News Center

Venkat’s bill to alleviate medical debt passes House

(Nov 14, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, June 26 – State Rep. Arvind Venkat’s bill, the Medical Debt Relief Act , passed the House of Representatives today with bipartisan support. This bill would establish the Medical Debt Relief Program within the Department of Health to discharge medical debt of eligible residents by contracting with a medical debt relief coordinator. Pennsylvanians would be eligible for relief if they have a household income at or below 400 percent of the federal poverty guidelines or medical debt equal to 5 percent or more of the individual’s household income. Venkat, D-Allegheny, introduced the Medical Debt Relief Act to address the impact medical debt has on the cost and accessibility of health care for patients, providers and the public. “By establishing the Medical Debt Relief Program, we can alleviate medical debt for working Pennsylvanians, improve health care institutions and providers’ finances and reduce the costs for all Pennsylvanians,” Venkat said. “As an emergency physician, I’ve witnessed patients delay medical care due to the rising cost of health care, to the point of dying as a result. Through this bill, it is my hope that we can alleviate Pennsylvanians’ medical debt so that they may receive the health care they need.” The House passed the Medical Debt Relief Act by a vote of 114-89. It now moves to the Senate for consideration. Read more

 

PA House passes Benham bill to increase public safety in nighttime economies

(Nov 14, 2023) Rep. Jessica Benham

Bill would create grant program, streamline reporting of underage drinking Read more

 

Legislators Reach Across the Aisle to Speed Up Road Projects

(Nov 14, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“It can take five to 10 years to get a road or bridge constructed using current state government practices,” added state Rep. Ed Neilson, D-Phila., majority chairman of the House Transportation Committee. Neilson was the prime sponsor of the bill. “It was a pleasure to work with Rep. Struzzi on this much needed legislation,” Neilson said. “It shows that great things can happen when we work together.” Read more

 

Legislation geared toward proper use of state grant funding passes state House, heads to state Senate

(Nov 14, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov. 14 – State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., today announced that his legislation, House Bill 842, which would prevent the misuse of state grants or loans, was passed by the state House. Also known as the Clawback Act, H.B. 842 would require all new state grant and loan programs to include language to address the misuse of funding when entities fail to meet program guidelines and metrics. “Our state’s grant programs are essential tools designed to support the needs of our residents,” Kenyatta said. “These programs do so much good, but it’s imperative that we enact legislation to address the potential misuse of state grants in order to protect taxpayers’ money.” State Rep. Jenifer O’Mara, D-Delaware, who also is a prime sponsor of this legislation, echoed Kenyatta’s remarks. “Ensuring accountability in grant and loan programs isn't just about financial prudence; it's a commitment to safeguarding taxpayer trust in the system that serves our communities, “O’Mara said. “When taxes veer from their intended purpose, the very foundation of a functional system begins to crumble.” Another co-prime sponsor, state Rep. Maureen Madden, D-Monroe, noted the importance of the bill. "If you apply for and receive state funding for a project, then you should adhere to the stipulations that come with the funding," Madden said. "Misuse of grant Read more

 

Abney introduces bill for PA to join Social Work Licensure Compact

(Nov 14, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov. 14 – Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, introduced a bill today that would add Pennsylvania to the list of states who are members of the Social Work Licensure Compact. The legislation ( H.B. 1841 ) would allow licensed commonwealth social workers or those eligible for a license to apply for the ability to provide their services across multiple states. A comprehensive data system would also be created, so the public could be kept safe and informed with regards to social worker license status and any adverse actions associated with them. “Often an underappreciated profession, an increased demand for social workers became evident through the pandemic and continues as people deal with ongoing traumas,” Abney said. “My bill would be a win-win for social workers seeking employment opportunities and individuals in need of personal and emotional assistance.” Abney holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh. The bill has been referred to the House Professional Licensure Committee. Read more

 

Matzie elected vice chair of Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee

(Nov 14, 2023) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Nov. 14 – State Rep. Rob Matzie was elected vice chairman of the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee as the bicameral, bipartisan committee met yesterday to approve the 2022 annual report of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association. Matzie, who is the committee’s longest-serving member, said the group’s work in overseeing PIAA-sanctioned sports includes ensuring student athletes have opportunities to participate and thrive in a broad range of competitive settings. “School sports can play such a key role in developing a student’s character and confidence, instilling a sense of fair play and teaching other critical lessons outside the classroom,” Matzie said. “But we need to ensure the system is evolving so it includes new opportunities and reaches more students. “At today’s meeting, I asked the PIAA about progress toward expanding high school sports to include women’s flag football, which is rapidly increasing in popularity and has been designated an Olympic sport. I was satisfied to hear that the board is monitoring the sport’s growth here in the commonwealth with an eye toward seeing it become an established competitive sport.” At the meeting, Matzie also expressed his hope to see increased livestream coverage of student competitions and discussed his concerns regarding Read more

