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Shapiro signs Cephas bill to strengthen doula services in Pa.

(3 hours ago) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

“Research has shown that doula support leads to improved birth outcomes, including reduced rates of cesarean sections, shorter labor durations and higher rates of breastfeeding initiation. By providing continuous support throughout pregnancy and the important first year following birth, doulas contribute to safer and more positive experiences for families," Cephas said. "Lack of coverage for doula services in Medicaid leads to a vast disparity in care for women who are already statistically at risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes, with Black birthing people at the highest risk of maternal and infant mortality and morbidity compared to other racial and ethnic groups. This new law will give these parents a proven network of support needed to produce better mental and physical health outcomes during their birthing journey. " Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities For Your District

(23 hours ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Community and Economic Development: Mixed-Use Housing Development Pilot Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, Economic Development Organizations, Redevelopment Authorities, Municipal Authorities, Industrial Development Authorities, For-Profit organizations. Use: Mixed-use site development, conversion projects, rehabilitation projects, a combination of the three afore-mentioned projects. Funds: $10 million in PA Sites funding has been allocated for this program. There is no limit on the amount of grant funding that may be awarded to an applicant. Application Deadline: December 6, 2024 More information: DCED Website Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Recovery Support Services (RSS) Who May Apply: Applicant must have at least two years of experience as of July 1, 2024, providing RSS and demonstrate the capacity to provide RSS to individuals in recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD) and other concurrent substance use disorder (SUD). Use: Expand or enhance RSS to individuals in recover from OUD and other concurrent SUD. Funds: Approximately six grants totaling $1,500,000 each will be awarded. Application Deadline: November 15, 2024 More information: DDAP Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Community and Economic Development: PA SITES Who May Apply: Municipalities, economic Read more

 

Testifiers detail need to bolster state support of senior citizens

(1 day ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

The House Majority Policy Committee convened a hearing Tuesday morning to discuss ways the state can boost support for its senior population, hosted by Reps. Jim Haddock (D-Lackawanna, Luzerne) and Eddie Day Pashinski (D-Luzerne). Read more

 

Lawmakers highlight impact of tax credits for PA families, workers

(1 day ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“House Democrats are laser focused on helping working families and workers,” said state Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, who hosted the hearing. “As we heard today, Pennsylvania is losing young families and young workers to neighboring states – because Pennsylvania needs to bolster its investments in its working families, its workforce and its future.” Read more

 

Fleming bill for diabetes awareness headed to governor’s desk

(Oct 25, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Oct. 25 – A bill sponsored by state Rep. Justin Fleming directing Pennsylvania schools to send home information about type 1 diabetes and its warning signs passed the state House and Senate and is now headed to the governor’s desk. “The warning signs of type 1 diabetes can often go unnoticed, so knowing what to look for is literally lifesaving,” Fleming, D-Dauphin, said. “This legislation will help empower individuals with diabetes education so they can act when warning signs appear. This bill is also very personal as my daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in June 2020.” Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the pancreas shuts down, failing to provide insulin that the body needs to regulate blood glucose. Those who have type 1 diabetes are dependent on pharmaceutically manufactured insulin for life. For many, the signs of type 1 diabetes can go unnoticed for longer periods of time resulting in a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, leading to serious health complications that may even be fatal. Recognizing the signs of diabetes early, along with targeted screening and monitoring, have been shown to reduce the incidence of DKA, reduce rates of hospitalization and, most importantly, save lives, Fleming said. "The most common age range for a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes is between 6-16. This legislation will make sure that parents and guardians are equipped Read more

 

Williams praises Nonprofit Security Grant Program Awards

(Oct 25, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Oct. 25 - State Rep. Williams, D-Chester, said today he was proud to report state investments to protect people who could be vulnerable to acts of hate. The following organizations received awards from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Domestic Violence Center of Chester County $70,000 Masjid Al Rahman of Chester County Inc. $25,000 “Every Pennsylvanian deserves the right to feel safe, whether in their own home or in their space of worship,” said Williams. “This funding will go to proven measures that deter violence at home and be targeted towards specific religious communities, and help foster a community that continues to stand up to hate. I applaud the administration for protecting people in harm’s way, and I look forward to supporting this life-saving program in future budgets.” PCCD administers the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program , which has provided $25 million in funding to more than 580 organizations since its inception. This latest, seventh round of grants will go to 208 nonprofit organizations, including 102 organizations that had never received funding through this program. More information about the 208 selected applicants, the county served and award amounts can be found on the PCCD website . Read more

 

