November 16, 2023
Harrisburg, PA – November 16, 2023 – State Senators John I. Kane and Judy Schwank have teamed up to introduce new legislation that will allow K-12 students to take excused mental health days in Pennsylvania. In collaboration, Representative Napoleon Nelson has introduced a companion bill in the PA House, HB 1519. If passed, Senate Bill 886 will enable Pennsylvania to join 12 other states providing students excused absences from classes to focus on their mental well-being.
Senate Bill 886 will ensure that students have the option to take a mental health day without a doctor’s note or diagnosis and recognizes everyone has mental health. Allowing students to take mental health days allows for students to connect with resources and support as opposed to truancy court. It is a no cost way to begin to address stigma, jumpstart conversations, and build a culture of care within school.
A statewide committee of high school students, coordinated by the PA Youth Advocacy Network, provided feedback and input on the legislation and organized advocacy efforts around the legislation. This collaboration is part of the PA Youth Advocacy Network goal of bringing youth and youth-serving organizations together to advocate for mental health systems change.
“Empowering our students to take mental health days sends the message that taking care of your mental health is as important as your physical health and reduces the stigma around seeking help,” said Senator Kane. “We must prioritize the mental well-being of our students and provide them with the necessary tools to succeed both academically and personally. We’ve talked to students from around our Commonwealth, and they are letting us know loud and clear that this is exactly what they need.”
“Students today are under a lot of pressure and deal with a whole host of distractions that can impact their mental health,” Schwank said. “Everyone feels overwhelmed from time to time, which is why giving students the freedom to step back and catch their breath is so important. Granting students mental health days allows them to take the time they need, clear their heads and recharge. This minor change to the Public-School Code, I believe, could have a major impact and help Pennsylvania students achieve balance.”
“It is past time that mental health supports in schools are normalized,” Nelson said. “This legislation will allow for school administrators and educators to help students who need to take absences and give parents peace of mind that their children won’t be penalized for taking steps to deal with their stress and emotional health,” said Nelson. “While we must take the time to grapple with billion-dollar education funding debates, it should not prevent us from addressing this simple, free, effective solution to our students’ mental health needs.”
The bill has gained momentum and support from both parents and students throughout Pennsylvania. According to a recent poll by Verywell Mind and the magazine Parents, 75 percent of parents feel that schools should offer mental health days to students. The pandemic has exacerbated the mental health crisis in the United States, especially for children. Almost half of parents surveyed said their teen experienced a new or worsening mental health condition after the pandemic started, and pandemic restrictions made it difficult to seek help.
“Students want to feel valued and understood, and by acknowledging mental well-being, they can be more focused and engaged, creating a positive culture benefiting the entire school community,” said Saanvi, a grade 12 student from Chester County.
“As a student, I can attest to the importance of mental health days,” said Ishani, a grade 11 student from Montgomery County. “Excused mental health days not only give students a much-needed break but also show that we’re making progress in getting rid of the negative stigma often associated with teen mental health.”
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October 31, 2023
Reading − October 31, 2023 − Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced today she plans to introduce two bills that would aid Pennsylvania public school districts seeking a merger.
The first bill would provide funding from the commonwealth to offset increased per-pupil and administrative costs for up to five years following a merger. With this, the funding required would be assessed through a study, paid for by the commonwealth, to determine the estimated costs of merging. The second bill would establish an advisory commission to develop a comprehensive plan for public education along with school district consolidation.
The bills come in response to flooding over the summer that rendered Antietam Middle Senior High School unusable. While school districts should not be forced or incentivized into merging, Schwank said she believes resources at the state level are needed to support mergers in the event local school boards and district administrators decide to pursue that option.
“Both bills provide commonsense support to the school district merger process without taking any decision-making away from local communities,” Schwank said. “Every local school district still retains the right to decide if a merger is the correct decision for its circumstance. However, since a merger is such a big undertaking and comes at considerable costs, I believe the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania needs to be a part of the process and ensure all mergers go over as smoothly as possible.”
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October 30, 2023
HARRISBURG – October 30, 2023 – The House of Representatives passed key legislation sponsored by Sens. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York) and Judy Schwank (D-Berks) that would eliminate a section from the state’s Education Code that prohibits teachers from wearing any dress, mark, emblem, or insignia indicative of their faith or denomination.
