18 de marzo de 2025
Reading, PA − March 18, 2025 − Sen. Judy Schwank and Rep. Jacklyn Rusnock announced today that the Mt. Penn Fire Company has been awarded $320,915 in grant funding from the Local Share Account Category 4 Facilities Program.
Following its recent merger with the Alsace Township Fire Company, Mt. Penn Fire Company is seeking to expand its engine room to accommodate an additional fire apparatus and equipment. The grant funding will support the engine room expansion and ensure the fire company has the necessary space to operate efficiently and effectively.
Schwank and Rusnock said they worked together to secure the full amount of funding requested for this project and called it an investment in public safety.
“Fire companies across Pennsylvania are working tirelessly to meet the needs of their communities,” Schwank said. “I’m thrilled we could combine our efforts to secure this funding for Mt. Penn and ensure the fire company has the space and resources it needs to keep us safe.”
“It is critical that the volunteers at Mt. Penn Fire Company who put their lives on the line to protect us have the support they need to be successful,” Rusnock said. “This investment will help accommodate the merger and improve public safety for the surrounding communities for years to come.”
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6 de marzo de 2025
La senadora estatal Judy Schwank ha emitido un copatrocinador memorando para la legislación para designar "My Home Pennsylvania", una canción original de Berks Condado nativo de Dave Kline, como la canción oficial del estado de Pennsylvania.
Schwank declaró que el desenfadado gesto sería un honor para el condado de Berks y pondría de relieve la rica tradición musical de la región. Añadió que cree que el estilo bluegrass y folk de la canción resonará en comunidades de toda la Commonwealth.
"Es algo con lo que todos podemos sentirnos bien y unirnos", dijo Schwank. "Muchos en nuestra región conocen a Dave Kline y The Mountain Folk Band, pero esta canción se ha interpretado en toda la Commonwealth. Es un tributo encantador a Pensilvania, y espero que mis colegas se unan a mí en el apoyo a este esfuerzo para hacer de 'My Home Pennsylvania' una de nuestras canciones oficiales del estado."
Puede escuchar "My Home Pennsylvania" de Dave Kline and The Mountain Folk Band aquí.
February 25, 2025
Reading, PA — February 25, 2025 — Yesterday evening, Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, attended an Antietam School District board meeting to announce an additional $1 million in state funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Education to support flood recovery efforts.
Since severe flooding hit Antietam Middle-Senior High School in July 2023, Schwank has worked diligently with the Shapiro administration and Pennsylvania Senate leadership to secure funding to help the district rebuild. The funding will go toward Stony Creek Elementary School, which will house K-3 students.
“It remains critically important to me that the Antietam School District has the support it needs to serve students now and well into the future,” Schwank said. “The district has made tremendous progress overcoming a difficult period and is working toward a permanent recovery. I will continue to do my part to support Antietam students and the people working tirelessly to ensure they receive the quality education they deserve.”
“It is no secret that the current undertaking of constructing a new building for our youngest Mounts at Stony Creek is a difficult one,” Antietam School District Superintendent Dr. Timothy Matlack said in a statement. “Without the robust business base that many other districts around the county enjoy, the homeowners of Mount Penn Borough and Lower Alsace Township shoulder a great deal in helping to provide an education for the 1,100 learners we serve. This is the primary driving factor behind so much of the work we have done to try to secure grant funds to offset the financial impact to our families and residents. Thanks to Senator Schwank’s advocacy efforts on our behalf, I am thrilled that an additional $1 million in grant funding will be added to the little more than $10 million that has been secured thus far.”
Antietam previously received $7.8 million in grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Public School Environmental Repairs Program and $2.5 million from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Public Schools Facility Improvement Grant Program.
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February 24, 2025
Reading, PA — February 24, 2025 — Today, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr. (D-Berks) announced $850,000 in Multimodal Transportation Fund grant funding for Philly Office Retail’s Penn Square Redevelopment Project.
The funding will go toward new ADA-accessible sidewalks, pedestrian lighting, planters, street trees, bicycle racks and benches at the corners of Fifth and Penn Street. The project is part of a larger effort to redevelop five historic properties along Penn Street, including the former Farmers National Bank Building.
The funding comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, which supports projects that improve streetscapes, lighting, sidewalks, pedestrian safety, connectivity, and transit-oriented development.
Schwank and Guzman touted the award and the project’s strategic importance to the City of Reading’s economic future.
“This project is at the very center of our city and plays right into the ongoing redevelopment of downtown Reading,” Schwank said. “I believe we all want to see Penn Street thrive and become a driver of new economic opportunity for Reading and Berks County. We need to do whatever we can to support bold, forward-thinking projects like this one to make that happen, and that is what we’ve done today by securing this award.”
“I am excited to welcome these grants that will support pedestrian protection, creating pedestrian-safe roads in our city.” Guzman said. “Infrastructure development is a critical component for economic growth. Now as a proud member of the House Transportation Committee I feel even more committed and equipped to help improve the quality of the infrastructure and transportation systems in our community. I am advocating for more efficient and accessible systems and structures for all users.”
Other projects awarded in the 11th Senatorial District include:
ReFined Plastics, LLC — $250,000 for the Titus Station Rail Line Upgrade Phase 2 project.
Spring Township — $250,000 for the Harvard Boulevard Curb Replacement and ADA Ramp Installation project.
City of Reading — $200,000 for the Skyline Drive Improvements project.
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February 11, 2025
February 11, 2025 − Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced that the Mount Penn Borough Municipal Authority received $231,361 in Growing Greener grant funding.
Growing Greener is a funding program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The program invests state dollars in projects that conserve open spaces, restore water quality, improve outdoor recreational areas, and promote environmental stewardship.
The funding will support stormwater corrections and the creation of a constructed wetland at Crystal Lake in Carsonia Park. The project also includes the creation of an outdoor classroom for local schools.
Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Jacklyn Rusnock (D-Berks) applauded the funding and congratulated the MPBMA on submitting a strong proposal.
“This was a long time coming for the folks at the MPBMA as they’ve worked tirelessly to protect the community’s water supply and preserve an area of historical importance,” Schwank said. “This is an important project that will provide long-term benefits to the municipal authority, its customers, and nearby residents for years to come.”
“This is a great example of how state funding can address local environmental challenges while improving an important recreational area that so many nearby residents enjoy,” Rusnock said. “I’m proud to support this project, the many environmental and educational benefits it will deliver to our community, and the MPBMA’s dedication to advancing this crucial work.”
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29 de enero de 2025
Harrisburg, PA - 29 de enero 2025 - Los miembros del Caucus Demócrata han introducido un paquete de proyectos de ley diseñados para hacer frente a los problemas sistémicos dentro de cuidado de crianza de Pennsylvania y los sistemas de protección infantil. La legislación propuesta da prioridad al bienestar de los niños, las familias y los trabajadores sociales mediante la promoción de la equidad y la accesibilidad en los servicios de acogida y adopción.
Las patrocinadoras del paquete de leyes, las senadoras estatales Maria Collett, Judy Schwank, Carolyn Comitta y Patty Kim, trabajaron diligentemente para elaborar una legislación que abordara las necesidades urgentes de los sistemas de acogida y protección de menores de Pensilvania.
"Como abogado que abogó por los derechos de los niños, sé lo importante que es que los que entran en el sistema de protección de la infancia pueden acceder a los servicios y apoyos que necesitan - y que las ineficiencias del gobierno no están obstaculizando su bienestar", dijo Collett, Presidente Demócrata de Envejecimiento y Juventud. "Mediante el establecimiento del Gabinete de la Infancia y la reforma del proceso de concesión de licencias del condado, mi legislación se asegurará de que nuestras agencias estatales y del condado trabajen de manera más colaborativa y eficaz para proteger a la población más vulnerable de Pensilvania."
Schwank añadió: "El acogimiento familiar es una alternativa segura al acogimiento familiar que libera de presión al sistema de acogimiento familiar y proporciona a los niños un arreglo de vida familiar y de apoyo. Para mejorar el cuidado de crianza en Pennsylvania, hacer cambios de sentido común para eliminar las barreras no relacionadas con la seguridad miembros de la familia deben navegar antes de obtener la certificación de cuidado de parentesco es un paso necesario e importante."
El paquete incluye cinco proyectos de ley clave:
- Creación de un gabinete infantil (Collett, Maria): Esta legislación establece un Gabinete de la Infancia para garantizar la colaboración entre los departamentos y alinear las prioridades para mejorar los resultados para los niños y las familias.
- Concesión de licencias a las agencias de bienestar infantil de los condados (Collett, María): Otro proyecto de ley del senador Collett se centra en mejorar la colaboración entre el Departamento de Servicios Humanos (DHS) y los condados mediante la reforma del proceso de concesión de licencias para reflejar los resultados federales, tales como investigaciones oportunas y una mayor participación de la familia.
- Política de apoyo al cuidado de familiares (Schwank, Judy): Para ampliar las oportunidades de cuidado de parientes, este proyecto de ley reduce las barreras para los familiares para convertirse en padres de crianza certificados y permite a los adultos jóvenes, de 18 años o más, para cuidar a los niños relacionados en necesidad.
- Protecciones para los padres de acogida y adoptivos LGBTQ (Comitta, Carolyn): Esta legislación prohíbe la discriminación contra los padres de crianza y adoptivos sobre la base de la orientación sexual, identidad de género o expresión de género, garantizando un sistema justo e inclusivo para todos.
- Abordar la escasez de personal en el bienestar infantil (Kim, Patty): Para hacer frente a la escasez de mano de obra crítica, este proyecto de ley introduce la condonación de préstamos estudiantiles para los trabajadores sociales.
"Miles de niños de Pensilvania que están en acogida o en espera de adopción merecen tener acceso a un sistema que funcione de manera eficiente, eficaz y justa para colocarlos en hogares seguros, solidarios y cariñosos", dijo Comitta. "Por su bien, todas las personas cualificadas y elegibles merecen ser consideradas como potenciales padres de acogida y adopción, independientemente de su orientación sexual, identidad de género, expresión de género u otros factores."
"Los trabajadores sociales desempeñan un papel vital en el apoyo a nuestros jóvenes que pueden encontrarse en una situación vulnerable y a menudo potencialmente mortal", declaró Kim. "Nuestros asistentes sociales son la columna vertebral y a menudo el último recurso para resolver los problemas de seguridad de los jóvenes en acogida y ayudar a poner en contacto a las familias con los recursos. Gracias a su ingrato trabajo, las vidas cambian a mejor. Una de mis prioridades es apoyar a los trabajadores que apoyan a nuestras comunidades, y estoy orgulloso de ser parte de este esfuerzo crítico para ayudar a sostener y hacer crecer nuestra fuerza de trabajo de bienestar infantil."
El Caucus Demócrata sigue comprometido en su misión de garantizar que todos los niños de Pensilvania tengan acceso a un entorno seguro, estable y enriquecedor. Estos proyectos de ley abordan las lagunas críticas en el sistema actual, proporcionando las herramientas necesarias para apoyar a los niños y las familias que cuidan de ellos.
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January 28, 2025
Reading, PA — January 28, 2025 — Today, the Commonwealth Financing Authority approved $200,000 in Greenways, Trail and Recreation Program (GTRP) grant funding for Mohnton Borough.
The GTRP distributes funding from the Marcellus Legacy Fund, established by Act 13 of 2013. The program focuses on projects involving the development, rehabilitation and improvement of public parks, recreation areas, greenways, trails, and river conservation.
