June 15, 2022
Harrisburg — June 15, 2022 — Today, SB967, which would establish a Women, Infants, and Children advisory board in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, passed the senate by a vote of 49-1.
The Pennsylvania Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for WIC has improved the nutrition and health of families in Pennsylvania since 1974 by providing access to healthy foods, nutrition services, breastfeeding support, health care, and social service referrals. The program is fully funded by the federal government.
However, participation in WIC has been steadily declining in Pennsylvania. The legislation, sponsored by state Sen. Judy Schwank, would create a board that would work to grow participation and make sure more Pennsylvanians can take advantage of the program.
The board would be comprised of regional WIC agencies, agency partners, advocates, grocers, health care providers, and other participants. The board would be tasked with advising the Pennsylvania Department of Health on the program to increase enrollment.
“I greatly appreciate that my colleagues in the senate also see the value a WIC advisory board would bring to the commonwealth,” Schwank said. “This is a program that can be of benefit to so many Pennsylvanians without costing the commonwealth a dime. However, diminished participation over the years really places WIC at risk of losing funding and rolling back some of the vitally important services it offers to low-income individuals. We can’t let that happen.”
The bill will now be sent to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for its concurrence.
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June 13, 2022
Reading—June 13, 2022— The following is a statement from state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th) on the passing of Reading City Council President Jeffrey S. Waltman, Sr.
“I’m incredibly saddened by the sudden passing of my friend and colleague Jeffrey Waltman, who served the City of Reading honorably for 22 years. Reading has lost a wonderful public servant and an incredible human being. During his time on council representing his district and as president and vice president, Jeff demonstrated a passion for the place he called home. He fought tirelessly for a future full of promise on behalf of the citizens of Reading. He was a champion for economic development and historic preservation in the city. He understood that the city’s rich history was worth celebrating and saw the city’s potential even during difficult times. Even on the most contentious issues, Jeff was a patient and understanding leader on City Council with an ability to bring all stakeholders together and work towards pragmatic solutions. His leadership and business acumen helped the city navigate challenging financial situations and move beyond Act 47. Everything he did throughout his career was in pursuit of the common good for his family, friends, neighbors, and constituents. While we acknowledge his loss is painful, we can take solace in knowing his service has paved the way towards a brighter tomorrow for the City of Reading.”
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May 3, 2022
Harrisburg, PA − May 3, 2022 − The co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus (WHC), Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks), Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-Montgomery, Delaware), Representative Morgan Cephas (D-Philadelphia) and Representative Mary Jo Daley (D-Narberth), released the following joint statement after reading the draft statement that was leaked out of the Supreme Court of the United States last night regarding Roe v. Wade:
“The draft opinion leaked to the press last night confirmed the worst fears of millions of people throughout the country: the U.S. Supreme Court is poised to overturn Roe v. Wade. This is despite hours of testimony under oath during confirmation hearings where some of the justices that are, according to reports, ruling with the majority, stated that Roe was settled law. We know this impending ruling will not end abortion. Instead, abortions will only become more dangerous in many states. In fact, twelve states already have trigger bans on the books, meaning abortion could be severely restricted or outright banned in the coming months.
While abortion remains safe and legal in Pennsylvania, we are closer than we have been in 50 years to that no longer being a reality. Make no mistake, without the Governor’s veto pen, the majority in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Pennsylvania Senate would have passed trigger bans of their own. In fact, a photo posted online showed members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly participating in a “Post Roe Strategy Summit” in the Capitol just last month. Some members wasted little time putting out statements hailing the not-yet-official decision. If it was not already clear, it should be now, the majority in the Pennsylvania Legislature will move quickly to pass abortion bans here in the commonwealth.
The Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus remains steadfast in its support of the right to choose. Our members remain united and ready to fight on behalf of reproductive health rights. As your elected officials, we are leading the charge to protect the right to choose. We can’t do it alone. We need every Pennsylvanian to stand with us in our mission to ensure everyone in the commonwealth has access to the health care services they need and deserve. In our free country, everyone must be free to choose their own destiny.”
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April 28, 2022
BLUE BELL, April 28, 2022 – State Senator Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee today joined Senator Maria Collett, Senator Amanda Cappelletti, Senator Carolyn Comitta and Senator Judy Schwank to host a public hearing on the challenges faced by college students and staff in regard to childcare.
“Our hearing today highlighted the frustrating reality that affordable, accessible, and quality childcare is an unmet need for families across the Commonwealth,” Muth said. “We need to support the parents and the single mothers who are trying to fight their way out of poverty and economic struggle, trying to make ends meet, further their education, and trying to make a better life for their children. It is time for Harrisburg and Washington to step up and invest in childcare services.”
The Senate Democratic Policy Committee hearing, hosted in the Health Sciences Center at Montgomery County Community College, featured three panels of testimony from students, educators, advocates, and public policy experts who will discuss the lack of affordable and accessible childcare at institutions of higher education.
“Parents who want to further their education deserve the opportunity to do so,” Cappelletti said. “By building in resources for parents to have access to affordable, quality childcare when continuing their education, we can open up more economic opportunities for families in Pennsylvania to be successful.”
According to a study by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, nearly four million U.S. undergraduate students—or 22 percent of all undergraduate students—are raising children while attending a postsecondary education program. The study found that 70 percent of student parents are mothers – and over two in 5 of all student parents are single mothers.
“More than 20 percent of college undergraduate students are also parents. Ensuring those student-parents have access to childcare is a matter of both equity and economics,” Collett said. “Our Commonwealth cannot grow and prosper when parents of young children are unable to save for the future, find family sustaining jobs, and pursue and complete their education. It’s far past time for the Commonwealth to acknowledge this and adequately invest in our childcare infrastructure. With billions of unspent federal ARP dollars, now is the time to do so.”
