26 de septiembre de 2024
HARRISBURG, 26 de septiembre de 2024 - La senadora estatal Katie Muth (D-Chester/Montgomery/Berks), presidenta del Comité de Política Demócrata del Senado de Pensilvania, se unió a la senadora Amanda Cappelletti (D-Montgomery) y a la senadora Judy Schwank (D-Berks) para celebrar una audiencia pública sobre el acceso al voto por correo y en ausencia.
La audiencia, celebrada ayer en el Capitolio del Estado de Pensilvania, en Harrisburg, contó con dos paneles de debate que incluyeron las perspectivas de los funcionarios de los gobiernos locales y los grupos de defensa del derecho al voto, destacando las diferentes políticas y procedimientos electorales vigentes en toda la Commonwealth y cómo el gobierno estatal puede mejorar el proceso.
"La capacidad de emitir un voto es una de las piedras angulares de nuestra democracia y me sentí agradecido de contar con la participación bipartidista en nuestra audiencia de la Comisión de Política para destacar algunas de las formas en que podemos hacer que nuestras elecciones sean más accesibles, transparentes y eficientes", dijo Muth.
En mayo, la Cámara de Representantes aprobó el Proyecto de Ley de la Cámara 847 por un voto de línea de partido que requeriría que una Junta Electoral del Condado se reúna no antes de 7 días antes de una elección para pre-escrutinio todas las papeletas recibidas hasta ese momento. Según la ley actual, los condados sólo pueden comenzar el preescrutinio de papeletas a las 7 de la mañana del día de las elecciones. El proyecto de ley lleva más de cuatro meses estancado en la Comisión de Gobierno Estatal del Senado.
"La audiencia de ayer fue una poderosa discusión sobre cómo podemos trabajar juntos para eliminar las barreras tanto para los votantes como para los trabajadores electorales del condado durante el proceso de votación por correo y en ausencia en la Commonwealth", dijo el senador Cappelletti. "Mi prioridad sigue siendo ampliar el acceso a la papeleta, agilizar nuestros procesos electorales y apoyar a los condados y a los trabajadores electorales que dedican muchas horas diligentes a garantizar que tengamos un proceso electoral libre y justo aquí en la Commonwealth. Cada votante elegible de Pensilvania merece ser escuchado en esta y en todas las elecciones."
El testimonio en la audiencia también se centró en la ley actual de Pensilvania que descalifica las papeletas de voto por correo si tienen alguno de varios defectos, incluyendo una declaración de votante incompleta, falta de firma, fecha inexacta, o no utilizar el sobre secreto, o si se reciben después de las 8 p.m. el día de las elecciones. En las primarias de abril de 2024, se descalificaron casi 16.000 papeletas de votantes que, por lo demás, cumplían los requisitos.
"Queremos asegurarnos de que los votantes de Pensilvania entiendan que el voto por correo es una forma segura y cómoda de hacer oír su voz durante las elecciones. También es crucial que la legislatura se asocie con los gobiernos de los condados responsables de administrar nuestras elecciones para garantizar un proceso eficiente", añadió el senador Schwank. "La audiencia de ayer no sólo nos permitió disipar parte de la desinformación que rodea el voto por correo, sino que también nos proporcionó una mejor comprensión de cómo la legislatura puede ayudar a los administradores electorales."
Entre los participantes en la audiencia figuran Krista Kerr, Subdirectora de Servicios al Votante del condado de Chester; James Allen, Director de Elecciones del condado de Delaware; Lauren Cristella, Presidenta y Consejera Delegada de Committee of Seventy; Jeff Reber, Comisionado del condado de Union y Presidente del Comité de Reforma Electoral de la Asociación de Comisionados de Condados de Pensilvania; y Philip Hensley-Robin, Director Ejecutivo de Common Cause Pennsylvania.
"Esta audiencia fue un importante recordatorio de que nuestras elecciones son justas, libres, seguras y protegidas, y que los votos por correo son una gran manera para que los votantes hagan oír su voz", dijo el líder demócrata del Senado Jay Costa (D-Allegheny). "Espero que las conversaciones continuas sobre la ampliación de la libertad de voto animar a más Pennsylvanians a ser votantes en cada elección."
El sitio web oficial de información al votante de Pensilvania está accesible en www.vote.pa.gov. El sitio también incluye información sobre cómo registrarse para votar y cómo registrarse para votar por correo. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre cómo votar a nivel local, haga clic aquí para obtener una lista completa de todos los funcionarios electorales del condado.
La senadora estatal Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny) también participó virtualmente en la audiencia.
Para más información sobre esta audiencia política y para acceder a todos los testimonios presentados y a la grabación completa de la audiencia de hoy, visite www.SenatorMuth.com/policy.
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Testimonio
Panel 1: Funcionarios municipales
Mesa redonda 2: Soluciones políticas
11 de septiembre de 2024
Reading, PA - 11 de septiembre 2024 - La Comisión de Pensilvania sobre el Delito y la Delincuencia ha concedido hoy 2.263.680 dólares en subvenciones para la justicia penal y la prevención del delito a seis entidades del condado de Berks.
"Los premios de hoy reconocen los enormes servicios que estos beneficiarios de subvenciones están prestando a la gente del condado de Berks", dijo la senadora Judy Schwank (D-Berks). "Estoy agradecida al PCCD por hacer estas inversiones que apoyarán a las víctimas y les proporcionarán oportunidades para buscar los servicios y la asistencia que necesitan".
Los beneficiarios, las fuentes de financiación y los importes totales de los premios son los siguientes:
Programa Federal Byrne de Ayuda a la Justicia
Connections Work - 135.773 dólares para la coordinación de la coalición de reincorporación.
Programa federal STOP de subvenciones a la violencia contra las mujeres
SAFE Berks - 125.000 dólares para apoyar al equipo STOP del condado de Berks.
Programa del Fondo Federal para las Víctimas de Delitos
Comisionados del condado de Berks - 131.862 dólares para mejorar los servicios a las víctimas del condado de Berks.
CASA del condado de Berks - 45.183 dólares para apoyar la continuación de los servicios de defensa de las víctimas infantiles.
Community Justice Project - 42.928 dólares para servicios jurídicos de inmigración para las víctimas.
SAFE Berks - 1.136.592 dólares para apoyar a las víctimas de delitos.
MidPenn Legal Services - 646.342 dólares para el programa Legal Intervention for Victims Empowerment.
10 de septiembre de 2024
Reading - 9 de septiembre de 2024 - La senadora Judy Schwank (D-Berks) y el representante Mark Rozzi (D-Berks) han anunciado hoy una subvención de 7,8 millones de dólares para el Distrito Escolar de Antietam para reparaciones medioambientales.
La financiación procede del Programa de Reparaciones Medioambientales en Escuelas Públicas del Departamento de Educación de Pensilvania, establecido como parte del presupuesto estatal del año fiscal 2023-24. El nuevo programa de subvenciones proporciona ayuda para remediar los peligros medioambientales en los edificios escolares.