Shusterman family law arbitration bill signed into law by Gov. Shapiro

(Oct 24, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“Resolving family law disputes through court proceedings can be a bitter and financially ruinous process,” Shusterman said. “The partner with deeper pockets and access to the best legal counsel often has an advantage, frequently placing children in the middle of drawn-out legal battles. This law will give families another option to settle disputes, which can be especially helpful in matters of domestic violence as arbitration can lead to quicker resolutions." Read more

 

Giral welcomes over $3.5 million in community grants

(Oct 23, 2024) Rep. Jose Giral

HARRISBURG, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Jose Giral, D-Phila., announced that over $3.5 million in state funding was awarded through two grant programs to various organizations and schools in the area. “It's always a great day when grants are awarded to the wonderful schools and organizations in our community. I was happy to advocate every step of the way for these grants,” Giral said. “The LSA and PSFIG grant programs, by assisting our community organizations and schools with their major projects, are essential to improving the quality of life for our residents and ensuring that our students have a safe place to learn and grow.” Organizations receiving funding through the Local Share Account program include: $800,000 to Philadelphia for the McPhearson Square Library project, which will assist with renovation of the roofing system and building envelope. $1 million to Philadelphia for the McVeigh Recreation Center project, which will assist with the renovation of the baseball and soccer fields, construction of two basketball courts, and installation of light fixtures, community garden plots and more. Schools receiving funding through the Public School Facility Improvement Grant program include: $821,239 to Francis Hopkinson School for its roof replacement project, which will replace the school’s 97-year-old roof. Read more

 

These 7 Philly schools just got millions in state money for these projects

(Oct 23, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Seven Philadelphia schools are getting building upgrades thanks to a $175 million state program that helps districts across Pennsylvania fix up facilities.The money will replace windows and doors, remove asbestos and lead paint, put on new roofs, renovate bathrooms, and more; it will be matched by district funds. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El brings home $4.14M in state grants for community improvements

(Oct 23, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

LANCASTER, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, announced that he helped to secure $4,145,502 in state grants for the 49th District to build affordable housing and renovate a school into a community center for children, families and seniors. “Our area’s families need and deserve housing in which to raise their families,” Smith-Wade-El said. “Not only does having a roof over one’s head provide a sense of security, but a home makes a family healthier, makes a student perform better in school, helps a worker keep a job. Every family deserves a chance to get ahead, not just get by, and that starts with a home. My team is proud to work to bring home millions to secure homes, fight homelessness, provide our kids with places to play and our neighbors with places to thrive.” $500,000 Franklin Street Project Thaddeus Stevens Foundation is partnering with South Ann Concerned Neighbors Inc. for the purpose of constructing affordable housing. The funds will go towards constructing a mixed-use facility that will house two three-bedroom loft-style affordable apartments on the second floor for low-income families. In addition, a pizza shop and a fresh food market, selling healthy essentials such as fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, milk and bread, will be constructed on the first floor. $500,000 Breaking Barriers of Poverty to Build Better Futures Installation of a new HVAC system, bathrooms, a Read more

 

Ciresi announces $855k in grants for emergency response, school improvements, and downtown revitalization

(Oct 23, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, today announced that he secured $855,333 in state government grants for projects in the 146 th legislative district. “These grants will help meet the important needs of our first responders, invest in our local school facilities, and help beautify downtown Pottstown, contributing to its ongoing revitalization,” Ciresi said. “This is a prime example of taxpayer money being brought back home to improve the quality of life here in a variety of different ways.” The following grants are from Statewide Local Share Account funding. It comes from the PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, which provides for the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority to support projects in the public interest in Pennsylvania: $150,270 Lower Pottsgrove Township Municipal Radio System The funds will be used to purchase a radio system for the municipality, which will include the purchase of 45 mobile radios, the purchase and installation of a VHF repeater and professional services costs. $90,000 Pottstown Downtown Streetscape Plan The funds will be used to help develop a comprehensive plan to improve Pottstown’s streetscape, including strategies to beautify vacant storefronts, design outdoor areas for recreation and social gatherings, and give the walking corridor a safe and welcoming atmosphere. The project will Read more

 

House OKs Probst bill to increase awareness of 988 hotline

(Oct 23, 2024) Rep. Tarah Probst

“Many people experiencing a mental health crisis may not be aware of the critical resource available to them by dialing 988 or may not feel comfortable accessing it. We should do everything we can to make sure people know that help is available 24 hours a day,” said Probst. Read more

 

O’Mara lauds passage of bill to include PTSI in Workers’ Compensation for emergency responders

