News Center

Howard introduces bill to help improve people’s credit ratings

(Oct 23, 2020) Southeast Delegation

MALVERN, Oct. 23 – State Rep. Kristine Howard, D-Chester, introduced H.B. 2932 which would require public utility companies to offer customers the option of reporting their monthly payments to credit bureaus to demonstrate a history of on-time recurring payments. “The economic fallout caused by the pandemic has caused many consumers to miss payments, hurting their credit scores,” Howard said. “Consumers striving to establish or repair their credit find an unbalanced system only reporting negative, delinquent payments, while other on-time payments go unreported. “My bill would help consumers build up good credit by requiring that public utilities offer their customers the choice of opting to have their utility payments reported to credit reporting agencies, including timely payments. This measure will allow consumers to opt-in at any time, with no restrictions or expiration date.” According to Howard, Experian was the first credit reporting agency to offer consumers the ability to have on-time utility and rent payments credited to their report to improve their credit score, but the other agencies have yet to offer anything similar. “It’s time we change this credit reporting system to benefit hardworking consumers who pay utility bills on time. My bill would provide a lifeline and help people recover from the financial crisis caused by the pandemic,” Howard said. The bill has been referred to the House Consumer Read more

 

Sanchez announces nearly $4M investment to help clean local water supply

(Oct 21, 2020) Rep. Ben Sanchez

“I’m thankful for all the work that Representative Sanchez and the other dedicated officials from our region have put in to consistently and strongly advocating on the issue of PFAS,” said Congresswoman Madeleine Dean, D-Glenside. “The advocacy of so many leaders on what began as a little known but pressing threat to our health is now helping power an industry focus on PFAS as well as growing the national conversation on environmental justice and the important role that government and private interests have in delivering it.” Read more

 

Sanchez to introduce resolution condemning recent attacks in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh)

(Oct 16, 2020) Rep. Ben Sanchez

“Despite international pressure for a cessation of hostilities, the situation is deteriorating,” Sanchez said. “Artsakh is being attacked mercilessly. Because of this appalling action, I am introducing this resolution to condemn the attacks and Turkey’s involvement.” Read more

 

Bradford, Webster announce $326K grant to help develop Zacharias Creek Trail

(Oct 15, 2020) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 15 – State Reps. Matt Bradford and Joe Webster, both D-Montgomery, announced a grant of $326,200 for Worcester Township to be used toward development of Zacharias Creek Trail. This investment is part of a statewide announcement of roughly $7.6 million in funding from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Recreation and Conservation grant program. The funding for this particular project will include construction of approximately 1.15 miles of trail from the current Zacharias Creek Trail terminus near Anders Road to Evansburg State Park and a bridge, plus ADA access, landscaping, project sign and other related site improvements. “Trails and other outdoor activities make it easier for people to stay healthy and active during these times we are living in. We are fortunate to have many beautiful recreational areas throughout Montgomery County, and I’m pleased that this funding will help expand Zacharias Creek Trail and give us additional ways to enjoy the outdoors, especially during the pandemic,” Bradford said. Said Webster: "The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania saw unprecedented park and trail usage this past spring and summer because of COVID-19. The $326,000 in funding from DCNR for this project will allow us to connect two popular trail networks increasing multimodal access to different green spaces across our county." In Pennsylvania, outdoor recreation generates $29.1 billion in consumer Read more

 

Ciresi announces $428K grant for Royersford Trestle Bridge rehabilitation

(Oct 15, 2020) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

“This funding for the joining of our twin boroughs [Spring City and Royersford] with a rehabilitated trestle bridge is another great step toward waterfront revitalization and bringing the towns together,” Ciresi said. “Greater walkability and bike access will improve connections for residents of both boroughs to recreational trails, schools, small businesses and grocery stores, while highlighting the historic industrial link that the trestle bridge once provided.” Read more

 

