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Matzie: Nearly $400,000 awarded to educate, protect Beaver County kids from opioid risks

(Sep 08, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Sept. 8 – More than $390,000 from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will keep Beaver County students learning about the risks of opioids and help families develop the skills to keep kids safe, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said the funding includes $370,805 to Community Health Challenge of Southwestern Pennsylvania to continue the Beaver County Opioid Prevention Project – one of five pilot programs statewide that team counties with school districts, local nonprofits and the community. “The Beaver County programs are teaching students in the Aliquippa, New Brighton and Rochester Area school districts how to recognize and avoid the dangers of opioid abuse,” Matzie said. “The programs are also helping families develop skills to protect kids from the risks of substance abuse and other factors that can lead them into trouble. “The programs have already helped many students and families in our district over the past two years. Securing this funding will allow them to continue for another year.” Matzie said that a second grant of $22,313 to The Prevention Network will fund the Project Towards No Drug Abuse, which supports at-risk youth. Both grants were recommended by the PCCD’s Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Committee and come from federal State Opioid Response funds. Read more

 

Matzie, Marshall and Quinn lead public hearing on solar energy in Pennsylvania

(Aug 26, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Aug. 26 – As lawmakers continue searching for solutions on best energy practices, House Consumer Affairs Committee Democratic Chairman state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Allegheny/Beaver, majority chairman state Rep. Jim Marshall, R-Beaver/Butler, and state Rep. Chris Quinn, R-Delaware, led a public hearing today on solar energy and its impacts in Pennsylvania from an economic, business and community perspective. “I’m on record in favor of an all-in energy portfolio for Pennsylvania,” Matzie said. “That includes renewables like solar. This is a great opportunity for members to get information on where we are and what is needed to get to that diverse and, in my judgment, necessary energy mix.” Held at the Penn State Brandywine Campus, here are the testifiers who participated today and provided valuable input: Scott Elias, Solar Energy Industries Association. Mark Haas, PECO Energy Co. Kathleen Robertson, Sol Systems. Katie Rever, IGS Energy. Joel Harrington, Enel North America. Brent Alderfer, Community Energy. Leslie Elder, Coalition for Community Solar Access. Tim Mills, program manager, Renewable Energy Division, ARM Group (Renewable Works for PA). “With solar energy rising in popularity for customers, it is critical to hear how it could benefit Read more

 

Matzie: More than $77,000 awarded to boost fresh fruits and vegetables for grade-schoolers

(Aug 04, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Aug. 4 – More Beaver County elementary school students will have access to fresh fruits and vegetables, thanks to $77,155 in grant funding awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said the funding awarded under the USDA’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program includes $36,140 to the Aliquippa School District, $20,800 to the Ambridge Area School District, and $20,215 to the Rochester Area School District. “Fresh, nutritious food helps kids learn,” Matzie said. “Securing this funding is going to allow school cafeterias to offer fresh produce to more grade-schoolers in our schools.” Matzie said the grants are part of a package of more than $7 million awarded to 288 elementary schools statewide under the FFVP. Funding priority was given to the schools with the highest rates of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. More information about the grants is available here , and a full list of the schools receiving funding is available here . Read more

 

Matzie: Aliquippa secures more than $140,000 for blight removal project

(Aug 02, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Aug. 2 – A grant of $140,233 from the state Department of Community and Economic Development will allow the city of Aliquippa to clear The Bricks site in Plan 12 and prepare the site for future development. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said the grant, awarded under the Keystone Communities Program, will fund the first steps of blight removal, demolition and preliminary site work. “The funding awarded today will allow Aliquippa to clear the overgrown, debris-ridden Bricks site located along Temple and Oliver streets in Plan 12 and prepare the site for development,” Matzie said. “In addition to blight removal, the grant will fund demolition of several structures and excavation and grading work. “Those projects will lay the groundwork for eventual construction of single-family homes, duplexes and townhomes, meeting the growing demand for workforce housing and drawing new and welcome residential and commercial activity to the area.” The Keystone Communities Program assists Pennsylvania’s core communities in achieving revitalization. More information about the grants is available here. Read more

 