Schwank y Rozzi han trabajado juntos desde que las inundaciones afectaron a la Antietam Middle Senior High School el 9 de julio de 2023. Los legisladores involucraron a la oficina del gobernador y el Departamento de Educación para ayudar al distrito escolar después de la solicitud de Pennsylvania para una Declaración de Desastre Mayor de la Agencia Federal de Manejo de Emergencias fue denegada. Schwank y Rozzi también colaboraron con los líderes de la Cámara y el Senado para crear programas de financiación de subvenciones para ayudar al distrito escolar con las reparaciones de las instalaciones.
"Esta importante inversión se ha hecho esperar y contribuirá a que el distrito escolar de Antietam se recupere por completo a largo plazo", declaró Schwank. "Desde que las inundaciones devastaron nuestra zona el año pasado, hemos explorado todas las vías posibles para recuperar el distrito y proporcionar a los estudiantes las instalaciones educativas seguras que se merecen. Quiero expresar mi agradecimiento a toda la comunidad de Antietam por su paciencia mientras trabajábamos internamente para conseguir esta financiación."
"Las graves inundaciones que afectaron a la Antietam Middle Senior High School el año pasado supusieron un reto sin precedentes para toda la comunidad", declaró Rozzi. "Teníamos claro que el Estado debía participar en la búsqueda de una solución, y esta inversión histórica es un paso importante en ese proceso. Este anuncio de financiación es la culminación de meses de duro trabajo."
Además del Programa de Reparaciones Ambientales de Escuelas Públicas, el presupuesto estatal del año fiscal 2023-24 también creó el Programa de Subvenciones para la Mejora de Instalaciones de Escuelas Públicas, administrado por el Departamento de Desarrollo Comunitario y Económico de Pensilvania. Esta es una oportunidad para que Antietam obtenga más financiación, y el distrito ha presentado dos solicitudes.
Se espera que en los próximos meses se anuncie la financiación del Programa de Subvenciones para la Mejora de las Instalaciones de las Escuelas Públicas. Schwank y Rozzi han respaldado la solicitud de Antietam y han solicitado al DCED que renuncie a la aportación de fondos asociada a la subvención en virtud de una cláusula de emergencia estipulada en las directrices de la subvención.
27 de agosto de 2024
READING, Pa. - 27 de agosto 2024 - El Departamento de Educación de Pennsylvania anunció hoy $ 6,5 millones en fondos para mejoras en el edificio de la Unión de Estudiantes en Reading Area Community College.
La financiación se produce junto con aumentos sustanciales en las inversiones en educación superior en el presupuesto de Pensilvania para 2024-25. Esto incluye un aumento de 35,1 millones de dólares para las universidades del Sistema Estatal de Pensilvania, un aumento de 15,7 millones de dólares para los colegios comunitarios, y un adicional de 143 millones de dólares a PHEAA para hacer la universidad más asequible para los estudiantes de Pensilvania.
El presupuesto también establece una nueva Junta Estatal de Educación Superior, según lo propuesto por el gobernador Josh Shapiro en una visita a RACC a principios de este año, en un esfuerzo por revisar la educación superior en la mancomunidad y aumentar la coordinación entre los colegios comunitarios y las escuelas PASSHE. La senadora Judy Schwank, que forma parte de la junta de gobernadores de PASSHE, dijo que esta inversión en RACC demuestra la capacidad del gobernador y de la legislatura estatal para trabajar juntos para mejorar la educación superior.
"Nadie puede cuestionar nuestro compromiso de garantizar que la enseñanza superior pública satisfaga las necesidades inmediatas y a largo plazo de los estudiantes de Pensilvania", dijo Schwank. "RACC es una fuente de orgullo para nuestra comunidad debido a su capacidad para proporcionar excelentes oportunidades educativas a Berks Countians a un precio asequible. El RACC es digno del apoyo del Estado, y no puedo agradecer lo suficiente a la administración Shapiro por reconocer el valor que esta institución aporta a nuestra zona con esta inversión."
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23 de agosto de 2024
Upper Merion, PA - 23 de agosto de 2024 - La senadora Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-17) dirigió una mesa redonda centrada en la intersección entre la salud de la mujer y el presupuesto del estado de Pensilvania. El evento reunió a las principales partes interesadas, incluidos los legisladores estatales, proveedores de atención médica y líderes de la comunidad, para abordar las implicaciones de las recientes decisiones presupuestarias sobre las mujeres y las niñas en toda la Commonwealth.
La mesa redonda destacó el compromiso continuo del estado con los servicios para la mujer a través de las recién introducidas Subvenciones para Servicios a la Mujer, que están diseñadas para garantizar que las mujeres, especialmente las embarazadas y las madres recientes, reciban un apoyo integral. "Debemos dar prioridad a la salud de la mujer como derecho fundamental, abordando los problemas críticos con compasión y urgencia", declaró la senadora Cappelletti. "Toda mujer merece acceso a una atención integral, apoyo y la libertad de tomar decisiones informadas sobre su cuerpo y su salud".
El Programa de Servicios a la Mujer, respaldado por las nuevas subvenciones, pretende colmar lagunas en la atención sanitaria proporcionando acceso a cuidados prenatales, apoyo posparto, detección precoz de problemas de salud, educación parental y educación sobre salud menstrual y reproductiva. Además, el programa atiende las necesidades de los grupos marginados, ofreciéndoles una atención culturalmente informada, independientemente de su origen, identidad o ingresos.
Uno de los principales logros presupuestarios destacados en el acto fue la asignación de 3 millones de dólares para proporcionar productos para el periodo menstrual en las escuelas públicas de Pensilvania. "Estamos muy contentos de haber aprobado esta ley que garantizará que las escuelas dispongan de productos gratuitos para el periodo menstrual. Ningún estudiante debe perder un día de aprendizaje debido a la falta de necesidades básicas", señaló la senadora Judy Schwank.
Las ponentes compartieron sus experiencias sobre el terreno, destacando los retos actuales y la importancia de seguir prestando atención a la salud de la mujer. Fran Held, de Mitzvah Circle, señaló la cruda realidad a la que se enfrentan muchos miembros de la comunidad: "Nuestros datos indican que más del 70% de las menstruadoras a las que atendemos faltan a la escuela o al trabajo porque no pueden permitirse compresas o tampones. Son las mismas personas que no pueden permitirse pañales. Sabemos que existe la necesidad, pero no tenemos dinero".
Samia Bristow, Vicepresidenta de Programas de Maternity Care Coalition, también subrayó el impacto más amplio de estas iniciativas, señalando: "En última instancia, las cosas que ponemos en marcha afectan a los cuerpos humanos, así que es importante que las cosas que pongamos en marcha representen las necesidades de nuestra gente humana".
A pesar de los avances, se reconoce el trabajo que queda por hacer. "¿Estamos avanzando? Pequeños pasos. Hay mucho más que tenemos que hacer y que podemos hacer", dijo Shelly Buck, Presidenta del Hospital Riddle, Mainline Health.
