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Mayes, McClinton: PA CROWN Act clears committee

(Feb 04, 2025) Rep. La'Tasha D. Mayes, Rep. Joanna E. McClinton

Bill to end hair discrimination sees new life in new session Read more

 

Conklin bill to allow agents at the Office of State Inspector General to carry weapons clears committee, heads for House

(Feb 03, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – A strong bipartisan majority of the state House Judiciary Committee today approved state Rep. Scott Conklin’s bill that would permit agents working for the Office of State Inspector General to arm themselves on the job. Conklin said he introduced H.B. 36 to provide greater protection for OSIG agents, whose law enforcement duties often expose them to the risk of danger. “As members of a government watchdog agency, OSIG agents investigate fraud and other misconduct in government programs and operations,” Conklin said. “Like other law enforcement officers, they have the power to issue subpoenas and search warrants and to file criminal complaints. Unlike other officers, however, OSIG agents are not permitted to carry a weapon – even though their work often places them in dangerous situations. “These agents deserve the same protections as their counterparts in other law enforcement agencies to help them stay safe on the job. I’m pleased the committee has advanced my bill, and I’ll be urging my colleagues in the legislature to pass it quickly.” The committed approved the bill by a 25-1 vote. It now heads to the full House for consideration. Read more

 

Two years after East Palestine derailment, Matzie renews push for stronger rail safety

(Feb 03, 2025) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – As Beaver County residents continue to live with health and safety concerns two years after the East Palestine freight train derailment that spread toxic fumes throughout the region, state Rep. Rob Matzie is renewing his push to pass legislation that would strengthen rail safety for Pennsylvanians. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said he plans to introduce a new version of his rail safety bill that won strong bipartisan support in the House last session before stalling in the state Senate. “We have freight trains hauling toxic chemicals through our back yard at a time when we’re still seeing close to 1,000 derailments a year nationwide,” Matzie said. “We have folks still dealing with the East Palestine derailment and wondering if they will face long-term health consequences. “We can’t continue gambling that another incident won’t happen, and we can’t afford to rely on Washington, D.C. – especially at a time when we’re seeing some protections being dismantled at the federal level. We need to put stronger safety standards in place ourselves, at the state level, and we need to do it soon to prevent a repeat of East Palestine.” Mazie’s Safer Rails, Safer Community Act passed the state House 141-62 in June 2023 but the Senate failed to bring it up for consideration. Among other Read more

 

Ciresi, Marcell bipartisan bill to allow intermediate units to own facilities for instructional use passes House

(Feb 03, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – Bipartisan legislation (H.B. 201) introduced by state Reps. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, and Kristin Marcell, R-Bucks, which would allow intermediate units to own facilities for instructional space overwhelmingly passed the House today (155-47). Read more

 

Matzie introduces bill to protect consumers from ‘speculative ticketing’

(Feb 03, 2025) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – State Rep. Rob Matzie today introduced legislation to prevent the deceptive practice of “speculative ticketing” – in which ticket sellers relist event tickets for sale before they have them in hand. Matzie, who is chairman of the House majority caucus, said H.B. 463 would prohibit resellers from listing tickets unless they actually have possession of them and would allow consumers and venues to sue for violations. “Consumers who pay for an item have the right to assume the seller actually has that item in hand to sell – and the same goes for tickets,” Matzie said. “Unfortunately, many sellers engage in speculative ticketing – relisting tickets they don’t have and betting that they can obtain them later. If that falls through, the disappointed consumer – at best – may get a refund. At worst, they lose their ticket money and any other expenses, like travel and lodging, they may have laid out. “Consumers aren’t the only ones who feel the impact. The venue loses credibility in the eyes of the public, while area restaurants, parking garages and other local businesses lose expected revenue. It’s a practice that’s bad for consumers and bad for business.” Matzie introduced an earlier version the bill last session, while he was majority chairman of the House Consumer Protection Read more

 