Prescription drug pricing reforms essential for public health, and economy

(Jul 12, 2021) Policy Committee

HARRISBURG, July 12 -- State Representatives Emily Kinkead and Eddie Day Pashinski today hosted a public hearing to discuss the need for drastic reforms to drive down the costs of prescription drugs for the well-being of Pennsylvanians who rely on medications for an improved quality of life. The hearing, a meeting of the Policy Committee’s Subcommittee on Progressive Policies for Working People, included testimony on how prescription drug pricing is calculated, some of the cost drivers and legislative action needed to regulate pricing. Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, chair of the subcommittee, and legislators from across the state joined both in person and online for the discussion. Sean Zmenkowski, a constituent services advisor for Rep. Kinkead, shared his experience as a type one diabetic reliant on insulin to survive and the career choices he has had to make in order to maintain access to life-sustaining medication. “Far too many Pennsylvanians have to make painful choices regarding life-saving medications – going without or rationing their medicine – either option is inexcusable,” said state Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny. “I remain committed to working with my colleagues to come up with solutions, including a prescription drug importation program, to ensure the prescription drugs our residents need are accessible and affordable. It’s clear we need long-term solutions to help our residents, and we can make it happen.” Read more

 

Kinkead, Pashinski to discuss driving down drug costs

(Jul 08, 2021) Policy Committee

HARRISBURG, July 8 – The runaway costs of prescription medication will be the focus of a virtual hearing of the Subcommittee on Progressive Policies for Working People hosted by state Reps. Elizabeth Fiedler, Emily Kinkead and Eddie Day Pashinski. The hearing will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, July 12. The media and public are invited to watch online at www.pahouse.com/policy or on the committee’s Facebook page--@PADemPolicy. Media inquiries may be submitted via email to policy@pahouse.net . Kinkead, D-Allegheny, and Pashinski, D-Luzerne, will be joined by Subcommittee Chair Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., and members of the House Democratic Policy Committee to discuss innovative approaches to reducing drug costs, providing pathways to low-cost prescriptions, and how drug costs factor into Pennsylvania’s healthcare framework. Information about this and other House Democratic Policy Committee hearings can be found at www.pahouse.com/policycommittee . Read more

 

Kinkead: Pittsburgh to receive nearly $267K for traffic signal upgrades

(Jul 07, 2021) Allegheny County Delegation

PITTSBURGH, July 7 – $266,736 in state transportation funds have been awarded to the city of Pittsburgh to expand the city’s fiber optic network to connect traffic signals to its Traffic Management Center, state Rep. Emily Kinkead announced today. Kinkead, D-Pittsburgh, said the grant comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Green Light-Go program. The grants reimburse municipalities for updates to improve traffic signal efficiency and operation. The funds can be used for upgrades and improvements such as light-emitting diode technology installation, traffic signal retiming, developing special event plans and monitoring traffic signals, as well as upgrading traffic signals to the latest technologies. “This investment is vital, not just for traffic flow, but to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians across our city,” Kinkead said. “Upgrades like these will allow Pittsburgh to have the most up-to-date technology to relieve congestion and improve traffic flow.” This grant is part of a package of more than $15.6 million awarded across Pennsylvania for signal upgrades in 50 municipalities under the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Green Light-Go program. Read more

 

Marshall, Matzie, Browne commend Gov. Wolf signing bill to expand 5G technology

(Jul 01, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, July 1 – Gov. Tom Wolf signed House Bill 1621 into law, announced prime sponsor Rep. Jim Marshall, R-Beaver/Butler, co-sponsor Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, and Sen. Patrick Browne, R-16 th District. This increases access to 5G technology by deploying small wireless facilities, which could be as small as a backpack and attached to an existing utility pole. “While I know we still have work to do, I am truly hopeful this legislation will improve connectivity across the Commonwealth,” said Marshall, Republican chairman of the House Consumer Affairs Committee. “I greatly appreciate the hard work of Sens. Browne, Phillips-Hill, and Kane - along with their staff - to help Chairman Matzie and I create a law that we all can be proud of.” The Federal Communications Commission announced a $20.4 billion investment by establishing the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund. In December 2020, the FCC reported $368 million would be awarded to bidders to provide technology to nearly 185,000 Pennsylvanians. The bidding for the next auction is expected to begin in 2022. “If the past year has shown us anything, it’s that access to fast, reliable broadband is a necessity in practically every aspect of life,” said Matzie, Democratic chairman of the House Consumer Affairs Committee. “The technology is out there, but we needed a seamless plan to harness it. Our Read more

 

Kinkead announces $109.5K in grants awarded to area volunteer fire, EMS companies

