Krajewski, Frankel plan to introduce legislation to legalize adult-use cannabis, prioritizing public health, community repair

(10 hours ago)

HARRISBURG, Dec. 2, 2024 – State Reps. Rick Krajewski and Dan Frankel announced Monday their co-sponsorship memo for landmark legislation to finally decriminalize cannabis in Pennsylvania , vowing to create a strong marketplace that centers public health, raises state revenue and supports individuals and communities harmed by the criminalization of cannabis. Krajewski, who led the House Health Subcommittee on Health Care, chaired five hearings to examine the successes and failures of cannabis programs in other states in the previous legislative session. “We’ve heard from public health experts. We’ve heard from criminal justice and social equity advocates. We’ve learned directly from states across the country how to get this done safely and efficiently, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in public revenue,” said Krajewski. “It’s time to move forward in Pennsylvania before we fall further behind.” Twenty-four other states – including nearly every state that shares a border in Pennsylvania – have already legalized recreational marijuana. Polls show that cannabis decriminalization is popular among Pennsylvanians across all political parties . Frankel, who is majority chair of the House Health Committee, said that the criminalization of cannabis has been disastrous for the commonwealth, particularly within communities of color. “We have a moral obligation to not Read more

 

Solar for Schools grant program now accepting applications

(10 hours ago)

HARRISBURG, Dec. 2 – A new state grant program designed to benefit Pennsylvania schools is now accepting applications until Jan 31, 2025. Solar for Schools , introduced by state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., will help school districts install solar panels on their roofs or grounds. Solar is a cheap energy source that can free up funds for schools that currently rely on fluctuating, market-rate energy. “While Solar for Schools will undoubtedly deliver tremendous savings to schools, I believe its positive impact will be even bigger,” Fiedler said. “The workers who install these solar panels will earn living wages that support their families. Kids in classrooms will get to see firsthand the careers of skilled trades workers and use the solar panels as an educational tool. And this is all while their school is contributing to a healthier environment for them to live in.” Some forward-thinking districts across Pennsylvania have already installed solar arrays and are reaping millions in savings . But not all schools have the necessary flexibility in their budgets to make such investments. In fact, the contrary is often true -- many PA school districts are recovering from decades of unconstitutional underfunding or face shrinking tax bases, expiring COVID-19 recovery funds and other financial challenges. Solar for Schools grants cover up to 50 % of the Read more

 

Neilson applauds Gov. Shapiro for redirecting federal funding to SEPTA

(Nov 22, 2024)

House Transportation Committee Chair, state Rep. Ed Neilson made the following statement on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s redirection of $153 million in federal highway capital funds to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority to allow for continued service, avoid immediate service cuts and delay more significant fare increases until July 1, 2025: “I want to thank Governor Shapiro for his leadership and support of Pennsylvania’s most complex and robust transit authority. SEPTA is a lifeline for people in Philadelphia and the outlying counties, providing almost 800,000 people daily with transportation that they might not otherwise have. “We have been sounding the alarm around public transit funding for months. On our statewide tour about the transportation needs of urban, suburban and rural Pennsylvania, we heard from countless experts who spoke of the dire consequences that would come without action from the General Assembly. “The PA House Democrats took that input seriously, passing bipartisan legislation to properly fund public transit in all 67 counties on three different occasions, which was never brought up for consideration in the Senate. “This isn’t just about buses; this is about jobs. This is about making sure that our businesses can still get their employees to work. Transit is an investment, not an expense. For every dollar invested in transit, we generate Read more

 

Bill to protect pets in domestic violence situations signed into law

(Nov 22, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 22 – State Rep. Christina Sappey, D-Chester, today announced that bipartisan legislation ( Act 146 of 2024 ) to better protect victims’ pets in domestic violence situations has been signed into law. The bill (H.B. 1210), introduced by Sappey with state Rep. Natalie Mihalek, R- Allegheny/Washington, amends Pennsylvania’s Protection from Abuse Act to give judges the ability to order defendant to refrain from possessing, abusing or harming a petitioner’s companion animal. Previously, Pennsylvania’s Protection from Abuse Act gave judges the ability to order many kinds of relief to prevent further abuse but did not give explicit authority to order protective measures for a victim’s pets. “We have known for some time the horrific link between domestic violence and animal abuse, Sappey said. “Abusers will use harming pets to further torment the victim or keep them from leaving, exacerbating an already traumatic situation.” According to the Humane Society of the United States, data on domestic violence and child abuse cases reveal that a staggering number of animals are targeted by those who abuse their children or spouses. In one survey, 71% of domestic violence victims reported their abuser also targeted pets. Researchers have found links between coercive control and the abuse of pets, with abusers often using family pets as leverage in the torment of their victims, threatening to harm or kill Read more

 

Matzie: Broadband Development Authority awards more than 9,000 laptop computers to organizations statewide

