(May 11, 2021)

STATE COLLEGE, May 11 – The workers who have been hit hardest by the pandemic need support. The PA House Democratic leadership team is hosting a rally Wednesday to make the case for workers’ rights to a fair wage, hazard pay and paid family and sick leave and how the PA Rescue plan would do just that. The rally will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 12 at The Borough Building, 243 S. Allen St., State College . The media is encouraged to attend. The PA Rescue Plan includes more than $1.5 billion for job training, hazard pay, wage boosts for direct-care workers and job creation efforts to kickstart the economy in communities across the state. The PRP aims to ensure federal American Rescue Plan funding is invested for immediate impact and long-term success. Additional information about the plan is available at www.pahouse.com/parescueplan . Read more

 

Frankel: Stop the Attacks on Science

(May 04, 2021)

Heath Committee hearing on organ donation veers into pseudoscience, unfairly attacks Pitt Read more

 

Pisciottano: Disappointed in U.S. Steel decision, urges reconsideration

(Apr 30, 2021)

DRAVOSBURG, April 30 – Today state Rep. Nick Pisciottano, D-Allegheny, issued the following statement regarding U.S. Steel Corp. announcing its cancellation of a $1.5 billion update to its Mon Valley Works facility. “I am very disappointed to hear of U.S. Steel’s decision to set aside its planned investment in our region, which would have modernized the plants and continued to provide good union jobs for years to come. I urge U.S. Steel to reconsider its decision and work with the communities, elected officials, and residents in the Mon Valley to chart a path forward. “One of my primary goals is to create economic conditions that are conducive to attracting and maintaining a strong business community in this region of Allegheny County. I will continue to work with local and state officials to keep family-sustaining jobs in our community, as I believe we can still come to a workable solution to benefit all parties.” Read more

 

Pisciottano, Mihalek: Bill would protect Pennsylvanians’ personal health information

(Apr 30, 2021)

DRAVOSBURG, April 30 – State Reps. Nick Pisciottano, D-Allegheny, and Natalie Mihalek, R-Allegheny/Washington, plan to introduce legislation soon to require COVID-19 vaccine providers to take specific steps to protect the privacy of residents who have registered to receive a vaccine. Pisciottano said in light of a recent data breach this week, where health and other personal information of more than 70,000 Pennsylvanians collected during contact tracing was compromised, it’s even more important that protections are immediately put in place. “In the rush for many residents to get vaccines, many registered with several providers, providing their personal information in order to secure an appointment,” said Pisciottano. “While only one provider ends up vaccinating them, the other providers still have access to their information, which includes their name and address, but could also include their medical history, Social Security number and insurance information. Our legislation would require vaccine providers to delete this information from those who may have registered but did not receive a vaccine within six months of registering.” “Medical history is the most private information a Pennsylvanian has, and it deserves to be treated sensitively,” said Mihalek. “In light of recent news that 70,000 residents’ medical information had been compromised due to contract tracing, I feel this legislation is more important Read more

 

Pisciottano supports bill to reform redistricting process

(Apr 28, 2021)

DRAVOSBURG, April 28 – State Rep. Nick Pisciottano is supporting legislation to reform the reapportionment and redistricting efforts for both state legislative and congressional districts in Pennsylvania. Pisciottano, D-Allegheny, said H.B. 22 , also known as the Legislative and Congressional Redistricting Act, would introduce enhanced transparency into the processes, allow more input from residents and create a user-friendly website with data, proposed maps, public comments and related information. “Pennsylvanians deserve a fair and open redistricting process free from political processes designed to punish or discriminate against a particular legislator or political party, and ensure accountability,” said Pisciottano. “I support Fair Districts PA’s efforts to see this legislation move forward and signed into law. Residents are tired of extreme partisan actions as it relates to their legislators and this measure is certainly a step in the right direction.” Pisciottano added the measure would also ban gerrymandering, place limits on splitting counties beyond what’s required by population, ban dividing voting precincts and ensure protection of racial and language minorities against discrimination in the mapping process. The bill is currently under consideration in the House State Government Committee. Read more