(Jun 30, 2021) Rep. Emily Kinkead

HARRISBURG, June 30 - State Rep. Emily Kinkead today announced a total of $109,503 in grants have been awarded to local fire and emergency medical services companies. Kinkead , D-Allegheny, said the funding originates from the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program, which is overseen by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. This annual program provides funding for volunteer and career fire companies, emergency medical services , and rescue squads. “ My dad served the City of Pittsburgh as a paramedic and so our local fire and EMS companies will always have a special place in my heart. Our first responders run in when everyone else runs out and that has never been more obvious than during the COVID-19 pandemic. But this pandemic has taken a serious toll on the very people who serve as our first line of defense ,” said Kinkead. “ These funds are a small but important investment to ensure that they can continue to answer the call.” The grants awarded are as follows: City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire (EMS): $8,993. City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire: $14,999. Fairview Volunteer Fire Department: $12,054. Keating Fire Company : $12,054. Quaill District Firemen’s Association: $12,054. Ross West View EMS : $8,993. Ross West View Fire Company : $15,000. West View Volunteer Fire Department Company #1 : Read more

 

Matzie announces nearly $200,000 in fire, EMS grants

(Jun 29, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, June 29 – Fire and EMS companies in the 16 th Legislative District were awarded $197,903 in grant funding to address a wide range of needs, from equipment, building repairs and training to replenishing pandemic-related expenses, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said 15 fire and EMS companies are receiving grants from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner at a critical time. “The pandemic made working on the frontlines even more difficult than usual, as departments faced shortages while battling new risks and logistical problems,” Matzie said. “Securing this funding should ease a bit of the burden on our tireless first responders by ensuring they have the resources they need to stay safe.” Matzie said the following grants were awarded: Ambridge Borough Fire Department – Fire Company, $12,233. Ambridge Volunteer Fire Department – Fire Company, $12,411. Baden Volunteer Fire Department – Fire Company, $15,000. City of Aliquippa – Fire Company, $13,302. Conway Volunteer Fire Department – Fire Company, $12,946. Economy Volunteer Ambulance Service – EMS, $8,855 Economy Volunteer Firemens Association – Fire Company, $14,193. Freedom Volunteer Fire Department -- Fire Company, $11,520. Harmony Township Read more

 

Matzie: New budget holds the line on taxes, makes important investments

(Jun 25, 2021) Allegheny County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 25 – State Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, issued the following statement after passage of the Pennsylvania state budget. “Budgets are never easy. Finding common ground is often difficult. This particular budget was no different. There are some areas that came up short, but enough positives that I voted in its favor. “First and foremost, this budget is on time with no tax increase of any kind. “Equally as important is a large investment in education. Basic education, special education and early education all will see significant increases in funding. In addition, there is a new program called Level Up that brings additional dollars to our lowest income schools, benefiting several schools in my district. Colleges and job training programs will also be fully funded. “Other key highlights include nearly $40 million for a new Water Assistance Program that will help folks struggling with keeping the water turned on and nearly $300 million for nursing, assisted living and personal care homes. “This budget is not perfect, but it holds the line on state taxes, makes important investments and moves us closer to recovering from the pandemic.” Read more

 

Kinkead issues statement on passage of 2021-22 state budget

(Jun 25, 2021) Rep. Emily Kinkead

HARRISBURG, June 25 – State Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny, has issued the following statement regarding the 2021-22 state budget : “It’s clear we have very serious problems in our state to solve. People are struggling and suffering, and they don’t need to be because we have $10 billion dollars we could have spent to help them get back on their feet and recover from the pandemic. “Instead of putting together a moral and compassionate budget that spends the lion’s share of these funds to help the people of Pennsylvania, the Republicans have done nothing but put together a callous budget with peanuts to help our struggling constituents. “Instead of making a $10 billion investment in our communities to make real, generational change in this commonwealth, the Republicans are pretending that we are poor and must save for a “rainy day” despite the fact it has been downpouring for more than a year. They want to use these funds for their own pet projects without the transparency and oversight provided through the formal budget process, instead of investing in our small businesses, our infrastructure, our workers -- instead of investing in the people of Pennsylvania. “This heartless budget is full of missed opportunities -- 10 billion of them. Simply, it’s repugnant that we had an unprecedented opportunity to help our residents in need and, Read more

 