One of the programs discussed at the hearing was the federal Child Care Access Means Parents in Schools (CCAMPIS) program which is fully-funded by the US Department of Education to establish campus-based child care programs that help low-income student-parents stay in school and graduate. Pennsylvania also offers the Child Care Works program which is managed by the Early Learning Resource Centers.
“Many Pennsylvanians have faced the difficult decision to choose between affording childcare or continuing a higher education. Childcare programs offer critical educational skills and support for children and their families,” Comitta added. “Affordability, quality, and access to these programs are the obstacles and disparities that we must work to address and ensure that all working parents can shape a healthy, safe, and successful future for their family.”
Participants in the hearing included May Yaghnam, a mother of four and a student at the Community College of Philadelphia; Kristina Valdez, Executive director, Along the Way; Kelly Lake; Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) Project Director, Community College of Philadelphia; Dr. Kalani Palmer, Associate Professor in Human Development and CCAMPIS Project Director, Indiana University of Pennsylvania; and Tracey Campanini, Deputy Secretary, Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning.
“It’s clear the business model for childcare is broken and creative solutions are needed to meet the modern needs of Pennsylvanians. Linking childcare and higher education is one way to allow parents to pursue the education they need to increase their earning potential, and it would benefit staff and faculty as well,” Schwank said. “Today’s hearing provided us with some ideas about ways we can expand childcare services in the commonwealth and provide these crucial services at more Pennsylvania colleges and universities.”
All submitted testimony from the policy hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
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April 22, 2022
Reading – April 22, 2022 – Today, State Sen. Judy Schwank announced two 11th District projects will receive $4.45 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Project (RACP) grant funding from the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget.
$1.45 million will go to Reading Historical Properties, LP for the rehabilitation of the historical Trexler Mansion located at 46 South Fifth Street in the City of Reading. The building was formerly the Reading Elk Lodge from 1909 to 1978. Renovations will include interior and exterior rehabilitation of the building. The developer’s goal is for the building to be a venue for events as well as office space for local businesses.
“Reading is home to numerous buildings that have historic significance to our community and unique architecture,” Schwank said. “The rehabilitation of these buildings and extending their service life well into the future is a crucial component of the overall redevelopment of downtown Reading. This investment further demonstrates Governor Wolf’s commitment to downtown Reading’s revitalization.”
$3 million was awarded to the Rodale Institute, a nonprofit that promotes organic farmer training, research, and consumer education. The funding will go towards a brand-new Science Center facility located in Maxatawny Township. The new Science Center will replace Rodale’s existing outdated lab and provide the surrounding communities with a state-of-the-art facility.
“This is a major investment in Pennsylvania agriculture. Rodale Institute is a world-renowned educational leader in regenerative agriculture and organic food production. The facilities and research that this funding will support has implications for food supply as well as mitigating climate change. It will serve our local farmers as well who are capitalizing on the increasing consumer demand for local and healthy foods.”
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April 14, 2022
Reading – April 14, 2022 – Today, three organizations located in Pennsylvania’s 11th Senatorial District received a total of $194,000 in Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD).
The Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which stemmed from legislation introduced by Sen. Judy Schwank (Act 83 of 2019), is available to nonprofit entities that principally serve individuals, groups, or institutions that are included within a bias motivation category for a single bias hate crime incident identified by the FBI. Those incident categories include: race/ethnicity/ancestry, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender, and gender identity.
Eligible projects include:
- Purchase of safety and security equipment
- Threat awareness and response training
- Upgrades to existing structures that enhance safety and security
- Vulnerability and threat assessments
- Any other safety or security-related project that enhances the safety or security of the nonprofit organization
Schwank was a part of discussions with the governor and other state legislators about improving security for organizations that could be the targets of a hate crime following the Tree of Life synagogue shooting in October of 2018. During the current legislative session, Schwank introduced SB 228, which would permanently fund the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. The bill was referred to the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee on Feb 22, 2021 and is yet to receive consideration.
Earlier this year, Gov. Tom Wolf announced that $4.5 million in American Rescue Plan dollars would be put towards the program on top of the $500,000 remaining available funds. After funding for the program was replenished, Schwank reached out to eligible organizations in her district to inform them about the grant opportunity.
The three 11th Senatorial District organizations awarded funding are:
- GoggleWorks – $150,000
- Sacred Heart School – $25,000
- Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom – $19,094
“This is a program I’m proud to support and I’m very happy to see organizations in Berks County consistently take advantage of this opportunity,” Schwank said. “This is a good example of how small dollar grants can go a long way towards improving community safety. Everyone deserves to feel safe, especially in schools or places of worship. I remain hopeful that we can come to an agreement in Harrisburg to make the Nonprofit Security Grant Program permanent.”
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April 6, 2022
Harrisburg – April 6, 2022 – Today, State Sens. Judy Schwank and Sharif Street issued a co-sponsor memorandum for a bill they plan to introduce that would ban the sale of delta-8 THC products in Pennsylvania.
The Food and Drug Administration defines delta-8 THC as a psychoactive substance found in the cannabis sativa plant, of which marijuana and hemp are two varieties. It can be manufactured in higher amounts by synthetically converting a better-known non-intoxicating compound, CBD, into delta-8 THC. In September of 2021, the FDA issued a warning that “potentially unsafe household chemicals” are sometimes used to convert CBD to delta-8 THC.
Under the federal Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, hemp was removed from the definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substance Act (CSA). The act defines hemp as a cannabis plant that contains 0.3% delta-9 THC or less, which is considered too low to have a psychoactive effect. However, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 did not address delta-8 THC, allowing it to go unregulated at the federal level.
This omission created a loophole that allows vendors to sell delta-8 THC products like edibles, vapes, and tinctures with no oversight. Currently, delta-8 THC products can be purchased by individuals 21 or older at gas stations and neighborhood corner stores.