 

Salisbury’s bill to permit remote work capabilities passes House unanimously

(Nov 14, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov. 14 – State Rep. Abigail Salisbury’s bill that would allow employees of licensees in the sales finance industry to work remotely unanimously passed the House Monday. The legislation, H.B. 1580 , applies to workers at licensees who qualify under the Consumer Discount Company Act and the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Sales Finance Act. “Fueling the well-being and morale of workers while keeping businesses competitive now moves a step closer to becoming reality,” Salisbury, D-Allegheny, said. “I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for supporting my bill that is a win-win for a prosperous economy and the people who make it possible.” State Rep. Tim Twardzik, R-Schuylkill, is co-sponsoring Salisbury’s legislation, which does not change any requirements pertaining to licensing, examination or regulation by the Department of Banking and Securities. Salisbury’s legislation now heads to the state Senate for consideration. Read more

 

Hohenstein bill protecting public from wild animals passes House

(Nov 13, 2023) Rep. Joseph C. Hohenstein

HARRISBURG, Nov. 13 – A bill ( H.B. 1451 ) sponsored by state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., which would protect the public from unsafe encounters with wild animals, passed the House today by vote of 109-94. The legislation was proposed following a decision by the Pennsylvania Game Commission to move away from a safety measure that prohibited direct contact between the public and wildlife, particularly exotic wildlife. This legislation would protect the public and exotic animals by preventing the public from feeding or having direct physical contact with exotic animals without having a sufficient barrier in place. “We have to remember that wild animals are wild, and their intrinsic instincts are going to make them unpredictable,” Hohenstein said. “Scratches, bites and such from exotic animals can be very harmful to individuals and to the public at large by spreading viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections.” Read more

 

Fleming Appointed to the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee

(Nov 13, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov. 13 – State Rep. Justin Fleming, D-Dauphin, has been appointed by House Speaker Joanna McClinton, D-Phila., to the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee. The committee oversees issues involving sports and athletic competitions sanctioned by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association. The committee also receives an annual report from the PIAA with recommendations for the General Assembly. Fleming said he brings a unique perspective to the committee as a lettered high school athlete in baseball at Susquehanna Township High School. “Athletics offers kids opportunities to learn critical physical, emotional and intellectual skills that will serve them their whole lives,” Fleming said. “As a former student-athlete and the father of two children who participate in athletics, I have an interest in the committee’s issues and look forward to working with my colleagues, as well as the PIAA to ensure all student-athletes are competing safely and fairly.” The six-member committee consists of two members appointed by the speaker of the House of Representatives, one appointed by the House minority leader, two appointed by the president pro tempore of the Senate and one appointed by the Senate minority leader. Read more

 

House Democrats Introduce Eviction Record Sealing Legislation

(Nov 13, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov.13 – State Reps. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, Elizabeth Fiedler, Rich Krajewski and Majority Appropriations Committee Chairman Jordan Harris, all D-Phila., held a news conference today to highlight their legislation, House Bill 1769, that would seal some records in certain cases such as no-fault evictions. “We all deserve a safe, warm place to call home, but for millions of renters across the commonwealth, one mistake or emergency can lead to an eviction,” Smith-Wade-El said. “After evictions, households can struggle for months to find housing, which can break up families, risk employment, and lead to homelessness. This legislation would help give Pennsylvania’s renters a fair chance at finding housing by establishing procedures for limited access to eviction records. This legislation is a commonsense step that would make it easier for working-class Pennsylvanians to access housing.” According to the legislators, as soon as an eviction is filed, it becomes a permanent mark on someone’s background, making harder to find housing. The record remains even if the case was withdrawn, the tenant endured domestic violence, or the court found in favor of the tenant. Evictions disrupt workforce development for large swaths of communities and strain existing social support systems throughout the state. These records can put vulnerable people in difficult and dangerous situations, putting survivors of domestic violence Read more

 

Governor signs Burns bill to preserve in-state tuition for students of reassigned military families

(Nov 09, 2023) Rep. Frank Burns

“Military families make huge sacrifices, including having to leave the comfort and stability of the communities they love when they are deployed out of state,” Burns said. “But a student whose family is reassigned should not have to forfeit the benefit of the in-state tuition rate they anticipated because their parent is fulfilling their duty to our country." Read more

 

Rabb highlights voting and electoral reform legislation prior to Tuesday’s municipal elections

