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Fiedler, Hanbidge celebrate signing of Pelvic Exam Consent bill

(Nov 27, 2023) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Nov. 27 – Today, state Reps. Elizabeth Fiedler , D-Phila., and Liz Hanbidge , D-Montgomery, joined Gov. Josh Shapiro for the ceremonial signing of H.B. 507 , which requires medical facilities in Pennsylvania to obtain consent before performing pelvic, prostate or rectal exams on anesthetized patients. The bill was officially signed into law on Nov. 21 by Shapiro as Act 31 of 2023. "Patients in Pennsylvania will finally have the right to make decisions about exams performed on their bodies while under anesthesia. This legislation ensures informed consent for invasive pelvic and rectal exams, at last giving patients the decision-making power that we all deserve about our own bodies,” Fiedler said. “I’m grateful to my colleague, Representative Hanbidge, for her work on this bill, and I thank Governor Shapiro for signing it into law.” “Performing a pelvic, rectal or prostate exam unknowingly on an anesthetized patient isn’t only invasive, but it’s also a breach of trust. Our legislation abolishes this archaic practice, thereby strengthening the trust that Pennsylvanians have in medical professionals, protecting bodily autonomy and highlighting the importance of consent,” Hanbidge said. “Patients expecting to go under anesthesia should never have to worry about being objectified for ‘learning purposes,’ and now thanks to my co-sponsor Representative Fiedler, Read more

 

Ciresi announces $147,500 in state tax credits for Pottstown revitalization

(Nov 22, 2023) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Nov. 22 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, announced today that the state had approved $147,500 in Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credits to assist Genesis Housing Corp. in its investment in revitalizing blighted properties in Pottstown. “These state tax credits will help continue the important work of Genesis Housing Corp. in fighting blight and maintaining affordable housing in Pottstown,” Ciresi said. “This work will keep at-risk homeowners in safe and decent housing while revitalizing the communities around them. At a time when affordable housing is increasingly hard to find, this investment is important and will make meaningful impacts in people’s lives. I thank DCED, Genesis Housing Corp., and their business partners for making this investment in Pottstown.” The investment will assist Genesis Housing Corporation’s rehabilitation projects in Pottstown: $80,000 will be used to address neighborhood revitalization through mostly smaller scale improvement projects, housing rehab and facade grants. This money will support exterior renovations, housing counseling services, improved community access to gardens, and support for community improvement programs. $67,500 will be used to continue the Pottstown Homeowner Property Rehab Program to provide rehab grants for at-risk populations. This program will provide eligible low-income homeowners with grants and technical assistance for critical home repairs, Read more

 

Pennsylvanians address rise in censorship, book bans

(Nov 16, 2023) Southeast Delegation

“Books are the window that allow our students to see and explore the world. They can teach us, they challenge us, they open our imaginations, but they are also safe places,” said Rep. Friel. “Sometimes, our kids, they’re out there, they’re by themselves. They think they’re alone, but it is in the library where they discover they are not.” Read more

 

Pa. House passes bill to give striking workers unemployment pay

(Nov 16, 2023) PennLive

The idea is that “we’re going to supplement you with your own money while you bargain with your sometimes not-in-good-faith employer,” Rep. Dave Delloso said. Read more

 

Bill introduced to protect tenants facing violence

(Nov 16, 2023) Southeast Delegation

The bill was introduced by state Representative Lisa Boroski (D-Delaware) after being referred to the House Judiciary Committee back in June. The bill establishes a process by which victims of violence can be released from or terminate a lease early if they need to relocate as the result of an applicable crime, such as any crime that causes a physical or mental injury, sexual violence or stalking. Read more

 