The passage of Senate Bill 84 will make Pennsylvania the 50th and final state to eradicate an archaic law that violated the First Amendment in classrooms. Without the change, a teacher who violated this ban is subject to removal from teaching for a year or permanently disqualified from teaching after multiple offenses.
“William Penn built our commonwealth on religious freedom and tolerance. It is about time Pennsylvania crossed this archaic law out of its books,” Phillips-Hill said. “I look forward to the governor’s signature on this bill to ensure our Commonwealth upholds Penn’s founding principle that protects people of all faiths by upholding our First Amendment rights in the classroom.”
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the Ku Klux Klan supported laws to eliminate religious insignias in the classroom due to the anti-Catholic sentiment at the time. Pennsylvania’s original 1895 law served as the model for three dozen states that pursued similar anti-First Amendment laws. Most recently, Nebraska repealed its law back in 2017. This made Pennsylvania the only state in the nation with such a law still on the books.
“Pennsylvania holds religious freedom as a core value, and any legislation that restricts an individual’s right to express their faith is incompatible with our commonwealth’s founding principles,” Schwank said. “With the House’s approval of Senate Bill 84, I’m proud to say we’ve rectified a longstanding error in Pennsylvania law, now permitting teachers to wear religious garb in the classroom. This move brings Pennsylvania in line with the rest of the nation, ending our status as the only state still upholding this kind of prohibition.”
The legislation heads to the governor for his signature.
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October 24, 2023
Reading − October 24, 2023 − Last night, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 621 into law. The bill included language to rename the Penn Street Bridge the Police Officer Scott A. Wertz Memorial Bridge.
Wertz dedicated 20 years of his life to public service and law enforcement. A lifelong Berks County resident, he graduated from Wilson High School in 1984. Wertz worked for six years as a correctional officer at the Berks County prison. He joined the Reading Police Department in 1997, serving as a member of the patrol division, a field training officer, and in a special detail in the criminal investigations division as part of the auto theft task force. On August 6, 2006, Wertz died in the line of duty while responding with his partner to a call to assist his fellow officers who were attempting to break up a fight.
Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) sponsored the language in Senate Bill 621 to name the bridge in Wertz’s honor. Schwank said it’s a fitting tribute to Wertz’s service to the City of Reading.
A formal event will be held to celebrate the naming of the bridge when the signage is ready.
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October 17, 2023
HARRISBURG − October 17, 2023 − The Pennsylvania Senate today passed a resolution on unanimous consent sponsored by Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Judy Schwank (D-11) condemning the unprovoked terrorist attack launched by Hamas against the State of Israel on October 7, 2023, and expressing deep condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives as a result of this senseless act of violence.
“We cannot be silent,” said Senator Santarsiero. “We must call out the barbarous terrorist attack by Hamas. The loss of life of more than 1,000 Israelis, the kidnapping of 200 innocent civilians, and the wounding of thousands more must be condemned. I thank my colleagues in the Senate for joining Senator Schwank and me in this strong renunciation of the terrorist organization Hamas and in showing support for the Israeli people.”
“The October 7 attack on Israel was shocking in scale and savagery,” said Senator Schwank. “This was the worst incidence of violence inflicted on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Jews all over the world and certainly the Israeli people are still reeling. It’s important that Pennsylvania stand with Israel and the people impacted by this horrific attack and express support for all those affected. Most importantly, we all must join together and advocate for a lasting and meaningful peace for all.”
The resolution reads, in part:
RESOLVED, That the Senate condemn the unprovoked terrorist attack launched by Hamas against the State of Israel on October 7, 2023, the Jewish Sabbath, also known as Shabbat; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Senate express deep condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives as a result of this senseless act of violence; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Senate pledge its solidarity with the Israeli people during this challenging time and its unwavering support for the State of Israel’s right to defend itself against this barbaric war and to ensure the safety and security of its citizens; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Senate call upon the Congress of the United States and the international community to condemn unequivocally acts of terrorism and violence deliberately targeting civilians and to support efforts aimed at achieving a lasting and peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The full text of the resolution can be found here.
The resolution passed 49-0.
