Local lawmakers are thrilled that the state is finally permitting Erie County to enter the Green Re-Opening Phase Read more
But they warn the virus is still very much alive and well, and the people of Erie cannot let down their guard. Read more
State Representative Ryan Bizzarro ‘Optimistic’ Over Erie County’s Possible Move into Green Phase This Friday Read more
ERIE, June 10 – Erie law enforcement will be able to apply for up to $154,780 in emergency funding to address challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, state Reps. Ryan Bizzarro, Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, all D-Erie, announced today. The lawmakers said the federal Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding – administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency – will fund critical protections for workers and the communities they serve. “I know from my work as a victim/witness coordinator and victims’ rights advocate how much of our criminal justice system depends on face-to-face, time-sensitive work such as interviewing witnesses and supporting and treating crime victims,” Bizzarro said. “ This funding is going to help address the added challenges staff face in carrying out those essential duties safely in the midst of the pandemic.” Harkins said, “Law enforcement agencies and staff already face a host of challenges, and the pandemic has added another whole layer of logistical problems. Containing the spread of COVID-19 – whether in our county jails, juvenile detention centers, courthouses or the general community – requires resources and planning. This funding will help our agencies implement infection control and keep our dedicated criminal justice workers safe in the field.” Merski said the funding will support a broad Read more
ERIE, June 5 – Joined by fellow Erie lawmakers on the steps of the county courthouse, state Reps. Pat Harkins, Bob Merski, and Ryan Bizzarro, all D-Erie, expressed deep frustration that Erie is not among the counties moving to the green phase of the state’s reopen plan Friday, June 12. “We had a conference call with one of the governor’s staff, and it did not go well,” Harkins said. “Secretary Levine was on the call. We presented the numbers we are working from, and we asked for additional information. We never received it. “As I was on the phone most of last evening, my line was blowing up with calls from residents and business owners I totally sympathize with. Then, this morning, after we had a press call arranged with the governor, he jumped off the call. “I ran for this office 14 years ago to speak for people who don’t have a voice in Harrisburg. Now, I feel like we don’t have a voice. I worked with the Teamsters and with UPS for 25 years, and I have never experienced anything like this. I have supported Tom Wolf and worked well with him, but this is uncalled for. We need to stick together and do what we have to do to move Erie green.” Merski said, “Today, from the data we received from the state, there are five new cases. We’re keeping this county closed for five new cases. This is ridiculous. “I have stuck with the governor and I Read more
"I am urging businesses to operate as if they were under the green phase today," Bizzarro said. Read more
Leaders of both parties say Erie County should move to green phase Read more
In 2019, Rep. Bizzarro was the primary sponsor of 11 bills that were passed by both the House and the Senate. Read more
County leaders write letter to Governor Wolf urging to allow Erie County to enter green phase Read more
ERIE, June 3 – Renewing their demand to open Erie County, state Reps. Ryan Bizzarro, Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, all D-Erie, have written to Gov. Tom Wolf urging him to add the county to the list of others moving to the “green” phase of the state’s reopen plan on June 5. The lawmakers say they hope the letter – co-signed by state Sens. Dan Laughlin and Michele Brooks; state Reps. Curt Sonney and Brad Roae; and local mayors and county executives – will bring swift action. Bizzarro said, “We’re continuing to push the administration to move Erie to green, for the sake of our small businesses and local economy. Each day that goes by makes it that much harder for these businesses to get back on their feet. To be sure, the health of our residents is priority No. 1, but we must not ignore the health of our local economy, which is hanging in the balance.” Merski said, “Keeping Erie in the yellow is doing nothing to keep residents safer; it’s only hurting our local businesses. Surrounding counties – including those in Ohio and New York – are fully open, forcing Erie consumers to travel elsewhere for services. It only creates unnecessary competition for our business community and increases the risk of spreading the virus. “What’s more, the numbers don’t support the continued restrictions: Statistics from our local health department show that our county Read more
ERIE, May 31 – State Reps. Ryan Bizzarro, Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, all D-Erie, issued the following statements today in response to reports that peaceful community protests over the death of George Floyd turned violent last night in Erie: Bizzarro said, “ The events of the weekend, and the senseless acts against black Americans, are weighing heavily on our nation and our community. The injustices and struggles people of color continue to endure are disgraceful and must end. While I may never fully understand all the challenges they face, I stand firmly against racism. “Protesting is an important part of implementing change, but I believe our community must do so peacefully and without causing harm to others or property. I am calling for peace and unity in our community and for us to join together in support of our black neighbors, family and friends. They are afraid for their sons, daughters, fathers, mothers and more. We must be there to comfort and support them in this time and emerge with a new respect and camaraderie so we can make meaningful and bold steps to eradicate racism.” Merski said, "This weekend in Erie, peaceful protests over the death of George Floyd erupted into violence. It isn’t hard to understand the anger: George Floyd’s death at the hands of police was brutal and senseless – and sadly, a familiar reality for so many Americans of color. "While Read more
ERIE, May 29 – State Reps. Bob Merski, Pat Harkins and Ryan Bizzarro, all D-Erie, issued the following statements in response to Gov. Tom Wolf’s announcement today that Erie County will not be among the Pennsylvania counties moving to the green reopen phase of the state’s reopen plan on June 5. “I am extremely disappointed in the governor’s decision to keep Erie County in the yellow, restricted phase,” Merski said. “Although our county saw a brief spike last week, the numbers have stabilized, and we are ready for the next steps in reopening. “I have been fighting for our county to move into the green phase because I’m convinced that our residents are able to do the right thing. Erie County residents have been doing their part to slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing masks and social distancing, and will continue that responsible behavior in the weeks to come. We have done what was asked of us. It’s time to let Erie open all of its doors.” Bizzarro said, “I’m calling on the governor to reconsider his decision, which I believe is the wrong move for our county. Erie residents are responsible, resourceful and careful. Our business owners understand how to keep residents safe, and our community is aware of social distancing and other safety protocols. They want to get back to supporting our community and our local economy. It’s time to get Read more