Fiedler, Hanbidge pelvic exam bill headed to governor’s desk

(Nov 15, 2023) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Nov. 15 – The PA House today passed legislation (H.B. 507) that requires medical facilities in Pennsylvania to obtain consent before performing pelvic, prostate or rectal exams on anesthetized patients. The legislation, introduced by state Reps. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., and Liz Hanbidge, D-Montgomery, now goes to Gov. Josh Shapiro for his signature. In Pennsylvania, medical students are currently permitted to perform these invasive exams on unconscious patients for training purposes. The legislators said this unethical practice undermines patient-doctor relationships, which require a foundation of trust, respect and transparency. “This year, we’ve seen millions of women and people across the country stand up for reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy,” said Fiedler. “It’s never been more important to empower patients to make decisions about their own bodies and lives. I am elated to see this bill pass, and I look forward to Governor Shapiro signing it into law.” “When patients arrive at the hospital for surgeries or treatments that require anesthesia, they are understandably worried or anxious about the outcome of their procedure, rarely thinking that an unrelated internal and intimate exam by a medical student might be part of the process,” Hanbidge said. “House Bill 507 puts the power back in the hands of the patient, giving them the final say in the care Read more

 

E-waste recycling struggles drawing state's attention

(Nov 06, 2023) The Center Square

Legislation introduced by Rep. Lisa Borowski, D-Newtown Square, would update the state’s existing electronic waste recycling infrastructure. Supporters say additional funding for programs would create additional drop-off locations, making it more convenient and less expensive for residents to recycle electronic devices, or e-waste. Read more

 

Rozzi, Capelletti introduce legislation to outlaw so-called ‘skill’ slot machines

(Oct 31, 2023) Southeast Delegation

“In addition to preying on users of the machines, skill games also steal money that should be going to Pennsylvania Lottery programs that support programs for our senior citizens,” Rozzi said. Read more

 

A bill under consideration in the Pa. House would make it easier to recycle electronic waste

(Oct 31, 2023) Pennsylvania Capital-Star

As of 2022, just nine waste collection sites offer unrestricted access to electronic waste recycling out of the 443 total e-waste collection sites across the commonwealth. Read more

 

House passes Ciresi bill to expand EV charging infrastructure

(Oct 30, 2023) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 30 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi’s, D-Montgomery, legislation that would help create more EV charging stations throughout Pennsylvania at no cost to the Pennsylvania taxpayer passed the House today. House Bill 1474 would add electric vehicle charging infrastructure projects as an eligible project type under Pennsylvania’s Property-Assessed Clean Energy program (C-PACE). C-PACE, which was created by Act 30 of 2018 , has facilitated over $250 million in investments in energy efficiency, clean energy, conservation, and other projects by connecting property owners with long-term financing. The investments are funded entirely through private capital, so it would not impose any financial burden on the commonwealth or local governments, according to Ciresi. “My House Bill 1474 would help develop Pennsylvania’s EV charging infrastructure at no cost to the taxpayer at a time when electric vehicles are becoming more prevalent on our roads and highways,” Ciresi said. “This legislation would unlock financing to install charging stations throughout the commonwealth—from places of employment, restaurants, apartments, hotels, shopping centers to tourist attractions. More charging stations makes it easier for everyone to operate these energy-efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles in Pennsylvania, whether you’re a resident running errands or business traveler or tourist visiting our state.” The bill has Read more

 

Union health center offers services for workers and their families

(Oct 25, 2023) Southeast Delegation

“We saw firsthand how the union has taken the proactive step of delivering fundamental needs for its workers and their families,” said event co-host Ben Sanchez, who represents portions of Upper Dublin Township and surrounding municipalities. “For over a century, we’ve stood up for unions because of the tireless work they do to improve the lives of workers in our communities, and with the opening of this facility we witnessed yet another example of their dedication.” Read more

 

Committee tours, discusses pedestrian safety options in Delco

(Oct 24, 2023) Southeast Delegation

“Communities thrive when pedestrian safety improves,” said state Rep. Jennifer O’Mara, who hosted the policy event and represents Media and surrounding municipalities in Delaware County. “When we have safe streets, we increase the number of environmentally friendly transportation options. If people can walk with their children down Main Street or in the neighborhood, they can drop into stores and parks they might have missed if they had been in their car – and we reduce the number of cars on clogged roadways. Pedestrian safety is a win for everyone.” Read more