The funding will support the rehabilitation of sports courts located behind Mohnton Borough Hall near the Madison Baseball Field and the Mifflin Area YMCA. Sen. Judy Schwank said the grant will provide another safe recreational space for residents to enjoy.
“These courts are badly in need of rehabilitation,” Schwank said. “I give tremendous credit to Mohnton Borough for seeing an opportunity to deliver another great recreation area to the community and taking action to make it a reality. I have no doubt the children growing up in Mohnton and nearby residents will appreciate these new courts once they are installed and ready for use!”
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27 de enero de 2025
Harrisburg, PA - 27 de enero de 2024 - Hoy, el Pennsylvania Women's Health Caucus (WHC) y el Black Maternal Health Caucus (BMHC) publicaron una declaración conjunta después de celebrar una conferencia de prensa para exponer sus prioridades legislativas para la sesión 2025-2026. Vea la grabación aquí. La declaración es la siguiente:
"Nuestros Caucuses están comprometidos a luchar por nuestras misiones de conducción ahora más que nunca, a medida que nos dirigimos a la nueva sesión legislativa. Juntos, estamos promoviendo un objetivo común de impulsar políticas que proporcionen a nuestras comunidades los derechos, recursos y servicios que necesitan y merecen para sobrevivir a las actuales disparidades estadísticas que están plagando nuestras comunidades. No nos echaremos atrás ahora, y seguiremos luchando por los valores en los que creemos aquí en Pensilvania, sin importar el contexto federal."
Juntos, estos legisladores expusieron lo que cada Caucus está luchando durante esta sesión legislativa. El Black Maternal Health Caucus reiteró su compromiso de conseguir la totalidad del paquete legislativo MOMNIBUS a través de la línea de meta, basándose en el éxito que tuvieron en la última sesión con la aprobación de sus proyectos de ley para ampliar la cobertura de Medicaid a los servicios de doula en el estado y mejorar el acceso a los servicios de salud mental para las pacientes embarazadas y posparto.
El Caucus de Salud de la Mujer expuso las cuestiones fundamentales que destaca su plataforma, entre ellas la libertad reproductiva, el fin de la crisis de mortalidad materna, el acceso a la atención sanitaria y la equidad, la capacitación económica y la justicia e inclusión.
Acerca del Grupo de Salud de la Mujer de Pensilvania
Copresidentes: Senadora Judith Schwank, Senadora Amanda M. Cappelletti, Representante Mary Jo Daley, Representante Gina H. Curry
El Caucus de Salud de la Mujer de Pensilvania es un caucus bicameral de legisladores que se asocian con grupos de defensa para avanzar en la legislación y las políticas que promueven la equidad y protegen la salud y el bienestar de las mujeres, las personas de género expansivo, y las familias en Pensilvania. Como caucus, reconocemos la interseccionalidad de las cuestiones sociales que apoyan la salud física y mental. Estamos comprometidos a cerrar las disparidades existentes y eliminar las barreras que enfrentan los residentes de Pensilvania de todos los orígenes cuando buscan atención médica y sistemas de apoyo. Parte integral de nuestra misión es la creencia de que todos los residentes de Pensilvania tienen derecho a tomar decisiones médicas privadas y personales.
Obtenga más información aquí.
Acerca del Grupo de Salud Materna de la Población Negra de Pensilvania
El Pa. Negro de Salud Materna Caucus se formó en 2023 con el estado Reps. Morgan Cephas, D-Filadelfia, Gina H. Curry, D-Delaware, y La'Tasha D. Mayes, D-Allegheny sirviendo como co-presidentes.
Misión: Aprovechando el impulso de las victorias legislativas y la creciente necesidad de prestar atención a los problemas de mortalidad y morbilidad materna, en particular entre las familias negras, el caucus tiene la intención de abordar con valentía las preocupantes tendencias de mortalidad y morbilidad materna negra en nuestra Commonwealth a través de legislación y políticas estratégicas e interseccionales; crear un espacio legislativo y político colaborativo, representativo y orientado a la acción para los legisladores, defensores y partes interesadas de Pensilvania; introducir, avanzar y aprobar el Pennsylvania MOMNIBUS - un paquete legislativo que hace inversiones críticas y cambios políticos para mejorar los resultados de salud materna en Pensilvania.
Obtenga más información aquí.
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December 30, 2024
Reading, PA — December 30, 2024 — Today, Gov. Josh Shapiro announced that the City of Reading’s application for a City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) was accepted.
The CRIZ program, established by Act 52 of 2013, is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, the Department of Community and Economic Development, and the Governor’s Office of the Budget. The program aims to stimulate economic development and job creation within designated areas.
A CRIZ can encompass up to 130 acres, comprising parcels selected by a contracting authority, where state and local taxes collected within the zone are reinvested into economic development projects. The program focuses on revitalizing vacant, underutilized, or abandoned spaces to spur growth, create jobs, and enhance local economies.
Sen. Judy Schwank worked closely with Mayor Eddie Moran and state Rep. Manny Guzman to enact legislation reopening the program for new applications. She applauded the City of Reading for preparing the application and Gov. Shapiro for recognizing the impact a CRIZ can make in Reading.
“The City of Reading is gaining a powerful new tool we can use to foster economic growth and breathe new life into our community,” Schwank said. “It took a lot of hard work to reach this point, and I am grateful to all the folks at the City of Reading who spent many painstaking hours preparing a detailed vision for how a CRIZ will be put to good use in our community. We are celebrating today, but there is still much work ahead for our CRIZ Authority in making sure we are using this tool to the best of our ability and moving the City of Reading towards a brighter future.”
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December 11, 2024
Reading — December 11, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, issued the following statement in response to the National Transportation Safety Board’s hearing on the investigation into the cause of the R.M. Palmer natural gas explosion that occurred on March 24, 2023:
“The R.M. Palmer explosion was a tragic event for West Reading and the entire Berks County community. The National Transportation Safety Board has conducted a thorough and meticulous investigation, which will help us fully understand what went wrong and how to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“For now, my main takeaway is the critical importance of recognizing the dangers of natural gas and erring on the side of caution whenever a leak is suspected.
