Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Rep. Joseph Ciresi | NewsCenter Search Page
Featured News

Ciresi introduces legislation to prevent gift card scams

Rep. Joseph Ciresi

News Center

RSVP to My Oct. 3rd Fraud Event

(Sep 26, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

Sept. 26 e-newsletter Read more

 

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

(Sep 26, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Standardized Program Evaluation Protocol (SPEP) Implementation Who May Apply: Non-profit entities and institutions of higher education Use: To assess the quality of services provided to system-involved youth, support providers in creating and implementing quality improvement plans, and measure progress through follow-up evaluations. Funds: A total of $1,400,000 in state Violence and Delinquency Prevention Programs funds is being announced to support this initiative. PCCD expects to fund one grant with a budget not to exceed $1,400,000 over the 18-month project period. Application Deadline: October 14, 2025 More information: PCCD Website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Law Enforcement and Youth R/ED Training Who May Apply: Any organization that can demonstrate the ability to provide training and technical assistance to members of law enforcement interacting with youth in their communities, including, but not limited to, police, probation, and school personnel. Use: To provide training and technical assistance to law enforcement entities across the Commonwealth to improve interactions with youth in their communities. Funds: A total of $250,000 in federal Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention funds is being announced to support this initiative. PCCD expects to fund one grant with a budget not to exceed $250,000 over the two-year Read more

 

Ciresi to hold fraud event for area seniors, Friday, Oct. 3

(Sep 25, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

ROYERSFORD, Sept. 25 –State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, will host a fraud event for seniors, “Popular Scams and How to Avoid Them,” from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, Oct. 3 at the Royersford Free Public Library. “Our senior population is the biggest target for scams in Pennsylvania, so I wanted to help residents learn how to spot common scams to protect their finances,” Ciresi said. “I am grateful to Ambler Mayor Jeanne Sorg; Erin Cohen from Ambler Savings Bank; and Kate Kleinert from the AARP Consumer Task Force for their presentations that will provide our audience members with critical information and tools to help them safeguard their finances and prevent their lives from being upended by scammers.” At the event, Sorg will give a quick update on FraudSleuth, a property fraud profile feature with automatic alerts offered by the Montgomery County Recorder of Deeds. Cohen will give a presentation on check washing and business scams. Kleinert will give a talk on romance scams targeting the senior population. According to the FBI , millions of seniors each year are successfully targeted by scammers, to the tune of $3 billion in losses annually. Seniors are often targeted because they tend to be trusting, have savings, are homeowners and have good credit. “As the senior population in Pennsylvania grows, so does the problem of elder fraud,” Ciresi said. “I hope attendees come away with the knowledge Read more

 

Montgomery County federal, state and local officials protest SNAP cuts, changes

(Sep 24, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

POTTSTOWN, Sept. 23 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi and Sen. Art Haywood, both D-Montgomery, spoke today about the impact of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program changes and cuts in Montgomery County. “SNAP has for decades enabled low-income Pennsylvanians to put food on their families’ tables and supported our communities’ social health and economic stability,” Ciresi said. “At a time when food insecurity is growing in Montgomery County, the federal budget cuts and changes to SNAP will have an impact on our communities like that of an asteroid hitting earth. There’ll be a ground zero and then ripples outward from the impact. None of us will be unaffected.” Ciresi said food insecurity in Montgomery County is growing at the time the SNAP cuts are being enacted. According to Feeding America , 9.9% of Montgomery County’s population, or 85,500 people, were food insecure in 2023, and 40% of the population was below the SNAP threshold. According to a 2024 Montgomery County report, SNAP enrollment in Montgomery County had tripled, from 17,194 in 2004 to 62,700 in 2023. “At ground zero, it’s the 144,000 Pennsylvanians—430 in my district—who will lose 100% of their SNAP benefits. These food insecure people will now have to decide whether to eat or to spend their money on necessities—such as rent and utilities or transportation or even laundry detergent for clean clothes. “Next, Read more

 

Budget impacts + 422 updates

(Sep 19, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

Budget impacts + 422 updates Read more

 

