July 22, 2015
HARRISBURG, July 22, 2015 – The ongoing rejuvenation of Reading’s treatment facilities today counted the approval of a $37.2 million low-interest loan for the replacement of the Fritz Island solid waste treatment plant.
Just as it approved an $84.6 million loan in April for Reading’s wastewater treatment plant, PENNVEST approved the new low-interest advance during its meeting today. The $37.2 million project will also help to protect the Schuylkill River from raw sewage discharges, and it will help to resolve National Pollutant Discharge System violations.
The new project is expected to create 65 construction jobs.
“With hard, diligent work, the understanding of PENNVEST’s board, and the cooperation of the U.S. Department of Justice, it is our pleasure to announce the approval of this new loan to get the Fritz Island solid waste treatment plant working correctly again,” said Sen. Judy Schwank. “Years of neglect jeopardized south Reading and the people living downstream from Fritz Island, but that’s about to change in a big way.”
“We need these funds to make sure Reading residents are protected from pollution and the Schuylkill River flows cleanly and freely,” Rep. Thomas Caltagirone (D-Reading) said. “More than $121 million is being delivered to Fritz Island and the city from PENNVEST, which is the help we need to improve the systems’ ability to deliver great service and to restore Reading’s role as good environmental stewards.”
The 20-year loan carries a one-percent interest rate and it will not impact the rates residents now pay for solid waste treatment.
“It’s a good news kind of day for Reading and its environs,” said Rep. Mark Rozzi. “Not only will raw sewage stop traveling into the Schuylkill during rainy weather and bodies of surface water that support the river be better protected, but residents’ monthly bills will not go up because of this project.”
Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority funding comes from a combination of state funds approved by voters, federal grants to PENNVEST from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and recycled loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards.
Funds are not released until bills for work are paid and receipts are submitted to PENNVEST.
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July 8, 2015
MONROEVILLE, July 8, 2015 – State Sen. Judy Schwank – who has worked to protect Berks County farmland, enhance open spaces throughout Pennsylvania, and safeguard natural resources – has been named a “legislative leader” by the organization that advocates for the commonwealth’s 66 conservation districts.
Schwank, along with Sen. Elder Vogel Jr. (R-Beaver), were named co-recipients of the PA Association of Conservation Districts’ “2015 Legislative Leadership Award.”
“I work to make sure Pennsylvania’s natural resources are preserved and protected,” Sen. Schwank said today following her acceptance of the award during the association’s annual awards luncheon. “I believe it is important to support landowners and farmers with proper planning and practices to meet their conservation needs and ensure we have healthy soils and clean water for future generations.
“I am grateful for PACD’s recognition of my work, but the real tribute is to the residents of the 11th Senatorial District and the officials who guide our own conservation district because their passion for preservation is understood.”
The PA Association of Conservation Districts delivers the Legislative Leadership Award to a lawmaker “whose outstanding efforts have helped further the activities and accomplishments of PACD and the 66 conservation districts.”
Sen. Schwank serves as the Democratic chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and she is also a member of the Pennsylvania Agricultural Land Preservation Board.
Schwank’s senatorial district sits in the Berks County Conservation District, which has been operating since 1946.
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30 de junio de 2015
HARRISBURG, 30 de junio de 2015 - Haciendo caso omiso de la llamada de los residentes del condado de Berks para el alivio de las facturas de impuestos a la propiedad por las nubes, la legislatura estatal republicana hoy aplastó su presupuesto de $ 30,2 mil millones, sin el apoyo del senador estatal Judy Schwank.
Schwank dijo que la Asamblea General está cometiendo un error al ignorar las súplicas de los propietarios de viviendas del condado de Berks, de los estudiantes y profesores y de los agricultores que necesitan ayuda.
"¿Alguien ha oído alguna mención a la eliminación o reducción del impuesto sobre la propiedad escolar en este plan presupuestario republicano? Yo no lo he oído", dijo Schwank durante el debate en el Senado esta tarde.
"Este es el problema que oigo en todos los lugares de mi distrito. Cuando estoy en el mercado de agricultores, en eventos deportivos, en el centro comercial e incluso en mi oficina, oigo un flujo constante de contribuyentes de edad avanzada al final de su cuerda. No tienen dinero. Ya no pueden permitirse ese impuesto en constante aumento.
"El gobernador Wolf, para su crédito, hizo de la reducción del impuesto a la propiedad un tema en su propuesta de presupuesto. Sugirió aumentar y ampliar el impuesto sobre las ventas y el impuesto sobre la renta personal, así como un impuesto sobre el gas natural, para ampliar la cuota estatal de financiación de la educación para que paguemos nuestra parte justa y nuestros distritos escolares locales puedan dejar de subir los impuestos.
"Estoy a favor de eliminar totalmente - no sólo reducir - los impuestos sobre la propiedad escolar. Como uno de los principales patrocinadores del proyecto de ley 76 del Senado, yo, junto con más de 80 grupos de contribuyentes de todo el estado, creo que la eliminación es el único camino a seguir. Pero yo sé y los contribuyentes saben que el dinero para financiar la educación tiene que venir de alguna parte.
"No me entusiasma, como tampoco a mis electores, que no haya subida de impuestos en este presupuesto. Ellos saben y ustedes saben que eso es una broma cruel.
"¿A quién creemos que estamos engañando con un presupuesto llamado 'sin subida de impuestos'? Los contribuyentes de Pensilvania lo entienden y saben que este presupuesto no es lo que esperaban", dijo Schwank.
Además de la eliminación del impuesto sobre bienes inmuebles, Schwank dijo que los legisladores deben presentar un plan de reforma de las pensiones que funcione, la adopción de la fórmula de financiación escolar más equitativa para que los estudiantes puedan recibir una educación excelente sin importar su código postal, y una inversión agrícola más comprometida.
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26 de junio de 2015
Cientos de trabajadores de la industria avícola de Berks Co. aportan 253 millones de dólares de impacto económico las personas que crían pollos de forma privada también deben estar atentas
HARRISBURG, 26 de junio de 2015 - Debido a que el último brote de gripe aviar ha acabado con 50 millones de aves en todo el país y parece dirigirse hacia aquí, la senadora Judy Schwank está trabajando con funcionarios de agricultura del estado mientras desarrollan planes de respuesta y recuperación en caso de que la enfermedad golpee en Pensilvania.
Según Schwank, este brote de gripe aviar altamente patógena se está desplazando desde los estados occidentales hacia el este a medida que las aves migran. El estado que más recientemente ha notificado un brote aviar es Michigan.
"Casi 220 residentes del condado de Berks que viven en el11º Distrito Senatorial trabajan en la industria avícola y tienen un impacto económico positivo para nuestra economía de más de un cuarto de billón de dólares", dijo Schwank. "Hay mucho en juego si este brote de gripe aviar llega a nuestro patio trasero.