Judiciary Committee votes in favor of bills with bipartisan support

(Feb 03, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – Today, the Pennsylvania House Judiciary Committee voted to advance three important bills that are now under consideration by the full House. The bills, supported by legislators from both parties, seek to improve the criminal justice system, strengthen safety and simplify family law processes. Committee Chair Rep. Tim Briggs, D-Montgomery, said, “The committee’s bipartisan support for these bills demonstrates our shared commitment to making necessary improvements to our laws, ensuring fairness, safety and efficiency across Pennsylvania. These bills are now on their way to the full House, where we will continue to work together for the benefit of all Pennsylvanians.” The following bills were voted out of committee: House Bill 36 , sponsored by state Rep. Scott Conklin, D-Centre, would permit law enforcement officers working under the Pennsylvania Office of the State Inspector General to carry weapons while performing their duties. The legislation aims to enhance the safety of officers, who often face dangerous situations while fighting fraud, waste, misconduct and abuse in state programs and government agencies. House Bill 166 , sponsored by state Reps. Tim Bonner, R-Mercer, and Tarik Khan, D-Phila., would ensure that Pennsylvania’s death penalty statute meets the highest standard of proof before a jury can impose such a penalty. It would require the Commonwealth to Read more

 

Daley celebrates House passage of bike lane protections

(Feb 03, 2025) Rep. Mary Jo Daley

HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – State Rep. Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, said she is pleased to report that the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed her bill creating parking-protected bike lanes today. These special lanes would allow street parking to be reconfigured with vehicles parked further from the curb to leave space for a protected bike lane. “Under current law, a vehicle has to park within 12 inches of a curb,” Daley said. “This bill will update the law and allow vehicles to park farther away from these curbs, creating a bike lane between the curb and the parked car. “This change has been a long time coming, and I hope that the Senate picks up this critical work soon. Lives are depending on it.” House Bill 291 is also referred to as Susan’s and Emily’s Law. In October 2015, Susan Hicks was struck from behind and killed at the corner of Forbes and Bigelow in Pittsburgh. In November 2017, Emily Fredricks was riding her bike to work on Spruce Street in Philadelphia when she was struck and killed by a sanitation truck. This measure is supported by PennDOT’s Pedalcycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, BikePGH, and the Pennsylvania Municipal League, among others. This bill does not require changes to be made; it simply provides local authorities with a legal option to consider, Daley said. For more information, Read more

 

Reps. Bellmon, Dawkins, Dougherty, Gallagher, Neilson and Solomon Issue Statement on Plane Crash in Northeast Philadelphia

(Jan 31, 2025) Northeast Philadelphia Members

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 31, 2025 — State Reps. Anthony Bellmon, Jason Dawkins, Sean Dougherty, Pat Gallagher, Ed Neilson and Jared Solomon today issued the following statement on a plane crash in Northeast Philadelphia: "While we're still learning details regarding the horrific tragedy in Northeast Philadelphia, we're working with local and state officials to support our community. For everyone's safety and to ensure first responders have unimpeded access to the site, please avoid the area around Roosevelt Mall. "Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the victims, as well as the neighbors and businesses impacted by this disaster. We're extremely grateful for all the first responders working this emergency." Read more

 

Nelson introduces bill to ensure accuracy in use of AI in state government and public schools

(Jan 31, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 31 – State Rep. Napoleon Nelson, joined by state Reps. Paul Friel, Steven Malagari, Chris Pielli and Robert E. Merski, announced this week forthcoming legislation aimed at curbing the use of artificial intelligence tools in schools and by state government agencies. "As technology continues to evolve, we must ensure that it is used responsibly -- especially when it directly impacts the people we serve," said Nelson, who serves on both the House Education Committee and the House Communications & Technology Committee. "Pennsylvania taxpayers and students have the right to expect factual and reliable information when they interact with government officials or educators. AI tools are already incredibly powerful and often deliver significant workplace efficiencies, but they are prone to, frankly, making stuff up. If a student is in a classroom to learn or a resident is reaching out to their government seeking assistance, the worst thing we could do is put someone in front of them that speaks with authority and but is not speaking in truth." The legislation, which has yet to be formally introduced, would require that any AI tool or agent used in direct communication with Pennsylvania residents or students -- whether in state government offices or public schools -- meets a minimum standard of factual accuracy. It would also introduce an audit process to regularly assess AI-generated content and ensure any Read more

