Legislation to Help Landslide Victims Read more
ERIE, May 20 – Positive and negative impacts of the proposed consolidation of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education were vetted at today’s House Democratic Policy Committee virtual hearing. The hearing, hosted by committee Chairman Ryan Bizzarro, and state Reps. Peter Schweyer and Emily Kinkead, included testimony from educators, facility management, PASSHE leadership and students. The committee heard testimony from Dr. Sam Claster, Sociology Department Chair, Edinboro University; Lydia Laythe, Washington Township Councilperson in Erie; and Mary Jo Campbell, Professor Emeritus, Edinboro University; who all cautioned that moving forward without hearing from those directly involved in educating students and keeping schools in operation and how consolidation without addressing investment and system strains may not have the desired intention. “The bottom line is Pennsylvania ranks 48th in investment in higher education. If we want to attract and retain Pennsylvania students and prepare them for a successful future, we must address the system’s shortcomings and invest in students so we can build a stronger higher education system that positions Pennsylvania with a vibrant workforce,” explained Bizzarro. “We do need to take our time and take an approach that can have positive, longstanding impacts on our commonwealth.” Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Chancellor Dr. Daniel Greenstein and Clarion Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission: Historical & Archival Records Care grant program (Funding Source: Keystone Recreation, Park & Conservation Fund ) Who May Apply : H istorical societies, libraries, museums, nonprofit organizations, colleges and universities, local governments, school districts. Use : Surveying, inventorying, preserving, arranging and describing historical records relevant to Pennsylvania. Funding may also be requested for reformatting or the purchase of supplies and equipment. Funds : Collaborative grants up to $15,000 for a two-year project. Single entity grants up to $5,000 for a two-year project. No match required. Application Deadline : August 1 More Information : Click on https://www.phmc.pa.gov/Preservation/Grants-Funding/Pages/Records-Care-Grants.aspx . UPCOMING APPLICATION DEADLINES: PCCD Communities That Care: May 24 (Funding Source: General Fund ) Nonprofit organizations and units of local government. - Planning grants to help communities apply the Communities That Care (CTC) model. DCED Neighborhood Assistance Program: May 28 (Funding Source: General Fund) 501c3 nonprofits . – Tax credit program to encourage businesses to invest in projects by eligible nonprofits to serve low-income Read more
HARRISBURG, May 18 – The impact of a proposed consolidation of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education on students, staff and communities will be the focus of Thursday’s virtual House Democratic Policy Committee hearing hosted by state Representatives Ryan Bizzarro, Peter Schweyer and Emily Kinkead. The virtual hearing will begin at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 20 and can be viewed online at www.pahouse.com/policy . The public and media are encouraged to tune in and may submit questions via email to policy@pahouse.net . Bizzarro, D-Erie and chairman of the committee will join with Schweyer, D-Lehigh, and Kinkead, D-Allegheny, to discuss how consolidation will impact educational opportunities, extracurricular offerings, employment and the economic impact of the communities state system schools call home. PASSHE’s first plan—the west integration plan—aims to consolidate California University of Pennsylvania, Clarion University, and Edinboro University. The second—the northeast integration – would consolidate Bloomsburg University, Lock Haven University and Mansfield University. Read more
I took part in a PA House Democratic Policy Committee hearing in Pittsburgh this week, where we discussed the PA Rescue Plan and how it would invest federal funds to end housing insecurities and provide affordable housing options. Even before the pandemic, housing needs were significant, and it’s vital we address these issues. Read more
HARRISBURG, May 12 – A nonprofit organization in Northern Allegheny County, which provides food and support services to those in need, are among several organizations statewide to receive funding from the Ag and Youth Grant program, state Rep. Emily Kinkead announced today. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said North Hills Community Outreach was awarded $2,750 to expand the Rosalinda Sauro Sirriani Garden, its community-supported organic garden in Bellevue. “North Hills Community Outreach does so much to help our community and support residents who are experiencing food insecurity,” said Kinkead. “In less than 10 years, the Rosalinda Sauro Sirianni Garden has produced enough produce to serve over a thousand families in need each year, and this grant will allow the NHCO to expand, allowing it to serve more residents in need.” “These funds are greatly appreciated and will enable students to learn at our garden and increase their passion for giving back through volunteerism,” said Tom Baker, NHCO executive director. “The garden is a wonderful place for students to serve. We are fortunate to have a garden coordinator that empowers students in an extremely meaningful way and empowers them to help others.” This grant program, part of the Pennsylvania Farm Bill, funds projects for ag education and workforce development, equipment purchases and capital projects to Read more
My staff and I received some great news this week – the landlord for the building which houses the Bellevue Post Office has agreed to a one-year lease extension. Read more