La mesa redonda concluyó con un llamamiento colectivo a la acción para seguir defendiendo y apoyando la salud de la mujer en toda Pensilvania. Como concluyó la representante Mary Jo Daley: "Todas las etapas por las que pasan las mujeres son muy importantes".
19 de agosto de 2024
Reading, Pensilvania, 19 de agosto de 2024. Hoy, PennDOT anunció $ 1,525,000 en el Fondo de Transporte Multimodal de financiación de subvenciones para CG Broadcasting LLC para apoyar un importante proyecto de reurbanización en Spring Township.
La financiación apoyará una serie de infraestructuras de transporte y mejoras de tráfico en la intersección de la Ruta 222, Broadcasting Road, North Meridian Boulevard y Paper Mill Road en Spring Township, ayudando a la construcción de un desarrollo de uso mixto en la zona. Las mejoras incluyen la adición de nuevos carriles de circulación, la modificación de los carriles de giro existentes, la instalación de nuevas señales de stop, la nueva señalización de las calzadas actuales y el establecimiento de una vía de acceso a la obra.
La senadora estatal Judy Schwank (D-Berks), que respaldó la solicitud de financiación de CG Broadcasting LLC, aplaudió la concesión y dijo que es una señal de la trayectoria positiva del condado de Berks.
"Se trata de un proyecto apasionante para el condado de Berks, que insuflará nueva vida a una zona que desde hace tiempo está siendo objeto de reurbanización", declaró Schwank. "Los promotores inmobiliarios están reconociendo el potencial del condado de Berks, y las inversiones clave realizadas por la Commonwealth están ayudando a impulsar estos importantes proyectos. Estoy orgulloso de apoyar esta iniciativa y agradecido de que PennDOT haya reconocido los méritos de esta propuesta."
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."
July 12, 2024
Reading — July 12, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) touted the budget passed by the General Assembly for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, which includes an employer child care contribution tax credit and key investments in economic development programs.
Senate Bill 654, the tax code, includes an employer child care contribution tax credit based on language in Schwank’s Senate Bill 252. For taxable years beginning after Dec. 31, 2024, employers can claim a tax credit for contributions made toward an employee’s child care expenses.
“This tax credit acknowledges that both parents and employers have a vested interest in making child care more affordable and accessible in Pennsylvania,” said Schwank, who co-chairs the Early Childhood Education Caucus. “The bipartisan support of this proposal is what allowed it to be included in the tax code, as we’ve really built consensus around the need for quality child care.”
The tax code also includes increases to economic development tools that will boost redevelopment efforts in Reading and Berks County. This includes an increase to the cap on Historic Preservation Incentive Tax Credits from $5 million to $20 million and increases the cap on Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credits from $36 million to $72 million.
The budget’s general appropriations bill includes $20 million for the new Main Street Matters program, an initiative built off the legacy of the Keystone Communities program that provides resources to revitalize neighborhoods, and $500 million for PA SITES, a new grant program to help develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within the commonwealth.
“Gov. Shapiro has made competitiveness and investing in main streets across Pennsylvania a hallmark of his economic vision, and he’s delivered in this budget with PA SITES and Main Street Matters,” said Schwank. “In a city like Reading, with an abundance of beautiful, historic buildings, a program like the Historic Preservation Incentive Tax Credit can really be put to good use. The Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credits is a tool that has been very popular in Berks County, so across the board, I think there’s a lot we can be excited about.”
Additionally, the tax code makes changes to the City Revitalization Improvement Zone (CRIZ) program, opening the door for applications to be received for the first time since 2015. The City of Reading has expressed interest in securing a CRIZ. In anticipation of an opportunity to apply for a CRIZ, a CRIZ working group was established in November 2023 and has begun preparations.
“We have a tremendous opportunity to put together a strong application to secure a CRIZ that will help Reading reach its full economic potential,” Schwank said. “Thankfully, our working group has been laying the groundwork for an application, so we are prepared and have a plan.”
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July 8, 2024
Reading — July 8, 2024 — Today, Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced $250,000 in grant funding from the Department of Community and Economic Development for a mobile shower unit for the Berks Coalition to End Homelessness.
BCEH is the nonprofit responsible for c, which coordinates community efforts to address homelessness by developing housing and service systems. BCEH has helped tackle homelessness with its security deposit assistance program, coordinated entry initiative, and safe parking lot initiative for individuals living in their vehicles.
Mobile shower units are a best practice service that can be placed at various access points on a rotating schedule. The grant funding will cover the cost of a three-stall shower unit, a truck to pull the mobile shower unit and store supplies, the construction of a garage to store the truck and shower unit, and start-up supplies, including propane and towels.
Trinity Lutheran Church has joined this project as a collaborator by establishing a 501(c)(3) named REFRESH! BERKS to operate and provide a sustainability budget for the mobile shower, ensuring homeless individuals have a way to shower safely.
“Providing access to basic hygiene for homeless individuals with this mobile shower unit is a vital and forward-thinking step,” said Schwank. “This model has been successful in other areas of the country, and I know this service will help people in our community feel confident as they work towards a brighter future. I’m proud to secure this funding for Reading and Berks County and believe this investment will make a positive impact in the lives of many.”
“Berks Coalition to End Homelessness is incredibly grateful for the generous grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Sen. Judy Schwank, enabling us to launch Berks County’s first mobile shower service in collaboration and partnership with Trinity Lutheran Church and West Lawn United Methodist Church,” said BCEH Executive Director Jack Williams. “We believe that this service is more than just a necessity; it’s a symbol of dignity, respect, and a fresh start. Through REFRESH! BERKS, we hope to instill a renewed sense of hope and purpose in the lives of those we serve. We cannot wait to bring this much-needed service to Berks County.”
When the process of purchasing the equipment is complete and staff is hired and trained, the unit will be just the second mobile shower unit operating in Pennsylvania. The unit is expected to be ready for use in early 2025.
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June 27, 2024
Harrisburg — June 27, 2024 — The co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus Sen. Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-Montgomery), Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), Rep. Gina H. Curry (D-Delaware) and Rep. Mary Jo Daley (D-Montgomery) issued the following statement in response to today’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Moyle v. United States regarding the legality of abortion in emergency healthcare under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA).
“Today, the Supreme Court dismissed a case, without ruling on the merits, that would have ended the decades old federal law, EMTALA, which allows patients to access abortion care as a form of stabilizing treatment during a medical emergency. States with abortion bans are barred from enforcing those laws to the extent they conflict with EMTALA. This means that while patients will still have to be near-death to receive the abortion care they need and deserve in states with abortion bans, they will be able to receive necessary and stabilizing treatment.
EMTALA was enacted nearly 40 years ago as a way to ensure that pregnant women and individuals with HIV/AIDS experiencing medical emergencies would no longer be turned away at hospital emergency rooms. Because it is federal law, the Biden Administration argues that it supersedes abortion bans in states like Idaho, where the case originated. Today, we breathe a collective sigh of relief that the Supreme Court agrees for the time being. But let’s be clear: while we avoided the catastrophic consequences of allowing states to ignore EMTALA, this dismissal isn’t enough.