“What we are seeing right now is a completely unregulated market for these products and they are becoming more popular with each passing day,” Schwank said. “I’m particularly concerned about underage teens using these products because we have no clue how they are manufactured. I’ve already heard about high school-age children in my district getting sick after using delta-8 THC, so they are finding ways to access it.”
Schwank also noted that the outlandish flavors these products come in seem to be geared towards teenagers.
“The omission of delta-8 THC from federal regulation has left us with a legally defined ‘hemp’ product with psychotropic effects that exists outside PA’s Medical Marijuana Program and may be accessible to those under the age of 21,” Street said. “It was never the intent for hemp to get anyone high. It is important that consumers are aware of what they are purchasing, and it is our responsibility as government to ensure safety and consumer protection. This legislation fixes this problem and reminds us of the importance of a well-regulated and secure market for cannabis.”
You can read the full co-sponsor memo here.
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March 25, 2022
Reading, PA – March 25, 2022 – This morning Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th) and Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-126th) spoke at Kutztown University’s 18th Annual Community Forum about SB 163 and HB 1140, which would require public employees and licensed medical professionals to receive bias training once every two years.
Public and private school teachers would also be required to receive training as well as faculty members at trade schools and institutions of higher learning. The two bills are companion pieces of legislation Schwank and Rozzi are working together to advance in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. Kutztown University’s Social Work Department worked closely with the legislators on developing the bills.
The legislation defines social bias as, “A belief or set of associations about an individual or a group of individuals based upon physical characteristics, race, ethnicity, gender, age, religious creed or sexual orientation which can result in the inaccurate attribution of particular qualities to the individual or group of individuals.”
“This legislation would help public servants and medical professionals better understand how their actions, regardless of intention, might be perceived by individuals of a different sexual orientation, race or religious background,” Schwank said. “The training and support provided by these bills are non-controversial and necessary to help make Pennsylvania a welcoming place for everyone. Additionally, many private sector employees receive similar training to improve customer service and workplace performance.”
“Sen. Schwank and I worked closely with stakeholders, including Kutztown University, to write this bill,” Rozzi said. “Together, we were able to formulate what we believe is incredibly impactful legislation that would increase cultural competence throughout Pennsylvania with minimal capital investment. I’m so grateful for the positive responses we received from students today, the very demographic who would benefit from this bill’s passage.”
SB 163 was referred to the Pennsylvania State Intergovernmental Committee in February of 2021 and is yet to receive a vote. Likewise, HB 1140 was referred to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives State Government Committee in April of 2021 and is yet to receive consideration.
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March 18, 2022
Reading – March 18, 2022 – Sen. Judy Schwank hosted the second session of her annual model senate program today at the Muhlenberg Township Municipal Building.
During the second session, over 40 high school students from local school districts participated in committee hearings with experts based in Berks County and in Harrisburg. Experts included Assistant Berks County District Attorney Justin Bodor, Executive Director of the Berks County Medical Society T.J. Huckleberry, Executive Director of the Berks Business Education Coalition Solomon Lausch, and members of Schwank’s staff.
Committee hearings are an important part of being a legislator,” Schwank told the students. “When you get into committee, you have to come ready to ask questions and get into the fine details of the legislation. If it’s going to move forward and become law, you don’t want any surprises down the road.”
After the committee hearings, the students returned to their respective caucuses and discussed what they learned about the bills being considered. Brady Detwiler, a junior from Governor Mifflin, said he enjoyed getting a chance to hear from experts about the pieces of legislation.
“It’s been amazing to meet a lot of people from different fields and get their perspective on the bills we are considering,” Detwiler said. “Having the opportunity to ask questions about the bills allowed me to get a better understanding and see that a bill might look good on paper but there is a lot that needs to be considered when you are drafting legislation and there are many factors that aren’t obvious at first.”
Anna Kate Gwiazdowski, a senior for Schuylkill Valley, reflected on everything she’s learned during model senate so far and talked about the connections she’s made with other students.
“It’s been a really valuable opportunity meeting students from other schools in the county and getting different opinions on issues that affect all of us,” Gwiazdowski said. “Learning about the legislative process has been eye-opening. I’m really getting a sense of what Senators do.”
Next month the students will join Schwank in Harrisburg where they will be introduced before the Pennsylvania Senate and then hold their own senate session where they vote on the bills they have chosen.
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March 10, 2022
Harrisburg, PA − March 10, 2022 − The co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus (WHC), Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks), Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-Montgomery, Delaware), Representative Morgan Cephas (D-Philadelphia) and Representative Mary Jo Daley (D-Narberth), released the following joint statement to express the caucus’ gratitude on Abortion Provider Appreciation Day:
“Today, March 10, 2022, is Abortion Provider Appreciation Day. We would like to take the opportunity to thank abortion providers across Pennsylvania as they continue to provide vital healthcare services in the face of these unprecedented attacks on the right to choose and under the additional pressures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
While we are facing attacks on abortion access at every level- and in every shape and form anti-abortion legislators can imagine- it is crucial that we uplift abortion providers who are persevering through this political climate to provide comprehensive reproductive healthcare for their patients.
Join us in thanking abortion providers across the nation today!”
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February 18, 2022
Reading – February 18, 2022 – Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) welcomed roughly 40 students from local high schools to her office in Muhlenberg Township to participate in the first of three sessions for her annual model senate program.
After a year off due to the pandemic, the model senate has returned. Since 2013, Schwank has invited students from local public and private schools in her district to participate in the program. The model senate consists of three days, two of which take place at Schwank’s district office and the final day at the State Capitol Complex in Harrisburg.