(Nov 06, 2023) Rep. Christopher M. Rabb

HARRISBURG, Nov. 6 – On the eve of tomorrow’s municipal election, state Rep. Chris Rabb, D-Phila., is highlighting multiple election-related bills that would make Pennsylvania’s election process fairer and function better while expanding and strengthening voting rights. “Tomorrow’s election will have large implications for Pennsylvanians both locally and across the commonwealth,” Rabb said. “And that’s why it’s important that we optimize our system to engage every eligible voter, especially our young people, who so frequently don’t or can’t make their voices heard.” Rabb introduced three pieces of legislation that would improve youth voting and civic engagement by allowing 16- and 17-year-old individuals to pre-register to vote, requiring the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to notify eligible individuals of their opportunity to preregister to vote when applying for a driver’s license or an identification card, establishing same-day voter registration, prohibiting rejection of a ballot based solely on signature analysis and removing the 15-day deadline to register to vote; providing for voter registration in high schools and comprehensive civics and voting rights education, including completion of a civics issue-based capstone research project; and lowering the voting age to 16 years old. “Voting is a civil right Read more

 

York tour highlights tourism, economic development in region

(Nov 02, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“For long-time residents of York County, the presence of iconic brands and businesses throughout our region might not seem all that unusual,” said Rep. Carol Hill-Evans, who represents portions of York County and hosted the Policy Committee tour and discussion. “When you travel outside central Pennsylvania, however, you quickly realize how fortunate we are that so many iconic brands have either called York home or continue to call York home. It’s an impressive list of businesses and brands.” Read more

 

PA House Democrats approve legislation to increase nonprofit security grant program to $10 million

(Nov 02, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

United as a caucus, Pennsylvania House Democrats passed legislation this week to expand the state’s Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program. The increase in vital funding doubles the budgeted amount from $5 million to $10 million. Read more

 

Rabb highlights legislation for Indigenous Peoples' Heritage Month

(Nov 02, 2023) Rep. Christopher M. Rabb

HARRISBURG, Nov. 2 – In celebration of Indigenous Peoples' Heritage Month, state Rep. Chris Rabb, D-Phila., is highlighting a series of wide-ranging legislation focused on honoring Native American culture and history while protecting the rights of Indigenous peoples. In 2021, Rabb authored a resolution that would have amended the rules of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to include a formal land acknowledgment at the beginning of each legislative week. He will be reintroducing the resolution this session. “Symbolism matters -- particularly when it’s tethered to substantive action around land back measures and other related matters. That’s why rhetoric must be followed by redress,” Rabb said. Rabb recently reintroduced legislation to protect Native American trademarks by preventing the use of Pennsylvania state intellectual property by non-Native American groups to claim Native American patterns and tribal names as well as other cultural heritage and intellectual property. He also is drafting legislation that would establish an independent, autonomous commission on indigenous affairs that has the budget and authority to work with the commonwealth on programs and funding opportunities to address policy concerns, sovereignty issues and land back initiatives. More than 60 schools across Pennsylvania still utilize derogatory Native mascots Read more

 

Schweyer, Isaacson appointed to PHEAA board of directors

(Nov 02, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Representatives Schweyer and Isaacson are trusted leaders on the education issues impacting Pennsylvania, especially on college affordability and access. They are well suited to serve on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency board and ensure that the needs of Pennsylvania’s families are represented. Read more

 

Hohenstein introduces LNG Task Force minority report

(Nov 01, 2023) Rep. Joseph C. Hohenstein

HARRISBURG, Nov. 1 – State Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., introduced a minority report as part of his membership on the Philadelphia LNG Task Force during a meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 1. The task force was created by the Pennsylvania General Assembly last year and tasked with examining and making recommendations regarding obstacles, economic feasibility, economic impact and security that would be involved with making the Port of Philadelphia a liquified natural gas export terminal. When authorizing the task force, the General Assembly allowed for the submission of a rebuttal to the task force’s majority report by any member of the task force. Hohenstein said he was glad that head of the task force, state Rep. Martina White, R-Phila., accepted the minority report into the official record. “This is a complex topic with many stakeholders holding a variety of views and strong opinions,” Hohenstein said. “And it is my belief that this report accurately addresses the concerns with placing an LNG facility within the geographical area covered by the Philadelphia Port, resulting in the conclusion that there is simply no suitable location for an LNG facility in Philadelphia or Southeastern Pennsylvania. “The commonwealth should be engaged in a transition away from fossil fuels because of the need to address climate change. As such, I plan to propose the formation of a task force to review the state’s energy policy Read more

 

Kim and DHS secretary highlight beginning of LIHEAP season

(Nov 01, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov. 1 – State Rep. Patty Kim, D-Dauphin/Cumberland, joined Department of Human Services Secretary Valerie Arkoosh and representatives from the Public Utility Commission at a news conference at the Tri County Community Action offices in Enola today to highlight the beginning of LIHEAP season. “As the cold weather sets in, financially vulnerable Pennsylvanians may need assistance paying for heat to ensure the health and welfare of their families,” Kim said. “From young families to seniors on fixed incomes, LIHEAP has been a lifesaver, ensuring that utility companies don’t cut off heat in the dead of winter and put lives at risk. I urge qualifying Pennsylvanians to apply for LIHEAP online through COMPASS or at their local county assistance office.” The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP, season began Nov. 1 and provides cash grants to low-income families to help them pay their heating bills. Households in immediate danger of being without heat can also qualify for crisis grants . The cash grant is a one-time payment sent directly to the utility company/fuel provider to be credited on the recipient’s bill. These grants range from $300 to $1,000 based on household size, income and fuel type. Households experiencing a heating crisis may be eligible for additional benefits through the LIHEAP crisis program. Emergency situations include: Broken heating Read more