Shusterman, House Democratic Policy Committee examine 2020 vote

(Oct 08, 2020) Rep. Melissa Shusterman, Rep. Mike Sturla

HARRISBURG, Oct. 8 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman hosted the Pennsylvania House Democratic Policy Committee for an online hearing today examining the progress that state and county officials have made securing the 2020 general election in Pennsylvania. Shusterman hosted the hearing at the request of committee Chair Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster. Testimony was heard from: Jonathan Marks , deputy secretary for elections & commission, Pennsylvania Department of State. Bill Turner , acting director, Chester County Voter Services. Vic Walczak , legal director, ACLU of Pennsylvania . Pat Christmas , policy director, The Committee of Seventy Carol Kuniholm , vice president of government and social policy, League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania. The full hearing is available to watch at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ILAO2YScj8&feature=emb_logo . “Ensuring that this fall’s election takes place securely and does so with the confidence of Pennsylvania voters is the most important work happening at all levels of government right now,” said Shusterman, D-Chester. “My House colleagues and I are laser-focused to ensuring that Pennsylvania’s voting procedures and personnel are dialed in and that the sanctity of our democracy is protected. “Having heard from this expert panel today, I am confident in telling my constituents that they can trust the integrity of this Read more

 

Krueger to host virtual expungement clinic Oct. 29

(Oct 08, 2020) Southeast Delegation

FOLSOM, Oct. 8 – State Rep. Leanne Krueger will host a virtual expungement clinic to help people learn if expungement might be an option for them. The event will be held at 6 p.m. Oct. 29 via Zoom. Attorneys from Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania will provide information about criminal record expungement options and resources, and there will be an opportunity for participants to meet individually with an attorney in a private Zoom room. “Even a minor criminal offense can create barriers to employment and housing and make it difficult for individuals who have paid their debt to society to move forward with their lives,” said Krueger, D-Delaware. “This event is a chance for those individuals to get information on options that might be available to them. I’m pleased to host this event to help community members navigate what can be a daunting process.” Registration is required for this event. Those interested should call 610-534-6880 or email RepKrueger@pahouse.net . Read more

 

Krueger announces COVID-19 grants for local fire, EMS agencies

(Oct 08, 2020) Southeast Delegation

FOLSOM, Oct. 8 – State Rep. Leanne Krueger announced that several local fire and emergency service organizations will receive grants to offset the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through Act 26, the state made $50 million in grants available to fire and emergency medical service organizations that were affected by the pandemic. The funding can be used for operational and equipment expenses. “Our first responders are always out front, protecting our communities in times of emergency, and that’s been even more apparent in recent months as we’ve battled COVID-19. They’ve continued their lifesaving work even as their organizations have felt the impacts of the global pandemic,” said Krueger, D-Delaware. “I was proud to vote for the legislation that made these grants possible, and I will continue to make it a priority to support fire and emergency medical service organizations.” In the 161 st District, grants were awarded as follows: Aston Township Fire Department - $36,842. Brookhaven Fire Co. - $ 23,944 (fire), $15,048 (EMS). Folsom Fire Co. No. 1 - $24,110. Garden City Fire Co. #1 - $25,205. Holmes Fire Co. - $25,205 (fire), $15,048 (EMS). Milmont Fire Co. #1 - $22,603. South Media Fire Co. No. 1 - $25,342. Swarthmore Fire and Protective Association - $25,342. Woodlyn Fire Co. #1 - $25,068 (fire), $15,048 Read more

 

Briggs, Webster fighting for fair, open elections

(Oct 08, 2020) Rep. Tim Briggs, Rep. Joe Webster

Your vote this November will shape the future of this country, and all eyes are on Pennsylvania due to its “battle state” status. This election will not only impact us in PA but also our brothers and sisters throughout the nation. Read more

 

Webster celebrates peace, harmony through participation in international conference

(Oct 05, 2020) Rep. Joe Webster

“The causes that matter to us – social justice, human rights, equality in education, women’s health, the quality of our natural resources like air and water – are worth using both our individual and collective voices for change,” Webster said. Read more

 

Webster calls on all House members to wear masks after latest positive COVID-19 test of a colleague