Abortion bans still remain in place for 1 in 3 women of reproductive age in the United States. Allowing emergency abortion care to remain legal is the absolute bare minimum — it is not enough to merely allow abortion only when a patient is near-death. Women and pregnant people deserve to make choices about their bodies long before and regardless of if their lives are at stake.
Abortion remains safe and legal here in Pennsylvania, but the fight for expanded abortion access continues. The PA Women’s Health Caucus remains committed to fighting for abortion rights, and preserving and expanding access to reproductive healthcare in our Commonwealth, no matter what. Once again, we stand together in affirming that here in Pennsylvania, we believe that abortion is healthcare and healthcare is a human right.”
June 26, 2024
Reading, PA — June 26, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) recently announced her intent to introduce legislation that would designate a City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) for the City of Reading and implement programmatic changes.
The CRIZ program was created by Act 52 of 2013. A CRIZ is an area of up to 130 acres designated by a contracting authority to boost economic development and create jobs within a political subdivision. Taxes collected from the state and local levels within the CRIZ are allocated to repay debt service and support economic development projects in the area.
The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development may approve two CRIZ applications each calendar year, but the department has not approved a CRIZ since 2015. Schwank believes Reading is the perfect contender for a CRIZ and that the programmatic changes she’s proposing will improve the program. These changes include expanding CRIZ eligibility, allowing more local flexibility in determining CRIZ projects, and requiring annual performance reporting for active CRIZ zones.
“A CRIZ is a powerful tool that would help us unlock Reading’s full potential,” Schwank said. “We have so many redevelopment projects underway and a lot of excitement around the potential return of passenger rail that would be greatly aided by a CRIZ. It would also help attract new developers to the area.”
Schwank acknowledged that there are several steps before Reading can secure a CRIZ. However, she emphasized her commitment to collaborating with Reading’s statehouse delegation, city officials, and the Shapiro administration to make this a reality.
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24 de junio de 2024
Harrisburg, PA – June 24, 2024 – Members of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus (WHC) were joined by Planned Parenthood, Department of Human Services Secretary Val Arkoosh, and advocates in Harrisburg today, on the second-year mark of the Dobbs Decision that overturned Roe v. Wade. Speakers were all agreed on the main message: while abortion is safe and legal in Pennsylvania, it’s not necessarily accessible.
Compared to other states where abortion is legal, abortion policies in Pennsylvania are considered to be on the more restrictive side. Policies surrounding abortion in Pennsylvania currently in effect include:
- Abortion is banned at 24 weeks and later.
- Patients are forced to wait 24 hours after counseling to obtain an abortion.
- State Medicaid coverage of abortion is banned except in very limited circumstances.
- Private health insurance of abortion is banned except in very limited circumstances.
- Unnecessary regulations are in force and designed to shutter abortion clinics without basis in medical standards.
Representative Kristine Howard, (D-167), Prime Sponsor of House Bill 2304: Reproductive Freedom Act, at today’s press conference said, “20-year-old me was confident that we would always have these rights. 50-year-old me was still confident we would always have these rights,” referring to the abortion rights that were enshrined in the Roe v. Wade decision that was overturned by Dobbs. She went on to detail the need for House Bill 2304, which repeals a great bulk of the Abortion Control Act, the law which places many of the restrictions listed above on abortion care, and replaces it with a new legal framework aimed at treating abortion as health care, with an emphasis on protecting patients’ independence and privacy.
Secretary Val Arkoosh, Department of Human Services, shared “Reproductive care is healthcare. And the Shapiro Administration will always fight for women to have the freedom to make informed, safe decisions for their health, their bodies, and their lives.”
The Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus is chaired by Senator Judy Schwank (D-11), Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-17), Representative Mary Jo Daley, (D-148), and Representative Gina Curry (D-164). The WHC is a bicameral caucus of legislators partnering with advocacy groups to advance legislation and policies that promote equity and protect the health and wellbeing of women, gender expansive people, and families in Pennsylvania. As a caucus, we recognize the intersectionality of social issues that support physical and mental health. The WHC is committed to closing existing disparities and removing barriers Pennsylvanians of all backgrounds face when seeking healthcare and systems of support. Integral to their mission is the belief that all Pennsylvanians have the right to make private, personal medical decisions.
“Safe and legal abortion care is healthcare, and we are proud to continue to keep that as a right here in Pennsylvania,” said Representative Curry. “Sadly, the Dobbs decision shows that these rights are not a guarantee in the United States. We stand united with the women of the Commonwealth in maintaining and defending the right to let women decide how they wish to take care of themselves.”
Senator Schwank and Senator Cappelletti are the co-Prime Sponsors of the Senate Companion to the Reproductive Freedom Act. Senator Cappelletti said, “Yes – this is about abortion access – but abortion access impacts so much more than you might think. And while access to abortion is safe and legal here in Pennsylvania, it isn’t necessarily accessible. And we can do a lot more here in this Commonwealth to protect and expand reproductive rights.” Additional pieces of legislation that Senators Schwank and Cappelletti have introduced around reproductive rights include the Abortion Protections Package and Setting Standards for Family Planning Services.
“In just two short years – 21 states have eliminated or severely restricted access to abortion,” said Senator Schwank. “This is a crisis. It’s a crisis in this nation. And while we fight for the people of Pennsylvania, we’re concerned about every woman, every family in the United States.”
“As a co-chair of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus, I stand committed to defending and advancing the rights and health of women,” said Representative Daley. “Two years ago today, the Dobbs Decision removed the federal protection of the right to an abortion. This decision means that women must fight to regain the full right to make decisions about their own bodies. In the federal landscape – we are witnessing alarming developments.”
Caroline Jones, a Planned Parenthood Storyteller who shared her own abortion story, outlined the stigma and societal judgment she felt at her abortion appointment, detailing, “Abortion seekers come from such varying backgrounds, but more often than not, it seems we seek out this option as a result of capitalistic and patriarchal dominance.” She also shared, “No matter how long this stigma exists, this saying will always be true, ‘Everybody loves somebody, and or knows somebody, who has had an abortion or may need an abortion.’”
“Today we are standing here, never forgetting that on this day, a body of unelected judges made the decision that took away the reproductive freedoms of so many across this country.” said Representative Morgan Cephas, (D-192), a chair of the Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus.
According to the Guttmacher Institute, “Within 30 days of the Dobbs decision, 43 clinics in 11 states had stopped providing abortion care. By 100 days after the decision, this had increased to 66 clinics in 15 states; no abortion-providing facilities operated in the 14 states enforcing total abortion bans.”
“The government should not be involved in your personal healthcare,” said Speaker Joanna McClinton, (D-191). “The government has no place making those decisions – that includes the Supreme Court and includes the state legislature.” She added, “In the Pennsylvania House, it’s been our one seat majority that has kept our Commonwealth away from an abortion ban.