"En cooperación con el Departamento de Agricultura de Pensilvania, estamos vigilando de cerca el movimiento de esta enfermedad, que no tiene ningún impacto conocido en la salud humana, y estamos instando a nuestros productores avícolas locales a que no esperen para empezar a tomar medidas de bioseguridad para salvaguardar sus manadas".
"Incluso los residentes particulares que crían un puñado de gallinas en su patio trasero deben estar atentos", afirmó.
Desde diciembre, Schwank, presidenta demócrata de la Comisión de Agricultura y Asuntos Rurales del Senado, afirmó que han aparecido dos versiones de cepas del virus de la gripe aviar de tipo A: la H5N2 y la H5N8. La H5N2, altamente patógena, está matando al 95% de las aves infectadas.
Aunque la enfermedad se ha desplazado de la región del Pacífico de Estados Unidos a la ruta migratoria central y a la del Misisipi, aún no ha cruzado la ruta migratoria atlántica, que abarca Pensilvania.
Schwank dijo que los funcionarios estatales de agricultura han formado un grupo de trabajo sobre la gripe aviar altamente patógena y han estado trabajando desde febrero con PennAg Industries, líderes de la industria y el mundo académico para supervisar la situación y trazar planes de preparación.
Parte de la planificación incluye pasos para la despoblación y medidas de bioseguridad y el aumento de los esfuerzos estatales de vigilancia y seguimiento.
Debido al brote de gripe aviar, no habrá espectáculos aviares en ninguna de las 109 ferias del estado ni en el Pennsylvania Farm Show de 2016, que se celebrará en enero.
"Precaución y acción son los dos elementos más importantes en estos momentos", afirmó el senador Schwank. "Tenemos que tomar las medidas adecuadas para salvaguardar esta industria vital en el condado de Berks y en todo el estado".
De los 219 puestos de trabajo avícolas del distrito senatorial de Schwank, 215 son de procesamiento y cuatro de producción.
Otros 760 empleos corresponden a proveedores e industrias avícolas auxiliares y suponen más de 56 millones de dólares en salarios totales.
La agricultura es una industria vital en el condado de Berks. El senador Schwank es miembro de la Junta de Preservación de Tierras Agrícolas de Pensilvania, que, hasta la fecha, es el condado de la Commonwealth que más tierras agrícolas ha preservado.
Para más información, preguntas frecuentes y listas de control, visite el sitio web del senador Schwank: https://senatorschwank.com/avian-flu.
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11 de junio de 2015
HARRISBURG, June 11, 2015 – Berks County’s farmland preservation movement expanded today when a state panel added another 280 acres to the commonwealth’s preservation program.
Sen. Judy Schwank, who is a member of the Pennsylvania Agricultural Land Preservation Board, said the group added the acreage with its purchase of conservation easements for three farms:
Glenn Henne/Rebecca DeBenedictis, JeffersonTownship 42.8 acres
Steven Henne, Upper Tulpehocken Township 88.7 acres
Daniel Unterkofler, Centre Township 148.1 acres
“Glenn and Rebecca, Steven, and Daniel have stepped up to make sure their land is used for farming and agriculture for decades to come and we should all feel good about that,” Schwank said. “Berks County now has 695 farms – and 69,307 acres in the state’s farmland preservation program. This is money well spent.”
Berks County has preserved more acreage of farmland than any other county in the program.
Today’s easement for the three farms totaled $699,000.
Since the farmland preservation program started in 1988, the commonwealth has protected 4,802 farms totaling 508,478 acres with nearly $1.29 billion in easements.
Local, county or state government – or any combination of the three – may buy easements. Counties that decide to have an easement purchase program must create an agricultural land preservation board.
El objetivo a largo plazo del programa estatal es preservar permanentemente las tierras agrícolas. Los titulares de las servidumbres tienen derecho a impedir el desarrollo o las mejoras del terreno para fines distintos de la producción agrícola.
For more information on PA’s farmland preservation program, visit the Bureau of Farmland Preservation’s website.
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11 de junio de 2015
READING, 11 de junio de 2015 - Las comunidades del condado de Berks que trabajan para ayudar a los adolescentes y adultos jóvenes a comprender mejor las consecuencias de beber y abusar del alcohol han recibido hoy casi 260.000 dólares en subvenciones de la Junta de Control de Licores de Pensilvania.
La senadora Judy Schwank, el representante Tom Caltagirone y el presidente de la PLCB, Tim Holden, anunciaron hoy los beneficiarios de las subvenciones durante una conferencia de prensa en Penn State-Berks. Representantes de las universidades de la zona y de los gobiernos municipales se unieron a ellos.
"Nuestro propósito hoy aquí no es atribuirnos el mérito, llamar la atención o buscar felicitaciones", dijo el senador Schwank. "En su lugar, nos reunimos hoy aquí para compartir una gran noticia: tres de nuestros colegios y universidades locales, dos gobiernos locales, dos fuerzas policiales y un distrito escolar han recibido casi 260.000 dólares en subvenciones de la PLCB para ayudar mejor a nuestros hijos que podrían verse tentados por el consumo de alcohol entre menores."
"Con la ayuda de la PLCB, estas comunidades y organizaciones del condado de Berks utilizarán estas nuevas inversiones para mejorar la vida de los menores, sus familias y los barrios a los que llaman hogar", dijo el representante Caltagirone. "'Bebe con responsabilidad' es un eslogan de marketing que los menores ignoran con demasiada frecuencia y estos fondos se utilizarán para concienciar sobre los peligros y las consecuencias del consumo de alcohol entre menores".
La PLCB está concediendo casi 2,3 millones de dólares en subvenciones a organizaciones de todo el estado. En el condado de Berks, ocho premios se dirigen a los siguientes:
Universidad de Kutztown - 40.000 dólares
Distrito escolar de Kutztown - 40.000 dólares
Distrito de Kutztown - 32.622 dólares
Policía del distrito de Wyomissing - 25.536 dólares
Universidad de Alvernia - 40.000 dólares
Policía del campus de Penn State Berks - 21.817 dólares
Albright College - 39.793 dólares
Departamento de Policía de Spring Township - 19.108 dólares
El anuncio de hoy es casi un 60% mayor que la inversión de la PLCB de hace dos años, cuando sólo recibieron subvenciones la Universidad de Kutztown (40.000 $), el municipio de Kutztown (36.615 $), el Albright College (27.254 $), el Departamento de Policía del municipio de Wyomissing (24.478 $) y la PSU-Berks (20.065 $).
Los beneficiarios de las subvenciones invertirán los fondos de la PLCB en actividades de formación, patrullas policiales y otros programas de prevención.