Today, the students elected a governor and leadership positions for each caucus. After that, each caucus met separately to discuss the bills they will consider during committee hearings. Each student is assigned to a committee. During the upcoming session in March, each committee will hold hearings with an expert testifier and ask questions about the bills that are being considered.
Students are given a packet of suggested bills but are encouraged to make changes or come up with their own. Many of the bills in the packet are based on real legislation currently being considered in the Pennsylvania Senate.
“Over the years, we’ve had great success with the model senate,” Schwank said. “The students seem to have a lot of fun doing it and hopefully they come away with a better understanding of government and the legislative process. Now more than ever, I think it’s important for kids who are interested in politics and government to get an idea of how things really work and start getting an idea of how they can be a positive influence.”
Schwank also said she believes the model senate is an opportunity for students to get a feel for government before they enter college and decide which major and career path they’d like to pursue.
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February 16, 2022
Reading – February 16, 2022 – Today, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) visited Amanda E. Stout Elementary school to meet and read to a first grade class and to discuss SB 964, which would require Pennsylvania public schools to have a certified librarian on staff.
Schwank became the primary sponsor of SB 964 when its previous sponsor, John Sabatina, left the Pennsylvania Senate. In 2021, 48 school districts in Pennsylvania did not have a certified librarian in any of its buildings, impacting nearly 90 thousand K-12 students.
Schwank said her time as a volunteer tutor for the Ready.Set.READ! program gave her insight into the important work school librarians do helping students hone their reading skills.
“During my time as a tutor, I spent a lot of time in school libraries and got to see up close the impact a good librarian can have on students,” Schwank said. “Librarians play a crucial role helping students find and analyze reliable sources of information and apply it to their schoolwork. So, whether it’s sparking a student’s interest in reading or helping them navigate the shelves in order to find the information they need for a project, there are multiple ways librarians have a big impact on educational outcomes.”
Schwank also noted that one of the reasons schools go without librarians is inadequate education funding. Schwank added that Gov. Tom Wolf’s recent budget proposal, which would increase basic education funding for all 18 public schools in Berks County, would make it easier for schools to afford librarians and reduce reliance on local tax bases.
“Librarians disappearing from our public schools may seem like a small problem, but it’s a symptom of a much larger issue the commonwealth hasn’t been willing to reckon with,” Schwank said. “The way we fund public schools is broken and has been for quite some time.”
Schwank added that despite ranking fifth in total population among the 50 states, Pennsylvania ranks 46th in funding allocated by state governments to education.
SB 964 and its Pennsylvania House of Representatives companion bill HB 1168 have been co-sponsored by a bi-partisan group of lawmakers in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. To date, both bills are yet to be considered in either the House or Senate Education committees.
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February 9, 2022
Harrisburg, PA − February 9, 2022 − The co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus (WHC) applaud Governor Tom Wolf for his budget proposal that utilizes the nearly $6 billion budget surplus and puts Pennsylvania on the path to make historic investments in education, criminal justice, and public health.
We are proud to see numerous proposals related to the health and wellness of women and families across the Commonwealth, specifically:
- $8 million to extend postpartum coverage for birthing parents eligible for Medical Assistance to 12 months.
- $15 million, a 77% increase, to implement additional evidence-based home visiting and family support services to 3,800 additional families across the Commonwealth.
- $1.2 million to add postpartum depression as an eligible tracking category for early identification of need for early intervention services.
- $500,000, a 50% increase, to support “It’s On Us PA”, which promotes healthy relationships and protects students from sexual violence.
- $30 million to fund two new childcare options for state employees.
- $1 million for reentry services to women.
- Increase in the minimum wage: proposing an increase to $12 an hour effective July 1, 2022, with an annual increase of 50 cents until it reaches $15 in 2028.
“I’m thrilled to see many proposals geared towards expanding healthcare coverage, increasing access to childcare, and broadening evidence-based home visiting,” said Senator Amanda Cappelletti, WHC co-chair, (D-Montgomery/Delaware). “While these plans are a step in the right direction, our Caucus will be fighting to eliminate using taxpayer dollars to fund anti-abortion centers, which are proven to use deceptive practices to trick people into carrying their pregnancies to term. This funding is an embarrassment to Pennsylvania and must come to an end.”
Notably, included in the proposal is the expansion of Medical Assistance for postpartum individuals for up to 12 months. This investment in a crucial part of the #OptInPA campaign that our caucus has been championing for months. Nationally, the United States has one of the highest maternal mortality rates when compared to similarly wealthy countries. Growing evidence shows that the postpartum period lasts longer than 60 days and extending coverage for a full year can reduce maternal mortality rates and improve outcomes for both mothers and children.
“We’ve been fortunate to have a Governor and administrative team that understands the importance of maternal health. The funding for postpartum services in this year’s budget, which has been a priority of the Women’s Health Caucus, is very promising,” said Senator Judy Schwank, WHC co-chair (D-Berks). “Additionally, investments to bolster child care and pre-k will allow women who have left the workplace during the pandemic to return. I believe this proposal recognizes the opportunity we have to make big investments in working families from every corner of this commonwealth. Overall, I’m pleased with the Governor’s budget and I’m grateful for his continued commitment to the women and families of Pennsylvania.”
“At its heart, we all know that a state budget is a financial plan which reflects our priorities. Prioritizing women’s health means prioritizing Pennsylvania’s families,” said Representative Morgan Cephas, WHC co-chair (D-Philadelphia). “I am glad to see support for postpartum care, reentry services, and family support services amongst many other provisions announced in the Governor’s 2022 proposal.”
For more information on the proposals put forth in Governor Tom Wolf’s budget, see here.
Follow the Women’s Health Caucus on Twitter and Facebook. Check out our website here.