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October 11, 2023
Reading — October 11, 2023 — Last night, state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D-Berks) hosted United Against Abuse: A Domestic Violence Panel Discussion in conjunction with SAFE Berks at Reading Area Community College’s Miller Center for the Arts.
The panel featured domestic violence survivor and RACC Instructor Norma Castro, SAFE Berks Managing Director of Community Engagement Stacey Jordan and Berks County Assistant District Attorney Amanda Sobotka. RACC President Dr. Susan Looney and Luis Serrano also spoke at the event.
Serrano shared the story of his mother, who was tragically killed during a domestic violence incident. On June 25, 2009, Serrano’s mother, Maria Serrano, was attacked, raped and set on fire by her former boyfriend. She suffered burns to 60% of her body and passed away 45 days later from acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Serrano noted that there were no warning signs in his mother’s case. He urged the audience to act if they see signs of abuse and utilize community resources.
“My message to you guys today is if you see any signs of domestic violence, if you hear any signs of domestic violence, do not be afraid to speak up,” Serrano said. “If you have a relative, a friend, a coworker that you know is being abused mentally or physically, SAFE Berks is here. Or call the police. That’s what they are there for. These organizations are here to help.”
When asked about potential signs of abuse in a relationship, Castro cited manipulation and intimidation as common red flags and said small gestures like pinching and hair-pulling can lead to escalations. Castro said her son’s safety is what ultimately prompted her to seek help escaping her abusive relationship.
“The abuse was always there,” Castro said. “I was always asked when I sought help what I did wrong, which made me feel like I was triggering something. I had a son, and as my son was getting older and I realized my son might end up being a victim and getting hurt, I knew I had to get him out.”
Castro went to SAFE Berks for help and was able to leave the relationship, go back to school and start a family.
“It was scary, and I lost all my materialistic things, but I was able to start a new life and educate myself on what a healthy relationship looks like.”
For individuals in an abusive relationship, telling their partner they are leaving can be a flash point. Jordan was asked how SAFE Berks can help individuals make that break.
“Every individual is different, every situation is different, every abuser looks different, but one of the services we offer is safety planning, and that is available to folks 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year,” Jordan said. “We have a trained advocate on the other side of a hotline or a text line that if someone is exploring their options of leaving the abusive relationship, they can talk to them about gathering some things, putting it somewhere safe, having a neighbor or a sign that lets people know they are trying to escape.”
Jordan stressed that every circumstance is different, so the resources provided vary. She emphasized that no matter the situation, SAFE Berks can help.
“The message here is that we are here and able to assist folks and kind of walk through that process the whole way, the whole journey.”
A member of the audience submitted the following question: If a rape charge can still go through and lead to a conviction if there is no DNA or other evidence? Without hesitation, Sobotka said yes and encouraged victims to contact law enforcement regardless of the circumstances.
“I don’t care when this happened to you. I don’t care how old you were. I don’t care where it happened. I want to hear about this,” Sobotka said. “It’s not for you to worry about that stuff. That’s my job to worry about that and to figure out how I can help you.”
Sobotka added that it’s common to have cases that lack DNA evidence, and bringing charges can still be successful.
“Trust me, we will help you, and we can prosecute those cases.”
Besides raising awareness for domestic violence, Schwank said the event’s goal was to stand in solidarity with survivors and show that community groups are ready and willing to help.
“You would think that after years and years, we could freely and openly discuss domestic violence,” Schwank said. “Yet there is still a stigma where people don’t feel comfortable talking about what occurs behind closed doors. Tonight, we want to raise awareness, but we also want to focus on prevention and let folks know that they aren’t alone.”
A recurring theme during the panel discussion was the need to provide education about domestic and dating violence to people beginning at a young age. Cepeda-Freytiz said this is something she will continue to work on with local school districts and community groups.
“We have to think about how we integrate this type of education and modify it so it’s age-appropriate for students,” Cepeda-Freytiz said. “We have to be able to better equip our community with the tools and the resources they need because this affects all of us at all ages.”
Over 60 community members attended the event, and Centro Hispano provided Spanish translation services. The entire event can be watched here.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month will continue in Berks County on Monday, October 16 with the 22nd Annual SAFE Berks Silent Witness March.