Schwank señaló que el alcohol es la droga más consumida y de la que más abusan los jóvenes en EE.UU. y es responsable de más de 4.300 muertes anuales entre los bebedores menores de edad. Cada año, añadió, acuden a los hospitales de todo el país miles de menores de edad por incidentes relacionados con el alcohol.
"El valor del sistema de licorerías de Pensilvania queda patente en la inversión realizada hoy en nuestras comunidades del condado de Berks", dijo Caltagirone. "Estas subvenciones representan un importante respaldo y educación para nuestros hijos y los lugares que llamamos hogar".
"Quiero que los residentes y funcionarios locales sepan que, aunque las estadísticas son desalentadoras, se está haciendo un trabajo real para educar a los estudiantes y jóvenes sobre los peligros del consumo ilegal y peligroso de alcohol", dijo Schwank. "Estos participantes que se han reunido hoy aquí están trabajando para garantizar que nuestra comunidad sea una comunidad segura en la que el alcohol se consuma de forma responsable y legal".
Entre los demás participantes que se unieron a Caltagirone, Schwank y Holden se encontraban:
- Dr. Keith Hillkirk y Jefe Kevin Rudy de Penn State Berks
- Dr. Lex O. McMillan III, Albright College
- Dr. Joe Cicala, Vicepresidente de Vida Universitaria de la Universidad de Alvernia
- Dr. Carlos Vargas, Universidad de Kutztown
- Dr. Ed Meyers y Sr. Barry Flicker, Distrito Escolar de Kutztown
- Jefe Jeffrey Beihl, Policía de Wyomissing, y
- Sandra Green, alcaldesa de Kutztown
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June 8, 2015
HARRISBURG, June 8, 2015 – Holly Doppel of Lenhartsville emailed Senators David G. Argall (R-Schuylkill/Berks) and Judy Schwank (D-Berks) after she read the lawmakers were interested in spearheading a bipartisan effort to strengthen safety in work zones.
Doppel was referring to the lawmakers’ push to add speed cameras to ensure the speed limit is followed in work zones.
A fatal accident on the morning of May 2 near Bensalem on the Pennsylvania took the life of a motorist and sent four construction workers to the hospital. Doppel’s youngest son was working with the Bensalem crew that was involved in the accident, but left at 1 a.m. The accident occurred at 5:30 a.m.
“I am for having the cameras at the work zones,” Doppel wrote to the Senators. “Also, I am for any other project that can be used to protect our construction workers.”
The two Berks County lawmakers introduced Senate Bill 840 that would allow for automated speed cameras in active work zones across the state.
“With the added investment to fix our roads and bridges, we need to do everything we can to protect the lives of the men and women making those improvements possible,” Argall said. “One life lost is one too many and this proposal would allow PennDOT and the Turnpike Commission to identify areas where workers are most at risk. This measure has been proven in other states to change driver behavior and create a safer experience for both motorists and workers alike.”
“Our goal is to make sure that both motorists and workers are as safe as they can be when highway work is being done,” Schwank said. “We believe this bill is a fair balance that will get motorists to pay more attention when improvements and construction change the normal highway routines.”
The bipartisan proposal would create a five-year pilot program for automated speed enforcement on interstate highways under the jurisdiction of PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. Motorists caught exceeding the speed limit will be subject to a $100 fine. The areas with speed-monitoring cameras will be adequately marked to inform motorists as well, including posted to the PennDOT and the Turnpike’s respective websites.
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May 14, 2015
READING, May 14, 2015 – One of Pennsylvania’s champions for education has converted Gov. Tom Wolf’s idea for career and technical instruction into a proposal that is now before a Senate committee for consideration.
Sen. Judy Schwank’s Senate Bill 114 would deliver as much as $15 million for public-private training partnerships focusing on high-demand, high-growth occupations that pay a living wage and promise career growth opportunities.
“Companies throughout Berks County and the commonwealth need people who know what they are doing and have the aptitude to do more,” Sen. Schwank said today after her legislation was referred to the Senate Education Committee. “These public-private training partnerships would be laser focused on delivering skilled workers for in-demand jobs.”
If approved, school districts, career and technology centers, higher education institutions, employers and labor organizations would be eligible for as many as 30 grants of up to $500,000.
Grants would be targeted – but not guaranteed – for each Workforce Investment Area.
“If that happens, students would have the chance to earn college credit and industry credentials through work-based learning,” Schwank said.
Additionally, Senate Bill 114 proposes to provide $5 million in equipment grants for career and technical education.
The legislation also offers $8 million to help school districts fund college and career counseling in middle schools and high schools.
“Pennsylvania works very hard to attract good companies to move, expand or start here but the incentives we dangle aren’t always enough or the promises of job growth delivered,” Schwank said. “But if we make sure Pennsylvania has the best-trained employees, companies will be hard-pressed to look elsewhere, workers will get better jobs with better pay, and local economies will undoubtedly improve.
“Gov. Wolf had the vision to make investments in career and technology training, and I’m pleased to make sure the legislation is in place that will carry this economic development initiative to fruition.”
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12 de mayo de 2015
Harrisburg – May 12, 2015 – After a recent series of accidents in construction zones, a bipartisan group of senators and state officials detailed legislation today that’s designed to protect workers in the zones.
Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) was joined by Sens. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), David Argall (R-Schuylkill), and Camera Bartolotta (R-Washington) in addition to PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards and Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission Chair Sean Logan to discuss how the measures will improve safety in the construction zones.
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The senators and state officials outlined their plan for increased penalties for those striking or killing highway employees and first responders in construction zones.
“Far too often vulnerable workers and first responders in construction zones are ignored by motorists focused on getting to their destination instead of heeding safety protocols,” Costa said. “We have to remember that these are not just employees reporting to work each day – they are somebody’s mother, father sibling or friend.
“They each deserve the opportunity to leave work as safely as they arrived.”
The bills offered by Costa and Bartolotta would increase fines and penalties by $1,000 for minor violations and $5,000 for more serious offenses involving highway workers or first responders, plus a six month drivers license suspension.
“Too many construction workers have been sent to the hospital in recent weeks and too many turnpike employees killed over the years by speed and distraction in work zones,” Logan said. “Motorists simply aren’t getting the message.
“The enforcement tools we have at our disposal today are not making enough of an impact.”
Bartolotta reflected on the impact of careless driving in many incidents and stressed the need for drivers to remain aware in their travels.
“We owe it to all of these workers and their families to do our part to protect them against reckless, irresponsible and distracted drivers,” she said.
With a focus on increased safety measures in work zones, legislation introduced by Schwank and Argall would provide speed cameras in active work zones on limited access highways.
“Families of the men and women who work to improve our roads can’t wonder if their moms or dads are going to return home from work every day,” Schwank said. “Drivers must know that if they go too fast through a construction zone they will be hit in the wallet with a stiff fine,” Schwank said.