 

Anti-trans policies in Pa. schools don’t just impact LGBTQ kids

(Oct 24, 2023) Philadelphia Inquirer

On the rare occasions when LGBTQ issues do come up at school, they serve to educate, not influence. Read more

 

Cephas, Curry, Mayes launch Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus

(Oct 18, 2023) PA Black Maternal Health Caucus

HARRISBURG, Oct. 17 – State Reps. Morgan Cephas , D-Phila.; Gina H. Curry , D-Delaware; and La’Tasha D. Mayes , D-Allegheny, today launched the Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus at a news conference in the Capitol Media Center. Joining the launch event were advocates from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Community Health Workers and AmeriHealth Caritas/Keystone First, along with a series of other stakeholders from across the state. The Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus seeks to address disturbing trends of Black maternal mortality and morbidity and pass the Pennsylvania MOMNIBUS, a legislative package modeled after the federal MOMNIBUS legislation to change the trajectory of maternal health outcomes in Pennsylvania. “I am thrilled to be a part of the Black Maternal Health Caucus as this is a subject close to my heart, a cause that I have been championing for years,” Cephas said. “We join forces to bring visibility to Black maternal health as a critical issue and cause of action. We want to advance legislation and solutions by working with our colleagues in both the House and Senate. One of the keys focuses of our work will be proper data collection, as initiated with Act 5 of 2023 signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro. Accurate and regular tracking is essential for comprehensive research on medical issues linked to Black maternal health. We need Read more

 

Ciresi bill to outlaw early termination fees for deceased people passes House

(Oct 17, 2023) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 17 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi’s bill that would protect a deceased person’s family or estate from being charged early termination fees for canceling certain service contracts and vehicle leases passed the PA House today unanimously. “It’s hard enough to lose a family member, but it is just salt in the wound for a grieving relative to have to pay an early termination fee because the customer has died,” Ciresi said. “ Death shouldn’t come with fees, and companies shouldn’t be making money off a customer’s death. My legislation would prohibit cable, phone, telecommunication, utility and other companies from imposing early termination fees on a recently deceased person’s family for services that would no longer be used.” The bill would require that written notice along with a death certificate be provided to end such leases or contracts without financial penalty. Ciresi has championed the legislation in previous sessions. This session, the bill had 24 co-sponsors, including both Democrats and Republicans. The bill is on its way to be considered by the Senate. Read more

 

Pielli' wiretap bill passes PA House

(Oct 17, 2023) Southeast Delegation

State Rep. Chris Pielli, D-Chester, announced today that his legislation (H.B. 1278) to extend the expiration date of Pennsylvania’s wiretap law has passed the state House of Representatives. Read more

 

Central Bucks Lawmaker Moving Legislation Forward, Joins L&I Committee

(Oct 10, 2023) Patch

Rep. Brennan's bills range from Right To Know requests to school board reapportionment, costly SLAPP lawsuits and the preservation of agricultural lands. Read more

 

Ciresi announces nearly $385K in state funding for park improvements

(Oct 05, 2023) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 5 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, announced today that Royersford Borough has been awarded $184,800 and West Pottsgrove Township, $200,000 in state funding by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “These well-deserved awards will improve Royersford’s Victory Park and West Pottsgrove Township’s Old Timer’s Park to enhance the experience for all of their visitors and make sure they can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of ability,” Ciresi said. “Continued state support for our local parks will have visible impacts in our communities, including an improved baseball field for West Pottsgrove and accessible pathways, tables and benches, and play surfaces throughout Royersford’s Victory Park.” The grant money will be used for the following projects: $184,800 for Royersford Borough to rehabilitate Victory Park. The funds will help renovate the outdoor stage, construct a pedestrian walkway, install play equipment with required safety surfacing and fencing, install ADA access, landscape, install project signage and make other related site improvements. $200,000 for West Pottsgrove Township to rehabilitate the Old Timer’s Field Park. The funds will be used to renovate the baseball field and parking area, construct stormwater management measures, install fencing and lighting and ADA access, landscaping, project signage and make other related site Read more