Rep. Ryan Bizzarro expresses his opposition to HR836. Read more
HARRISBURG, May 28 – Volunteer fire and emergency medical service companies would receive a one-time crisis grant with the passage of S.B. 1122, state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie, announced today. The bill, unanimously passed by the state House, establishes the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program. A total of $50 million in Federal CARES Funding earmarked for fire and EMS companies would be awarded thanks to the program. “Volunteer fire and EMS companies are the backbone of our emergency response. This pandemic has crippled their ability to raise funds needed to uphold public safety. I am proud to support this legislation to support these heroes, especially during this trying time,” Bizzarro said. The bill now awaits the governor’s signature for enactment. Read more
HARRISBURG, May 21-- State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie, said he is proud to report the House adopted his House resolution recognizing Esports Month in the commonwealth. House Resolution 647 designated February 2020 as Esports Month in Pennsylvania. The industry is estimated to see revenue of $1.8 billion by the end of 2021. Global spectators of the sport are anticipated to reach nearly 650 million by the end of this year. “I am really proud this resolution was adopted and that we can recognize esports. They encourage problem solving skills, tech fluency and encourage an interest in STEM,” Bizzarro said. “While we’re laser focused on safely re-opening Pennsylvania, it’s important that we don’t lose sight of the need to encourage extracurricular activities that can help hone in skills applicable to the digital workforce.” Bizzarro said Edinboro University recently launched its varsity esports program and is ranked as a top school in the nation to procure a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science for Game and Virtual World Development. Read more
HARRISBURG, May 20 -- State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro announced today that Erie Child Care Providers will receive more than $1 million in funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. “Child care providers are the key reason why essential employees are able to work and provide the services and goods we need to survive this pandemic. Our community cannot function without them and we are grateful for their pivotal role-especially amidst this pandemic,” expressed Bizzarro. The $1,011,700 earmarked for Erie Childcare providers was distributed in partnership with the General Assembly. Funds will be distributed to eligible, certified child care providers through regional Early Learning Resource Centers (ELRCs). OCDEL determined eligibility for funding and amount of award based on the type and size of provider, number of active enrollments in Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized child care, child care capacity, and licensure status. A base payment is set by licensure type and capacity and providers can receive additional funding for CCW enrollments and if they operate in a county determined to have moderate or acute capacity issues The attestation form and process for the CARES Act funds for child care providers can be found here . Read more
Today, State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro announced that child care providers across Erie will receive more than $1 million in funding from the CARES act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act). Read more
HARRISBURG, May 19 – State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro said that Gov. Tom Wolf today signed into law a bill that will expedite the distribution of property tax/rent rebate payments to seniors. “Eligible residents who depend on these rebates will receive them earlier than anticipated and at time where there is so much uncertainty, I am happy to report this good news to those waiting for these payments,” Bizzarro said. “The General Assembly moved quickly to get this legislation to the governor and this is a great example of how bipartisanship can best benefit our state.” Property tax and rent rebate payments will now be made immediately instead of waiting until July 1. It also directs the departments of Revenue and Treasury to process 2019 rebate payments for all homeowners and renters who received a 2018 rebate. For anyone who became eligible in the past year, those rebates would also be issued immediately upon receipt of their application instead of waiting until July. Payments are being sent out to those who have already filed for Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. Bizzarro urges residents who have not yet applied to contact his office at 814-835-2880 for free assistance with the application process. Read more
ERIE, May 18– State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro announced he is partnering with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office to host a live webcast even to help participants avoid falling victim to fraud and scams related to the novel coronavirus. The live webcast will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 20. Information will be provided on treatment, supply and provider scams, and more. “This is a great event to ensure you’re protecting yourself from those looking to take advantage of citizens in this vulnerable time. It’s unfortunate that these people exist, especially in these times, but arming yourself with this information will help,” Bizzarro said. Participation is limited to the first 100 participants and registrations should be sent to coalitionpathwaysinc@gmail.com . Confirmed participants will receive a link with a passcode for admission to the event. Pennsylvanians who believe they have fallen victim to a scam can submit online complaints to www.attorneygeneral.com/covid19 . Read more
HARRISBURG, May 14 – In support of local businesses and to stimulate Pennsylvania’s economy, state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro today voted for legislation that would issue waivers to the Governor’s business closure to select essential businesses in compliance with CDC guidelines in response to COVID-19 reopening efforts. “I voted ‘yes’ because I believe these businesses can resume operations while practicing the CDC recommended guidelines for safety in mitigating COVID-19. I’m willing to let companies reopen as long as they do their best to keep employees and customers safe. This is not a blank check for ReOpen PA to run all over without masks. People must use their best judgement when they go out and about. Wearing a mask, continuing to practice social distancing, washing hands are all going to help keep everyone healthy and safe,” Bizzarro said. House Bill 2388 would immediately issue a waiver to the Governor’s business closure order to the following businesses: vehicle dealers lawn and garden centers cosmetology salons barber shops messenger service and agent service activities animal grooming services manufacturing operations Businesses would be required to adhere to social distancing practices and mitigation efforts recommended by the CDC. CDC guidelines include employers, employees and patrons wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, Read more
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