(Oct 01, 2020) Rep. Joe Webster

For the safety of the community at large and to prevent further spread of COVID-19, I encourage all individuals over the age of 2 to wear masks unless your health care provider has exempted you. More than 200,000 Americans have already died during this pandemic, and we know that mask wearing is an important way to prevent others from becoming infected if one is unknowingly carrying the virus. Read more

 

Krueger to host senior scams and fraud protection webinar Oct. 5

(Oct 01, 2020) Southeast Delegation

FOLSOM, Oct. 1 – State Rep. Leanne Krueger will host a senior scams and fraud protection webinar at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5. Krueger will be joined by Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer and officers from his office’s Criminal Investigation Division to discuss scams and fraud frequently targeted toward seniors and what seniors should do if they find themselves a victim. Topics will include identity theft, fiduciary theft, credit and debit card fraud, home improvement fraud, telemarketing fraud and internet fraud. “Unfortunately, scammers often try to take advantage of the most vulnerable members of our communities, including seniors,” said Krueger, D-Delaware. “It’s critical that seniors and their loved ones know what to watch out for and how to respond if they think they are being scammed. I’m pleased to work with the district attorney’s office to help share this important information.” Anyone interested can watch at www.RepLeanne.com . Questions can be emailed in advance to RepKrueger@pahouse.net and will be taken during the event. Anyone who needs more information should contact Krueger’s office at 610-534-6880. Read more

 

Krueger to host free shredding and prescription drug collection event Oct. 17

(Sep 28, 2020) Southeast Delegation

FOLSOM, Sept. 28 – State Rep. Leanne Krueger will host a free shredding and prescription drug collection event from 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 17 at the Aston Community Center, 3270 Concord Road, Aston. Residents of the 161 st District are invited to bring up to five boxes of old papers that contain personal information to have them shredded on-site and recycled. In addition, the Delaware County District Attorney’s Mobile Drug Collection Unit will be on-site to collect any unneeded medications for proper disposal. “Shredding personal documents helps protect against identity theft, and safe discarding of prescription drugs keeps them from falling into the wrong hands or being abused. I’m pleased to be able to host this event to help community members get rid of these items safely,” said Krueger, D-Delaware. Those attending should wear a mask and put materials for shredding in the trunk of their vehicle, where someone will retrieve them. Anyone with questions should contact Krueger’s office at 610-534-6880. Read more

 

Ciresi, Kerr laud Globus for expansion into Limerick

(Sep 25, 2020) Rep. Joseph Ciresi

LIMERICK, Sept. 25 – Area officials expressed their excitement over news today that Globus Medical will expand manufacturing of musculoskeletal implants in Montgomery County. The decision is expected to create 243 jobs and help retain more than 1,000 other Pennsylvania jobs, according to the announcement made by Gov. Tom Wolf this morning. “Manufacturing strength is a core marker of a healthy economy, and with all that’s going on across the globe, this is truly encouraging news,” said state Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery. “Globus made a wise choice investing in the hard workers and family-sustaining neighborhoods found in the 146 th District community.” Globus Medical will purchase and renovate a facility in Limerick Township near its worldwide headquarters in Audubon, which has been vacant for nearly two years. The company will invest $36 million into the expansion. The Pennsylvania company received a funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development for a $750,000 Pennsylvania First grant and $729,000 in Job Creation Tax Credits to be distributed upon creation of the new jobs. “Limerick is pleased to welcome Globus Medical to our community and excited to work with them on the expansion of their medical manufacturing operation,” Limerick Township Manager Daniel Kerr said. “The township is proud of the proactive relationship that Limerick has with the entire Read more

 