This week, state and federal officials have resumed using the one-shot Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine. The government temporarily suspended using the Johnson & Johnson shot due to concerns surrounding isolated incidents of rare blood clots that had occurred in an extremely small percentage of those who received shots. Please know that these incidents are very rare, and the vaccine was found to be safe and effective. Read more
Some great news this week to benefit our communities – the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority received a total of $45 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority to make needed water quality and sewer infrastructure repairs, including lead line replacement. These investments ensure you get reliable access to safe water, but they will also protect our water and sewer systems for years to come. Read more
HARRISBURG, April 22 – The Commonwealth Financing Authority has awarded the city of Pittsburgh $500,000 in state funds to construct a pedestrian/bicycle bridge at the former Davis Avenue Bridge site, state Rep. Emily Kinkead announced. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said the new bridge will replace the one that was demolished in 2009 due to structural deficiencies. The project will also include new lighting and abutment. “Since 2009, residents of the Brighton Heights neighborhood could throw a rock and hit Riverview Park, but would have to walk at least 45 minutes to be able to pick the rock back up,” Kinkead said. “The new bridge will be more structurally sound and provide much-needed and welcome access to recreational and outdoor activities. I am proud to have helped to secure funds to support this long-overdue reconnection of our neighborhoods.” The Commonwealth Financing Authority provides funding for a multitude of projects that help communities succeed, including those focused on development, water quality, energy infrastructure, and more. To learn more, residents may visit the following link : https://dced.pa.gov/programs/multimodal-transportation-fund/ Read more
HARRISBURG, April 21 – The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority and the West View Water Authority in Pittsburgh have received a total of $45 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority to make needed water quality and sewer infrastructure repairs, including lead line replacement, state Rep. Emily Kinkead announced today. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said $38.5 million in funding will be used by the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority to replace 25,000 feet of piping, along with 59 fire hydrants and 592 lead service lines. $6.6 million will be used by the West View Water Authority to replace aged water infrastructure, including lead service lines. “These projects will ensure residents get reliable access to safe water by the removal of lead pipes and also reduce water loss that can come from aged infrastructure,” said Kinkead. “Investments like these will protect our water and sewer systems now and in years to come.” Pennvest provides communities across Pennsylvania with funding for sewer, stormwater and drinking water projects. More information can be found at the following link: https://www.pennvest.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx Read more
There was some good news this week regarding COVID-19 vaccines – all Pennsylvanians 16 years of age or older are now eligible to schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine. Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Department of Health/Pennsylvania Downtown Center: PA WalkWorks (Funding Source: PA Department of Health Grant) Who May Apply : Municipalities, counties, Metropolitan and Rural Planning Organizations. Use : Development of plans and policies to improve walking, bicycling, wheeling, and transit connections to everyday destinations and increase safe and accessible opportunities for residents to be physically active. Funds : Awards will range between $10,000 to $20,000 for the development of active transportation plans and between $3,000 and $5,000 to assist with the development of Complete Streets and/or Vision Zero policies. No match required, but will improve application success. Application Deadline : Submit Letter of Intent by April 23 (not mandatory); Application deadline is May 14 More Information : Click on https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/programs/WalkWorks/Pages/WalkWorks.aspx . Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol: Recovery Community Support Services (Funding Source: Federal Funding) Who May Apply : Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs licensed treatment providers are eligible to apply. Single County Authorities (county drug and alcohol offices) are not eligible to apply. Use : To expand or enhance recovery support services to individuals with a substance use disorder, Read more
State and federal regulators heavily rely on Pennsylvania’s stringent standards regarding the quality and safety of bottled water. That’s why I spoke out against two bills this week at the state Capitol – HB 754 and HB 755 – that would significantly reduce that governmental oversight. While these measures are marketed as streamlining government practices, they would instead significantly weaken our ability to regulate water sources, water treatment, and monitoring. Read more
On Wednesday, the Pennsylvania Department of Health announced the start of an initiative to vaccinate targeted industry workers, and to accelerate the vaccination timetable for those in Phases 1B, 1C, and 2. Read more
I have introduced legislation that would effectively reduce carbon dioxide emissions in Pennsylvania to zero. Read more