“I will await the NTSB’s complete written report, along with the PUC’s findings, and use the gathered information to make any changes that may be necessary at the state level to improve safety.”
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December 5, 2024
Harrisburg, Pa. − December 5, 2024 – Senator Lindsey M. Williams (D-Allegheny) and Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) joined the School Nutrition Association of Pennsylvania (SNAPA) today for a Day of Action in support of the Senators’ Universal School Meals legislation. This legislation is aimed at fighting child hunger and helping our students succeed by expanding Pennsylvania’s current Universal Breakfast Program to include lunch.
Every day in Pennsylvania, 1 in 8 kids goes hungry. In rural areas, as many as 1 in 5 kids experiences hunger. When students are hungry, they cannot learn. The Universal School Meals program connects kids to healthy foods every day so they can learn and succeed.
“High prices at the grocery store are hurting everyone, and our families are feeling the pinch,” said Senator Williams. “Expanding Pennsylvania’s Universal Breakfast Program to include lunch for all students ensures that every student is fed and ready to learn every day. It also reduces grocery bills for families, while driving down grocery costs for everyone. This legislation is an incredible win for every Pennsylvanian.”
A Wharton School economist study found that expanding school meals lowers grocery prices. Fewer meals being prepared at home means that fewer groceries are being purchased. This lower demand leads to lower prices. The study found that big chains saw grocery sales decrease by 10% in areas where students receive no-cost meals, which was enough to cut prices 2.5% at store locations throughout the entire region, not just at stores within the school district. Residents across Pennsylvania will see the benefits of lower grocery prices as a result of Universal School Meals.
“Students deserve access to the nutritious foods they need to be productive in the classroom and lead healthy lives,” said Senator Schwank. “We took a tremendous step in 2023 by making breakfast free for Pennsylvania students, but we shouldn’t stop there. Expanding access to include lunch will ensure our kids don’t go hungry and will put more locally grown, healthy products on their lunch trays.”
Expanding the Universal School Meals Program to include no-cost lunch supports local farmers and creates jobs by enabling their farms to provide more food to schools. 44% of Pennsylvania schools already participate in the PA Farm to School network, which provides students with opportunities to learn about food, agriculture, health, and nutrition, while giving farmers the opportunity to sell their products directly to school districts. This expansion will allow more farms and schools to participate the PA Farm to School network, benefitting both our family farmers and our students.
“The School Nutrition Association of Pennsylvania proudly supports Senator Williams’ and Senator Schwank’s reintroduction of legislation to provide school meals for all students. Ensuring every child has access to nutritious meals not only promotes better academic performance and health outcomes but also eliminates stigma and barriers that prevent students from thriving. We believe this legislation is a critical step toward fostering equity and success for all Pennsylvania students, ” said Melissa Froehlich Green, Public Communications Chair of the SNAPA.
Students benefit when they eat local, nutritious food. School meals reduce childhood hunger; improve child nutrition and wellness; enhance child development and school readiness; support learning, attendance, and behavior; and contribute to positive mental health outcomes.
“Hungry kids can’t learn,” said Nicole Melia, public policy and legislative chair for the School SNAPA. “School meals are as essential to education as technology, transportation, and textbooks.”
States around the country have recognized the value of investing in school meals. Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts and Vermont have all stepped up to provide state funding to ensure healthy meals for all their students, and many other states are working towards similar legislation.
Pennsylvania has provided no-cost breakfast to all students since October 2022, when Governor Wolf established the program after Senator Williams’ urging, following the end of federal waivers that provided universal free meals for students during the pandemic.
According to statewide polling, eight in 10 Pennsylvania voters support expanding no-cost school breakfast to include lunch in K-12. Pennsylvanians of all ages in all parts of the state understand the incredible benefits of connecting kids to healthy foods.
The public can join in today’s Day of Action by signing the SNAPA Universal School Meals petition here.
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November 14, 2024
Harrisburg, PA — November 14, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced today that she has retained her role as the Caucus Administrator for the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus for the upcoming 2025-26 legislative session.
Schwank, who has held the Caucus Administrator title since 2021, said the leadership role helps ensure the policy and legislative priorities for Berks County are represented. She noted that she remains the only state senator in Pennsylvania who lives in Berks County and represents a district made up of all Berks County municipalities.
“I’m grateful to return as the Caucus Administrator and look forward to another productive legislative session,” Schwank said. “This role allows me to have a larger say in what our caucus priorities are, and I will continue to use my position to ensure Berks County has a seat at the table.”
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13 de noviembre de 2024
HARRISBURG, PA – November 13, 2024 – The Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus today elected its leadership team for the 2025-26 legislative session.
The Senate Democratic Caucus also proudly welcomes two new members: Senator Patty Kim representing Senate District 15, and Senator Nick Pisciottano, who succeeds Senator Jim Brewster in representing Senate District 45.
The new and returning members elected the following Caucus Leadership Team:
- Leader – Jay Costa, Jr.
- Caucus Whip – Tina Tartaglione
- Appropriations Committee Chair – Vincent Hughes
- Caucus Chair – Maria Collett
- Caucus Secretary – Steve Santarsiero
- Policy Committee Chair – Nick Miller
- Administrator – Judy Schwank
“I am honored and humbled to announce that I will be serving as the Leader of the PA Senate Democratic Caucus for the next two years,” said Senator Jay Costa. “I’d like to thank my fellow Democratic senators for entrusting me with this responsibility. I look forward to the fight ahead.”
Learn more about the PA Senate Democrats’ commitment to fighting for every Pennsylvanian here.