“The recent tragedy on the Pennsylvania Turnpike near Bensalem reminds us that, as more state dollars are invested in improving our infrastructure, the problem facing our construction workers will only grow more dangerous,” Argall said.
Ensuring that work zones are safe places is a top priority for PennDOT, according to Pennsylvania Transportation Secretary Leslie S. Richards.
“Since 1970, 85 PennDOT workers have been killed in the line of duty,” Richards said. “Our workers want to see their families at the end of their work days. Work zone safety awareness is essential, for your safety and ours.”
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May 11, 2015
HARRISBURG, May 11 – Members of the legislature’s Women’s Health Caucus today unveiled their “Pennsylvania Agenda for Women’s Health” for the new session at a Capitol news conference.
The caucus is co-chaired by Reps. Dan Frankel, D-Allegheny, and Frank Farry, R-Bucks; and Sens. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, and Chuck McIlhinney, R-Bucks.
Frankel said, “We need to do more than honor women with words and Mother’s Day cards – our bipartisan caucus is putting forth a package of legislation that would make specific progress for Pennsylvania women in areas such as family-friendly working conditions, economic fairness, ensuring healthy lives and help for victims of domestic violence.”
Farry said, “Women’s health is an important issue and we in the General Assembly take it seriously, including the health of our female veterans and active duty military personnel. In Pennsylvania alone, there are nearly 80,000 women veterans. While the proportion of women veterans to male veterans continues to increase, the unique health needs of women can be overlooked in providing services to a large, and predominantly male, veteran population. This comprehensive package of bills will go a long way in ensuring all Pennsylvania women, including our veterans, have health care options to meet their needs.”
Schwank said, “Women and families play a pivotal role in the overall health of our communities and the commonwealth. To know that there are still many things we can do to help deliver better policies, better laws and better protections for all means we still have some work to do. That is why this bipartisan caucus is coming forward again with good proposals to make a difference.”
McIlhinney said, “The idea of safeguarding women’s health goes well beyond simply ensuring access to quality care. I am proud to work with my colleagues to address a wide variety of topics related to women’s health, including measures to improve working conditions and accommodations for women and families.”
The bills in the Pennsylvania Agenda for Women’s Health include:
Family-friendly working conditions
- Workplace accommodations for pregnant women: H.B. 1176, sponsored by Reps. Sheryl Delozier, R-Cumberland, and Mark Cohen, D-Phila.; and S.B. 40, sponsored by Sen. Matt Smith, D-Allegheny. This legislation would require a covered employer to make reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions unless those accommodations would prove an undue hardship on the employer’s operations.
- Sanitary conditions for nursing mothers: H.B. 1100, sponsored by Reps. Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, and David Parker, R-Monroe; S.B. 826, sponsored by Sen. Chuck McIlhinney, R-Bucks. This legislation would require employers to provide a private, sanitary space for employees who need to express breast milk. It would fix two main loopholes in federal law. It would apply to all employees, including those that are exempt from federal overtime provisions. Secondly, it would require employers to provide a private, sanitary space for mothers to express milk beyond one year after birth. The legislation mirrors the federal provision that exempts small employers from these requirements if they would present an undue hardship to the employer.
- Protecting all employees from sexual harassment: B. 846, sponsored by Rep. Mike Schlossberg, D-Lehigh; and S.B. 506, sponsored by Sen. Jay Costa, D-Allegheny. These similar bills would end the exemption from state sexual harassment law for those who employ three or fewer people.
Economic fairness
- Equal pay: H.B. 1160, sponsored by Reps. Tina Davis, D-Bucks, and Brian Sims, D-Phila.; and S.B. 303, sponsored by Sens. Rob Teplitz, D-Dauphin, and Anthony Williams, D-Phila. This legislation would clarify and update the legal standards for pay-equity lawsuits, including by closing the “factor other than sex” defense to apply only to bona fide business-related factors such as education, training or experience.
- Raising the minimum wage: B. 250, sponsored by Rep. Patty Kim, D-Dauphin; and S.B.s 195 and 196, sponsored by Sen. Christine Tartaglione. These bills would raise the minimum wage in steps to $10.10 per hour and also increase the lower minimum wage for tipped workers to 70 percent of that rate (Senate legislation) or 75 percent (House bill).
- Retirement security: H.B.s 1185 and 1186, sponsored by Rep. Steve Santarsiero, D-Bucks. This legislation would require that a public employee obtain spousal consent for any benefit payment structure that does not provide at least a 50 percent survivor benefit to the employee’s surviving spouse. The federal government and 27 states have a spousal consent requirement to protect spouses, usually women, from being blindsided after a spouse’s death when they discover that they are not entitled to any of their deceased spouse’s pension benefit.
- Exempt more earned income from TANF income limits: H.B. 1123, sponsored by Rep. Michelle Brownlee, D-Phila.; S.B. 203, sponsored by Schwank. This legislation would raise the exemption from 50 percent to 75 percent to encourage people to work, acknowledging that low-income working families’ expenses use up a large percentage of their take-home pay. At the current level, families in Pennsylvania often find themselves in roughly the same spot financially after they start working as they were before they started working, taking into account taxes, transportation, clothing and child care co-payments.
Ensuring healthy lives
- Patient trust: H.B. 1105, sponsored by Frankel. This legislation would protect patients and providers from inappropriate, unscientific legislative intrusion into medical decision-making. It would protect the patient-provider relationship from statutory directives to practice care in a manner that is not in accordance with the standard of care.
- Creating a task force on women veterans’ health care: H.R. 234, sponsored by Farry and Rep. Pamela DeLissio, D-Phila./Montgomery. The task force would submit a report by April 2016 on health care issues unique to women veterans, along with the quality of and access to care for women veterans.
- Ensuring access to health care facilities: S.B. 809, sponsored by Sen. Larry Farnese, D-Phila.; and H.B. 1158, sponsored by Rep. Matt Bradford, D-Montgomery. This legislation would create 15-foot buffer zones around health care facilities where picketing, patrolling or demonstrating that blocks patients’ access to the facilities would be banned. Some cities such as Pittsburgh and some states such as Colorado and Massachusetts have passed such laws already.
Protecting victims of domestic violence
- Cell phone contract termination for domestic violence victims: H.B. 1108, sponsored by Rep. Kevin Schreiber, D-York. This legislation would exempt domestic violence victims from fees when removing themselves from an abuser’s cell phone contract or having the abuser removed. It also would require cell phone companies to provide new phone numbers to domestic violence victims with appropriate documentation.
- Early lease termination for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking: H.B. 1051, sponsored by Rep. Madeleine Dean, D-Montgomery. This legislation would allow for early termination of a rental lease with 30 days’ notice if the tenant is the victim of domestic violence, sexual assault and/or stalking, and to have their locks changed within three days at the tenant’s expense.