HARRISBURG, March 24 – State Rep. Emily Kinkead has introduced legislation that would effectively reduce carbon dioxide emissions in Pennsylvania to zero. Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said her bill, which would be known as the Energy Transition Recovery Act , would direct funds from the sale of carbon allowances sold at auction through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative to methods designed to curb those emissions by 2050. Pennsylvania is expected to become a member of RGGI by 2022. “Earlier this week, the governor announced the Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy, part of the GreenGov initiative, which I fully support, and my legislation fits in with that effort by making a significant impact in lowering carbon dioxide emissions,” said Kinkead. “My colleagues and I took an oath to protect and uphold the state Constitution, which includes the right to clean air and water. It’s imperative we move forward and do all we can to protect our future children and grandchildren, and we can do so right now.” Kinkead’s legislation is currently under consideration in the House Environmental Energy and Resources Committee. Read more
HARRISBURG, March 22 – State Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny, issued the following statement on Gov. Tom Wolf’s announcement on the Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy, part of the GreenGov initiative: “I fully support and applaud the Wolf administration’s efforts, which will positively impact our state and move us further away from a fossil fuel-based economy. “Nearly two years ago, an executive order was introduced that paved the way for our state to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. The fact that we have not moved closer to joining RGGI is beyond frustrating, especially when you consider that in July of last year, our nation tied with July 2016 as the second hottest month on record. Our polar caps are continuing to melt, sea levels and temperatures rise, and forest areas in the Amazon and across our world continue to burn. “It’s imperative we do more to combat climate change, and today’s announcement will make a significant impact. PULSE will launch the largest solar energy commitment by any government entity in our country. It will supply about half the energy used by state government, creating hundreds of jobs and making a huge impact in lowering carbon dioxide emissions. This effort closely aligns with my bill, H.B. 989 , to be known as the Energy Transition Recovery Act, which would direct funds from the sale of carbon allowances sold at Read more
I support protecting our residents with disabilities, and that includes speaking up on measures that - while appearing to have the best of intentions - would actually do more harm than good. Read more
HARRISBURG, March 15 – Financial assistance is now available to help Allegheny County residents struggling to pay rent or utilities during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of a program that is partially funded by legislation members of the Allegheny County Democratic Delegation helped to pass. The Allegheny County Emergency Rental Assistance program has a total of $79.9 million to distribute to eligible county residents. Of that funding, $43 million came from Act 1 of 2021, which Gov. Tom Wolf signed into law last month. Eligibility requirements for the program include: having at least one person who qualifies for unemployment, has lost income or suffered financially due to COVID-19. being at risk of experiencing homelessness. having a total income below 80% of the Area Median Income for Allegheny County. ACDD Chairman state Rep. Austin Davis, as well as state Reps. Jessica Benham, Dan Deasy, Tony DeLuca, Dan Frankel, Ed Gainey, Sara Innamorato, Emily Kinkead, Anita Kulik, Summer Lee, Brandon Markosek, Robert Matzie, Dan Miller, Nick Pisciottano and Jake Wheatley, issued the following statement: “People living in Allegheny County have been struggling for over a year during this pandemic. This program has been a long time coming and helps provide direct relief to those who’ve been scrambling to pay their rent and bills during this Read more
HARRISBURG, March 12 – State Rep. Chris Rabb, D-Phila., has reintroduced legislation that would increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour and expand it to apply to vulnerable members of the workforce. “Raising the minimum wage is a matter of providing dignity to hardworking people – some of the hardest working people in our commonwealth – and in so doing, prioritizing equity for people who are very often the most vulnerable among us,” Rabb said. “There are a lot of misnomers out there that, paired with misinformation, skew how some people who oppose raising the minimum wage view this issue. But at its essence, ensuring no one is paid a poverty wage is simply a matter of doing the right thing.” The term “small business” is one misnomer Rabb said he wants to clarify, especially in data that government entities use when considering changes to minimum wage laws. He discussed this point during a recent Commerce Committee meeting. “Most people believe that small businesses are mom-and-pop shops,” Rabb said. “The federal government defines small businesses as [having] fewer than 500 employees, which is a massive number.” Rabb said most people think of their local pizzeria when they think about small businesses, but the classification includes corporations that have hundreds of employees. “In the United States, 99.7% of all businesses are considered small businesses,” Rabb said. Read more
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658 Lincoln AveBellevue, PA 15202-3420
P*: (412) 321-5523
Rep. Emily Kinkead's office is accessed behind H&R Block. Turn down Florence Ave. from Lincoln Ave. and make the first left into the parking lot.
116 B East WingHarrisburg, PA 17120-2020
P*: (717) 787-5470