Ciresi and Comitta introduce companion legislation to grow PA tourism

(Sep 10, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

HARRISBURG, Sept. 10 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, and Sen. Carolyn Comitta, D-Chester, this week introduced companion legislation, H.B. 1852 and S.B. 994, which would increase support for the Tourism Promotion Fund to promote and market Pennsylvania’s desirability as a vacation location to out-of-state tourists. A long-time supporter of legislative initiatives to increase Pennsylvania’s visibility as a tourist destination, Ciresi said, “Investing in our tourism industry is a win-win for Pennsylvania. As one of our largest industries, tourism drives economies both big and small, creating family-supporting jobs throughout the state. The money from our tourism industry also goes back into the economy, supporting our festivals, performances, cultural events, and cultural and historical sites -- in addition to our restaurants, our hotels and more. When Pennsylvania’s tourism thrives, so does every aspect of life in the commonwealth, from corner to corner. “As Pennsylvania is at the center of America250's celebrations, we should seize the moment to expand our tourism efforts and maximize on the economic opportunities it will offer the commonwealth.” The Pennsylvania Tourism Office released a report last year showing that Pennsylvania welcomed 192.4 million visitors in 2022, generating $76.7 billion in economic impact, supporting 486,871 jobs, and contributing $4.7 billion in state and local taxes. “By expanding Read more

 

Ciresi visits The Goddard School of Royersford to promote pre-K education

(Sep 04, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

ROYERSFORD, Sept. 4 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, today read to pre-K students at The Goddard School of Royersford to highlight the importance of early education on children’s development. “ Study after study has demonstrated that a quality early education is the foundation for a child’s social, psychological, and intellectual development,” Ciresi said. “If it weren’t for the education I received early in life, I wouldn’t be in the position I am in now to pay it forward as a state representative advocating for early education opportunities in Pennsylvania. I was happy to share my love of reading with the young learners at The Goddard School and applaud and support the school’s work educating our young residents.” “We were honored to welcome Representative Joe Ciresi to our school, and it was a wonderful opportunity for our students and teachers to engage with a community leader who values early childhood education,” said Samantha Mitkus, owner of The Goddard School of Royersford. “Events like these help our young learners feel seen and inspired while also affirming the vital role our educators play in shaping the future. We’re grateful for his support.” The Goddard School of Royersford serves local families seeking high-quality early childhood education for children ages six weeks to six Read more

 

Happy Labor Day weekend + Pothole update

(Aug 29, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

Happy Labor Day weekend + Pothole update Read more

 

Every Child Deserves Access to Quality Health Care

(Aug 18, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

Dear Neighbor, Between this weekend and Oct. 3, there are lots of community events to mark on your calendar. My staff and I look forward to seeing you! Upcoming Events Limerick Community Day This Saturday, Aug. 16, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. See you there! Other upcoming events: Read more

 

Price gouging of seniors

(Aug 13, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

ROYERSFORD, Aug. 13 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, today released the following statement regarding proposed lot rate increases at the Willow Run manufactured housing community in Limerick Township: “The proposed rent increase at Willow Run is deeply troubling. Raising lot rents by over 50% with just a month’s notice – on top of already steep increases over the past several years – is not only unreasonable, but also disruptive and destabilizing for a community of seniors who deserve better. “These are Pennsylvanians who’ve built their lives, raised their families, and planned for retirement in a community they thought was safe and economical. This sudden spike threatens their ability to remain in their homes and maintain the stability they’ve worked for their entire lives. It’s not bad business – it’s bad policy, and it undermines the very idea of attainable housing for older adults. “I stand with the Willow Run community and demand this hike be delayed, re-evaluated, and scaled back immediately. I urge the owners to open direct communication with the community and develop a rent adjustment plan that is fair, gradual and transparent. Across Pennsylvania – the fifth-oldest state in the country – there are more than 2,000 mobile or manufactured home communities, and 21 right here in Montgomery County. Those in elected office cannot be Read more

 

National Night Out 2025 is August 5th!