October 4, 2023
Harrisburg − October 4, 2023 − Today, the Pennsylvania Senate advanced Senate Bill 621, which designates the Penn Street Bridge as the Police Officer Scott A. Wertz Memorial Bridge.
Wertz dedicated 20 years of his life to public service and law enforcement. A life-long Berks County resident, he graduated from Wilson High School in 1984. Wertz worked for six years as a correctional officer at the Berks County prison. He joined the Reading Police Department in 1997, serving as a member of the patrol division, a field training officer, and in a special detail in the criminal investigations division as part of the auto theft task force. On August 6, 2006, Wertz died in the line of duty while responding with his partner to a call to assist his fellow officers who were attempting to break up a fight.
The bill must pass the Pennsylvania House of Representatives before the naming is official. Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), who sponsored the language naming the bridge in honor of Wertz, said she expects the bill to pass the House without issue. Schwank added that she believes this is a fitting tribute to Wertz.
“Officer Wertz was a dedicated public servant and loving husband and father,” Schwank said. “Like many members of our community, I don’t want his service and personal sacrifice to be forgotten. The Penn Street Bridge is iconic and is the gateway to the City of Reading. Naming it in Officer Wertz’s honor will preserve his story and legacy for future generations.”
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October 2, 2023
Reading − October 2, 2023 − Sen. Judy Schwank, Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, and SAFE Berks will host United Against Abuse: A Domestic Violence Panel Discussion on Tuesday, October 10, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Reading Area Community College Miller Center for the Arts.
Doors will open for the event at 5 p.m. with informational tables. Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask the panel questions anonymously during the event. The event aims to connect people in Berks County who have experienced or know someone who has experienced domestic violence with resources that can help and raise awareness for the issue during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“Domestic violence touches the lives of so many people in various ways,” Schwank said. “Raising awareness and letting people know that we have resources in our community that can help is important. I believe we’ve put together a great program, and I’m proud to partner with Rep. Cepeda-Freytiz and SAFE Berks to draw attention to an often-overlooked issue.”
“As a legislator and woman, I believe it is vital to discuss signs of domestic violence and tactics for preventing it and promoting healthy relationships,” Cepeda-Freytiz said. “Sen. Schwank and I want to encourage a sense of responsibility in our community. We need to raise awareness about domestic violence, we need more activists for change. It is critical for us to address and discuss this issue, its impact on individuals and families. We will also provide resources for survivors to support them in their healing process.”
The panel discussion will also be livestreamed at senatorschwank.com/live.
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September 28, 2023
Reading — September 28, 2023 — Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) has issued the following statement in response to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s denial of Pennsylvania’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration relating to the storm and flooding on July 9, 2023.
“While we realized this outcome was a possibility, that does not make the news of this decision by FEMA any easier to swallow. Despite this setback, I will continue searching for government assistance for the Antietam School District and the many Berks County residents hit hard by flooding in July. In anticipation of this decision, I contacted the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency last week and formally requested that funding allocated to a pilot individual disaster relief program be released in Berks County to affected residents. The clock continues to tick, and people are still without the assistance they need.”
Schwank added the lengthy wait for the federal government to render a decision on the Major Disaster Declaration has been extremely frustrating.
“People want answers, and they want to know what is being done to help them recover from this severe weather event,” Schwank said. “I empathize with those folks. Given the devastation we saw in some areas of Berks County, it’s hard to imagine that we don’t meet the federal threshold for assistance. However, this is the hand we’ve been dealt, and we need to pivot quickly given the circumstances.”
In addition to requesting PEMA release the pilot individual relief program funding, Schwank is calling on federal representatives to search for other funding sources to aid Berks County residents.
“We can’t leave a single stone unturned at any level of government,” Schwank said. “The problems we are facing don’t disappear just because we got some bad news. We need to continue work to provide people with the relief they need.”
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September 20, 2023
Reading – September 20, 2023 – Today, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announces over $2 million in funding for Berks County-based agencies and organizations from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). This funding will deliver support and resources to keep Berks County residents safe in the places they call home.
“I am pleased that numerous organizations in Berks County have received much-needed funding to continue community safety initiatives,” said Schwank. “I extend my gratitude to the PCCD for allocating funds towards making Berks County a safer place to live. The services supported by this funding are essential and this group of recipients know how to deliver for the people of Berks County, so I’m thrilled to see their important work is being recognized and funded at the state level.”