 

Giral lauds passing of bill that would honor recipients of the Borinqueneers Congressional Gold Medal with registration plate

(Nov 01, 2023) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Nov.1 – State Rep. Jose Giral, D-Phila., today praised the passage of his legislation that would honor the recipients of the Borinqueneers Congressional Gold Medal with a special registration plate. House Bill 826 would add a special plate for passenger cars or trucks available for an additional $26 above the normal registration fee. The Congressional Gold Medal was awarded in 2016 to the 65 th Infantry Regiment, a Puerto Rican unit of the U.S. Army nicknamed “the Borinqueneers.” “The Borinqueneers' valor and dedication to the Unites States deserve recognition and remembrance. I am glad to be able to honor their courage,” Giral said. “Such a unique registration plate featuring the Borinqueneers can serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by these Puerto Rican veterans, as well as a symbol of the enduring bond between Puerto Rico and United States,” he added. “The special registration plate would be a powerful way to commemorate their service and ensure their legacy lives on for generations to come.” The 65th Infantry Regiment is the first Hispanic unit and the sole unit from the Korean War to receive the Congressional Gold Medal. The regiment is also credited with the last battalion-sized bayonet assault in U.S. Army history. Read more

 

Rabb, others celebrate passage in committee of bill repealing Pennsylvania’s death penalty

(Nov 01, 2023) Rep. Christopher M. Rabb

HARRISBURG, Nov. 1 – State Rep. Chris Rabb, D-Phila., and advocates held a news conference Tuesday to celebrate the successful bipartisan approval of his bill in the PA House Judiciary Committee that would repeal Pennsylvania’s death penalty. The action marked the first time in nearly 25 years that such legislation has been voted on in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. In 2019, Rabb held a similar news conference featuring two death row exonerees, Jimmy Dennis and Kirk Bloodsworth , when the then-majority chair of the Judiciary Committee in the PA House refused to take up this bill and when Republicans held what would be a 12-year majority, which ended earlier this year. Rabb has reintroduced legislation ( H.B. 999 ) that would repeal the state’s death penalty four times since taking office in 2017. His call to action comes after Gov. Josh Shapiro announced upon taking office that he would not issue any execution warrants during his term. “One innocent life taken at the hands of the state is one too many . The fact that the state has put even one innocent person to death is simply egregious,” Rabb said. “Furthermore, the appeals process when a person is sentenced to death is long and costly, lasting decades and often resulting in their death via old age rather than lethal injection. “The risks are grave and the injustices Read more

 

Venkat’s bill to alleviate medical debt passes House
Nov 14, 2023

PA House passes Benham bill to increase public safety in nighttime economies
Nov 14, 2023

Legislators Reach Across the Aisle to Speed Up Road Projects
Nov 14, 2023

Legislation geared toward proper use of state grant funding passes state House, heads to state Senate
Nov 14, 2023

Abney introduces bill for PA to join Social Work Licensure Compact
Nov 14, 2023

Matzie elected vice chair of Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee
Nov 14, 2023

Salisbury’s bill to permit remote work capabilities passes House unanimously
Nov 14, 2023

Hohenstein bill protecting public from wild animals passes House
Nov 13, 2023

Fleming Appointed to the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee
Nov 13, 2023

House Democrats Introduce Eviction Record Sealing Legislation
Nov 13, 2023

Governor signs Burns bill to preserve in-state tuition for students of reassigned military families
Nov 09, 2023

Rabb highlights voting and electoral reform legislation prior to Tuesday’s municipal elections
Nov 06, 2023

York tour highlights tourism, economic development in region
Nov 02, 2023

PA House Democrats approve legislation to increase nonprofit security grant program to $10 million
Nov 02, 2023

Rabb highlights legislation for Indigenous Peoples' Heritage Month
Nov 02, 2023

Schweyer, Isaacson appointed to PHEAA board of directors
Nov 02, 2023

Hohenstein introduces LNG Task Force minority report
Nov 01, 2023

Kim and DHS secretary highlight beginning of LIHEAP season
Nov 01, 2023

Giral lauds passing of bill that would honor recipients of the Borinqueneers Congressional Gold Medal with registration plate
Nov 01, 2023

Rabb, others celebrate passage in committee of bill repealing Pennsylvania’s death penalty
Nov 01, 2023