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February 1, 2022
Reading − February 1, 2022 – On Thursday, Feb. 3 at 6:30 p.m., Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) will be hosting a virtual event on student mental health via zoom.
The event is open to the public and will feature four Berks County based experts who have been working to address mental health needs in schools. Participants can submit questions to be answered before or during the event.
“Everywhere I go, this is a topic people want to talk about,” Schwank said. “The pandemic has been a difficult time for students and parents alike. Each day, students can’t say for certain what the school day will look like, or if the event they’ve been looking forward to will take place or be canceled. More and more, we are seeing the uncertainty the pandemic has brought take a toll on students. That’s why I want to give parents an opportunity to get answers to the questions they have about what can be done to help kids be healthy and successful in school.”
Panelists will include:
- Michelle Reichard-Huff, Director of Early Childhood & Student Services at BCIU
- Anne Fisher, Director of Student Support at Reading School District
- Pam Seaman, Berks County Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Program Administrator at County of Berks
- Marybeth Torchia, Superintendent of Boyertown Area School District
To register or submit a question, please visit senatorschwank.com/mentalhealth. A recording of the event will be posted to the same link the following day.
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January 27, 2022
Reading – January 27, 2022 – This morning, Gov. Tom Wolf and members of the Pennsylvania House and Senate announced $4.5 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) would be made available for non-profits that could be the targets of a hate crime.
The creation of the Nonprofit Security Grant Program was spearheaded by state legislators, including Sen. Judy Schwank, in the aftermath of the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Squirrel Hill in October of 2018. To date, $10 million has been distributed statewide to help organizations enhance security.
“As a Squirrel Hill native and a member of the Jewish faith, the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting affected me deeply,” Schwank said. “It was a rare moment where legislators and community leaders came together and decided that we had to take action to make sure something like it never happens again. Everyone in the commonwealth, regardless of religion, deserves to feel safe in their place of worship. I’m grateful to see this crucial program continue.”
Eligible organizations are nonprofits that principally serve individuals, groups, or institutions that are included within a bias motivation category identified by the 2017 FBI Hate Crime Statistics Publication. The list includes race, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender and gender identity.
Since 2020, the following entities in Berks County received funding from the Non-Profit Security Grant Program:
2020
- Allegheny Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mohnton, $23,648
- Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, Wyomissing, $25,000
2021
- Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, Wyomissing, $9,897
- The LGBT Center of Greater Reading, Reading, $11,525
- Abilities in Motion, Reading, $6,500
Schwank and Sen. Jay Costa have sponsored SB 228 to permanently fund the Nonprofit Security Grant Program.
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January 26, 2022
Reading – January 26, 2022 – This afternoon, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) announced the Berks Community Action Program, Inc. (BCAP) received $600,000 for violence prevention initiatives.
Over $24 million in Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) grant funding was distributed statewide. A previous round of funding, which was approved in December, awarded an additional $15,708,048 across the commonwealth bringing the combined total of December and January awards to $39,949,901.
BCAP plans to use the funding to support and grow a multitude of services it’s established to combat poverty and engage youth in positive social and educational activities. All these efforts aim to reduce and eliminate gang involvement and gun violence in Berks County. Additionally, BCAP has plans to deploy a trained outreach specialist in conjunction with other trained staff from partner organizations to interact with youths engaged in gang activity and gun violence.
“When you look at the proposal BCAP put together, it’s very clear a lot of thought about what our community needs was put into this application,” Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) said. “Having professionals who are trained to go out in communities and interact with young people who aren’t headed down the right path is absolutely invaluable. This funding will ensure BCAP has the resources they need to continue making a positive impact on Berks County. I applaud BCAP for the work they do and the PCCD for continuing to direct financial resources to Berks County.”
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January 25, 2022
Harrisburg – January 25, 2022 – Today, Sen. Judy Schwank (D- 11th district) and Sen. Elder Vogel (R-47th district) unveiled Senate Bill 1032, which would protect farmers from grain handlers that become insolvent.
Pennsylvania currently has no regulations providing indemnification coverage to farmers if a grain buyer goes out of business. The inspiration for the legislation came from two Berks County farmers who lost thousands of dollars when the dealer they’d been working with to sell their grain went out of business.
“The lack of protection afforded to Pennsylvania’s grain farmers puts them at significant risk and makes other farmers think twice before doing business here,” Schwank said. “This legislation will make sure other farmers don’t have to endure this economic hardship and blow to their livelihood when they’ve lived up to their end of the bargain. Other states protect their farmers. It’s time for Pennsylvania to do the same.”
The legislation would create a fund called the Agricultural Commodity Indemnity Fund (ACIF) to be used to reimburse farmers if their grain handler goes out of business. The ACIF will be funded by a half cent per bushel fee paid by farmers selling or storing grain with licensed grain handlers, and annual grain handler license fees. The per-bushel assessment will be discontinued once the fund reaches $10 million, and the assessment will not be reinstated unless the fund drops to $8 million.
“The establishment of ACIF will provide security for Pennsylvania farmers who do business with grain dealers, by preventing potentially devastating impacts should the company with which they have engaged in business become insolvent,” Vogel said. “Further, it will promote local licensed grain handlers in areas of the Commonwealth that border states with such a fund already in place.”
Several other states offer similar protections. The legislation proposed by Schwank and Vogel is based on laws adopted in other states and has the support of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.
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January 21, 2022
Reading – January 21, 2022 – Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) applauded today’s awarding of $176,798 in Safe Schools Targeted Grants to Berks County school districts by Gov. Tom Wolf and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
“Every investment we can make in school safety is worthwhile in my eyes,” Schwank said. “It’s important schools that have identified safety needs and have plans in place to make improvements have the resources they need to get things done. I give Gov. Wolf and the Department of Education credit for recognizing school safety is something worth investing in and for making sure Berks County received its fair share.”