The recipients are listed below:
Continuing County Adult Probation and Parole Grant Funds
- Berks County — $454,448 for CCAPPG Funds
Federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Funds
- Berks County Commissioners — $138,802 for enhancing services to Berks County Victims
- CASA of Berks County — $47,561 for the continuation of Child Victim Advocacy Services
- SAFE Berks — $1,196,413 for Safe Berks VOCA 2023-2025
- Community Justice Project — $45, 187 for Immigration Legal Services for Victims
- MidPenn Legal Services — $680,360 for Legal Interventions for Victims Empowerment – LIVE
Federal State Opioid Response (SOR) Funds
- Kutztown University — $82,648 for Phase IV: Continuation of Bridging AOD Misuse & MH
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August 21, 2023
Reading — August 21, 2023 — Today, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency announced that the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program application window is now open.
$5 million in funding is available from PCCD for nonprofits primarily serving individuals, groups, or institutions included in a bias motivation category for single-bias hate crime incidents as identified by the FBI’s 2017 Hate Crime Statistics publication. Awards range from $5,000 to $150,000 and can be used on the following items:
- Safety and security planning and training.
- Purchase of safety and security equipment and technology.
- Upgrades to existing structures that enhance safety and security.
- Vulnerability and threat assessments.
Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) was among the lawmakers to sponsor the legislation establishing the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program following the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting in 2018. Schwank said that the program has been well received and effective.
“The support this program receives in the budget year after year tells me that it’s helping many communities all over Pennsylvania,” Schwank said. “We’ve seen groups in Berks County take advantage of the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program, and I want to see that continue. I’m encouraging any eligible organizations with security needs to consider putting together an application.”
The deadline to apply is October 10, 2023. Applications can be submitted online here.
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August 4, 2023
Harrisburg, Pa. − August 4, 2023 — Senator Lindsey M. Williams (D-Allegheny) and Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced today that all Pennsylvania students will once again have access to free school breakfast for the 2023-24 school year. This announcement follows yesterday’s budget signing by Governor Josh Shapiro, who has been a vocal advocate for extending the Universal School Breakfast program and expanding access to school lunches.
“Students will be heading back to school in the next few weeks and knowing that they will be able to start every day ready to learn with a healthy breakfast is a huge relief for families and schools,” said Senator Williams. “School meals are just as essential to learning as textbooks and pencils– students can’t learn when they’re hungry. I’m incredibly glad to see this program funded for the 2023-24 school year as we work to make this cornerstone of food security for students permanent.”
“Starting the day with a complete, nutritious meal sets students up for success in the classroom,” said Senator Schwank. “So many kids have benefitted from the federal funding for school breakfast over the past few years. It would have been wrong to roll back universal breakfast, considering how many of our students have come to rely on these meals. I’m incredibly proud that Pennsylvania has stepped up to continue to provide breakfast for our students in this year’s budget. I give a ton of credit to Gov. Shapiro for making this item a priority and delivering for Pennsylvania’s students.”
The Universal School Breakfast program was started by former Governor Tom Wolf during the 2022-23 school year after pandemic-era federal waivers that had given all students access to free school breakfast and lunch expired. Following advocacy from Senator Williams and others, Governor Wolf established the Universal School Breakfast Program to provide free breakfast for all Pennsylvania students enrolled in schools that participate in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. This program proved to be an enormous success, with many school districts seeing the number of students taking the opportunity to eat a healthy breakfast at school doubling from pre-pandemic numbers.
Senator Schwank and Senator Williams have introduced SB 180, the No Student Should Go Hungry – Universal School Meals bill, which would provide free school lunch and breakfast to all students who are not already covered through the federal free and reduced-price-meal and Community Eligibility Provision programs. The bill will also eliminate existing school lunch debt so both schools and families can have a fresh start. Rep. Emily Kinkead (D-20) has introduced companion legislation in the House.
Since the introduction of this legislation, locally elected school boards across the state have passed resolutions expressing their support for the Universal School Meals legislation. Schools such as the Fox Chapel Area School District have reported seeing a nearly 122% increase in breakfasts served daily since the implementation of Universal School Breakfasts. As the Resolution notes, “multiple studies show that students with access to free breakfast have improved attendance rates… improved participation rates, fewer behavioral incidents, lower suspension rates, and better health outcomes.”