Pisciottano announces passage of bill in honor of Scott Hirsh

(Jun 23, 2021) Allegheny County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 23 – A measure to rename the Camp Horne Road Interchange in honor of Scott Hirsh, who was killed by a distracted driver in 2017, passed unanimously in the PA House today, state Rep. Nick Pisciottano announced. Pisciottano, D-Allegheny, said the initial efforts in crafting H.B. 636 began under the work of his predecessor, state Rep. Bill Kortz. Earlier this year, Act 105 went into effect, which requires drivers to take proactive steps when approaching or passing a disabled vehicle. In addition, it also established a new point system for a “Move Over” violation and doubled the fines for a summary offense. “It was an honor to introduce this legislation to rename the interchange on behalf of Scott and his family,” Pisciottano said. “It will serve as a reminder to drivers to please move over and slow down when approaching a disabled vehicle, and lead to more saved lives.” The bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration. Read more

 

Kinkead announces $1.53 million in funding to boost affordable housing, fight homelessness, empower vulnerable residents

(Jun 10, 2021) Allegheny County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 10 – State Rep. Emily Kinkead announced $1.53 million in funding to create and provide affordable housing and other supports to Allegheny County in need. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said eight organizations will receive the funds, which are administered by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund. Funding for the grants is provided through Marcellus Shale Impact Fees and Realty Transfer Taxes. “Everyone deserves a place they can call home and providing the vital support to our residents who are struggling is the right thing to do,” said Kinkead. “These funds can be extremely helpful to our most vulnerable residents, especially as they attempt to recover from the financial impacts of the pandemic.” Kinkead said the projects funded include: Allegheny County Department of Human Services – Mobility Counseling Program –$350,000. Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh – Home Accessibility Program for Independence – $300,000. Catapult Greater Pittsburgh Inc. – Decreasing Racial and Economic Disparity Through Homeownership and Asset Building Project – $200,000. North Hills Affordable Housing – HEARTH: 25 years of changing loves – $200,000. Community Human Services Corp. – Read more

 

Matzie: $3.5 million awarded to strengthen Beaver, Allegheny county probation services, drug treatment, victim support programs

(Jun 09, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, June 9 – State grants totaling more than $3.5 million will bolster Beaver and Allegheny county probation services, improve treatment and support for abuse victims, and fund opioid abuse education and overdose prevention programs, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said some of the funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will fund rehabilitation programs that can reduce recidivism rates by offering treatment-based alternatives to jail time. “Good, quality probation services can play a huge role in steering offenders back on the path to productive lives,” Matzie said. “Securing this funding is going to strengthen Beaver County’s probation services and support sentencing alternatives like drug and alcohol treatment programs, which reduce recidivism rates by targeting the root causes of many crimes. Successful programs end up saving taxpayers in incarceration costs and add wage earners back to our economy. “Other funding will support treatment for domestic violence and sexual abuse victims who are struggling with substance use disorders to help them overcome addiction.” Matzie said the grants include the following: Beaver County $282,501 to Beaver County Commissioners in grant-in-aid funding to improve probation services. $149,693 to the Women’s Center of Beaver County to provide trauma-informed Read more

 

Kinkead announces $2.7 million in grants to support criminal justice efforts in Allegheny County

(Jun 09, 2021) Allegheny County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 9 – The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency today approved more than $2.7 million in funds to support and enhance adult probation and parole services in Allegheny County, state Rep. Emily Kinkead announced. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said the funds will be used for the county’s electronic monitoring program in a continuing effort to reduce its jail population, while also providing effective supervision of eligible offenders. In addition, funding will also be used to continue its drug and alcohol treatment program and support its adult parole services. “Rather than warehousing people in the Allegheny County Jail, this funding will allow individuals under probation services to rehabilitate in the community,” Kinkead said. “Coupled with effective drug and alcohol treatment programs, this can help reduce recidivism rates and help people build back their lives as they work to reintegrate into society.” PCCD is the state’s lead agency for criminal justice policy issues, providing support services to law enforcement agencies, victims of crime and communities. More information on PCCD can be found at the following site: www.pccd.pa.gov . Read more

 

Frankel: Legislature must stop stonewalling and empower local communities to protect people

(Jun 03, 2021) Allegheny County Delegation

Legislation would allow communities to respond to shootings, violence by ending state preemption Read more

 

Matzie: Nearly $800,000 awarded to preserve historic sites in Beaver, Allegheny counties