- Safe Campuses legislation: S.B. 202, sponsored by Schwank; H.B. 1173, sponsored by Reps. Tina Davis, D-Bucks, and Maria Donatucci, D-Phila./Delaware. This legislation would require all colleges and universities to adopt policies and programs to make students, staff and officials aware of the risks of sexual assault and intimate partner violence. It would also require colleges and universities to submit annual reports on occurrences of sexual assault and intimate partner violence on campus.
The Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus is a bipartisan, bicameral caucus of legislators partnering with interest groups and advocacy organizations seeking to develop and implement legislation and social policy that protects and respects a woman’s right to make private, personal medical decisions.
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April 29, 2015
Gather with friends and family members while getting important information that will help you now and in your future!
Join us Thursday, May 7th from 5:30-7:30 PM at Reading High School’s Main Café.
Come and learn about:
- How to obtain a driver’s license
- Recreational after school activities
- College financial assistance
- Health insurance; healthy behaviors
- Certificate and degree programs after high school
- How to build credit; managing your budget
- State assistance programs
And much more information to help you! A number of organizations will be on hand for this event, so don’t miss out! Refreshments & pizza will be served.
Download the event flyer here: All About You – Youth Expo Flyer
28 de abril de 2015
Reading - 28 de abril de 2015 - A petición de la senadora estatal Judy Schwank (D-Berks), el Comité de Política Demócrata del Senado ha celebrado hoy una mesa redonda sobre los retos laborales a los que se enfrentan las personas con antecedentes penales.
"Si bien reconocemos que las restricciones y prohibiciones razonables son apropiadas en algunos casos, debemos hacer todo lo posible para eliminar las barreras innecesarias que impiden a los ex delincuentes no violentos acceder al mercado laboral", dijo la senadora Lisa Boscola (D-Northampton), que preside el comité.
Schwank añadió: "Cuando se trata de delitos menores, poca gente cree que los errores pasados de una persona deban perseguirla implacablemente o coartar su capacidad de encontrar un trabajo decente para mantenerse a sí misma y a su familia. Este debate se centra en los problemas a los que se enfrentan tanto los ex delincuentes como los empresarios.
"Pedí que este debate de la comisión se celebrara en Reading para dar a los defensores y expertos locales la oportunidad de ampliar sus puntos de vista sobre esta difícil cuestión".
Schwank afirmó que los onerosos requisitos para la cancelación de antecedentes penales y otros impedimentos, como los controles previos a las entrevistas, han tenido consecuencias trágicas. Dijo que las barreras al empleo han provocado un aumento de las personas sin hogar, más delincuencia, reincidencia y han llevado a ciudades y estados de todo el país a gastar miles de millones en viviendas y otros servicios de apoyo para ex delincuentes que son perfectamente capaces y están dispuestos a trabajar.
"Aproximadamente una quinta parte de los hombres y mujeres en libertad condicional o bajo palabra corren el riesgo de volver a ser encarcelados, y muchos regresan a prisión en un plazo de tres años", señaló Schwank. "Estas personas necesitan un trabajo decente y un lugar donde vivir, o podrían caer trágicamente de nuevo en el sistema de justicia penal".
Varios legisladores han presentado proyectos de ley destinados a eliminar las barreras laborales, agilizar el proceso de cancelación de los antecedentes penales y prohibir a los empresarios la preselección de candidatos.
solicitantes de antecedentes penales. En la última sesión legislativa se aprobó por unanimidad en el Senado un proyecto de ley (Proyecto de Ley 391 del Senado) que habría reformado el proceso de cancelación de antecedentes penales, pero se estancó en la Cámara de Representantes.
"Con los costes de las prisiones devorando cada vez más dólares del presupuesto, no podemos permitirnos ignorar la tendencia creciente de la población carcelaria", dijo Schwank. "La población carcelaria de Pensilvania se ha cuadruplicado desde la década de 1980. Si pudiéramos ayudar a los ex delincuentes no violentos a ser contratados, podríamos ayudar a reducir los costes de los correccionales, reducir la delincuencia en nuestras comunidades y fortalecer nuestra economía poniendo a más gente a trabajar."
Peggy Kershner, codirectora ejecutiva de Berks Connections Pre-trial Services, dijo que su organización ayuda a eliminar las barreras laborales a las que se enfrentan los ex delincuentes. Dijo que gran parte del énfasis debe dirigirse a educar y animar a los empresarios a dar una segunda oportunidad a los ex delincuentes.
El empresario local Hamid Chaudhry recomendó que el gobierno estatal establezca una línea telefónica gratuita de apoyo a los empleadores en todo el estado. La abogada Janet Ginzberg, de los Servicios Jurídicos Comunitarios, pidió que se refuercen y aclaren las leyes estatales que regulan cuándo y cómo pueden utilizar los empleadores la comprobación de antecedentes. El juez del distrito de Berks, Victor Frederick, pidió que el estado considere la posibilidad de expedir permisos de conducir limitados por ocupación a determinados automovilistas cuyos permisos hayan sido suspendidos.
Schwank y Boscola estuvieron acompañados en la audiencia por los senadores Shirley Kitchen (D-Phila.), y Larrry Farnase (D-Phila.). Participaron en el debate:
- Vaughn D. Spencer, Alcalde de Reading
- Peggy Kershner, codirectora ejecutiva de los servicios previos al juicio de Berks Connections
- Janet Ginzberg, Abogada, Unidad de Derecho Laboral, Servicios Jurídicos Comunitarios, Filadelfia
- Dan McIntyre, Director Ejecutivo Adjunto, Junta Estatal de Libertad Condicional de Pensilvania
- James C. Young, Presidente del Comité de Justicia Penal, NAACP de Reading
- Hamid Chaudhry y Steve Elmarzouky, empresarios locales
- Rev. Sandra L. Strauss, Directora de Incidencia Pública, Consejo de Iglesias de Pensilvania
- Mark Mekilo, consejero jefe del senador Vince Hughes.
- Christopher Brader y Darryl Blackwell, residentes del condado de Berks.
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27 de abril de 2015
A petición de la senadora estatal Judy Schwank (demócrata de Berks), el Comité de Política Demócrata del Senado estatal acude a Reading para celebrar una mesa redonda sobre los retos laborales a los que se enfrentan las personas con antecedentes penales.
La reunión tendrá lugar a las 11 de la mañana del martes 28 de abril, en el Schmidt Technology and Training Center Building, Reading Area Community College, 10 S. 2nd St, Reading, PA 19603. Se invita al público a asistir.