 

Pisciottano: New “Move Over Law” will save lives across PA

(Apr 26, 2021)

PLEASANT HILLS, April 26 – Surrounded by family members of a constituent who died after being hit by a distracted driver in 2017, state Rep. Nick Pisciottano today lauded Act 105 , which goes into effect tomorrow and will require drivers to take proactive steps when approaching or passing a disabled vehicle. Pisciottano, D-Allegheny, said Scott Hirsh was struck and killed by a distracted driver as he was changing a tire on his camper, despite pulling off onto the shoulder of the roadway and using road flares and caution signs. Pisciottano joined members of the Hirsh family, representatives from the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, AAA and local officials to discuss the new law. House Bill 636 – a bill to rename the Camp Horne Road Interchange in honor of Scott Hirsh – is currently being considered. “Act 105 will require drivers to move over to one lane, or if that’s not possible, to pass the disabled vehicle at a rate of no more than 20 miles per hour less than the roadway’s posted speeding limit. While Scott Hirsh did everything correctly when his vehicle became disabled, an amendment that was adopted into the law includes a provision to further protect disabled vehicles and increase penalties for drivers who fail to move over or slow down.” "The day my dad was killed, he did everything right,” Christian Hirsh said. “He had Read more

 

Frankel: Reproductive health highlights areas of real need amid GOP push to limit abortion access

(Apr 22, 2021)

Says legislature needs to address health disparities, mental health needs, family support Read more

 

Kinkead: $45.1 million in state funding for lead line replacement, other water infrastructure improvements

(Apr 21, 2021)

HARRISBURG, April 21 – The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority and the West View Water Authority in Pittsburgh have received a total of $45 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority to make needed water quality and sewer infrastructure repairs, including lead line replacement, state Rep. Emily Kinkead announced today. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said $38.5 million in funding will be used by the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority to replace 25,000 feet of piping, along with 59 fire hydrants and 592 lead service lines. $6.6 million will be used by the West View Water Authority to replace aged water infrastructure, including lead service lines. “These projects will ensure residents get reliable access to safe water by the removal of lead pipes and also reduce water loss that can come from aged infrastructure,” said Kinkead. “Investments like these will protect our water and sewer systems now and in years to come.” Pennvest provides communities across Pennsylvania with funding for sewer, stormwater and drinking water projects. More information can be found at the following link: https://www.pennvest.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx Read more

 

Virtual event: The Intersection of Transportation, Labor and the Environment

(Apr 21, 2021)

On Thursday, April 29th, I hosted an event focused on “The Intersection of Transportation, Labor and the Environment” Read more

 

Pisciottano: American Rescue Plan is great news for communities

(Apr 07, 2021)

HARRISBURG, April 7 – Approximately $8.5 million in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan will make a significant and positive impact to communities throughout the district, state Rep. Nick Pisciottano, D-Allegheny, announced today. The American Rescue Plan, signed last month by President Joseph Biden, includes funds earmarked for local municipalities and counties to use to offset economic losses due to the pandemic. The funding can also be used toward water, sewer and infrastructure projects and toward projects to safely reopen schools. “This financial support is certainly welcome relief for our residents and our communities, who have been struggling for more than a year since the pandemic hit,” Pisciottano said. “These funds will be essential in providing vital economic support to our local and county governments and ensure our communities continue to operate and remain connected.” Municipalities in the 38 th Legislative District that are slated to receive the funds are as follows: Baldwin Borough: $1.9 million. Dravosburg Borough: $170,349. Glassport Borough: $426,615. Liberty Borough: $242,622. Pleasant Hills Borough: $793,514. Port Vue Borough: $360,967. South Park Township: $1.3 million. West Mifflin Borough: $1.9 million. Whitehall Borough: $1.3 million. Read more

 

Benham: $100,000 grant awarded to local park project

(Apr 05, 2021)