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November 8, 2024
Reading, PA — November 8, 2024 — Earlier this week, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) joined Kutztown Community Partnership, the Greater Berks Development Fund, and DESCCO Design and Construction, Inc. to provide the Kutztown community with an update on the rehabilitation of the Strand Theatre.
The historic Strand Theatre, which opened in 1908, was a mainstay in the Kutztown area for over a century. The Strand closed in 2022 following the death of longtime owner Paul Angstadt. In July 2022, Kutztown Community Partnership formalized plans to purchase the Strand with the assistance of American Rescue Plan Act funding provided by the County of Berks.
The more-than-century-old building needs significant structural improvements. Schwank has worked with Kutztown Community Partnership and the Greater Berks Development Fund to secure two rounds of Local Share Account grant funding for the project, totaling $823,500.
The first round of funding, for $450,000, was announced in March 2023 and covered the installation of a new roof, electrical panels, and an HVAC system. The second LSA grant, for $373,500, will cover bathroom renovations, a fire safety sprinkler system, and other interior improvements.
“When I’m out and about, it’s not uncommon for me to hear from folks who want to know what’s going on at the Strand,” Schwank said. “It’s clear this theatre holds a special place in the hearts of many who have fond memories here. We are blessed to have a great team working together to move this project forward, and I am proud of the investments we have made to ensure that this piece of history remains in Kutztown.”
Barbara Vogelgesang, outreach and theatre director for Kutztown Community Partnership, said the Strand will be a vibrant hub for community engagement. She shared plans to partner with local organizations, businesses, and school districts in the area.
“At the Strand Theatre, we are dedicated to creating experiences that honor tradition, celebrate imagination, and foster community through educational opportunities, cinema, and live performances,” Vogelgesang said. “Our commitment to protecting the Strand’s legacy is unwavering. We aim to nurture the next generation of artists and deepen appreciation for the arts through various education programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.”
Sandy Green, the former mayor of Kutztown Borough and community liaison and government relations assistant for Kutztown University, has played a pivotal role in advancing the project. She said the Strand Theatre is a space with history and heart that must be preserved for future generations.
“The Strand Theatre represents more than bricks and mortar,” Green said. “It is a cornerstone of our community and a symbol of our shared commitment to cultural, educational, and community growth.”
The Greater Berks Development Fund, an affiliate of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, assisted Kutztown Community Partnership with writing the grant applications for both rounds of funding. Deb Millman, president of the Greater Berks Development Fund and vice president of development for the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, said investments in small, main street communities like Kutztown are drivers of economic growth and align with the Shapiro administration’s economic agenda to revitalize main streets throughout Pennsylvania.
“To have a second LSA application approved for this building is so important in order to have the critical work needed in the theatre continue,” Millman said. “In Governor Shapiro’s 10-year economic development strategy, Pennsylvania downtowns and main streets were clearly identified as priorities. The Main Street Matters program, launched a few months ago, is further proof that the administration will continue to support redevelopment efforts in communities like Kutztown.”
The Strand Theatre plans to announce movie showings for as early as this December.
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November 1, 2024
Reading, PA — November 1, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) applauded the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant funding announced today by Gov. Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget.
RACP is a state grant program administered by the Office of the Budget to support the design, acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects. In total, $13.75 million in funding was awarded to six projects in the 11th Senatorial District.
Schwank thanked Gov. Shapiro for his strong support of these projects, noting that each one will have a lasting positive impact on the greater Reading area.
“This round of grant funding speaks to the tremendous energy and economic potential in Reading and Berks County,” Schwank said. “I’m proud to see these projects receive funding, and I’m especially grateful to have worked alongside Gov. Shapiro to secure a substantial investment for the GoggleWorks II adaptive reuse project. This project will not only provide people in need with hot, ready-to-eat meals through Helping Harvest but will also breathe new life into a historically blighted building.”
The awards are listed below:
Our City Reading, Inc. — $5 million for the GoggleWorks II project, which will support the adaptive reuse of a blighted building on Washington Street in Reading. Once completed, the facility will house three high-impact nonprofits, including Helping Harvest and the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts.
ByHeart, Inc. — $5 million for construction, infrastructure upgrades and land acquisition to expand ByHeart’s infant formula manufacturing facility in Exeter Township, equipping it for advanced production and packaging to enhance capacity, capability and efficiency.
Alvernia University — $2 million for the American House project, which will establish a community-based health center on Penn Street in Reading, in partnership with the Berks Community Health Center.
The Rose Corporation — $1 million to upgrade its large-scale industrial metal fabrication facility in Reading to meet growing demand.
Exeter Township Volunteer Fire Department — $500,000 to establish the Exeter Township Emergency Services Main Facility, a more efficient and centralized location for the township’s emergency services.
East Penn Manufacturing — $250,000 for an addition to East Penn Manufacturing’s wastewater treatment plant.
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October 22, 2024
Reading, PA — October 22, 2024 — Today, Sen. Judy Schwank and Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr. announced a $1 million Local Share Account-Statewide grant to support the Cornerstone at 6th and Chestnut project.
The project will redevelop a blighted industrial building at S. 6th and Chestnut streets in Reading. The facility will feature 46 apartments for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The LSA grant will fund the partial demolition of the existing structure and the environmental remediation needed before construction begins.
The funding was awarded to the Reading Redevelopment Authority on behalf of HDC MidAtlantic and Landis Quality Living.
“Lack of affordable housing is a growing issue in the City of Reading and throughout Berks County,” Schwank said. “The Cornerstone at 6th and Chestnut project will not only provide housing for those most in need, but it will also facilitate the adaptive reuse of a blighted building in a strategically important area of the city. I’m proud we were able to collaborate to significantly advance this crucial project.”
“I am excited and proud to help address an urgent need for affordable housing for individuals with disabilities and the rising population of seniors in our community,” Guzman said. “We will be transforming a blighted industrial site into a safe and vibrant place where our elders can live with dignity, a place to call home. This major investment also underscores a solid commitment to serve and honor our seniors. I am confident that we are going to continue improving the quality of life of the elderly population and delivering results for our city.”