"Cuando se trata de delitos menores, poca gente cree que los errores pasados de una persona deban perseguirla implacablemente o coartar su capacidad de encontrar un trabajo decente para mantenerse a sí misma y a su familia", dijo Schwank. "Este debate se centrará en los problemas a los que se enfrentan tanto los ex delincuentes como los empresarios.
"Solicité que este debate del comité se celebrara en Reading para ayudar a amplificar la aportación de nuestra región en este importante asunto de ámbito estatal", dijo Schwank.
"Aun reconociendo que las restricciones y prohibiciones razonables son adecuadas en muchos casos, debemos hacer todo lo posible para eliminar las barreras innecesarias que impiden a los trabajadores cualificados acceder al mercado laboral", ha declarado la senadora Lisa Boscola (D-Northampton), que preside la comisión. "Estas mismas barreras impiden a las empresas satisfacer sus necesidades de mano de obra".
Boscola dijo que el debate abierto se centrará probablemente en la legislación pendiente sobre la "segunda oportunidad", que aceleraría el proceso de cancelación de los antecedentes penales de los delincuentes no violentos. Dijo que el panel también se centrará en la prevención de la reincidencia en prisión y la mejora de las oportunidades de mano de obra y el acceso de los delincuentes no violentos.
Además de los miembros de la comisión, se espera que participen en el debate las siguientes personas:
- Vaughn D. Spencer, Alcalde de Reading
- Peggy Kershner, codirectora ejecutiva de los servicios previos al juicio de Berks Connections
- Janet Ginzberg, Abogada, Unidad de Derecho Laboral, Servicios Jurídicos Comunitarios, Filadelfia
- Cindy Daub, Directora Ejecutiva de Reinserción y Garantías de Calidad, Junta Estatal de Libertad Condicional y Libertad Vigilada de Pensilvania
- James C. Young, Presidente del Comité de Justicia Penal, NAACP de Reading
- Hamid Chaudhry y Steve Elmarzouky, empresarios locales; y
- Rev. Sandra L. Strauss, Directora de Incidencia Pública, Consejo de Iglesias de Pensilvania
La cobertura mediática es bienvenida y alentada.
April 22, 2015
HARRISBURG, April 22, 2015 – Residents of a southeastern Berks County community will enjoy better drinking water following the completion of a sanitary sewer project that today was awarded a $5.3 million investment from the commonwealth.
State Sens. Judy Schwank (D-Ruscombmanor Township) and John Rafferty (R-Collegeville) said PENNVEST’s funding for the Geigertown project includes a $3.33 million grant.
“Geigertown residents will win the benefits of cleaner drinking water and improved pollution controls, and Geigertown taxpayers will not have to pay the full bill to correct the village’s problems,” Sen. Schwank said following the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority’s approval of the project. “It’s a win-win for Geigertown residents and our environment.”
Malfunctioning “on-lot” sewage systems have been sending sewage runoff into the Hay Creek Watershed.
“Geigertown sits near French Creek State Park so today’s PENNVEST decision will help to improve the quality of life for the village’s residents and it will safeguard a special public space that entertains visitors and serves as a habitat for wildlife,” Sen. Rafferty said.
Under the terms of the PENNVEST investment, Geigertown will have 20 years to pay back $2 million. The loan carries a 1-percent interest rate.
The project will result in the construction of more than 12,000 linear feet of 8-inch pipe, more than 1,600 feet of 6-inch pipe, 51 new manholes, two pumping stations, plus other technology.
It will also eliminate the need for a non-compliance order from the state Department of Environmental Protection that was written to correct the sewage runoff problems.
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April 22, 2015
HARRISBURG, April 22, 2015 – The City of Reading will get a much needed boost in its ongoing efforts to upgrade its wastewater treatment plant, meet the terms of a federal order, and protect the quality of the Schuylkill River with the approval today of an $84.6 million investment by a state agency that’s dedicated to improving the quality of drinking water and local environments throughout Pennsylvania.
PENNVEST approved the low-interest loan during its meeting today. The $84.586 million decision will help the city upgrade its sewage treatment plant and help to resolve National Pollutant Discharge System violations.
The project will also create 140 construction jobs.
“We worked together to get this low-interest loan approved and it will be the residents of the City of Reading who will benefit from an upgraded and properly functioning treatment plant and a cleaner Schuylkill River,” Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Ruscombmanor Township) said. “Tens of thousands of people depend on the city’s treatment plant and need it to enjoy a better quality of life.”
“This vital state investment means Reading will be able to meet the federal order that is requiring the city to have a new treatment plant ready to go in less than three years,” Rep. Thomas Caltagirone (D-Reading) said. “More importantly, it will restore a quality service that is desperately needed.”
The U.S. Department of Justice amended the federal consent decree in February 2014 to give Reading the ability to rebuild the current plant on Fritz’s Island.
“We all live downstream,” said Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-Temple), “so we become better stewards of our local environment and we ensure the sustainability of the Schuylkill River and the Delaware Estuary with this critical state investment. The excellent work between local, state and federal governments is also saving millions of dollars for Reading as we move forward.”
The $84.6 million loan carries a one-percent interest rate and a 20 year repayment plan.
Among other things, the money will pay for the construction of a new pumping station, a primary clarifier distribution structure, the rehab of primary water clarifiers, and the conversion of aeration tanks.
PENNVEST approved a $10 million low-interest loan for the treatment plant project in April 2012.
Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority funding comes from a combination of state funds approved by voters, federal grants to PENNVEST from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and recycled loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards.
Funds for the projects are disbursed after bills for work are paid and receipts are submitted to PENNVEST.
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April 17, 2015
HARRISBURG, April 17, 2015 – With the May 1 deadline quickly approaching, state Sen. Judy Schwank today reminded Berks County students who are headed to college or are renewing their application to apply soon for a state grant.
During the 2014-’15 academic year, the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency awarded 3,989 grants worth $9.12 million to students in Schwank’s 11th Senatorial District.
The average grant to local residents, which do not require repayment, was valued at nearly $3,000.
“Students looking for help in paying their college or junior college tuition bills can get that help from PHEAA,” Schwank said today. “Better yet; grant recipients will not have to pay back those awards.”
Students planning to attend a community college, a trade school, school of nursing or a two-year program that is not transferrable have until Aug. 1 to apply for a state grant.
To apply or renew, the senator said students or parents should visit PHEAA’s website.
First-time applicants will need to be armed with the date they received – or plan to receive – their high school diploma or GED, Social Security number, and a recent statement (if applicable) from their PA Treasury 529 College Savings Program account.
Applicants will also have to open a ledger with American Education Services’ “Account Access” student aid management tool. They must also complete the 2015-‘16 Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.
Easy instructions for opening the accounts are on PHEAA’s website.