Funding to help Baldwin Borough with Elm Leaf Park Phase III Read more

 

Expanding digital connection key for PA development, advancement

(Apr 01, 2021)

HARRISBURG, April 1 -- State Representative Rob Matzie, Democratic Chairman of the House Consumer Affairs Committee, led yesterday’s House Democratic Policy Committee on bridging the digital divide. The hearing is the third in a series this week focused on net neutrality and bridging the gap to improve future outcomes for educators, students, health care access and Pennsylvania businesses. “This hearing was a great cap on the weeks’ discussions on how we can make sure Pennsylvania is digitally connected. The last year has shown us that reliable internet, computers and phone help keep us learning, working, entertained, managing health and in touch with family and friends. I thank Chairman Matzie for leading the discussion and look forward to a public-private partnership that helps close the divide,” said Ryan Bizzarro, chairman of the Democratic Policy Committee. “Quick, reliable Internet access isn’t a luxury in today’s world – it’s a necessity,” said Matzie. “Those without it face major disadvantages when it comes to competing for jobs, accessing health and education services and connecting to state programs. I’m hosting this hearing because we need to develop solutions to bridge this digital divide now, before it threatens to disenfranchise more Pennsylvanians.” The committee heard testimony from Brian Barno, Broadband Cable Association of Pennsylvania; Joseph Glinka, government Read more

 

Pisciottano announces federal COVID-19 relief funding for area school districts

(Mar 31, 2021)

HARRISBURG, March 31 – An estimated $33.6 million in federal funding is expected to be allocated to area school districts to assist them in reopening safely and to address learning losses as more students and teachers return to classrooms, state Rep. Nick Pisciottano announced. “Teachers and school staff have faced many challenges during this time while they continue to educate our children and keep them safe,” said Pisciottano, D-Allegheny. “These federal funds will help our schools by providing them with the support they need to help students, whether it’s additional instructional materials, equipment upgrades, professional training and mental health and related services. This investment will help our schools in their efforts to navigate a safe, in-person learning environment.” The funding is part of nearly $5 billion allocated to Pennsylvania in federal relief under the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund. The estimated funding for school districts in the 38 th Legislative District is as follows: Baldwin-Whitehall School District - $5.1 million. McKeesport Area School District - $16.9 million. South Allegheny School District - $3.4 million. South Park School District - $1.3 million. West Jefferson School District - $1 million. West Mifflin Area School Read more

 

Allegheny County Delegation Policy Agenda

(Mar 31, 2021)

Click here to learn more about the Allegheny County Democratic Delegation's priorities for the region on public health, the economy, transportation and public education. Read more

 

Matzie: District schools slated to receive more than $25 million to support continued learning

(Mar 30, 2021)

AMBRIDGE, March 30 – Schools in the 16 th Legislative District are expected to receive $25.4 million in federal funding to ensure students and staff enjoy a safe and productive return to the classroom, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said schools will be able to use the funding for a broad range of needs, from basic education, transportation and food services to program-based student supports. “Learning is a dynamic process, and a successful return to the classroom will involve more than simply replenishing supplies and resuming regular programs,” Matzie said. “Educators will need to assess student progress and address gaps in learning. Securing this funding will give schools the resources needed to ensure that all students – despite pandemic-related setbacks – are ready to move forward and thrive.” Matzie said the following allocations are expected: Aliquippa School District – $8.1 million. Ambridge Area School District – $4.6 million. Baden Academy Charter School – $1.8 million. Central Valley School District – $2.4 million. Freedom Area School District – $2.2 million. Hopewell Area School District – $2.1 million. Quaker Valley School District – $1.4 Read more

 

Miller to host annual Disability & Mental Health Summit

(Mar 25, 2021)

Registration now open for event, the largest of its kind in western PA Read more

 

Kinkead: It’s time to take action to combat climate change

(Mar 24, 2021)