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October 22, 2024
Reading, PA — October 22, 2024 — Today, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced that 16 projects in the 11th Senatorial District have received a total of $6 million in Local Share Account-Statewide grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
The LSA program was established under the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act of 2004, which directs gaming revenue through the Commonwealth Financing Authority to support projects in the public interest across Pennsylvania. Counties, municipalities, municipal authorities, economic development agencies, and redevelopment authorities are eligible to apply for LSA funding.
Schwank expressed pride in supporting these initiatives, noting that many of the projects are fully funded.
“This investment in Berks County will drive critical projects forward, ensuring they are either fully completed or substantially advanced,” Schwank said. “We are fortunate to have local leaders dedicated to improving their communities and addressing local needs. These grants will directly support essential services, improve public safety, and make a major investment in a critical senior housing project. These tangible investments will benefit all Berks County residents for years to come.”
The 11th Senatorial District projects receiving funding are:
HDC MidAtlantic — $1,000,000 for the Reading Redevelopment Authority, on behalf of HDC MidAtlantic and Landis Quality Living, to demolish structures and complete environmental remediation for the future construction of an affordable senior housing community at S. 6th and Chestnut streets in the City of Reading.
Mount Penn Borough — $800,000 to restore and improve seven streets within the borough.
Reading Public Museum — $636,022 to replace two air handling units and controllers needed to regulate climate and protect the museum’s collection.
Spring Township — $509,828 for improvements to the Spring Township Police Building.
Wyomissing Borough — $500,000 for a new fire apparatus.
Muhlenberg Township Authority — $422,595 to expand public water service by connecting dead ends in the water system at Alabama Avenue, Willow Grove Avenue, Florida Avenue, Poinciana Avenue, and two locations on Pine Heights Road.
Muhlenberg Township — $418,170 for a new fire engine for Muhlenberg Township Fire and Rescue.
Northeast Berks Main Street Foundation — $373,500 for the Greater Berks Development Fund, on behalf of the Northeast Berks Main Street Foundation, for continued renovations to the historic Strand Theatre in Kutztown Borough.
Mount Penn Borough Municipal Authority — $330,000 for the rehabilitation of a 500,000-gallon water storage tank in Mount Penn Borough.
Reading Hospital Foundation — $250,000 for the Greater Berks Development Fund, on behalf of the Reading Hospital Foundation, to install an electrophysiology lab.
Shillington Borough — $250,000 to replace a sanitary sewer main along Brobst Street.
Reading Area Water Authority — $191,647 to purchase a fully outfitted dump truck.
Central Berks Regional Police — $160,000 to purchase and outfit a patrol vehicle and utility vehicle for Mount Penn Borough.
Muhlenberg Township Authority — $122,400 to purchase 400 Storz connectors for fire hydrants to reduce response times for first responders.
Lower Alsace Township — $72,921 to replace outdated public works equipment.
Shillington Borough — $56,390 to purchase a valve-turning trailer.
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October 22, 2024
Reading, PA — October 22, 2024 — Today, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced that three school districts in the 11th Senatorial District received a total of $3,775,000 in Public Schools Facility Improvement Grant Program funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
The Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program provides grants to public school districts and area career and technical schools for eligible facility improvement projects. Awards are approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
“We know that school buildings all across Pennsylvania are in need of serious repairs, and the new Public School Facility Improvement Grant is a tremendous opportunity for the state to make meaningful investments that our students deserve,” Schwank said. “I’m proud to see these important projects receive funding and applaud these school districts for putting together strong applications.”
The school districts receiving funding are:
Antietam School District — $2,500,000 for the Stony Creek Emergency K-3 Addition and Flood Recovery Project.
Fleetwood Area School District — $800,000 for a series of energy and climate-related improvements at the high school.
Kutztown Area School District — $475,000 to upgrade the current HVAC system in the elementary and middle schools.
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October 10, 2024
Reading, PA − October 10, 2024 − The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority today announced $722,852 in COVID-19 ARPA PA Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program grant funding for Connections Work.
The Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program is funded by the Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund, established under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. A total of $45 million in grant funding was awarded across the state to community anchor institutions and units of local government for projects to construct, acquire or improve facilities that are or will be open to the public.
The funding will allow Connections Work to renovate its current facility, increasing efficiency and capacity. These renovations are necessary to keep up with growth and to fulfill a critical need in the Berks County area.
State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) applauded the funding for Connections Work and praised the nonprofit for the services it provides to Berks County residents.
“Connections Work is a tremendous asset to our community and does an incredible job providing job training and reentry services,” Schwank said. “I’m confident this funding will empower Connections Work to improve upon the outstanding work it’s doing as it continues to help Berks Countians achieve a better tomorrow.”
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September 26, 2024
HARRISBURG, September 26, 2024 – State Senator Katie Muth (D-Chester/Montgomery/Berks), chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Policy Committee, joined Senator Amanda Cappelletti (D-Montgomery) and Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) to host a public hearing on access to mail-in and absentee voting.
The hearing, held yesterday in the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg, featured two panels of discussion that included perspectives from local government officials and voting rights advocacy groups highlighting the different election policies and procedures in place across the Commonwealth and how the state government can improve the process.
“The ability to cast a vote is one of the cornerstones of our democracy and I was grateful to have bipartisan participation in our Policy Committee hearing to highlight some of the ways we can make our elections more accessible, transparent, and efficient,” Muth said.
In May, the House of Representatives passed House Bill 847 by a party-line vote which would require a County Board of Elections to meet no earlier than 7 days prior to an election to pre-canvas all ballots received to that point. Under current law, counties can only begin pre-canvassing ballots at 7 a.m. on Election Day. The bill has now been stuck in the Senate State Government Committee for over four months.