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April 16, 2015
HARRISBURG, April 16, 2015 – Berks County’s reputation as a leader in farmland preservation grew by another 406 acres today when the Pennsylvania Agricultural Land Preservation Board added five farms to the historic program.
The preservation board, of which Sen. Judy Schwank is a member, valued the tracts at $1,015,000.
Berks County now has 692 farms and 69,028 acres that are being protected from future development by their inclusion in the program.
“It takes dedicated farmers who, despite the challenges of farming, want and plan to continue producing delicious foods for our tables,” Schwank said. “Working to preserve farms in Berks County and across the commonwealth is a great mission, and it is helping us to ensure the availability and affordability of nutritious meat, vegetables, and dairy for generations to come.”
The conservation easements approved today by the board were paid to the following Berks County land owners:
- Lottie and Richard Berger – Greenwich Township,103.8 acres
- Christopher J. Hartman – Oley Township, 23.8 acres
- Glenn and Nancy Hoffman – Hereford Township,74 acres
- Phares & Ellen Newswanger – Maxatawny Township, 93.1 acres
- Kenneth Sanner – Greenwich Township, 111.1 acres
Since its inception in 1988, the commonwealth has protected 4,782 farms totaling 506,761 acres with nearly $1.4 billion in easements.
Local, county or state government – or any combination of the three – may buy easements. Counties that decide to have an easement purchase program must create an agricultural land preservation board.
El objetivo a largo plazo del programa estatal es preservar permanentemente las tierras agrícolas. Los titulares de las servidumbres tienen derecho a impedir el desarrollo o las mejoras del terreno para fines distintos de la producción agrícola.
For more information on PA’s farmland preservation program, visit the Bureau of Farmland Preservation’s website.
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April 14, 2015
HARRISBURG, April 14, 2015 – A legislative proposal by Sen. Judy Schwank dealing with sexual assault on college campuses in Pennsylvania took a positive step forward today.
Schwank’s “PA Safe Campuses Act” received unanimous approval from the Senate Judiciary Committee.
“Events like the recent one involving Kappa Delta Rho fraternity at Penn State and similar reports from across the county prove again and again how necessary it is for schools to be more proactive in addressing sexual crimes,” Sen. Schwank said following the committee’s vote to send Senate Bill 202 to the floor. “We know that only about 12 percent of campus rapes are reported to police, but every one of them leaves behind a wounded victim.
“The Senate Judiciary Committee’s vote today shows that lawmakers understand the problem and we need to do more to make school a safe experience, regardless of gender.”
Under Schwank’s legislation, all post-secondary schools, colleges and universities would be required to adopt policies and establish programs to make students, staff and officials aware of the risks of sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
If signed into law, campuses would be mandated to annually report the number of instances of sexual assault and intimate partner violence on campus, and the security policies and procedures they have established to deal with these issues.
Reports would be public records and they would be required to be posted on the school’s official website.
Schools would also be required to have sexual assault and intimate partner violence policies to ensure that students, employees, volunteers and officials are aware of the rights of victims and responsibilities of witnesses, and to ensure that instances involving minors are immediately reported.
“Existing public disclosure requirements usually do not bring victims forward, so others are never really made aware of the potential risks and dangers at the school they are interested in attending, visiting, or working,” Schwank said.
Schwank proposed a similar bill, SB 337, during the General Assembly’s prior two-year session.
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
1 de abril de 2015
HARRISBURG, April 1, 2015 – Berks Countians who need help paying their heating bills or covering emergency repairs will have another month to apply for Pennsylvania’s federally funded LIHEAP program, Sen. Judy Schwank said today.
The deadline to apply has been moved from Friday to May 1.
“Winter was very cold and troublesome for many people, so the extended deadline should help residents get the assistance they need to keep the heat on during the cool spring or to pay for repairs to overworked heating systems, broken windows or replace cracked pipes,” Sen. Schwank said.
LIHEAP is a grant program. Qualified participants do not have to pay back any award they receive. Annual household income limits apply, however.
INCOME GUIDELINES:
Household Maximum Income
1 $17,505
2 $23,595
3 $29,685
4 $35,775
5 $41,865
6 $47,955
7 $54,045
8 $60,135
9 $66,225
10 $72,315
LIHEAP crisis grants can be between $25 and $500 while the minimum cash benefit is between $100 and $1,000.
Residents who need a LIHEAP application should contact Sen. Schwank’s district office, 210 George St., Suite 210, Reading, or call 610-929-2151.
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March 31, 2015
Public Utility Commission to talk electric choice
READING, March 31, 2015 – Residents of Centerport and northern Berks County will have the opportunity at 7 p.m., Thursday, April 2, to learn more about electric choice and share their thoughts and concerns on other topics during Sen. Judy Schwank’s next town hall meeting.
“Electric choice has been around for a while but not everyone is aware of how it works or what to do to take advantage of the program,” Schwank said. “An expert on the topic from the PUC will join the town hall to make sure everyone’s questions are answered. They’ll also show attendees how to save money on their monthly utility bills.
“We will also talk about other local issues, thoughts and concerns.”
Thursday’s town hall will happen at the Central Berks Lions Club. These community-wide meetings are an essential part of the senator’s work in the 11th Senatorial District.
Se agradece la cobertura mediática.
WHAT: Sen. Judy Schwank to hold town hall meeting in Centerport
CUÁNDO: 19.00 - 20.30 h.
WHERE: Central Berks Lions Club, 2207 Main St., Centerport
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25 de marzo de 2015
OLEY, 25 de marzo de 2015 - Una escuela del condado de Berks dedicada a la educación profesional y técnica reconoció esta noche a la senadora estatal Judy Schwank como destinataria de su "Premio Amigo de la Educación Profesional y Técnica."
"Te unes a una lista de personas distinguidas de nuestra comunidad que han demostrado un fuerte compromiso con la educación profesional y técnica y con los estudiantes a los que servimos", dijo Robert Lees, director administrativo del Berks Career & Technology Center. "No puedo pensar en una persona más merecedora".
El senador Schwank es el primer cargo público electo del centro que recibe el premio desde su creación en 1991.
"Invertimos en educación profesional y técnica porque creemos que es una parte vital de nuestra comunidad y una gran manera de que los residentes del condado de Berks aprendan nuevas habilidades, se conviertan en grandes comerciantes y se conviertan en el tipo de empleados que buscan nuestros empleadores", dijo Schwank.
"Me siento honrada de recibir el premio 'Friend of Career and Technical Education Award' porque significa que estoy trabajando con residentes, empleadores y educadores del condado de Berks dedicados y apasionados por marcar la diferencia", dijo.
El Comité Operativo Conjunto del Berks Career & Technology Center votó a favor de conceder el premio al senador Schwank el mes pasado. El JOC presentó el legislador con el premio durante su reunión de esta noche.