(Aug 01, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

National Night Out 2025 is August 5th! Read more

 

Bridge Updates from the District

(Jul 25, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

Dear Neighbor, Transportation, specifically PennDOT, is one of the most common touchpoints between people and their state government. It is also one of the many reasons why I hope we will wrap up our state’s 2025-26 budget in the coming days (not weeks). Below is an update about the High Street Bridge that carries vehicles over Sprogel’s Run in Lower Pottsgrove: UPDATE The detour (no left on Sunnybrook Road) will be removed the week of August 4, according to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) . Initial work is wrapping up on the eastern side of the bridge, which permits the termination of this inconvenient detour. Thank you for your patience. I have repeatedly emphasized the importance of moving quickly on these repairs, since this is a vital connection between Pottstown Borough and neighboring townships. Ambulances rush people to the local hospital, while fire trucks need reliable access with minimal detours. Crews will soon begin on the western side (pictured below). This bridge was constructed in 1910 and needs lots of work to ensure safety for travelers. At this time, it remains to be determined if a full replacement or rehabilitation will be selected. A design Read more

 

Weekly update: Roads, grants, and more

(Jul 18, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

Weekly update: Roads, grants, and more Read more

 

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

(Jul 17, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Community and Economic Development: Main Street Matters (MSM) Who May Apply: Units of local government, redevelopment and/or housing authorities, nonprofits, economic development organizations, housing corporations, community development corporations, business improvement districts, neighborhood improvement districts, downtown improvement districts, and similar organizations incorporated as authorities. Use: A flexible tool for use in community and economic development for a variety of uses including planning activities, façade grant programs, business improvement grant programs, accessible housing programs, and district development grants. Funds: Individual grant awards vary depending on the type of grant. Application Deadline: August 31, 2025 More information: DCED Website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (SCIP) Who May Apply: Municipalities and counties Use: Advance crisis intervention programs that target the risk factors likely to lead to gun violence and implement projects that support emerging issues and priorities adopted within its SCIP Funding Framework. Funds: A combined total of $4,071,291 in federal FY 2022-2023 and FY 2024 Byrne SCIP Local and Under $10K Share funds is being announced to support this initiative. PCCD expects to fund approximately 20 grants with budgets not to exceed $200,000 over the Read more

 

Ciresi: Over $3.8 million secured for Montgomery County housing assistance, homelessness prevention, home modification programs

(Jul 14, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

ROYERSFORD, June 13 – Grants totaling $3.85 million assist Montgomery County residents with secure, permanent housing and give existing homeowners the resources needed to repair their aging homes were announced today by state Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery. Read more

 

Ciresi’s ‘Click to Cancel’ legislation passes House

(Jul 08, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

HARRISBURG, July 8 – Legislation aimed at strengthening Pennsylvania consumer protections for online subscriptions, sponsored by Rep. Joe Ciresi, overwhelmingly passed the House today (181-22). “My House Bill 1299 would empower Pennsylvania’s consumers by creating a ‘click to cancel’ rule to make it easy for them to cancel unwanted subscriptions online instead of having to speak with a customer service representative and listen to lengthy sales pitches when they just want to terminate an unwanted subscription quickly,” Ciresi said. “My legislation would also require clarity and transparency in online subscription contracts, so consumers know about the ‘strings’ attached to free gifts and trial periods.” Ciresi’s bill would amend the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law by requiring businesses which offer automatic renewals to: Provide renewal terms, cancellation policy, and how to cancel in a “clear and conspicuous Manner.” Provide a clear and conspicuous explanation of the price that will be charged after a free trial ends and the deadline by which a consumer must cancel to avoid being charged. Allow a customer who signs up online to cancel online (“click to cancel”). Disclose any material changes in the automatic renewal in a clear and conspicuous manner that can also be retained by the consumer. Not intentionally misrepresent automatic Read more

 

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

(Jul 08, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Transportation: Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Who May Apply: Local governments, regional transportation authorities, transit agencies, natural resource or public land agencies, school districts, tribal governments or nonprofits with a separate eligible applicant. Use: To construct pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improve access to public transportation, create safe routes to school, incorporate community improvements such as historic preservation and vegetation management, provide environmental mitigation related to stormwater and habitat connectivity, create trail projects that serve a transportation purpose, and provide for vulnerable road user safety assessment program projects. Funds: $80 million in funding is available through the Federal Highway Administration’s Surface Block Grant Program. Awards will be at least $50,000 and at maximum $1.5 million. This is a reimbursement program and no funds are provided upfront. Application Deadline: Webinar will be held July 9, 2025. Application period opens July 14, 2025. Draft applications due September 5, 2025. Final applications due October 31, 2025 More information: PennDOT 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 Read more