Signe Espinoza, Executive Director of Planned Parenthood PA Advocates, affirmed, “People are always going to need abortions.”
Find the recording of today’s press conference here. Follow the PA Women’s Health Caucus on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to keep up with the latest out of the Caucus.
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June 11, 2024
Reading, PA — June 11, 2024 — A bill sponsored by Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Cepeda-Freytiz (D-Berks) to create a permanent advisory board for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) was signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro on June 10, becoming Act No. 22 of 2024.
SB 721 received unanimous support in the Senate and passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 119-83. It seeks to address declining enrollment and optimize WIC, which is fully funded at the federal level. Schwank said the bill came out of discussions with health care officials and xWIC providers in Berks County.
“It became clear to me that WIC was a resource that people in our community weren’t aware of and weren’t taking full advantage of,” said Schwank. “What this board allows us to do is market it better and constantly evolve to meet the needs of all Pennsylvanians. Ensuring that infants and children get a healthy start in life is one of the most impactful things we can do as state legislators, so I’m very proud we were able to work together to enshrine this board into law.”
Cepeda-Freytiz, who sponsored a companion bill in the House of Representatives, said she believes the advisory board will make a positive impact on Berks County residents.
“There is a tremendous need for nutrition and health services in Reading and Berks County,” said Cepeda-Freytiz. “Despite these needs, enrollment has dropped, placing continued federal funding at risk. This decline highlights why it’s important to update our approach. By passing SB 721 and establishing a WIC Advisory Board, we can optimize the program and better support our most vulnerable families.”
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June 3, 2024
HARRISBURG – June 3, 2024 – Today, the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee unanimously passed Sens. Elder Vogel Jr.’s (R-47) and Judy Schwank’s (D-11) Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) Program Financial Assistance legislation.
Senate Bill 1229 would permit the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to provide financial assistance to producers who enroll in the federal dairy margin coverage program, based on availability of funding, and requires the department to develop and establish guidelines and eligibility criteria for the financial assistance.
“With June being national dairy month, there’s no better time to show support for our dairy farmers than by passing our Dairy Margin Coverage Program legislation,” said Vogel, majority chair of the committee. “In an industry full of uncertainty, it’s important to provide our dairymen and women with the security and stability they deserve when prices drop. Farmers are no stranger to managing risk and Senate Bill 1229 will provide them with valuable options to protect themselves and their operations.”
“Senate Bill 1229 is a key component of the long-term sustainability of our dairy industry and provides an incentive for farmers to join the federal Dairy Margin Coverage Program,” said Schwank, minority chair of the committee. “Dairy is a major contributor to our commonwealth’s robust agriculture sector, and this bill demonstrates our commitment to protecting the livelihoods of dairy farmers.”
The federal DMC program, authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill, is a voluntary program that provides dairy operations with risk management coverage that will pay producers when the difference (the margin) between the national price of milk and the average cost of feed falls below a certain level selected by the program participants. Senate Bill 1229 now awaits the consideration of the full Senate.
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May 22, 2024
Harrisburg — May 22, 2024 — Yesterday, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives approved SB 721, which establishes a permanent advisory board for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
WIC offers federal funding to states to provide supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, as well as to infants and children under the age of five who are identified as being at nutritional risk.
In response to declining enrollment and input from providers, state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and state Sen. Michele Brooks (R-Mercer) introduced the bill to create the Women, Infants, and Children State Advisory Board (WICSAB). The board will review the impact of the WIC program and recommend improvements to ensure as many Pennsylvanians as possible have access to the health services provided by WIC.
A companion to SB 721 was introduced in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives by Rep. Donna Bullock (D-Philadelphia) and Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D-Berks). The lawmakers applauded the passage of the bill and highlighted the impact it will have on the health and well-being of countless Pennsylvanians.
Schwank highlighted the importance of this bi-partisan legislation and thanked Brooks for partnering with her on the bill.
“Ensuring that infants and children get a healthy start in life is one of the most impactful things we can do as state legislators,” said Schwank. “I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact WIC makes in the lives of my constituents. The advisory board will make sure we are evolving to meet the needs of Pennsylvanians and prevent further participation declines in the commonwealth.”
“This legislation will help to ensure that we’re taking full advantage of the federal funding we receive for WIC in the commonwealth,” said Bullock. “As things stand, we are failing to maximize the benefits that WIC can provide for our single parents and struggling families. By establishing this board and modernizing and updating the process from top to bottom, we can get families who need assistance the support they need.”
“We must work together to improve the WIC program in Pennsylvania to better support our most vulnerable families,” said Cepeda-Freytiz. “Enrollment has steadily decreased over the past four years because our system is outdated and fails to serve those in need. Families struggle with a cumbersome process that requires up to seven forms of documentation for eligibility. The passing of SB 721 will start to address these issues by establishing a WIC Advisory Board and streamlining the application process to better support women and children.”
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May 7, 2024
Harrisburg, PA − May 7, 2024 – Pennsylvania Senators, state Representatives, and others gathered for a press event to support and advocate for Governor Shapiro’s proposal to fund period products in public schools through this year’s budget. Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. students cannot afford period products, threatening their ability to receive the education they deserve. Lawmakers and other Pennsylvania leaders and advocates joined in support of the proposal and highlighted why the legislature needs to include this proposal in the final budget.
In his second budget address as Governor, Governor Josh Shapiro took the time to propose a $3 million investment into public schools to provide period products at no cost to students. A big supporter of this proposal has been Pennsylvania’s First Lady, who stood in support at the press conference.
“Today, I was proud to stand with leaders from across our Commonwealth to bring attention to critical issues facing young women and girls in Pennsylvania,” said First Lady Lori Shapiro. “I’ve spent time listening to young women and girls in Pennsylvania who have been forced to miss school or other opportunities due to not having the menstrual products they need. We need to support and empower those girls — and that’s why Josh included $3 million in this year’s budget proposal to provide pads and tampons in schools at no cost to our students.”
“This $3 million investment – a fraction of a percentage of our total budget – is all it will take to provide period products in public school restrooms and make sure students can remain safe, healthy, and focused in class. I’m grateful to have a Governor who knows ‘period’ is not a bad word, and a First Lady who has brought menstrual equity to the forefront in Pennsylvania,” said Senator Maria Collett (D-12). “Together, we can get this program across the finish line and continue to advocate for the 2 in 5 menstruators who struggle to afford period products.”
As of April 18, 2024, 27 states and Washington D.C. have passed legislation to help students who menstruate have free access to period products while in school. Pennsylvania could be the next state to solve this problem for students.
“Every Pennsylvanian deserves access to the hygiene products they need to live healthy, rewarding lives. Governor Shapiro’s proposal to provide period products free to every public school in Pennsylvania is uncontroversial and will have a significant impact on the lives of many of our students,” said Senator Judy Schwank (D-11). “We have garnered strong support for this proposal from a diverse coalition, and I’m confident we will secure this crucial investment in this year’s budget.”