El BCTC, fundado en 1968, cuenta con campus en Leesport y Oley. La escuela está considerada como uno de los principales centros de formación profesional y técnica de la Commonwealth por el rendimiento y el éxito de sus estudiantes.
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
19 de marzo de 2015
HARRISBURG, 19 de marzo de 2015 - Para proteger mejor a los residentes de Pensilvania de la publicación no solicitada y embarazosa de sus fotos privadas e íntimas, los senadores estatales Judy Schwank (D-Berks) y Vincent Hughes (D-Filadelfia) dijeron hoy que presentarán una propuesta similar a la recientemente promulgada ley de "porno venganza". Judy Schwank (D-Berks) y Vincent Hughes (D-Filadelfia) dijeron hoy que presentarán una propuesta similar a la ley recientemente promulgada llamada "porno venganza", que haría que sea un delito que alguien robe y publique imágenes no autorizadas de extraños y otros.
"El robo y distribución de fotos de desnudos o de contenido sexual de alguien que no sea una pareja o ex pareja es mucho menos común que la 'publicación por venganza' de fotos contra una ex pareja, pero el pirateo de fotos y vídeos de famosos del pasado otoño demuestra que ocurre", dijo el senador Schwank. "También, quizá, los recientes sucesos de la fraternidad Penn State".
Schwank dijo que la nueva propuesta aplicaría las mismas sanciones civiles y penales que la ley aprobada el año pasado -que sólo se aplica a situaciones que impliquen a parejas sexuales o íntimas- cuando la víctima y el agresor no tengan esa relación.
"Tenemos que asegurarnos de que las sanciones son lo suficientemente fuertes como para disuadir a alguien de tomar esas fotos sin motivo o hacerlas públicas sin el consentimiento de la víctima", dijo.
El senador Hughes, presidente demócrata del Comité de Asignaciones del Senado, dijo que se une al senador Schwank en esta propuesta porque es lo correcto.
"Debemos asegurarnos de que nuestras leyes evolucionan con la tecnología", dijo Hughes. "Ahora es increíblemente fácil compartir fotografías, vídeos y otras formas de medios de comunicación por vía electrónica. En general, esto es positivo, sobre todo para mantenernos en contacto con nuestros seres queridos a larga distancia. Sin embargo, tenemos que asegurarnos de que el público esté protegido de individuos que utilizarían la tecnología con fines nefastos."
De ser aprobada por el legislativo, la propuesta de Schwank y Hughes convertiría estos actos en delito en virtud de la ley de Invasión de la intimidad.
Según la ley de "Difusión ilícita de imágenes íntimas" aprobada el año pasado, publicar imágenes sexuales para molestar o perjudicar a una pareja o ex pareja conlleva penas potenciales de hasta dos años de cárcel cuando la víctima es un adulto y de hasta cinco años cuando la víctima es un menor.
Los delincuentes también son responsables económicamente de las lesiones que causan a sus víctimas, mediante una demanda civil.
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March 13, 2015
HARRISBURG, March 13, 2015 – Underscoring her leadership and reputation as someone who fights for families, women and the less fortunate, Sen. Judy Schwank has been appointed to serve on a commission that’s charged with making sure fairness and equal justice are applied in Pennsylvania’s court system.
Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa appointed Schwank to a two-year term this week on the Pennsylvania Interbranch Commission for Gender, Racial, and Ethnic Fairness.
“We know the hand of justice is usually sensible and right. At times, though, it needs oversight and redirection,” Sen. Schwank said. “I thank Sen. Costa for giving me this opportunity to work with a well-established organization, and I am looking forward to lending my voice and ideas for the equal application of the law.”
The panel emerged when the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ordered the “Supreme Court Committee on Racial and Gender Bias in the Justice System” to embark on a three-year study in 1999 gauging the effect of race and gender bias in the justice system.
Since its inception, the 24-member Interbranch Commission has earned a reputation as a model for the nation’s courts and it has:
- Devised a statewide policy for the Pennsylvania courts on Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunity,
- Played a critical role in the passage of landmark legislation on the provision of interpreter services in the courts and administrative agencies, and
- Produced a key report on enhancing the safety of victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Pennsylvania’s courthouses.
The Commission meets quarterly in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh or Harrisburg.
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
March 10, 2015
HARRISBURG, March 10, 2015 – In conjunction with the state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, state Sen. Judy Schwank is reminding Pennsylvania veterans that the time is now to apply for special one-time payments in honor of their service during Persian Gulf operations in 1990 and 1991.
The deadline to apply is Aug. 31.
The payments are for veterans who were on active duty during Operations Desert Shield or Desert Storm between Aug. 2, 1990, and Aug. 31, 1991.
“This could be hundreds of dollars for Pennsylvania veterans who laid it all on the line and fought to defend us in the Persian Gulf,” Sen. Schwank said.
Schwank said the DMVA is also asking veterans who might have previously been denied the bonus to reapply. New applications are required to reopen a claim.
So far, some 11,000 Persian Gulf veterans have applied for the bonus program since the program’s start in 2008.
The bonus pays $75 per month for qualifying, active-duty service members, up to a $525 maximum.
For personnel whose death was related to illness or injury received in the line of duty in Operations Desert Shield or Desert Storm, there is an additional $5,000 available to the surviving family. Service members who were declared prisoners of war may also be eligible for an additional $5,000.
In each case, the service member must have:
- Served with the U.S. Armed Forces, a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces or the PA National Guard,
- Served on active duty in the Persian Gulf Theater of Operations during the period from Aug. 2, 1990, until Aug. 31, 1991, and received the Southwest Asia Service Medal,
- Been a legal resident of Pennsylvania at the time of active duty service,
- Been discharged from active duty under honorable conditions, if not currently on active duty. And,
- Received the Southwest Asia Service Medal.
For detailed instructions on how to apply, visit www.persiangulfbonus.state.pa.us.
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3 de marzo de 2015
HARRISBURG, March 3, 2015 – State Sen. Judy Schwank issued the following statement today after listening to Gov. Tom Wolf present his first budget proposal to a joint session of the General Assembly:
“Gov. Wolf has presented an assertive and wide ranging budget that opens the door to many opportunities for the commonwealth. He has boldly addressed some issues that have been neglected for too long, and it is important to note that the budget is a starting point and we have a lot of work ahead to find consensus.
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“I intend to spend the ensuing days and weeks, especially in my role as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, to get into the details on this budget and determine how it impacts my constituents.
“I’m pleased that the governor has not wavered on his commitment to education – not just K-12 but also our community colleges, technical institutions and state universities. It’s encouraging as well that the burden of school property taxes on too many of our citizens is also front-and-center on the governor’s agenda.
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“I’m ready to get to work not only to learn the details but also talk with my constituents about their perspective on the budget,” Sen. Schwank said.
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