 

House passes Ciresi signage bill for land development

(Oct 03, 2023) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 3 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi’s legislation (H.B. 123) to create signage requirements for proposed subdivision and land development projects passed the House today. “All too often, residents are left unaware of development happening near them because property developers can provide ‘notice’ with nothing more than an 8½-inch by 11-inch sheet of paper, which is often easy to miss,” Ciresi said. “My bill would require greater transparency by creating specific requirements for posted signage on property proposed for development, giving residents a better understanding of what is happening in their community before final decisions are made.” The legislation would amend the Municipalities Planning Code to ensure that posted signs are a minimum of nine square feet in surface area and can be read from a viewing distance of 50 feet, are conspicuously posted along external road frontage, and include a description of the proposed project and which local governmental entity is reviewing the development application. Developers would be required to keep the signage posted until after the application has been considered and acted on by the local government. The legislation was introduced as H.B. 2374 in the previous legislative session. Read more

 

Ciresi anti-littering bill passes PA House

(Oct 02, 2023) Southeast Delegation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 2 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi’s legislation (H.B. 1044) today passed the PA House of Representatives. The legislation would update and simplify littering language that appears on vehicle registration cards and applications for driver’s licenses and learner’s permits. “Pennsylvania is a beautiful state, but all too often litter degrades our streets and countryside, threatens public health and negatively impacts community pride,” Ciresi, D-Montgomery, said. “With this bill, I wanted to turn the current, technical wording used on PennDOT documents into something that everyone could understand, make sure drivers clearly understand the penalties for littering, and update the penalty language to include community service. We are all stewards of our commonwealth, and I hope the updated and simplified language on vehicle registration and applications will make Pennsylvanians step up and take responsibility for its care.” Ciresi said littering is a major problem in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Litter Research Study -- conducted in 2018-2019 by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, and Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful -- found more than 500 million pieces of litter on roadways statewide. Ciresi pointed out that a significant portion of taxpayer money is being used to clean up litter, citing one 2019 study by Keep Pennsylvania Read more

 

Fiedler, Hanbidge celebrate signing of Pelvic Exam Consent bill
Nov 27, 2023

Ciresi announces $147,500 in state tax credits for Pottstown revitalization
Nov 22, 2023

Pennsylvanians address rise in censorship, book bans
Nov 16, 2023

Pa. House passes bill to give striking workers unemployment pay
Nov 16, 2023

Bill introduced to protect tenants facing violence
Nov 16, 2023

Fiedler, Hanbidge pelvic exam bill headed to governor’s desk
Nov 15, 2023

E-waste recycling struggles drawing state's attention
Nov 06, 2023

Rozzi, Capelletti introduce legislation to outlaw so-called ‘skill’ slot machines
Oct 31, 2023

A bill under consideration in the Pa. House would make it easier to recycle electronic waste
Oct 31, 2023

House passes Ciresi bill to expand EV charging infrastructure
Oct 30, 2023

Union health center offers services for workers and their families
Oct 25, 2023

Committee tours, discusses pedestrian safety options in Delco
Oct 24, 2023

Anti-trans policies in Pa. schools don’t just impact LGBTQ kids
Oct 24, 2023

Cephas, Curry, Mayes launch Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus
Oct 18, 2023

Ciresi bill to outlaw early termination fees for deceased people passes House
Oct 17, 2023

Pielli' wiretap bill passes PA House
Oct 17, 2023

Central Bucks Lawmaker Moving Legislation Forward, Joins L&I Committee
Oct 10, 2023

Ciresi announces nearly $385K in state funding for park improvements
Oct 05, 2023

House passes Ciresi signage bill for land development
Oct 03, 2023

Ciresi anti-littering bill passes PA House
Oct 02, 2023