“Yesterday’s hearing was a powerful discussion on how we can work together to remove barriers for both voters and county election workers during the mail in and absentee ballot process in the Commonwealth,” Sen. Cappelletti said. “My priority continues to be expanding access to the ballot, streamlining our election processes, and supporting the counties and poll workers that put in many diligent hours to ensure we have a free and fair election process here in the Commonwealth. Every eligible Pennsylvania voter deserves to be heard in this and every election.”
Testimony at the hearing also focused on current Pennsylvania law that disqualifies mail-in ballots if they have any one of several defects, including an incomplete voter declaration, missing signature, inaccurate date, or failure to use the secrecy envelope, or if they are received after 8 p.m. on Election Day. In the 2024 April primary, nearly 16,000 ballots from otherwise-eligible voters were disqualified.
“We want to ensure that Pennsylvania voters understand that mail-in ballots are a safe and convenient way to make their voices heard during elections. It’s also crucial for the legislature to partner with county governments responsible for administering our elections to guarantee an efficient process,” Sen. Schwank added. “Yesterday’s hearing not only allowed us to dispel some of the misinformation surrounding mail-in voting, but it also provided us with a better understanding of how the legislature can assist election administrators.”
Participants in the hearing included participants in the hearing include Krista Kerr, Deputy Director of Voter Services, Chester County; James Allen, Director of Elections, Delaware County; Lauren Cristella, President & CEO, Committee of Seventy; Jeff Reber, Union County Commissioner and Chair of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania Election Reform Committee; and Philip Hensley-Robin, Executive Director, Common Cause Pennsylvania
“This hearing was an important reminder that our elections are fair, free, safe, and secure, and that mail-in ballots are a great way for voters to make their voices heard,” Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) said. “I look forward to continued conversations about expanding the freedom to vote encourage more Pennsylvanians to be voters in every election.”
Pennsylvania’s official voter information website is accessible at www.vote.pa.gov. The site also includes information about how to register to vote and how to register to vote by mail. If you have any questions about voting locally, click here for a full listing of all county election officials.
State Sen. Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny) also participated in the hearing virtually.
For more information on this policy hearing and to access all submitted testimony and a full recording of today’s hearing, visit www.SenatorMuth.com/policy.
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Testimonio
Panel 1: Municipal Officials
Mesa redonda 2: Soluciones políticas
September 11, 2024
Reading, PA — September 11, 2024 — The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency today awarded $2,263,680 in criminal justice and crime prevention grant funding to six entities in Berks County.
“Today’s awards acknowledge the tremendous services these grant recipients are delivering for the people of Berks County,” said Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks). “I’m grateful to the PCCD for making these investments that will support victims and provide them opportunities to seek the services and assistance they need.”
The recipients, funding sources and award totals are as follows:
Federal Byrne Justice Assistance Program
Connections Work — $135,773 for reentry coalition coordination.
Federal STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program
SAFE Berks — $125,000 to support the Berks County STOP team.
Federal Victims of Crime Fund Program
Berks County Commissioners — $131,862 to enhance services for Berks County victims.
CASA of Berks County — $45,183 to support the continuation of child victim advocacy services.
Community Justice Project — $42,928 for immigration legal services for victims.
SAFE Berks — $1,136,592 to support victims of crime.
MidPenn Legal Services — $646,342 for the Legal Intervention for Victims Empowerment program.
September 10, 2024
Reading — September 9, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-Berks) today announced $7.8 million in grant funding for the Antietam School District for environmental repairs.
The funding comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Public School Environmental Repairs Program, established as part of the 2023-24 fiscal year state budget. The new grant program provides assistance to remediate environmental hazards in school buildings.
Schwank and Rozzi have worked together since flooding hit Antietam Middle Senior High School on July 9, 2023. The lawmakers engaged the governor’s office and the Department of Education to assist the school district after Pennsylvania’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency was denied. Schwank and Rozzi also collaborated with leaders in the House and Senate to create grant funding programs to help the school district with facility repairs.
“This significant investment was a long time coming and will help put Antietam School District on the path to a full, long-term recovery,” Schwank said. “Since flooding devastated our area last year, we’ve explored every possible avenue to make the district whole again and provide students with the safe educational facilities they deserve. I want to express my thanks to the entire Antietam community for their patience while we worked internally to secure this funding.”
“The severe flooding that hit Antietam Middle Senior High School last year presented an unprecedented challenge for the entire community,” Rozzi said. “It was clear to us that the state needed to be part of finding a solution, and this historic investment is a major step in that process. This funding announcement is the culmination of months of hard work.”
In addition to the Public School Environmental Repairs Program, the 2023-24 fiscal year state budget also created the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. This is an opportunity for Antietam to secure further funding, and the district has submitted two applications.
Funding announcements for the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program are expected to be made in the coming months. Schwank and Rozzi have endorsed Antietam’s application and requested DCED waive the required match associated with the grant under an emergency clause stipulated in the grant guidelines.
August 27, 2024
READING, Pa. — August 27, 2024 — The Pennsylvania Department of Education today announced $6.5 million in funding for improvements to the Student Union Building at Reading Area Community College.
The funding comes alongside substantial increases in higher education investments in Pennsylvania’s 2024-25 budget. This includes a $35.1 million increase for Pennsylvania State System universities, a $15.7 million increase for community colleges, and an additional $143 million to PHEAA to make college more affordable for Pennsylvania students.
The budget also establishes a new State Board of Higher Education, as proposed by Gov. Josh Shapiro in a visit to RACC earlier this year, in an effort to overhaul higher education in the commonwealth and increase coordination between community colleges and PASSHE schools. Sen. Judy Schwank, who serves on the PASSHE board of governors, said this investment in RACC demonstrates the governor and the state legislature’s ability to work together to improve higher education.