(Oct 23, 2024) Rep. Jennifer M. O'Mara

HARRISBURG, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Jennifer O’Mara is heralding the final passage of legislation she wrote to provide Workers’ Compensation coverage for emergency responders who sustain post-traumatic stress injuries in the line of duty. The legislation has been a passion project for O’Mara, who lost her father – a Philadelphia firefighter – to suicide. “In the aftermath of suicide, we're haunted not just by the loss, but by the silence of what might have been prevented,” said O’Mara, D-Delaware. “That feeling has driven me to see this legislation through, so that it can majorly reduce harm to our emergency-responder community in Pennsylvania.” O’Mara’s bill language from her H.B. 1632 was amended into S.B. 365 , which, upon its final passage today, will be sent to Gov. Josh Shapiro for his signature into law. An estimated 30% of emergency responders develop behavioral health conditions, including depression and PTSI. “While individuals in many other professions can already qualify for Workers’ Compensation for a mental-mental injury like PTSI, Pennsylvania Supreme Court determined first responders do not qualify because witnessing tragedy after tragedy is part of their normal working conditions,” O’Mara said. “But nothing about what first responders experience during an emergency is normal, and this legislation corrects Read more

 

House adopts Matzie resolution directing comprehensive study of PIAA policy, practices, finances

(Oct 23, 2024) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Oct. 23 – The Pennsylvania House yesterday adopted Rep. Rob Matzie’s H.R. 318 , which directs the state Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to perform a comprehensive study of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association. Matzie, who is the vice chairman and longest-serving member of the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee, said a thorough study of PIAA’s decision-making processes and operations is needed because of concerns that the association – and particularly the way it classifies schools for competition – puts student athletes in harm’s way and forces them to compete against wealthier schools with bigger budgets and larger rosters. “For too long, we have been hearing from parents and student athletes across the state that the PIAA’s policies are jeopardizing student health and creating a dangerous and uneven playing field,” Matzie said. “We have taken those concerns to the PIAA, but they have gone unanswered. It’s time to move the ball on this issue, and we start by taking a closer look at the association, its structure and its decision-making.” Matzie’s resolution directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to perform a comprehensive study and make recommendations regarding: PIAA’s competition classification formula and transfer policy. Read more

 

PA Senate passes Freeman bill to help Main Street program; sends it to governor’s desk

(Oct 23, 2024) Rep. Robert L. Freeman

“I am hopeful that the governor will sign my legislation into law because of how important added time in the Main Street program could be for communities to ensure that the plan is fully implemented, and the revitalization objectives are met,” Freeman said. Read more

 

Abney’s bill to help keep seniors eligible for state prescription programs passes PA Senate

(Oct 23, 2024) Rep. Aerion Andrew Abney

HARRISBURG, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Aerion Abney’s bill that would exclude a portion of a person’s potential revenue when determining their financial eligibility for senior prescription programs in Pennsylvania passed the state Senate yesterday. Abney’s legislation ( H.B. 2378 ) would not count the total dollar amount, including face value and interest earned, of redeemed savings bonds as part of older Pennsylvanians’ income when they apply for either the Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly or PACE Needs Enhancement Tier, otherwise known as PACE and PACENET. “Keeping prescription coverage in place for our seniors not only ensures they continue to receive the medications they need to maintain and improve their health and well-being, but excluding savings bond assets will keep more money in their pockets for other necessities,” Abney, D-Allegheny, said. “Thank you to my colleagues in the Senate and everyone for their personal and financial investments in older Pennsylvanians.” PACE is funded entirely by the Pennsylvania Lottery and has helped more than 1.6 million PA seniors pay for more than 360 million prescriptions. PACE and PACENET currently serve more than 250,000 older Pennsylvanians. Abney’s bill now goes to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s desk to be signed into law. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El brings home $4.14M in state grants for community improvements

(Oct 23, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

LANCASTER, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, announced that he helped to secure $4,145,502 in state grants for the 49 th District to build affordable housing and renovate a school into a community center for children, families and seniors. “Our area’s families need and deserve housing in which to raise their families,” Smith-Wade-El said. “Not only does having a roof over one’s head provide a sense of security, but a home makes a family healthier, makes a student perform better in school, helps a worker keep a job. Every family deserves a chance to get ahead, not just get by, and that starts with a home. My team is proud to work to bring home millions to secure homes, fight homelessness, provide our kids with places to play and our neighbors with places to thrive.” $500,000 Franklin Street Project Thaddeus Stevens Foundation is partnering with South Ann Concerned Neighbors Inc. for the purpose of constructing affordable housing. The funds will go towards constructing a mixed-use facility that will house two three-bedroom loft-style affordable apartments on the second floor for low-income families. In addition, a pizza shop and a fresh food market, selling healthy essentials such as fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, milk and bread, will be constructed on the first floor. $500,000 Breaking Barriers of Poverty to Build Better Futures Installation of a new Read more