 

Powell introduces bills to help make home ownership possible for more Pennsylvanians and reduce displacement & gentrification

(Jan 30, 2025) Rep. Lindsay Powell

HARRISBURG, Jan. 30 – State Rep. Lindsay Powell, D-Allegheny, has introduced legislation that would provide money to Pennsylvania individuals and families seeking to own their own home and utilize tax increment financing dollars to keep Pennsylvanians in their homes in TIF-designated districts. The first of Powell’s bills ( H.B. 275 ) would establish the Affordable Homeownership Program under the state Department of Community and Economic Development . The program would award grants to sponsoring organizations, who would then provide the funds to individuals or households with annual incomes between 60% and 120% of the area median income. “As the years go by, the median home price has nowhere to go but up. In March of last year, in fact, it reached nearly $225,000 and shows zero signs of decreasing. Owning a home has become that much more unattainable for Pennsylvanians,” Powell said. “Home ownership, however, helps to achieve a stable and sustainable livelihood for neighbors and their families. My bill would benefit everyone who calls this Commonwealth home.” Qualifying applicants would be able to use these funds for projects such as: Home purchasing assistance programs Home repairs Work force housing programs Acquiring residential properties Designing and constructing properties Asset management studies of properties Social and environmental studies of properties Homeownership education programs Land Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation elects new leaders

(Jan 30, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

This week the Philadelphia House Delegation elected their new slate of leadership for the 2025-26 legislative session. In addition, the group also voted to amend their bylaws for the separation of the treasurer and secretary as two elected officers. State Rep. Morgan Cephas was re-elected chairwoman for a second term. State Rep. Joe Hohenstein was elected vice-chair; state Rep. Anthony Bellmon, secretary; and state Rep. Roni Green, D-Phila., treasurer. Read more

 

Bipartisan bill to ease unemployment process for domestic violence victims approved by PA House Labor Committee

(Jan 29, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Bill will create an ‘express lane’ for claimants impacted by domestic violence Read more

 

Frankel bill to boost oversight of medical marijuana testing clears House Health Committee

(Jan 29, 2025) Rep. Dan B. Frankel

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 29 – State Rep. Dan Frankel’s bill to bolster safety and confidence in the commonwealth’s medical marijuana products won bipartisan approval from the House Health Committee Wednesday, paving the way for stronger patient protections overseen by the Department of Health. Frankel, who is majority chairman of the House Health Committee, said weaknesses in consumer protections were revealed in a series of hearings held by the Health Committee in the previous session, and by incidences of contamination , inaccurate labeling and deceptive practices in other states. “We need to make sure that patients have the same level of confidence in medical marijuana products as they do in the prescriptions that they fill at their local pharmacies,” Frankel said. “Patients deserve to know that these products are what they say they are in terms of THC levels and that they are uncontaminated by mold, pesticides or heavy metals.” House Bill 33 would provide for improved compliance testing, product audits, statistical analyses, transparency and inspections of labs, which serve as the last line of defense to prevent patients from unknowingly consuming substances that can have both immediate and long-term health consequences. The bill would direct the Department of Health to ensure that labs report accurate results and would also require stability testing in some circumstances to ensure the Read more

 

Pa. House committee advances bill requiring food allergy warnings

(Jan 29, 2025) Rep. Arvind Venkat

A Pennsylvania House committee advanced a bill that would require restaurants and other establishments to post warnings about the dangers of food allergies. Read more

 