HARRISBURG, March 24 – State Rep. Emily Kinkead has introduced legislation that would effectively reduce carbon dioxide emissions in Pennsylvania to zero. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said her bill, which would be known as the Energy Transition Recovery Act , would direct funds from the sale of carbon allowances sold at auction through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative to methods designed to curb those emissions by 2050. Pennsylvania is expected to become a member of RGGI by 2022. “Earlier this week, the governor announced the Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy, part of the GreenGov initiative, which I fully support, and my legislation fits in with that effort by making a significant impact in lowering carbon dioxide emissions,” said Kinkead. “My colleagues and I took an oath to protect and uphold the state Constitution, which includes the right to clean air and water. It’s imperative we move forward and do all we can to protect our future children and grandchildren, and we can do so right now.” Kinkead’s legislation is currently under consideration in the House Environmental Energy and Resources Committee. Read more

 

Kinkead: Governor’s clean energy initiative is the right step for PA

(Mar 22, 2021)

HARRISBURG, March 22 – State Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny, issued the following statement on Gov. Tom Wolf’s announcement on the Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy, part of the GreenGov initiative: “I fully support and applaud the Wolf administration’s efforts, which will positively impact our state and move us further away from a fossil fuel-based economy. “Nearly two years ago, an executive order was introduced that paved the way for our state to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. The fact that we have not moved closer to joining RGGI is beyond frustrating, especially when you consider that in July of last year, our nation tied with July 2016 as the second hottest month on record. Our polar caps are continuing to melt, sea levels and temperatures rise, and forest areas in the Amazon and across our world continue to burn. “It’s imperative we do more to combat climate change, and today’s announcement will make a significant impact. PULSE will launch the largest solar energy commitment by any government entity in our country. It will supply about half the energy used by state government, creating hundreds of jobs and making a huge impact in lowering carbon dioxide emissions. This effort closely aligns with my bill, H.B. 989 , to be known as the Energy Transition Recovery Act, which would direct funds from the sale of carbon allowances sold at Read more

 

Frankel applauds House passage of bike lane bill named in memory of Pittsburgher

(Mar 17, 2021)

Susan’s and Emily’s Law would allow municipalities to create protected bicycle lanes Read more

 

Kinkead: North Hills Community Outreach awarded Ag and Youth Grant
May 12, 2021

PA Rescue Plan, $1.7 billion investment in workers’ focus of House Democratic leaders’ rally in State College Wednesday
May 11, 2021

Frankel: Stop the Attacks on Science
May 04, 2021

Pisciottano: Disappointed in U.S. Steel decision, urges reconsideration
Apr 30, 2021

Pisciottano, Mihalek: Bill would protect Pennsylvanians’ personal health information
Apr 30, 2021

Pisciottano supports bill to reform redistricting process
Apr 28, 2021

Pisciottano: New “Move Over Law” will save lives across PA
Apr 26, 2021

Frankel: Reproductive health highlights areas of real need amid GOP push to limit abortion access
Apr 22, 2021

Kinkead: $45.1 million in state funding for lead line replacement, other water infrastructure improvements
Apr 21, 2021

Virtual event: The Intersection of Transportation, Labor and the Environment
Apr 21, 2021

Pisciottano: American Rescue Plan is great news for communities
Apr 07, 2021

Benham: $100,000 grant awarded to local park project
Apr 05, 2021

Expanding digital connection key for PA development, advancement
Apr 01, 2021

Pisciottano announces federal COVID-19 relief funding for area school districts
Mar 31, 2021

Allegheny County Delegation Policy Agenda
Mar 31, 2021

Matzie: District schools slated to receive more than $25 million to support continued learning
Mar 30, 2021

Miller to host annual Disability & Mental Health Summit
Mar 25, 2021

Kinkead: It’s time to take action to combat climate change
Mar 24, 2021

Kinkead: Governor’s clean energy initiative is the right step for PA
Mar 22, 2021

Frankel applauds House passage of bike lane bill named in memory of Pittsburgher
Mar 17, 2021