The following schools in Berks County received funding.
Equipment Grant Awardees:
- Antietam School District- $25,000
- Fleetwood Area School District- $24,980
- Oley Valley School District- 24,999
Program Grant Awardees:
- Antietam School District- $20,000
- Oley Valley School District- $19,999
Additionally, three non-public schools received a total of $61,820 in Equipment Grants. Statewide, $8 million was awarded to 303 learning education agencies.
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December 30, 2021
Reading – December 30, 2021 – The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) today announced that five Berks County projects were awarded $894,200 in grant funding.
Statewide, 317 projects, including four in the 11th senatorial district, received investment through the Community Conversation Partnership Program (CCPP). A statewide total of $70 million will go towards projects that revitalize communities, create new recreational opportunities, and conserve natural spaces.
Fleetwood Borough received $250,000 for the rehabilitation of Fleetwood Park. Improvements to the park will include renovation of the stage and construction of a new bandshell, a seating area, a shade structure, pedestrian walkways, and a parking area. Also funded increased ADA access and landscaping improvements.
Muhlenberg Township was awarded $143,500 for the rehabilitation and further development of Laurel Run Park. Park renovations will include a parking area, the installation of pickleball courts, a multi-purpose field, pavilions, and pedestrian walkways. Also included under the project are new signage and ADA-compliant pathways.
The City of Reading received $237,000 for the rehabilitation of Reading Iron Playground. Funding will go towards the construction of a basketball court, soccer field, pedestrian walkways, and a parking area. Additionally, new playground equipment with required safety surfacing will be installed.
The Borough of was awarded $247,000 to further the development of Topton Park. Work will include the construction of pedestrian walkways and bridges as well as increased ADA access, landscaping, signage, and other related site improvements.
“It’s encouraging that the commonwealth continues to make investments here in Berks County,” Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) said. “There’s no shortage of great projects being put forward by local leaders and I’m happy to see them get the financial support they deserve. I hope this continues and I know my fellow state lawmakers representing Berks County will join me in making sure our projects are given the resources they need.”
Elsewhere in Berks County, Tulpehocken Township received $16,700 for a master site development plan for the 4.8-acre Tulpehocken Township Recreation Area. Funding will go towards commissioning a written report.
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December 15, 2021
Harrisburg, PA – December 15, 2021 – After today’s joint Pennsylvania House and Senate Agricultural and Rural Affairs committee hearing on fireworks law, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th District) provided the following statement:
“Today’s hearing was useful. We heard directly from local government officials, law enforcement officials, and a representative for fireworks retailers. I believe everyone at the hearing agreed that things need to change, but the next step in the process is unclear. The state legislature alone created the problems we’re seeing, not only in Berks County but statewide, in terms of fireworks. We must be willing to acknowledge that and take action. Increased local control was repeatedly referenced as a potential solution short of a full repeal of consumer-grade fireworks. This may be a path forward, but the undue burdens the state is placing on local first responders and the Pennsylvania State Police would still need to be addressed. Additionally, stiffening penalties would go a long way towards enforcing the current law, which is routinely flouted.”
“My position on this issue has been shaped in large part by constituents speaking out. In Berks County, the feedback from constituents has been overwhelming, consistent, and very clear. People want something to be done about this. There has been a disconnect between Harrisburg and what is happening elsewhere in Pennsylvania over the past few years when it comes to fireworks. Continuing to slow walk changing the law or insisting that this is just an enforcement issue doesn’t do anything for people who are fed up with inaction. We created the problem, it’s time for us to take ownership of that fact, listen to constituents, and work together to find solutions. After today’s hearing, I’m more optimistic we can get something through the legislature and finally take ownership of this.”
Earlier this year, Sen. Schwank introduced SB 757, which would repeal the sale of consumer-grade fireworks.
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December 9, 2021
Reading, PA – December 9, 2021 − First Lady Frances Wolf joined members of the General Assembly and representatives from the charitable food network today at Mary’s Shelter in Reading to announce an $11.4 million investment in cold storage infrastructure for food banks serving every county of Pennsylvania.
“It is critical that we turn the lessons learned throughout the pandemic into meaningful action that will make a difference in the lives of people in Pennsylvania,” said First Lady Wolf. “This investment will result in a better, stronger, more resilient food system, which translates to a better, stronger, more resilient commonwealth.”
The COVID-19 Food Bank Cold Storage Infrastructure Program, funded by the American Rescue Plan, is a grant program that will allow Pennsylvania’s food banks to purchase, expand, or upgrade cold storage facilities to ensure that they can deliver fresh food to struggling families. Eligible purchases include refrigerators, coolers, freezers, refrigerator trailers and cargo vans, building expansions, and more. This program will touch all 67 counties and is essential to addressing food insecurity and food waste.
The program will fund the following food banks across the commonwealth, through an award of $11,392,345 to Feeding Pennsylvania:
- Alliance for Nonprofit Resources – $276,000, serving Butler County
- Bucks County Opportunity Council – $55,025, serving Bucks County
- Central PA Food Bank – $2,585,000, serving Adams, Bedford, Blair, Bradford, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Columbia, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lycoming, Mifflin, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga, and Union counties
- Chester County Food Bank — $621,005, serving Chester County
- Community Food Warehouse of Mercer County – $137,000, serving Mercer County
- Fayette County Community Action Agency – $130,000, serving Fayette County
- Food for Families – Cambria – $279,000, serving Cambria County
- Food Helpers – Washington – $346,000, serving Washington County
- Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank – $1,241,740, serving Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Greene, Lawrence, and Somerset counties
- Helping Harvest – Berks/Schuylkill – $1,077,000, serving Berks and Schuylkill counties
- Indiana County Community Action Program – $265,000, serving Indiana County
- Philabundance – $156,000, serving Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties
- Share Food Program – $2,604,000, serving Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties
- SHFB of Lehigh Valley and NEPA – $60,900, serving Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton, Pike, and Wayne counties
- SHFB of Northwest PA – $748,675, serving Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Forest, Jefferson, Mckean, Venango, and Warren counties
- Weinberg NEPA Regional Food Bank – $580,000, serving Lackawanna, Luzerne, Susquehanna, and Wyoming counties
- Westmoreland County Food Bank – $80,000, serving Westmoreland County
- York County Food Bank – $150,000, serving York County
“It’s become very clear over the past year or so that food insecurity is a major problem not just in the commonwealth, but across the nation. The investments the Wolf Administration is making in food banks will bolster our ability to get food into the hands of people who need it the most,” said Senator Judy Schwank. “Additionally, offering a great diversity of nutritious, fresh food products thanks to refrigeration units will greatly benefit the health of Pennsylvanians.”