Warren Ready to Lead Insurance Committee

(Jan 28, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 28 – State Rep. Perry Warren, D-Bucks, announced today that the Pennsylvania House Insurance Committee is reorganized and focused on new ways to protect consumers. “As chairman of the Insurance Committee, I look forward to passing laws that make insurance better for all Pennsylvanians,” Warren said. “Earlier today, the committee unanimously voted in support of three important proposals that will hopefully become law.” The first proposal, H.B. 111 , would prohibit life insurance companies from discriminating against individuals who have obtained naloxone or another medication to reverse an opioid overdose. Because of a standing order from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, anyone can walk up to a pharmacy counter and receive naloxone. Warren noted the story of one mother who received naloxone so she could save her son’s life if he experienced an opioid overdose. She applied for a life insurance policy, but the life insurance company refused to give her a policy because they saw that she received naloxone and presumed that she had an addiction. House Bill 111 would protect consumers like this mother by prohibiting life insurance companies from denying coverage based on an individual’s prior purchase or acquisition of naloxone, Warren said. House Bills 211 and 261 update outdated language in Read more

 

Fleming announces $121,000 in state grants for Black Run Park Trails

(Jan 28, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 28 – State Rep. Justin Fleming has helped to secure $121,000 in state funding through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program for Hawthorne SPE LLC Susquehanna Union Green project. The funds will be used to install accessible walking trails at Susquehanna Union Green and to install stairs to the pedestrian bridge installed over Black Run tributary. "This funding will help Susquehanna Union Green fulfill its promise as an outdoor experience destination for our communities," Fleming said. “Offering over 19 acres of green space, Susquehanna Union Green offers area residents of all ages beautiful areas to explore and enjoy.” In 2022, Susquehanna Union Green received an award from Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. The award provided financial assistance for construction of the public parks and greens making up the heart of the Susquehanna Union Green master plan. This latest grant funding comes through the Act 13 of 2012, which established the Marcellus Legacy Fund and allocates funds to the Commonwealth Financing Authority for planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects using the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program. The funds are allocated to projects involving the development, rehabilitation and improvement of public parks, recreation Read more

 

Ciresi, Marcell bipartisan bill to allow intermediate units to own facilities for instructional use reported out of committee

(Jan 28, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 28 – Bipartisan legislation ( H.B. 201 ) introduced by state Reps. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, and Kristin Marcell, R-Bucks, which would allow intermediate units to own facilities for instructional space was reported out of the House Education Committee and is now headed to the full House for a vote. Last session, the legislation, introduced as H.B. 1526, passed the House and was sent to the Senate for consideration. However, the Senate did not act on it. IUs are regional educational service agencies that were created by the legislature in 1970. They provide special education, professional development and technical assistance services to public school districts and non-public/private schools. They also serve as liaisons between school districts and the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Every year, more than 175,000 students and 50,000 educators receive services and training from IUs. Currently, IUs are only permitted to own office space and warehouse facilities, not facilities used for instructional space. This limitation does not apply to school districts, area career and technical schools, or charter schools, even though many IUs operate classrooms and other instructional spaces. As a result, all of their instructional facilities must be leased, burdening IUs with rental costs that sometimes greatly exceed what it would cost the IU to purchase and own the facility themselves. “As a former school board member, I know that Read more

 

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

(Jan 28, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Conservation and Natural Resources: Community Conservation Partnerships Program Who May Apply: Counties, municipalities, municipal agencies, nonprofit organizations, state heritage areas, prequalified land trusts, for-profit organizations (for some grant types). Use: Funds may be used for projects related to parks, recreation, and conservation, including, but not limited to, park and recreation rehabilitation and development, recreation and conservation planning, trail planning and construction, land acquisition and conservation, river access and conservation, community and riparian tree planting, and regional and statewide partnerships to better develop and manage resources. Funds: Funds for this program come from a mix of state and federal sources, including the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, the Environmental Stewardship Fund, the Snowmobile Restricted Account, the All-Terrain Vehicle Restricted Account, and more. Application Deadline: April 2, 2025 More information: DCNR 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 development agencies, and for-profit organizations. Use: To develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within Pennsylvania. Funds: $400 Read more

 