(Jun 02, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, June 2 – Grant funding of $783,535 from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission will support projects to preserve and rehabilitate historic sites in Beaver and Allegheny counties, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie, one of the PHMC commissioners who voted today to approve the grants, said they are part of a package of $2.3 million awarded under the Keystone Historic Preservation grant program to more than 50 projects statewide through a competitive selection process. “Historic sites teach us about our roots in ways textbooks never can, by allowing us to revisit places and retrace paths built by our ancestors,” Matzie said. “Here in Beaver County, part of the funding will lay the groundwork to rehabilitate the Old Economy Ambridge Bicentennial House – one of the first six houses built by the Harmony Society in 1824. Statewide, the grants are going to ensure similar unique landmarks are preserved for future generations.” Matzie said the grants to Beaver and Allegheny counties include the following: Beaver County Ambridge Historic District Economic Development Corp. - $17,950 New Brighton Historical Society - for Preservation Plan at the Irish-Townsend House - $25,000 Allegheny County Carnegie Library of Homestead - $100,000 City of Pittsburgh - $17,500 Frick Art Read more

 

Matzie: Nearly $237,000 secured to improve Aliquippa’s West End Franklin Avenue Gateway

(May 25, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, May 25 – A $236,480 grant from the Commonwealth Financing Authority will fund a project to clear blight and improve the West End Franklin Avenue Gateway, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie said the grant to the Aliquippa Economic Development Corporation will fund demolition and construction work that will reshape the area by creating new green areas and residential spaces. “Securing this funding will allow the city to purchase and demolish seven to eight properties in the West End Franklin Avenue Gateway, with the land being offered to adjoining property owners for use as side yards or to prospective builders, in accordance with residential property resale guidelines,” Matzie said. “The grant will also fund rehabilitation of the sidewalk along the 1000 and 1100 blocks of Franklin Avenue, including replacement of access ramps and adjacent lawn restoration. “The project is going to give this section of the city a new face while generating jobs, increasing property values, and creating new living spaces that attract new residents. It’s also going to allow the city to build on other recent progress it has made on the path to renewal.” Matzie said the total project cost is $312,564, with the Aliquippa Economic Development Corporation providing $24,044 of matching funds. In December, Matzie secured a $1 Read more

 

Kinkead: North Hills Community Outreach awarded Ag and Youth Grant

(May 12, 2021) Allegheny County Delegation

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

 

Matzie: Nearly $400,000 awarded to educate, protect Beaver County kids from opioid risks
Sep 08, 2021

Matzie, Marshall and Quinn lead public hearing on solar energy in Pennsylvania
Aug 26, 2021

Matzie: More than $77,000 awarded to boost fresh fruits and vegetables for grade-schoolers
Aug 04, 2021

Matzie: Aliquippa secures more than $140,000 for blight removal project
Aug 02, 2021

Prescription drug pricing reforms essential for public health, and economy
Jul 12, 2021

Kinkead, Pashinski to discuss driving down drug costs
Jul 08, 2021

Kinkead: Pittsburgh to receive nearly $267K for traffic signal upgrades
Jul 07, 2021

Marshall, Matzie, Browne commend Gov. Wolf signing bill to expand 5G technology
Jul 01, 2021

Kinkead announces $109.5K in grants awarded to area volunteer fire, EMS companies
Jun 30, 2021

Matzie announces nearly $200,000 in fire, EMS grants
Jun 29, 2021

Matzie: New budget holds the line on taxes, makes important investments
Jun 25, 2021

Kinkead issues statement on passage of 2021-22 state budget
Jun 25, 2021

Pisciottano announces passage of bill in honor of Scott Hirsh
Jun 23, 2021

Kinkead announces $1.53 million in funding to boost affordable housing, fight homelessness, empower vulnerable residents
Jun 10, 2021

Matzie: $3.5 million awarded to strengthen Beaver, Allegheny county probation services, drug treatment, victim support programs
Jun 09, 2021

Kinkead announces $2.7 million in grants to support criminal justice efforts in Allegheny County
Jun 09, 2021

Frankel: Legislature must stop stonewalling and empower local communities to protect people
Jun 03, 2021

Matzie: Nearly $800,000 awarded to preserve historic sites in Beaver, Allegheny counties
Jun 02, 2021

Matzie: Nearly $237,000 secured to improve Aliquippa’s West End Franklin Avenue Gateway
May 25, 2021

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