Governor Tom Wolf has worked to simultaneously support the charitable food system and agriculture industry throughout his administration by continuously investing in programs that connect surplus agricultural foods with families in need and funding projects to decrease food waste. Gov. Wolf first funded the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System Program in 2015 and has since invested more than $20 million to support farmers and families facing food insecurity.
In 2019, the Food Recovery Infrastructure Grant Program was created to address cold storage needs for food banks and reduce waste of fresh food. When COVID-19 came to Pennsylvania in 2020, Gov. Wolf expanded the program and increased funding from $4 million to $9.6 million ensure food needs were met. This Cold Storage Infrastructure Program will work further meet the breadth of needs identified during the review process for the Food Recovery Infrastructure Program.
“Feeding more Pennsylvania families requires increasing capacity for transportation, refrigeration and measures to ensure that food is safe,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “These investments help Pennsylvania agriculture continue to grow, feed our economy and strengthen the charitable food system across the commonwealth.”
“The charitable food network is beyond grateful for this investment in our food banks and our partner agencies like Mary’s Shelter to increase our capacity to store and transport fresh and frozen food,” said Feeding Pennsylvania Chief Executive Officer Jane Clements in Reading today. “We are grateful to the Wolf Administration and Democratic Leadership for recognizing this critical need that will support so many food insecure Pennsylvanians.”
The Cold Storage Infrastructure Grant Program was championed by the House and Senate Democrats.
“Since the pandemic, local food cupboards and pantries have shared with me the increase in demand for food and services,” Rep Christine Sappey, D-Chester, said. “The Chester County Food Bank serves as a pivotal connection in the distribution of donated goods to local partner organizations throughout the county, so it’s important that they have the ability to ensure safe, healthy nutrition reaches families that need it. This funding will help the Food Bank accomplish that.”
“Over the course of this pandemic, we saw lines of cars for miles of people waiting for food assistance from our local food banks. It was a stark visual reminder of just how many of our neighbors live with food insecurity or are just one missed paycheck away from it,” Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny, said. “I am proud to see the Governor recognizing the essential role food banks played in getting us through this pandemic and that he has made a commitment to ensure that they receive the necessary investments to continue and to expand their vital work in our communities.”
“For many of our neighbors, not knowing when their next meal will be or where it is coming from is a daily struggle,” Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, said. “As food insecurity continues to affect more and more of our most vulnerable citizens, it is vital to take a proactive approach in combatting this epidemic through initiatives such as ensuring our local food banks are properly equipped and funded. I am proud to see these resources be earmarked for such a worthwhile cause and look forward to exploring avenues to expand funding to all area food banks.”
“Food banks play a vital role in helping those in our community put food on the table,” Rep. Kristine Howard, D-Chester, said. “By bolstering cold food storage, food banks can focus on providing quality, healthy food to those who need it rather than worrying about if their donations are going to spoil.”
“On the heels of the pandemic, I’m thrilled that Gov. Wolf’s administration is making this much needed investment to help strengthen food banks across the Commonwealth. As well, Pennsylvania’s minimum wage falls woefully short of what individuals need to make ends meet,” said Sen. Tim Kearney. “Having a strong foundation for our food banks will help ensure no individual or family will have to choose between putting food on the table or paying for other critical bills like rent or prescription medication.”
“I’m thrilled to see ARP funds being used to fund cold storage infrastructure for our food banks. Getting these dollars into the communities that have been hardest hit by not just the pandemic, but also by factors such as the loss of reliable public transportation, the lack of healthy options available in neighborhoods, and economic downturns that began long before 2020 has been an enormous priority for me and the entire Senate Democratic Caucus,” said Sen. Lindsey Williams. “We need to spend this money in ways that give us the best return on our investment, and the Cold Storage Infrastructure Program is a perfect example of how to do this.”
For more on the Wolf Administration’s efforts to improve food security throughout the commonwealth, visit agriculture.pa.gov/foodsecurity.
December 6, 2021
Reading- December 6, 2021 − Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th District) announced today that ByHeart was awarded $1.75 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant funding for improvements to a Reading-based facility.
ByHeart’s Project Lexington is expected to establish the company as one of the country’s only fully integrated baby formula manufacturers, upon FDA-registration. The funding will be used to complete the construction of a canning line and dry blend area at the ByHeart facility located at 61 Vanguard Drive in Exeter Township. These improvements will secure the last piece of the supply chain in Pennsylvania at ByHeart’s manufacturing plant, making it the fourth end-to-end infant formula manufacturer in the U.S. The funding will ensure the final canned product is released from Pennsylvania and give Pennsylvania dairy farmers access to a $70 billion global market. The plant improvements are projected to create 50 new jobs and support countless others in the manufacturing and pharmaceutical sector as ByHeart expands production and canning.