 

Office Closed for July 3rd & 4th for Independence Day; Spring-Ford Rebate forms now available

(Jul 03, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

Read my email update from July 2, 2025 Read more

 

Ciresi bill to require clear signage for land development passes House

(Jun 11, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

HARRISBURG, June 11 – Legislation sponsored by state Rep. Joe Ciresi ( H.B. 375 ) that would increase residents’ awareness of proposed subdivision and land development projects in their area passed the House today with overwhelming bipartisan support ( 108-95 ). “Residents need to know what developments are going up in their area, but property developers are often leaving them in the dark by just putting up hard-to-see, impossible-to-read ‘notices’ on nothing more than 8½-inch by 11-inch sheets of paper,” Ciresi said. “My bill would help create greater community awareness of proposed developments at negligible costs to the property developer by requiring developers to post conspicuous signs of a minimum size and lettering that detail the project, so they be easily seen from the road.” The legislation would amend the Municipalities Planning Code so that no later than seven days after the first official submission of a subdivision or land development application, the subdivider or developer would post signs a minimum of nine square feet in surface area that can be read from a viewing distance of 50 feet, have a summary title in a minimum of 4-inch lettering, are conspicuously posted along external road frontage, and include a description of the proposed project and which local governmental entity is reviewing the development application. “If we want the public to be more aware of what’s going on in their Read more

 

House Communications & Technology Committee approves bills to strengthen consumer protections in Pennsylvania

(Jun 10, 2025) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

HARRISBURG, June 10 – The newly formed House Communications & Technology Committee approved two bills that would strengthen consumer protections for automatically renewing subscriptions in Pennsylvania and sent them to the full House for further consideration, Majority Chair State Rep. Joe Ciresi announced today. The bills would protect Pennsylvanians by creating consumer protection requirements for automatically renewing (negative option) subscription plans and by providing notifications before each automatic renewal, requiring transparency about renewal terms and allowing subscribers to cancel subscription services online, also known as click to cancel. “These bills demonstrate the committee’s continued fulfillment of its mission to empowering the public with clear and accurate communications, ensuring consumers can make informed decisions and companies can’t rely on misleading terms and conditions or making it difficult to cancel a subscription,” said Ciresi, D-Montgomery. “By requiring transparency in companies’ communications about their subscriptions, consumers will save money by being aware of the ‘strings attached’ to certain subscriptions and having adequate time to cancel subscriptions they no longer want prior to automatic renewals.” The following bills were approved: House Bill 129 (Rep. Lisa Borowski) would help inform and empower consumers by requiring pre-renewal reminders and clearly Read more

 

RSVP to My Oct. 3rd Fraud Event
Sep 26, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Sep 26, 2025

Ciresi to hold fraud event for area seniors, Friday, Oct. 3
Sep 25, 2025

Montgomery County federal, state and local officials protest SNAP cuts, changes
Sep 24, 2025

Budget impacts + 422 updates
Sep 19, 2025

Ciresi and Comitta introduce companion legislation to grow PA tourism
Sep 10, 2025

Ciresi visits The Goddard School of Royersford to promote pre-K education
Sep 04, 2025

Happy Labor Day weekend + Pothole update
Aug 29, 2025

Every Child Deserves Access to Quality Health Care
Aug 18, 2025

Price gouging of seniors
Aug 13, 2025

National Night Out 2025 is August 5th!
Aug 01, 2025

Bridge Updates from the District
Jul 25, 2025

Weekly update: Roads, grants, and more
Jul 18, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jul 17, 2025

Ciresi: Over $3.8 million secured for Montgomery County housing assistance, homelessness prevention, home modification programs
Jul 14, 2025

Ciresi’s ‘Click to Cancel’ legislation passes House
Jul 08, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jul 08, 2025

Office Closed for July 3rd & 4th for Independence Day; Spring-Ford Rebate forms now available
Jul 03, 2025

Ciresi bill to require clear signage for land development passes House
Jun 11, 2025

House Communications & Technology Committee approves bills to strengthen consumer protections in Pennsylvania
Jun 10, 2025