Kazeem announces $325,000 in state grants for local development

(Jan 28, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 28 – State Rep. Carol Kazeem, D-Delaware, secured $325,000 in state funding through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program for area projects. The following projects in her legislative district will receive funding: Eddystone Delaware River Waterfront Park -- Awarded $125,000 for the development of the Delaware River Waterfront Park, including the construction and installation of a boardwalk, bridge, playground, splash pad, dog park, kayak launch, bathrooms, and install benches, tables, and trash receptacles. Market Square Memorial Park -- Awarded $200,000 to complete construction plans for the Delaware River Pier Replacement located at the Market Square Memorial Park in Marcus Hook Borough, Delaware County. "These grants are vital to improving the quality of life in our communities in the 159th District here in Delaware County by providing recreational spaces where our residents can come together," said Kazeem. “Investments in our area parks will help create or enhance healthier and more vibrant spaces, benefitting everyone in our communities.” The funding comes from the Act 13 of 2012, which established the Marcellus Legacy Fund and allocates funds to the Commonwealth Financing Authority for planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects using the Greenways, Trails, Read more

 

Ciresi announces $53,000 in state funding for Schuylkill River Trail improvements

(Jan 28, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Jan. 28– State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, is pleased to announce he secured $53,000 in state grant funding for the Schuylkill River Trail Grosstown Road crossing in West Pottsgrove Township through the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program. Provco Pinegood Stowe, LLC has received $53,000 to install a new crosswalk and rectangular rapid flashing beacons at the crossing of Grosstown Road and the Schuylkill River Trail, providing a safer crossing for pedestrians and cyclists. Ciresi said the improvements will make access to the trail safer and more welcoming for current and additional trail users. “We are fortunate to have the Schuylkill River Trail, a key part of our natural and historic heritage, in our area,” Ciresi said. “Improvements proposed as part of this project would improve the experience for current trail users and support the growing popularity of this major trail. Upgrading the crossing of Grosstown Road and the Schuylkill River Trail will improve the quality of life for many residents, providing better access to safe and healthy outdoor recreation, while leaving a lasting legacy for generations to use.” Act 13 of 2012 established the Marcellus Legacy Fund and allocates funds to the Commonwealth Financing Authority for planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects using the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Read more

 

Mayes, McClinton: PA CROWN Act clears committee
Feb 04, 2025

Conklin bill to allow agents at the Office of State Inspector General to carry weapons clears committee, heads for House
Feb 03, 2025

Two years after East Palestine derailment, Matzie renews push for stronger rail safety
Feb 03, 2025

Ciresi, Marcell bipartisan bill to allow intermediate units to own facilities for instructional use passes House
Feb 03, 2025

Matzie introduces bill to protect consumers from ‘speculative ticketing’
Feb 03, 2025

Judiciary Committee votes in favor of bills with bipartisan support
Feb 03, 2025

Daley celebrates House passage of bike lane protections
Feb 03, 2025

Reps. Bellmon, Dawkins, Dougherty, Gallagher, Neilson and Solomon Issue Statement on Plane Crash in Northeast Philadelphia
Jan 31, 2025

Nelson introduces bill to ensure accuracy in use of AI in state government and public schools
Jan 31, 2025

Powell introduces bills to help make home ownership possible for more Pennsylvanians and reduce displacement & gentrification
Jan 30, 2025

Philadelphia House Delegation elects new leaders
Jan 30, 2025

Bipartisan bill to ease unemployment process for domestic violence victims approved by PA House Labor Committee
Jan 29, 2025

Frankel bill to boost oversight of medical marijuana testing clears House Health Committee
Jan 29, 2025

Pa. House committee advances bill requiring food allergy warnings
Jan 29, 2025

Warren Ready to Lead Insurance Committee
Jan 28, 2025

Fleming announces $121,000 in state grants for Black Run Park Trails
Jan 28, 2025

Ciresi, Marcell bipartisan bill to allow intermediate units to own facilities for instructional use reported out of committee
Jan 28, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jan 28, 2025

Kazeem announces $325,000 in state grants for local development
Jan 28, 2025

Ciresi announces $53,000 in state funding for Schuylkill River Trail improvements
Jan 28, 2025