“ByHeart’s project will have a positive impact locally by creating high-paying jobs and provide a statewide boost to Pennsylvania dairy sales,” Schwank said. “Members of my staff and I got a chance to visit the facility this past spring and learned about ByHeart’s goals for the facility. This project has a lot of upsides, including creating an ecosystem for high-value dairy inputs like organic grass-fed whole milk, organic grass-fed lactose, and value-added whey proteins. For me, supporting this project’s application was a no-brainer and I’m grateful to ByHeart for seeing value in Berks County and to Gov. Wolf for funding this project.”
“As a next-generation baby nutrition company, ByHeart has chosen the Commonwealth as home to our facility and epicenter of our production,” a statement issued from ByHeart said. “We have since seen extraordinary support from both Senator Schwank and Governor Wolf to evolve our mission. It is with great humility and honor that we accept the RACP grant in order to continue our work to create highly skilled manufacturing jobs and to progress the ecosystem of dairy innovation in Pennsylvania.”
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December 6, 2021
Reading − December 6, 2021 − The second phase or Alvernia’s Reading CollegeTowne project was awarded $1 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant funding for Gov. Tom Wolf and the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget.\
The grant funding will go towards developing a new health sciences and engineering program at the Reading CollegeTowne campus.
“Its exciting to see a project this important to the future of downtown Reading reach its goals this quickly,” Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th) said. “We are really starting to see what Reading CollegeTowne is all about. The prospect of offering student high-quality post-secondary education in crucial fields like engineering and health sciences is a huge win for the City of Reading.”
“We are incredibly fortunate to have a number of terrific colleges and universities that have big plans for the future of the Greater Reading area,” Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-126th) said. “We’ve worked hard to advocate at the state level for these projects. It’s been great to see that the value of Reading Collegetowne is being recognized in Harrisburg.”
“Reading CollegeTowne continues to be one of the many projects we can be excited about in the City of Reading,” Rep. Manny Guzman (D-127th) said. “I’m grateful to Gov. Wolf for seeing the potential of not just this project but Reading as a whole. The funding provided by the state is giving us an opportunity to make meaningful changes in our community.”
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December 6, 2021
READING, December 6, 2021 – State Senator Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), Chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Policy Committee, today joined Senators Judy Schwank and Christine Tartaglione to host a public hearing on evaluating and improving drug treatment centers in Pennsylvania.
“The alarming rates of substance abuse and drug overdoses have been magnified throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. And when individuals and their families reach out for help and seek treatment, they do not have the resources and information available to make an informed choice about treatment facilities. Pennsylvania families deserve better,” Senator Muth said. “Today’s policy hearing allowed our Committee to hear from families who have tragically lost loved ones to addiction, and it also afforded us an opportunity to discuss possible legislative solutions and policy changes that can improve the evaluation process and treatment outcomes of Pennsylvania’s drug treatment centers. Patient outcome survey data should be guiding treatment plans, not insurance companies that often deny coverage for the care required for successful recovery.”
Pennsylvania has one of the highest rates of drug overdose in the nation and drug overdose deaths have increased in 46 of 67 counties in Pennsylvania throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The Center for Disease Control’s National Center for Health Statistics indicated that there were over 100,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States during the 12-month period ending in April 2021, an increase of 28.5% from prior year.
“We must rethink our approach to adequately address the ongoing opioid epidemic, and one way to do that is to look at drug treatment centers. Individuals taking the crucial step of seeking treatment for addiction need to be given access to all the information they need to make the right decision for their own particular circumstances,” Schwank said. “This hearing provided us an opportunity to learn directly from individuals impacted by addiction, treatment providers and state regulators. It will give us a chance to better understand what factors make drug treatment more effective.”
Senator Schwank has introduced two bills – Senate Bill 975 and Senate Bill 976 – to address issues with Pennsylvania’s drug treatment facilities and recovery homes. Senate Bill 975 would require the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) to distribute an annual survey to all substance use disorder treatment centers and recovery homes operating in PA, record, and publish online for public access the responses provided by those treatment centers and recovery homes. Senate Bill 976 would prohibit any treatment center in PA to refuse admittance to anyone reporting to a treatment facility requesting medical or psychological services addressing substance use disorder – even if an individual is under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time they report. It would also prohibit any health insurance company operating in PA from refusing coverage for admittance and provision of medical and psychological services.
“Today was a crucial step in addressing the crisis that is addiction, and the failure of treatment that surrounds it,” Tartaglione said. “The shifting demographics of addiction and overdoses show us that there is no community in this commonwealth that has not been touched by its devastation, from Erie to Philly and Allentown to Pittsburgh, the PA Senate Democrats are dedicated to bettering and expanding addiction treatment services offered.”
The Senate Democratic Policy Committee heard from several panelists at Reading Area Community College that included representatives from the Opioid Crisis Action Network, the Self-Help Movement, the Caron Foundation, the Council on Chemical Abuse, and the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs.
All submitted testimony from today’s hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
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Testimony
Panel 1: Affected People
Panel 2: Care Providers
Panel 3: Policy Solutions
December 3, 2021
Reading − December 3, 2021 − Sen. Judy Schwank and the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 542 announced $745,000 in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant funding from Gov. Tom Wolf and the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget.
The funding will be used to expand and improve a heavy equipment operating training facility located in Northern Berks County. Included in the project will be new dormitories for the men and women enrolled in the training program. The program is one of the premier heavy equipment operating training programs in the region and attracts individuals from across the mid-Atlantic.
“Earlier this year I had a chance to go out and see the training space and came away very impressed,” Schwank said. “The program offered by the Operating Engineers adds a lot of value to Berks County and is filling a need. Operating heavy machinery is no easy task. Having a place in Berks County trains individuals to safely and skillfully operate heavy equipment ensures we have the best workers in a key sector available for projects in our community.”
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