Funding period products in schools is just the beginning when it comes to tackling menstrual equity in Pennsylvania. Senators Cappelletti and Collett have introduced Senate Bill 906, known as The Pennsylvania Menstrual Equity Act, a bill that will require Pennsylvania’s public agencies serving those who are young, low-income, homeless, or incarcerated to make these products available at no cost.
“As children and adolescences, it can be extraordinarily difficult to ask for help in meeting our needs – especially ones as stigmatized as menstrual hygiene. So, imagine the added challenge that many students face when their parents can’t afford the period products they need. Or if a student has a difficult relationship with their parent or guardian and doesn’t feel comfortable or safe when asking for the products they need,” said Senator Amanda Cappelletti (D-17). “We have the power to eliminate these challenges for our students here in Pennsylvania and ease the stress that threatens their ability to get their education to the fullest extent.”
Leaders and representatives of the Shapiro Administration were in attendance, including many state agency leaders. Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Valerie Arkoosh, Pennsylvania Department of Health Dr. And Department of Education Executive Deputy Secretary Angela Fitterer all attended and shared their support. “Thank you to First Lady Shapiro and thank you Governor Shapiro for having the courage to put these dollars into your budget,” said Secretary Arkoosh. “Here we are talking about this with the potential opportunity in the budget to correct something that’s been in need of correction, frankly, for many decades.”
Many speakers detailed the lengths at which students who do not have access to the products they need must go to when they have their periods, whether it be using socks, t-shirts, or other unsanitary materials. Dr. Bogen, Acting Secretary of Pennsylvania’s Department of Health, mentioned using these unsanitary solutions puts people at risk of contracting a host of health issues that could affect a student’s health right away or in the future.
In today’s meeting of the House Education Committee, the committee passed House Bill 850, which would require our Department of Human Services to apply to the federal government if a waiver is made available to states to allow those receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to use the two programs for menstrual hygiene products. Currently, these programs do not allow for the purchase of menstrual hygiene products, despite being a necessity. A related bill, House Bill 851, would create a grant program to provide eligible public-school entities with funding to acquire and distribute menstrual hygiene products at no expense to students. That bill has yet to move in committee.
Representative Darisha Parker (D-198), the prime sponsor on House Bill 851, spoke at the news conference, sharing, “When you talk about this lane of work, it is hard. It is very embarrassing that a woman like me, today, will be walking with a box of tampons to tell the Senate to pass House Bill 851.”
Find the recording of the press conference here.
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May 7, 2024
Reading — May 7, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank’s office concluded its district-wide Property Tax and Rent Rebate Tour on April 24 with a visit to the B’nai B’rith Apartments in Reading. In total, the tour included 11 stops and processed over 400 applications.
Last year, the Pennsylvania General Assembly approved a historic expansion of the Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program. With this expansion, the maximum standard rebate increased from $650 to $1,000 and the income limit for renters and homeowners increased to $45,000.
The program’s expansion made an estimated 170,000 more Pennsylvanians eligible. To ensure that her newly eligible constituents could access the program, Schwank organized a tour of her district.
Stops included the Oakshire Apartments, Mifflin Community Library, Exeter Community Library, the Muhlenberg Township Building, Penn’s Common Court Apartments, the Spring Township Building, Wyomissing Public Library, Penn’s Crossing, The Manor at Market Square, Fleetwood Borough Hall and the B’nai B’rith Apartments.
“We made a concerted effort this year to engage with the community and provide our constituents with easy access to applications and assistance in processing them,” Schwank said. “Thankfully, we have a lot of folks who are applying for the first time this year because they are newly qualified. This is a great program, and it’s important to me that all my constituents that are eligible can take advantage.”
Schwank added that although the tour has concluded, her office can still fill out applications at her Muhlenberg Township office, located at 210 George Street, Reading, PA 19605. To schedule an appointment, please call Sen. Schwank’s office at (610) 929-2151.
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April 1, 2024
Harrisburg — April 1, 2024 — Today, co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Jewish Legislative Caucus, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny), issued the following statement condemning the antisemitic vandalism of Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El in Wynnewood.
“For the second time in the span of one week, Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El was vandalized by individuals who wish to spread antisemitism and hatred. No community in Pennsylvania or throughout the world deserves to be persecuted and attacked for their religious beliefs. Vandalizing a synagogue with a swastika, a symbol with a direct connection to the Holocaust, is disgusting, abhorrent and has no place in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
The Jewish Legislative extends its fervent support to the Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El congregation and thanks Gov. Josh Shapiro for his swift and decisive condemnations of both vandalism incidents. Our caucus remains committed to fighting antisemitism wherever it manifests in Pennsylvania.”
More information about the Pennsylvania Jewish Legislative Caucus can be found at pahouse.com/JLC.
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March 28, 2024
Reading, PA − March 28, 2024 − The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency has approved $2,155,665 in Violence Prevention and Intervention grants for four applicants in Berks County.
VIP grant funding provides technical assistance to address community violence throughout the Commonwealth, with a focus on preventing and intervening in gun and group-related violence. Eligible applicants include community-based or nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, institutions of higher education, municipalities, counties, and district attorney’s offices.
The award recipients in Berks County are as follows:
Berks County Adult Probation and Parole Department — $950,000 allocated to support the implementation of cognitive behavioral programming and evidence-based practices targeted toward individuals currently under supervision who were convicted of a firearm-related offense.
Centro Hispano Daniel Torres, Inc. — $792,517 designated for utilizing evidence-based approaches to enhance positive parenting practices, expand positive youth development programming, provide wraparound services, and generally provide more support to Latino youth and their families. This includes partnering with other agencies to provide a variety of programming.
The Camel Project — $273,829 granted for a 36-month program to provide training sessions to educate and empower students, educators, parents/families, and community leaders about the dynamics and impacts of bullying.
CASA of Berks County — $139,319 provided to support the implementation of the Youth in Transition Counseling Program.
Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D-Berks) applauded the funding for Berks County and praised the recipients for putting together strong applications.
“I’m proud to see the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania supporting groups in Berks County that are working hard to address violence in our community,” Schwank said. “This is an impressive group of award recipients, and I’m very grateful for all that they are doing to better the lives of others.”
“These are vital investments in the safety and well-being of all Berks Countians,” Cepeda-Freytiz said. “It’s very encouraging to see our community receive the support it deserves, and I commend the dedication of the grant recipients for their commitment to addressing violence in our area.”
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March 26, 2024
Reading — March 26, 2024 — Today, Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced $2,806,766 in Multimodal Transportation Fund and Local Share Account-Category 4 Facilities Program grant funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority for the 11th Senatorial District.
MTF grants provide financial assistance to municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agencies, and rail and freight ports to improve public transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit revitalization.
“These awards represent significant investments in Berks County’s infrastructure, ensuring safer, more accessible transportation options for both pedestrians and motorists alike,” said Schwank. “Prioritizing projects ranging from intersection construction to road reconstruction and sidewalk installations helps us develop vibrant, interconnected communities.”