“No one can question our commitment to ensuring that public higher education meets the immediate and long-term needs of Pennsylvania students,” Schwank said. “RACC is a source of pride for our community because of its ability to provide excellent educational opportunities to Berks Countians at an affordable price. RACC is worthy of the state’s support, and I can’t thank the Shapiro administration enough for recognizing the value this institution brings to our area with this investment.”
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16 de julio de 2024
Reading, PA - 16 de julio de 2024 - La semana pasada, como parte del presupuesto estatal, la Asamblea General de Pensilvania aprobó el Proyecto de ley del Senado 700, el proyecto de ley del Código Escolar para el año fiscal 2024-2025. El proyecto de ley contiene el lenguaje patrocinado por el senador Judy Schwank y Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz que permite a los maestros certificados o permitidos que tienen una visa de inmigrante válida, visa de trabajo o documento de autorización de empleo para enseñar en las escuelas públicas en Pensilvania.
Schwank presentó originalmente el proyecto de ley en 2019 después de reunirse con beneficiarios de la Acción Diferida para los Llegados en la Infancia (DACA) que habían obtenido títulos universitarios en educación pero no podían enseñar en Pensilvania.
"Llevamos muchos años preparándolo y estoy encantado de que por fin lo hayamos conseguido", dijo Schwank. "No hay razón para negar a los jóvenes con talento que están aquí legalmente y plenamente cualificados la oportunidad de devolver a sus comunidades y enseñar en nuestras escuelas públicas. Este es un momento gratificante para mí porque sé que esto tendrá un impacto positivo en las vidas de las personas de mi distrito. En términos generales, también estamos promulgando una forma gratuita de abordar la escasez de maestros, que ha sido generalizada en toda la Commonwealth."
Cepeda-Freytiz introdujo un complemento al proyecto de ley de Schwank y lo defendió en la Cámara, lo que llevó a su aprobación en la cámara baja en junio de 2023. Cepeda-Freytiz dijo que está orgullosa de trabajar con Schwank en este esfuerzo.
"Esta legislación es un importante paso adelante para garantizar que las escuelas de Pensilvania se beneficien del talento y las habilidades de todos los educadores cualificados", dijo Cepeda-Freytiz. "Al permitir que las personas con la documentación adecuada enseñen, no sólo abordamos una escasez crítica de profesores, sino que también enriquecemos la experiencia educativa de nuestros estudiantes al aumentar la diversidad de los profesores. Me enorgullece que este punto se convierta en ley y que por fin podamos decir que hemos cumplido con los profesores que no son ciudadanos estadounidenses."
12 de julio de 2024
Lectura - 12 de julio de 2024 - La senadora Judy Schwank (D-Berks) promocionó el presupuesto aprobado por la Asamblea General para el año fiscal 2024-2025, que incluye un crédito fiscal por la contribución del empleador al cuidado infantil e inversiones clave en programas de desarrollo económico.
El proyecto de ley 654 del Senado, el código tributario, incluye un crédito fiscal por la contribución del empleador al cuidado infantil basado en el lenguaje del proyecto de ley 252 del Senado de Schwank. Para los ejercicios fiscales que comiencen después del 31 de diciembre de 2024, los empleadores pueden reclamar un crédito fiscal por las contribuciones realizadas a los gastos de cuidado infantil de un empleado.
"Este crédito fiscal reconoce que tanto los padres como los empleadores tienen un gran interés en hacer que el cuidado de niños sea más asequible y accesible en Pensilvania", dijo Schwank, que copreside el Caucus de Educación Infantil. "El apoyo bipartidista de esta propuesta es lo que permitió su inclusión en el código tributario, ya que realmente hemos construido un consenso en torno a la necesidad de cuidado de niños de calidad."
El código fiscal también incluye aumentos a las herramientas de desarrollo económico que impulsarán los esfuerzos de reurbanización en Reading y el condado de Berks. Esto incluye un aumento de la tapa de la Preservación Histórica Incentivo Créditos Fiscales de $ 5 millones a $ 20 millones y aumenta la tapa de Asistencia a Vecindarios Créditos Fiscales de $ 36 millones a $ 72 millones.
El proyecto de ley de asignaciones generales del presupuesto incluye 20 millones de dólares para el nuevo programa Main Street Matters, una iniciativa basada en el legado del programa Keystone Communities que proporciona recursos para revitalizar los barrios, y 500 millones de dólares para PA SITES, un nuevo programa de subvenciones para ayudar a desarrollar emplazamientos competitivos para que las empresas se trasladen o expandan dentro de la mancomunidad.
"Gov. Shapiro ha hecho de la competitividad y la inversión en las calles principales a través de Pennsylvania un sello distintivo de su visión económica, y que ha cumplido en este presupuesto con PA SITES y Main Street Matters", dijo Schwank. "En una ciudad como Reading, con una abundancia de hermosos edificios históricos, un programa como el de Preservación Histórica de Incentivos de Crédito Fiscal realmente se puede poner a buen uso. Los créditos fiscales de asistencia a los barrios es una herramienta que ha sido muy popular en el condado de Berks, por lo que en general, creo que hay mucho que podemos estar entusiasmados."
Además, el código fiscal introduce cambios en el programa de Zona de Mejora de la Revitalización de la Ciudad (CRIZ), abriendo la puerta a la recepción de solicitudes por primera vez desde 2015. La ciudad de Reading ha expresado su interés en obtener una CRIZ. En previsión de una oportunidad para solicitar una CRIZ, se estableció un grupo de trabajo CRIZ en noviembre de 2023 y ha comenzado los preparativos.
"Tenemos una gran oportunidad de presentar una solicitud sólida para conseguir una CRIZ que ayude a Reading a alcanzar todo su potencial económico", declaró Schwank. "Afortunadamente, nuestro grupo de trabajo ha estado sentando las bases para una solicitud, por lo que estamos preparados y tenemos un plan".
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