 

Neilson applauds passage of funding for public transit

(Oct 23, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

After months of negotiations and informational meetings regarding Pennsylvania’s transportation sector, state Rep. Ed Neilson, majority chair of the House Transportation Committee, today announced the passage of House Bill 2625. House Bill 2625, authored by Neilson, would increase the share of the state’s sales tax revenue designated to transit funding from 4.4% to 6.15%, resulting in approximately $282 million in new transit funding for all of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties without raising taxes. “We’ve voted three times on legislation that would allow mass transit agencies across the commonwealth to continue providing vital services to urban, rural and suburban communities,” Neilson said. “Reliable public transit is a vital service that many Pennsylvanians rely on, especially our seniors and people with disabilities who require a robust public transit system to reach important medical appointments and much more. “There is still time for the Senate leadership to do the right thing and fund public transit for all 67 counties,” he said. House Bill 2625 now moves to the Republican-controlled Senate. Read more

 

NEWS RELEASE: State Rep. Howard's filial responsibility bill passes House

(Oct 22, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“It’s a shame that Pennsylvania has accepted its status as an outlier when it comes to filial law,” Howard said. “The commonwealth needs to get caught up to the 21st century and eliminate this antiquated practice. I thank my colleagues in the House for their support and I hope the Senate adds their approval so that this may get signed into law by the governor.” Read more

 

Guzman secures more than $2 million in LSA grants for five local projects

(Oct 22, 2024) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

READING, Oct. 22 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, today announced that five local projects will benefit from more than $2 million statewide Local Share Account grants. The funds are aimed at creating a senior housing project in Reading and replacing a sanitary sewer main along Brobst Street in Shillington Borough, Berks County. The grants were awarded to: Reading Development Authority. - $1,000,000. To demolish structures and complete environmental remediation for the eventual construction of an affordable housing community for seniors in Reading, Berks County. The housing units will be restricted based on the median income in the area for people aged 62 or older. The property will feature a community room with a kitchen, offices for staff and healthcare providers. Shillington Borough - $250,000. For the replacement of sanitary sewer main along Brobst Street. Shillington Borough - $56,390 -- to purchase a valve-turning trailer. The Reading Public Museum - $636,022 -- to replace two air handling units and controllers needed to maintain and preserve the museum’s permanent collection. Reading Area Water Authority - $191,647 -- to purchase a fully equipped dump truck. “I am thrilled to welcome these grants to my district. Guzman said. “Combating housing insecurity and supporting our seniors are top Read more

 

Shapiro signs Cephas bill to strengthen doula services in Pa.
3 hours ago

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities For Your District
23 hours ago

Testifiers detail need to bolster state support of senior citizens
1 day ago

Lawmakers highlight impact of tax credits for PA families, workers
1 day ago

Fleming bill for diabetes awareness headed to governor’s desk
Oct 25, 2024

Williams praises Nonprofit Security Grant Program Awards
Oct 25, 2024

Shusterman family law arbitration bill signed into law by Gov. Shapiro
Oct 24, 2024

Giral welcomes over $3.5 million in community grants
Oct 23, 2024

These 7 Philly schools just got millions in state money for these projects
Oct 23, 2024

Smith-Wade-El brings home $4.14M in state grants for community improvements
Oct 23, 2024

Ciresi announces $855k in grants for emergency response, school improvements, and downtown revitalization
Oct 23, 2024

House OKs Probst bill to increase awareness of 988 hotline
Oct 23, 2024

O’Mara lauds passage of bill to include PTSI in Workers’ Compensation for emergency responders
Oct 23, 2024

House adopts Matzie resolution directing comprehensive study of PIAA policy, practices, finances
Oct 23, 2024

PA Senate passes Freeman bill to help Main Street program; sends it to governor’s desk
Oct 23, 2024

Abney’s bill to help keep seniors eligible for state prescription programs passes PA Senate
Oct 23, 2024

Smith-Wade-El brings home $4.14M in state grants for community improvements
Oct 23, 2024

Neilson applauds passage of funding for public transit
Oct 23, 2024

NEWS RELEASE: State Rep. Howard's filial responsibility bill passes House
Oct 22, 2024

Guzman secures more than $2 million in LSA grants for five local projects
Oct 22, 2024