Trumpism threatens judicial independence in Pennsylvania

(Sep 21, 2020) Southeast Delegation

The radical right agenda has infiltrated the Pennsylvania legislature and threatens the independence of our judiciary. We rely on a fair and independent judicial system to administer equal justice under the law, free from outside pressure and influence. But, as we approach a critically important election, that independence is on the line because of a politically motivated attempt to rig our courts. The most radicalized Republican members of the legislature reign over districts simply because they picked their constituents through gerrymandering. The lack of compromise, civility and gridlock in Harrisburg can be directly linked to gerrymandering. The same radicalized Republicans in control in Harrisburg are pushing H.B. 196, which would amend the Pennsylvania Constitution to create judicial districts for our appellate courts, rather than elect them on a statewide basis. It’s a bad bill that shows a fundamental lack of understanding about the judiciary and its role in our society. Appellate court decisions impact the rights of all Pennsylvanians, from Erie to King of Prussia and everywhere in between. Appellate judges are elected to interpret our laws, not to represent any particular special interests or regional biases. Judges are to be free of influence and not bring their own agenda to the courts. Electing judges from districts drawn by radicalized politicians would make those judges increasingly beholden to special interests instead of the law, Read more

 

Krueger to host online ‘Ready to Vote 2020’ webinar

(Sep 21, 2020) Southeast Delegation

FOLSOM, Sept. 21 – State Rep. Leanne Krueger will host a webinar at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23 for community members to get the latest information on the upcoming election and the latest changes to voting laws. Those interested can watch “Ready to Vote 2020” by visiting www.RepLeanne.com . Questions can be submitted in advance to RepKrueger@pahouse.net and will be taken during the event. “I hear regularly from residents of my district who have questions about the November election, whether about mail-in ballots, drop boxes or the status of polling places. I’m happy to host this webinar to help them get some answers,” said Krueger, D-Delaware. Krueger will be joined by Christine Reuther, Delaware County Council member. Anyone with questions should contact Krueger’s office at 610-534-6880. Read more

 

Sappey resolution designating September as ‘International Underground Railroad Month’ adopted in House

(Sep 17, 2020) Rep. Christina Sappey

HARRISBURG, Sept. 17 – State Rep. Christina Sappey’s resolution designating September 2020 as “International Underground Railroad Month” in Pennsylvania was adopted today in the state House of Representatives. “Pennsylvania’s history shows it was pivotal in the freedom of slaves via the Underground Railroad,” said Sappey, D-Chester. “The more research that was done, the more we uncovered safehouses, escape routes and hiding places across the entire state. Ordinary citizens and some former slaves known as ‘stationmasters’ would risk their own freedom to help their loved ones escape. It’s time to recognize the importance of the Underground Railroad. This designation honors this state, its people, and all of those who have fought and continue to fight for true freedom of all peoples.” “This moment in time is a chance to reflect on all of those who fought tirelessly for their right to vote and true freedom,” said Dr. James Trotman, founding director of the Frederick Douglass Institute at West Chester University. “I tend to think of Douglass himself, and the North Star, his first newspaper, in another challenging time. After he attended the 1848 Women’s Rights Conference in Seneca Falls, New York, he changed the newspaper’s masthead to reflect the impact of the conference on him and our common struggle. The masthead read, ‘Right is of no sex; truth is of Read more

 

Sappey holding virtual panel on law enforcement, community and healing

(Sep 08, 2020) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Sept. 8 – State Rep. Christina Sappey, D-Chester, invites residents of the 158th Legislative District to her next presentation in a series of virtual panel discussions on race: “Institutionalized Disadvantage: Law Enforcement, The Community and Healing.” The discussion will stream live at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, at www.RepSappey.com . Panelists include state Rep. Dan Williams, D-Chester, Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan, Chief Gerald Simpson of the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department, and Rev. Annalie Korengel, pastor of Unionville Presbyterian and the police chaplain for Kennett Township, Kennet Square, and Southern Chester County Regional Police Departments. Those interested in participating should RSVP by emailing Sappey’s office at RepSappey@pahouse.net or signing up online at https://www.pahouse.com/Sappey/RSVP/?id=1277 . “Throughout this series of discussions, we have explored the origins of systemic racism in the American institutions of education, housing, health care and justice,” Sappey said. “This upcoming panel will focus on law enforcement changes, community healing and the path forward. I look forward to this event and hope that as many people as possible can join to help chart a new course together.” Questions and comments for panelists may be emailed to RepSappey@pahouse.net before or during the Read more

 