The following MTF projects received a total of $2,181,221 in funding:
CG Broadcast, LLC – $667,249 to construct two intersections to develop a planned mixed-use community in Spring Township.
Mount Penn Borough – $653,716 for road reconstruction along Endlich Avenue.
Maxatawny Township – $457,935 to install sidewalks and related roadway improvements along Kutztown Road.
West Reading Borough – $253,851 for pedestrian safety and accessibility improvements along Ann Street, including curbing, sidewalks, and handicap ramp accesses.
ReFined Plastics, LLC – $148,470 in assistance to repair the bridge that carries Poplar Neck Road over railroad tracks in Cumru Township.
Additionally, the CFA approved $625,545 in LSA-Category 4 Program grant funding for projects within the 11th Senatorial District. Projects in counties with Category 4 licensed gaming facilities are eligible for this stream of funding (Berks, Westmoreland and York Counties).
The following LSA-Category 4 Program projects received funding:
St. Lawrence Borough – $222,093 for the purchase of a new Bobcat skid steer loader, Pavijet mini paver, and a Caterpillar asphalt compactor.
St. Lawrence Borough – $104,607 for the purchase of a multipurpose vehicle to assist with road plowing and salting, increased dump capacity for waste removal and road maintenance, and reliable transportation through rough conditions such as flooding and ice.
Berks County Redevelopment Authority – $104,607 to purchase a rail car mover for the facility at Titus Station on behalf of Recycle the World, Inc.
Sinking Spring Borough – $88,583 for pedestrian safety improvements at the intersection of Penn Avenue and South Hull Street.
Wyomissing Borough – $53,352 on behalf of the Wyomissing Fire Department for the purchase of a new ladder truck aerial apparatus.
Spring Township – $52,303 for improvements to the Spring Township Police Building.
March 15, 2024
Reading − March 15, 2024 − Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Education announced $39 million in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act grant funding for 36 school districts, including $1,833,360 for the Reading School District.
The federal Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022 provides funding to establish safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments in public elementary and secondary schools. PDE administers the program. Eligible uses for this funding include promoting the social, emotional, physical, and mental well-being of students and staff, addressing family and community engagement, and promoting equitable and inclusive practices.
Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) welcomed the funding and said she believes this year’s state budget should build on these investments and drive mental health and safety resources to all Pennsylvania schools that need assistance.
“I’m grateful to see the Reading School District receive this vital assistance,” Schwank said. ” This investment reinforces our continued recognition that mental health is just as important as physical health, especially given the mental health struggles countless students across Pennsylvania are dealing with.”
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19 de febrero de 2024
Lectura - 19 de febrero 2024 - Funcionarios del Distrito Escolar de Antietam, Mt. Penn Borough y Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) y Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-Berks) emitieron la siguiente declaración después de la reunión de mediación de esta mañana en relación con el estudio de tráfico requerido antes de las renovaciones pueden tener lugar en el Mt. Penn Primary Center.
"A través de extensas discusiones y una comunicación abierta, hemos sido capaces de llegar a un acuerdo que permitirá al Distrito Escolar de Antietam comenzar la construcción por fases en el Centro Primario de Mt. Penn y satisfacer los requisitos del municipio de Mt. Penn bajo la decisión de la Junta de Audiencia de Zonificación y el Código de Construcción Uniforme de todo el estado. Estos requisitos no se basan en la solicitud de excepción especial del distrito para una escuela secundaria, sino que pueden utilizarse para cualquier configuración del edificio.
Todos estamos comprometidos a trabajar en colaboración para superar los desafíos que enfrenta nuestra comunidad. Ahora que nos hemos sentado, confiamos en que nuestros estudiantes dispondrán de un entorno de aprendizaje seguro y presencial para el curso escolar 2024-2025 y siguientes. Antietam School District y Mt. Penn Borough desean enfatizar que ambas entidades han actuado de buena fe a lo largo de este proceso y se complacen de haber podido llegar a un acuerdo en este asunto."
Asistieron a la reunión Heidi Rochlin, Superintendente del Distrito Escolar de Antietam, A. Michael Roberts, Presidente del Consejo Escolar de Antietam, Kyla Ramsey, Vicepresidenta del Consejo Escolar de Antietam, Troy Goodman, Presidente del Consejo del Municipio de Mt. Penn, Michael Kindlick, Miembro del Consejo del Municipio de Mt. Penn, Hunter L. Ahrens, Gerente del Municipio de Mt. Penn, la Senadora Judy Schwank y el Representante Mark Rozzi.
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15 de febrero de 2024
WILKINSBURG, 15 de febrero de 2024 - La senadora estatal Katie Muth (D-Chester/Montgomery/Berks), presidenta del Comité de Política Demócrata del Senado de Pensilvania, se unió hoy al líder demócrata del Senado Jay Costa (D-Allegheny), al senador Nikil Saval (D-Filadelfia), a la senadora Judy Schwank (D-Berks), y a varios miembros del Comité de Política Demócrata de la Cámara de Representantes para organizar una audiencia pública conjunta sobre la legislación que establecería una política estatal sobre el sellado de los registros de desalojo.
La audiencia, celebrada en el edificio del municipio de Wilkinsburg, en el condado de Allegheny, incluyó un debate sobre el impacto de los desahucios en los residentes de Pensilvania, la importancia de una vivienda justa y asequible y las implicaciones jurídicas de no sellar los expedientes de desahucio.
"La audiencia conjunta de hoy realmente puso de relieve la necesidad de una legislación para establecer una política de sellado de registros de desalojo en todo el estado", dijo Muth. "El sellado de desalojos permite a las personas seguir adelante, aprender de sus experiencias y reconstruir sus vidas sin temor a que cualquier desalojo pasado les impida acceder a una vivienda segura y asequible."
Varios senadores demócratas están redactando un proyecto de ley complementario al proyecto de ley 1769 de la Cámara de Representantes, que establecería procedimientos para limitar el acceso a los expedientes de desahucio. El proyecto de ley exigiría a los tribunales sellar los expedientes de los casos de desahucio a menos que el inquilino pierda el caso ante el tribunal, en cuyo caso los expedientes se desprecintarían.
"Como líder de la bancada demócrata del Senado de Pensilvania, estoy orgulloso de trabajar con mis colegas para encontrar maneras de ofrecer viviendas seguras y asequibles para todos los residentes de Pensilvania", dijo Costa. "La conversación de hoy iluminó la urgencia de eliminar las barreras a la vivienda para nuestras familias a través de PA, y espero continuar esta conversación a medida que avanzamos."
Un informe reciente publicado por PolicyLink y Community Legal Services of Philadelphia indicaba que los expedientes de desahucio afectan negativamente a la puntuación crediticia de una persona y disminuyen sus oportunidades futuras de vivienda. Limitadas de este modo, las personas se ven muchas veces obligadas a vivir en viviendas inseguras o experimentan la falta de vivienda.