Individuals can learn more about the Universal School Meals program and how it fits into combating child hunger here. You can also sign on to be a part of the citizen coalition urging legislators to support Universal School Meals legislation and fight child hunger here.
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August 2, 2023
Reading – August 2, 2023 – Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) has introduced a package of renter’s protection bills in the Pennsylvania Senate.
SB 859 would establish criteria for the voluntary acceptance of reusable tenant screening reports. Landlords use tenant screenings to gain vital information like credit ratings, criminal records and eviction history. As the renter’s market has become increasingly competitive, applicants often must apply for multiple apartments and shell out payments for each application. This places undue financial hardship on prospective renters. A reusable tenant screening is valid for 30 days.
SB 860 would establish a $25 rental application fee cap. Rental application fees can range from $25 to $75, often higher than the administrative costs associated with processing the application. The legislation would impose a cap limiting a landlord’s ability to overcharge prospective tenants and profit from application fees.
This legislation was introduced with Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-Erie) and is the companion to HB 366, introduced by Rep. MaryLouise Isaacson (D-Philadelphia).
The final bill in the package, SB 861, would create a yearly land rent increase cap for manufactured homes. Manufactured home communities provide a source of affordable housing for seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities on fixed incomes.
Since residents own the home but not the land it resides on, large companies can and have purchased these plots of land and substantially increased the lot rent. Such increases can leave residents on fixed incomes in a tenuous financial position. The bill would place a cap on land rent and protect manufactured homeowners from sharp land rent increases. The idea for this legislation was brought to Schwank by residents of Douglas Village in Berks County.
All three bills have the support of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.
“In Pennsylvania, housing inequalities exist in every borough, township, city, and county,” said Adrian Garcia, PHRC Director of Fair Housing and Commercial Property. “As rent and monthly fees continue to rise, many who are on fixed incomes, which typically include seniors and individuals with disabilities, are forced to decide between paying their rent or paying for necessities. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission applauds Sen. Schwank for introducing these bills to protect renters in Pennsylvania. These bills are a step in the right direction to ensure everyone has access to safe and affordable housing.”
Schwank said the package of bills seeks to provide commonsense protections for renters throughout the commonwealth.
“Pennsylvania’s renters deserve to have someone looking out for them,” Schwank said. “We are facing a long list of issues when it comes to affordable housing, and renters especially have watched prices rise and eat into more and more of their earnings. For many, securing a safe, affordable place to call home becomes more difficult with each passing day. These bills will not fix all the issues renters face. However, they will provide a layer of badly needed protection.”
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July 18, 2023
Harrisburg, PA – July 18, 2023 – Today, Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-Mongomery/Delaware) and Senator Judith Schwank (D-Berks) circulated a co-sponsorship memo detailing their intent to introduce a legislative package called the Abortion Protections Package. After the Dobbs v. Jackson decision that reversed Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood of Southeastern Pennsylvania v. Casey, millions of Americans have been denied or struggled to access reproductive healthcare they need and deserve. This legislative package will include six bills that will offer protections to Pennsylvanians seeking reproductive care, out of state patients seeking reproductive care in Pennsylvania, and abortion providers.
“As the anti-abortion movement looks for more creative ways to punish people who are seeking the healthcare that they need and deserve, we must get proactive about offering protections to people who are seeking and providing reproductive care here in Pennsylvania,” said Senator Cappelletti. “This package will ensure the safety of patients who are getting the care they deserve and of our abortion providers – who we are grateful to have helping patients in a time of need. I’m hopeful my colleagues will see the vital need for these bills and will move this package forward with urgency once it is introduced.”
The Abortion Protections Package will be made up of six pieces of legislation that will:
- Prohibit Pennsylvania courts from cooperating with out-of-state civil and criminal cases involving reproductive healthcare services; prevent officials from other states from arresting individuals in Pennsylvania for an abortion-related crime.
- Prohibit Pennsylvania courts from enforcing another state’s judgment for a case involving the provision of reproductive healthcare services.