(Nov 22, 2024)

AMBRIDGE, Nov. 22 – The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority on Thursday approved distribution of more than 9,100 laptop computers to community entities statewide to help connect residents who lack digital technology, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced. Matzie, who sits on the PBDA board, said that under the Digital Connectivity Technology Program, the Baden-based Prevention Network and CLASS Academy will receive 75 laptops, and the Ambridge-based computer training school Tech2Elevate will receive 25 laptops. “Having reliable, high-speed internet means having instant access to job openings, training programs, health and safety information, online shopping and so many other resources,” Matzie said. “But too many people still lack these essential connections. Getting these laptops to organizations that can make them available to residents will help us close that digital divide.” Matzie said that in addition to the laptops going to Beaver County organizations, more than 2,000 laptops will be distributed to 25 Allegheny County organizations, including 200 laptops to the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh. Along with the equipment, Matzie said the PBDA will partner with the state Department of Labor and Industry and PA CareerLink® to introduce program participants to SkillUp™ PA , which offers no-cost online job skills training to the public. The Digital Connectivity Technology Read more

 

Guzman to host third annual Thanksgiving Resource Fair

(Nov 18, 2024)

READING, Nov. 18 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, announced today that he will host a third installment of his Thanksgiving Resource Fair to help families in need enjoy a festive meal and get access to state programs and services. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 at 206 S. Ninth St., Reading, 19602. Guzman explained that the event will feature a turkey giveaway, fresh produce and information about local programs and services. “ I am thrilled to celebrate the third edition of the fair; it’s just gotten bigger and better. I am proud to be able to support even more families this year,” Guzman said. “This time of the year can be challenging for the most vulnerable members of our community, and I want to make sure that families in need have a great meal. Another key aspect of this event is that we will be connecting individuals to state programs that are available to them,” Guzman said. “Whether a family is struggling to get affordable health insurance, pay for groceries or utility bills, this event will be a perfect opportunity to learn more about these benefits. My staff will be there ready to assist constituents.” “This fair is about making the holiday season brighter for our neighbors and bringing the spirit of giving and sense of community to life,” he said. Interested residents may contact Guzman’s Read more

 

Lawmakers explore economic, educational significance of historic preservation

(Nov 14, 2024)

“Black history is American history, and in south-central Pennsylvania, we have a wealth of historic sites worth preserving, but many of them have been under-valued or under-developed,” said hearing host Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, who represents portions of Lancaster County. “The committee heard about the economic benefit of preserving these sites, as well as the educational benefits in telling the truth and erasing popular myths that masquerade as facts.” Read more

 

Abney becomes new chair of Allegheny County House Democratic Delegation

(Nov 14, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 14 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced that he has been elected as the new chair of the Allegheny County House Democratic Delegation . “I’m grateful to my colleagues for giving me the honor to serve as chair and elevate the priorities of our delegation both in Harrisburg and across our region. With so much uncertainty facing our country and state, our region will need to display strong leadership focused on improving the quality of life for our residents,” Abney said. “I look forward to working with our government partners and other stakeholders alike to promote an agenda that is realistic, relevant and impactful.” Abney previously served as city vice chair on the delegation and assumes the role previously held by state Sen.-elect Nick Pisciottano. Abney has served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives since April 2022. Membership of the Allegheny County House Democratic Delegation is comprised of state Reps. Jessica Benham, Brandon Markosek, Dan Deasy, Dan Frankel, Matthew R. Gergely, Emily Kinkead, Anita Kulik, La’Tasha D. Mayes, Joe McAndrew, Dan Miller, Lindsay Powell, Abigail Salisbury, Mandy Steele and Arvind Venkat. State Rep.-elect John Inglis will fill the vacancy left by Pisciottano. Read more

 

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

(Nov 14, 2024)

Learn more about the multiple grant programs that are currently open for applications. Read more

 

Solomon’s legislation to update 911 emergency response headed to Gov. Shapiro’s desk

(Nov 14, 2024)

Legislation (HB1304) that will help usher in new 911 technology is set to become law, according to state Rep. Jared Solomon, majority chair of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee and author of the bill. Solomon said his bill takes a critical step in creating new safety infrastructure for the commonwealth that will provide a faster, more accurate response time by emergency responders. “Our 911 emergency departments provide critical and lifesaving services to Pennsylvanians,” Solomon said. “Unfortunately, our 911 technology has not kept pace with the needs of our communities, which leaves our neighborhoods at risk. “This is about the safety and well-being of all Pennsylvanians, equipping emergency service workers with tools that will save lives and ensuring that the commonwealth is ready for any emergency. It could be the difference between life and death in an emergency situation,” he said. The bill received final votes in the House and Senate today and now heads to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s desk to be signed into law. Read more

 

House adopts Matzie resolution to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer

(Nov 14, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 14 – The Pennsylvania House this week adopted state Rep. Rob Matzie’s resolution to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer – a disease expected to kill more than 50,000 people in the United States this year. Matzie, D-Beaver, said he introduced H.R. 514 – designating November 2024 as “Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania – to ensure continued awareness about a difficult-to-detect disease that is the nation’s third-leading cause of cancer death. “I introduce this resolution every year because this issue has touched my family,” Matzie said. “My mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Fortunately, she was one of the lucky ones – her disease was caught early, and she went on to live for eight years. Most who are diagnosed are not so lucky, as the disease spreads quickly with few symptoms in the early stages. “It’s estimated that the United States will see more than 50,000 deaths from pancreatic cancer and more than 65,000 new cases diagnosed in 2024. Until advances in diagnostics and treatment bring those numbers down, we need to do everything we can to keep the focus on this insidious disease, its risk factors and the importance of early detection.” Matzie said some of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer are jaundice, which may include dark urine and stool changes; back or abdominal pain; weight loss Read more

 

Lawmakers highlight need to address youth homelessness

(Nov 13, 2024)

“We know families that experience financial hardships will do whatever they can to survive, living with relatives by couch surfing or spending nights in a car to stay together at all costs,” said state Rep. Gina H. Curry, who represents portions of Delaware County. “Homeless youth oftentimes go undetected, with parents unwilling to reveal their financial struggles out of the fear protective services will break up their family. That’s why we suspect this problem is even greater than the reported numbers, and it’s one of the driving forces in passing legislation to address this growing population.” Read more

 

Central Pennsylvania House Delegation announces new leadership team

(Nov 13, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Nov.13 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr., chair of the Central Pennsylvania House Democratic Delegation, has been reelected to continue in his role for the 2025-26 legislative session. The delegation also elected Rep. David Madsen as vice-chair and Rep.-elect Nikki Rivera as secretary. Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz was appointed to serve a second term as treasurer of the group. Guzman said he is eagerly looking forward to the new legislative session and anticipates the development of an impactful work agenda for the benefit of all residents of the region. “I am grateful for the opportunity to chair the Central PA Delegation and most of all proud to work along an incredible group of legislators,” Guzman said. The Central PA Delegation has welcomed three new members to the group, Reps.-elect Nikki Rivera, D-Lancaster; Jacklyn Rusnock, D-Berks; and Nate Davidson, D-Cumberland/Dauphin. “I am confident that this new leadership team and members will help us bolster our shared goal of improving the quality of life in this part of the state and foster equitable and inclusive policies” Guzman added. “The Central PA Delegation is strategically gearing up for a challenging 2025-26 legislative session and certainly aiming to secure major victories for our region,” he said. Read more

 

Immigration a driving force in Pa. economy, filling labor shortages

(Nov 13, 2024)

“Immigrants are small business owners, healthcare workers, educators, and laborers,” said Rep. Danillo Burgos, who served as the hearing host. Burgos also serves as the chairman on the House Majority Policy Subcommittee on Progressive Policies and is the chairman of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus. “They support industries essential to Pennsylvania’s economy while revitalizing neighborhoods and investing in our community’s future.” Read more

 

Neilson makes statement on SEPTA’s fare increase proposal

(Nov 13, 2024)

Following SEPTA’s new fare increase proposal, announced yesterday, Majority Chair of the House Transportation Committee, state Rep. Ed Neilson, made the following statement: “I am disappointed that millions of people from Philadelphia and the outlying suburbs will be drastically impacted by SEPTA’s fare increase and major service cuts to the region,” Neilson said. “Despite months of negotiations and a statewide informational tour about the importance of funding our public transit agencies in all 67 counties, the General Assembly failed to reach an agreement. “The Pennsylvania House Democrats passed legislation three times to increase funding to SEPTA and other public transit agencies statewide without raising taxes. My legislation, House Bill 2625, which passed the House, would have prevented SEPTA’s fare increases and service cuts, while also providing increased transit funding to rural, suburban, and urban communities in all 67 counties. “Although SEPTA is the first casualty of this inaction, it will not be the last. During the House Transportation Committee’s statewide tour over the summer, we heard from every transit agency about how they are facing the same fiscal challenges as SEPTA. Soon, other vital public transit agencies throughout the state will have to make the same hard choices as SEPTA without additional state funding. “As Majority Chair of the Read more

 

PA House Democratic Caucus announces Leadership Team

(Nov 12, 2024)

Meet the 2025-2026 Leadership Team fighting for every Pennsylvanian. Read more

 