"Una sola solicitud de desahucio inflige un daño duradero a una familia, interrumpiendo el acceso a una vivienda segura, oportunidades de empleo y educación, y conexiones duraderas con sus comunidades", añadió el senador Saval, presidente de la minoría del Comité de Asuntos Urbanos y Vivienda del Senado. Una política estatal de sellado de registros de desahucios protegerá a los inquilinos a corto plazo y sentará las bases para una vivienda más equitativa y resultados de salud para los residentes de Pensilvania de todos los orígenes". Con uno de cada 14 hogares de inquilinos en riesgo de una solicitud de desalojo, la Asamblea General de Pensilvania tiene la oportunidad de cambiar el panorama."
En 2021, la ciudad de Filadelfia promulgó la Ley de Acceso de los Inquilinos para restringir el uso por parte de los propietarios de los expedientes judiciales de desahucio en las decisiones sobre vivienda. Y según los datos rastreados por PolicyLink, hay 15 estados que han promulgado políticas que sellan o eliminan los registros de desalojo o restringen la forma en que los propietarios pueden seleccionar a los inquilinos.
"En toda la Commonwealth, el costo de la vivienda está aumentando a un ritmo alarmante, y más y más residentes de Pensilvania luchan por encontrar viviendas asequibles y seguras. Mientras estamos en medio de una crisis de vivienda, desalojos injustos y sin culpa son permanentes en el expediente de un inquilino", dijo Schwank. "Estos desalojos sin culpa son otra barrera innecesaria que los residentes de clase trabajadora de Pensilvania deben superar mientras buscan la vivienda asequible y segura que merecen. Estoy orgulloso de co-anfitrión de esta audiencia con mis colegas y espero que podamos llamar más la atención sobre un tema que la legislatura debe abordar."
En el testimonio prestado durante la audiencia, la abogada de los Servicios Jurídicos Comunitarios de Filadelfia Holly Beck indicó que la carga de los expedientes de desahucio no se distribuye de manera uniforme entre las comunidades: los propietarios presentan expedientes de manera desproporcionada contra hogares de color, personas con discapacidad y mujeres, por lo que estas comunidades sienten de manera desproporcionada la carga de los expedientes de desahucio. Las mujeres negras con hijos pequeños son las que más desahucios sufren.
"Una demanda de desahucio puede mermar significativamente la capacidad de una persona para asegurarse una vivienda para el resto de su vida, incluso si esa demanda carece de fundamento o es desestimada. Y sin una dirección de casa, puede ser casi imposible conseguir un trabajo, la escolarización, u otros beneficios que damos por sentado todos los días", agregó el senador Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny). "Agradezco a los panelistas de hoy por compartir sus experiencias y explicar por qué necesitamos una política estatal de sellado de desalojos".
Otros participantes en la audiencia fueron Haley Passione, Court Resource Navigator, RentHelp PGH; Holly Beck, Division Supervising Attorney, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia; Deanna Dyer, Policy Director, Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence; Kyle Webster, Vice President of Housing and General Counsel, Action Housing; Maura Jacob, Policy & Community Impact Officer, The Pittsburgh Foundation; y Aaron Zappia, Director of Government Affairs, Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania.
El senador Tim Kearney (D-Delaware) también participó virtualmente en la audiencia política conjunta.
Todos los testimonios presentados en la audiencia y el vídeo completo están disponibles en SenatorMuth.com/Policy.
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Testimonio
Panel 1: Personas afectadas
Panel 2: Implicaciones jurídicas
Panel 3: Abogacía
Testimonio adicional
January 30, 2024
Harrisburg − January 30, 2024 − The co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus Sen. Amanda Cappelletti (D-Montgomery), Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), Rep. Gina H. Curry (D-Delaware) and Rep. Mary Jo Daley (D-Montgomery) issued the following statement in response to today’s ruling by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court regarding Medicaid coverage for abortion.
“Yesterday, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania ruled in favor of abortion providers and delivered a big win for those of us who are fighting to maintain, protect, and expand access to reproductive healthcare in the Commonwealth. Specifically, the Court ruled Pennsylvania’s abortion providers could challenge the Pennsylvania ban on Medicaid coverage for abortion as sex discrimination under the Equal Rights Amendment and as a violation of the Equal Protection provisions of the Pennsylvania Constitution, which was previously not possible.
This decision does not immediately end the Medicaid abortion ban, but it is a positive step towards expanding access to reproductive healthcare for all Pennsylvanians who need it, not just those who can afford it. Nobody should be forced to carry a pregnancy to term simply because they cannot afford to pay for their healthcare. All Pennsylvanians, regardless of income, deserve the right to a safe abortion.
Make no mistake, there is still an abundance of work to be done in removing barriers to abortion access in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus remains committed to building on yesterday’s ruling and fighting for expanded reproductive healthcare here in our Commonwealth. Today, we stand together in affirming that abortion is healthcare, and healthcare is a human right.”
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January 26, 2024
HARRISBURG, PA – January 26, 2024 − Today, members of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic caucus praise Governor Shapiro’s new blueprint for higher education, which seeks to expand access to higher education for Pennsylvania’s learners while consolidating governance and moving towards a more predictable, performance-based funding formula.
“I greet the Governor’s higher education blueprint with excitement. As we grapple with dysfunction in higher education and the burdens of student loan debt, we must reimagine our systems in Pennsylvania to set up our students for success and prepare them for the demands of the modern workforce,” said Senator Costa. “The Governor’s plan will strengthen our State System of Higher Education and our community colleges, make higher education more affordable for those who want to seek it, and provide a better governance structure providing for better continuity in our workforce training pipeline and for transparency and accountability. I look forward to continued conversations with all partners and stakeholders coming to the table as we go forward in developing this plan.”
Senator Costa is a proud alumnus of Indiana University of Pennsylvania, as well as the Community College of Allegheny County, where he presently serves as a board member.
Senator Vincent Hughes, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, said the following:
“The Governor’s proposal has the potential to transform higher education in Pennsylvania. Making higher education affordable has been priority for me and members of the Senate Democratic Caucus, and I applaud Governor Shapiro’s focus on tackling Pennsylvania’s shortcomings head on. I look forward to hearing more and working with him to make the Commonwealth’s higher education offerings the best in the nation.”
State Senator Judy Schwank, who sits on the PASSHE board of governors, said the following:
“The Governor has proposed an innovative plan to revitalize higher education in the Commonwealth. During my tenure as a PASSHE board member, I’ve come to recognize the necessity of approaching higher education in a more comprehensive manner. This blueprint is a great starting point that I am excited to support and help further develop.”
Governor Shapiro’s blueprint is accessible in full here. Among other things, the blueprint seeks to:
- Create a new system for higher education that unites the PASSHE universities and 15 community colleges under a new governance system
- Cap tuition at $1000/semester for learners making up to the median income in Pennsylvania
- Fund institutions of higher education on a performance-based formula that incentivize increased enrollment, graduation rate, and workforce development in areas of shortage, specifically education and nursing.
Learn more about the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus’ commitment to an excellent education for every Pennsylvanian here.