House Democratic Policy Committee to hold briefing about “The Vanishing Trial” Thursday in Capitol

(Sep 04, 2020) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Sept. 4 – State Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster, announced today that the House Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public briefing on “The Vanishing Trial” film and the implications of Pennsylvania’s harsh sentencing laws on plea bargaining and trials. The briefing will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 in Room G-50 Irvis Office Building in Harrisburg. The media and public are urged to watch the livestream at www.pahouse.com/live . Requested by state Rep. Tina Davis, D-Bucks, the briefing will feature a showing of “The Vanishing Trial” and testimony from policy experts. Presenters will speak remotely while committee members will participate in person and remotely. Speakers will include: K. Celeste Trusty , Pennsylvania state policy director, FAMM. Marirosa Lamas , former superintendent, SCI-Chester. Chester Hollman , legal assistant, Pennsylvania Institutional Law Project. Nyssa Taylor , criminal justice policy counsel, ACLU-PA. Following the briefing, testimonies and full briefing video will be posted at www.pahouse.com/policycommittee . Read more

 

Briggs: Pandemic, election demonstrate need for media literacy curriculum

(Aug 21, 2020) Southeast Delegation

KING OF PRUSSIA, Aug. 18 – The global pandemic and upcoming presidential election demonstrate the critical importance of teaching media literacy, starting at a young age, said state Rep. Tim Briggs, who has been advocating for the establishment of media literacy curriculum in Pennsylvania schools. “As we are all bombarded with information on a daily basis, particularly through social media, it can sometimes be difficult to discern fact from fiction – and during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s critical to ensure we are consuming accurate information from reliable sources,” said Briggs, D-Montgomery. “I’ve reintroduced legislation to establish a media literacy curriculum in our schools because we need to prepare our youngest citizens with the critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate information and sources. The health of our democracy – and right now, the health of our citizens – depends on it.” House Bill 992, assigned to the House Education Committee since March 2019, would require the Pennsylvania Department of Education to develop an age-appropriate media literacy curriculum for kindergarten through grade 12 that would be made available to school districts throughout Pennsylvania. The curriculum may include, but would not be limited to: developing critical thinking skills; understanding how media messages shape culture and society; identifying targeted marketing strategies; naming Read more

 

Howard introduces bill to help improve people’s credit ratings
Oct 23, 2020

Sanchez announces nearly $4M investment to help clean local water supply
Oct 21, 2020

Sanchez to introduce resolution condemning recent attacks in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh)
Oct 16, 2020

Bradford, Webster announce $326K grant to help develop Zacharias Creek Trail
Oct 15, 2020

Ciresi announces $428K grant for Royersford Trestle Bridge rehabilitation
Oct 15, 2020

Shusterman, House Democratic Policy Committee examine 2020 vote
Oct 08, 2020

Krueger to host virtual expungement clinic Oct. 29
Oct 08, 2020

Krueger announces COVID-19 grants for local fire, EMS agencies
Oct 08, 2020

Briggs, Webster fighting for fair, open elections
Oct 08, 2020

Webster celebrates peace, harmony through participation in international conference
Oct 05, 2020

Webster calls on all House members to wear masks after latest positive COVID-19 test of a colleague
Oct 01, 2020

Krueger to host senior scams and fraud protection webinar Oct. 5
Oct 01, 2020

Krueger to host free shredding and prescription drug collection event Oct. 17
Sep 28, 2020

Ciresi, Kerr laud Globus for expansion into Limerick
Sep 25, 2020

Trumpism threatens judicial independence in Pennsylvania
Sep 21, 2020

Krueger to host online ‘Ready to Vote 2020’ webinar
Sep 21, 2020

Sappey resolution designating September as ‘International Underground Railroad Month’ adopted in House
Sep 17, 2020

Sappey holding virtual panel on law enforcement, community and healing
Sep 08, 2020

House Democratic Policy Committee to hold briefing about “The Vanishing Trial” Thursday in Capitol
Sep 04, 2020

Briggs: Pandemic, election demonstrate need for media literacy curriculum
Aug 21, 2020