Matzie elected chairman of the House Majority Caucus

(Nov 12, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 12 – State Rep. Rob Matzie was elected today by his House legislative colleagues to serve as Majority Caucus Chair for the 2024-25 legislative session. “I’m honored and excited to lead the House Majority Caucus forward,” Matzie said. “Our caucus members may represent different regions of the state with diverse needs and priorities, but every single member shares the same overriding goal: to improve the lives of the people we serve. “We do that best when we come together and collaborate to craft a legislative agenda that responds to the real-world needs of the people we serve. Our caucus has always been driven by a special energy that comes from a desire to bring positive, practical change. “I intend to keep that energy going as we work to promote the priorities that matter to Pennsylvanians – better jobs, quality public schools, more affordable housing, health care and child care – and more of the opportunities that make life promising for people.” The Caucus Chair is part of the House of Representatives leadership team and is responsible for preparing other members for legislation being considered in the House, running caucus meetings, and ensuring legislators can effectively represent their districts. Matzie was elected to the Pennsylvania House in 2008, and this term has served as majority chair of the House Consumer Read more

 

National Popular Vote Introduced in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

(Nov 12, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 12 – A group of Republican and Democratic legislators introduced the National Popular Vote bill (H.B. 2662) in Harrisburg today. The bill would include Pennsylvania in the growing number of states who want to guarantee the presidency to the candidate who wins the most popular votes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The bill is called the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. “As the lead author of the National Popular Vote bill, I think it is imperative to work across party lines and am grateful my Republican colleagues are lending their voice and support to this effort,” said state Rep. Chris Rabb, D-Phila. “Every voter, of every party, should have an equal voice in every presidential election and the National Popular Vote bill is the only plan that credibly delivers on that promise.” The National Popular Vote bill has been enacted in 17 states and the District of Columbia, totaling 209 electoral votes. The bill guarantees the presidency to the candidate who wins the most popular votes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia and takes effect when states with 270 electoral votes have passed the bill. The legislation has passed Republican- and Democratic-controlled chambers in seven additional states with 74 electoral votes, more than the 61 required for the bill to be in place for the 2028 presidential elections. “One-person, one-vote is not a Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation releases statement on SEPTA proposals

(Nov 12, 2024)

The Philadelphia House Delegation today released the following statement in reaction to this morning’s announcement from SEPTA regarding major fare increases and service cuts proposed to begin on Jan. 1. The following statement can be attributed to Philadelphia House Delegation Chairwoman Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila.“This morning's announcement from SEPTA is not a surprise and lays squarely at the feet of Senate Republicans,” Cephas said. “The House approved funding for mass transit three times over the last session, with no real action and vague concepts of ideas from the Senate in return. Our delegation is hopeful that 2025 will bring a more productive collaboration on a responsible solution that will serve the daily needs of nearly one million daily SEPTA riders and the increased tourism expected for our region in 2026. In the short term, Philadelphians who are already struggling through difficult finances will brace for another impact to their wallets and time.”The current legislative term ends on Nov. 30, after which any legislation not signed into law will need to be reintroduced and restart the legislative process in the new term, which begins on Jan. 7. Read more

 

PA House Democrats Ready to Keep Fighting for Every Pennsylvanian

(Nov 08, 2024)

“For the past two years, House Democrats worked on the issues people care about, like cutting costs for working families, record investments in public education, delivering much-needed property tax and rent relief, keeping prescription costs down for seniors, strengthening our workforce and economy and making government work. Read more

 

Krajewski, Frankel plan to introduce legislation to legalize adult-use cannabis, prioritizing public health, community repair
10 hours ago

Solar for Schools grant program now accepting applications
10 hours ago

Neilson applauds Gov. Shapiro for redirecting federal funding to SEPTA
Nov 22, 2024

Bill to protect pets in domestic violence situations signed into law
Nov 22, 2024

Matzie: Broadband Development Authority awards more than 9,000 laptop computers to organizations statewide
Nov 22, 2024

Guzman to host third annual Thanksgiving Resource Fair
Nov 18, 2024

Lawmakers explore economic, educational significance of historic preservation
Nov 14, 2024

Abney becomes new chair of Allegheny County House Democratic Delegation
Nov 14, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Nov 14, 2024

Solomon’s legislation to update 911 emergency response headed to Gov. Shapiro’s desk
Nov 14, 2024

House adopts Matzie resolution to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer
Nov 14, 2024

Lawmakers highlight need to address youth homelessness
Nov 13, 2024

Central Pennsylvania House Delegation announces new leadership team
Nov 13, 2024

Immigration a driving force in Pa. economy, filling labor shortages
Nov 13, 2024

Neilson makes statement on SEPTA’s fare increase proposal
Nov 13, 2024

PA House Democratic Caucus announces Leadership Team
Nov 12, 2024

Matzie elected chairman of the House Majority Caucus
Nov 12, 2024

National Popular Vote Introduced in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Nov 12, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation releases statement on SEPTA proposals
Nov 12, 2024

PA House Democrats Ready to Keep Fighting for Every Pennsylvanian
Nov 08, 2024