- Instruct healthcare licensure boards not to take adverse action against providers who offer reproductive healthcare services to out-of-state residents.
- Instruct insurance companies not to take adverse action against providers who offer reproductive healthcare services to out-of-state residents.
- Protect abortion providers’ home addresses from public discovery.
- Protect reproductive health care records from disclosure in civil actions or criminal investigations.
Taken together, these measures will ensure that everyone within our Commonwealth’s borders are protected in their right to access an abortion and the doctors and nurses who provide it are freely able to provide healthcare.
“This legislation would bolster Pennsylvania’s commitment to legal abortion while sending a clear message to neighboring states that we will not be bullied,” said Senator Schwank. “We’ve watched states all over the country race to implement archaic abortion bans since the Dobbs decision. In Pennsylvania, abortion remains safe and legal. Our providers should not be looking over their shoulder or fearful of potential out-of-state prosecution for rendering health care to their patients.”
Advocates agree that Pennsylvania needs to pass policies that will further protect reproductive rights and access in our Commonwealth, especially now, as we witness the fallout from the Dobbs decision across the nation.
“Abortion is still legal in Pennsylvania, and legislation like this bolsters the state’s commitment to protecting safe access to legal care during this critical time. Health care providers and patients shouldn’t live under the distress of potentially being targeted for providing or receiving health care. Our providers are medical experts who seek to give their patients the essential care they need, and they must be able to provide timely abortion care without fear or intimidation from state politicians, rogue prosecutors, and anti-abortion activists,” said Sydney Etheredge, CEO of Planned Parenthood Western Pennsylvania.
“Senator Cappelletti and Senator Schwank have been champions for access to sexual and reproductive health care since they came to the Senate. We applaud their efforts with this package of legislation, and Planned Parenthood Pennsylvania Advocates will always support bills that protect and expand access to sexual and reproductive health care,” said Signe Espinoza, Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Pennsylvania Advocates.
Research shows assaults against abortion clinic staff and patients rose by 128% in 2021 from the previous year. Pennsylvania needs to enact this legislative package swiftly to protect both patients and providers.
“Healthcare is not a crime. We are grateful to Senators Cappelletti and Schwank for introducing legislation to proactively fight anti-abortion efforts to restrict our travel, punish our family members for helping us find medical care in a crisis, prosecute doctors for honoring their oath, and access our private medical records. We will not allow anti-abortion extremists to strip Pennsylvanians of our freedom, safety, and privacy,” said Amal Bass, interim co-executive director of Women’s Law Project.
Read the co-sponsorship memo here.
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June 29, 2023
Reading − June 29, 2023 − State Sen. Judy Schwank applauded Gov. Josh Shapiro’s announcement this afternoon that the U.S. Small Business Administration has agreed to his request to provide up to $2 million in loan assistance through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program to businesses in West Reading impacted by the R.M. Palmer factory explosion.
“I commend Gov. Shapiro and his team for making this additional assistance available to West Reading businesses who are still experiencing financial hardship,” said Schwank. “This assistance might not have been made available without the Governor’s personal involvement, concern and follow-through.”
Schwank emphasized that her office will continue to assist businesses and constituents recovering from the blast.
“My staff and I continue to be available to assist residents and small businesses impacted by the tragic events of March 24 in accessing all state, local and private resources they may need,” said Schwank. “The overwhelming outpouring of support West Reading received from Berks County and all over the commonwealth shows what can be accomplished when we come together to help our neighbors when an unexpected tragedy strikes.”
Schwank’s office can be contacted by phone at (610) 929-2151 or by email at [email protected].
June 22, 2023
Harrisburg − June 22, 2023 − The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has unanimously passed SB 262, which will require the Department of Health to annually publish severe maternal morbidity data using hospitalization discharge data.
The CDC defines severe maternal morbidity as unexpected outcomes of labor and delivery that result in significant short or long-term consequences to a woman’s health. The bill will allow Pennsylvania to track the prevalence of maternal morbidity in the commonwealth and provide valuable data.
SB 262 is part of a package of bills aimed at addressing maternal mortality and improving maternal health outcomes introduced by Schwank with House companion bills prime sponsored by Rep. Morgan Cephas (D-Philadelphia). The bill has the support of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus and the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus.
Research published in Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology finds that for every maternal death, 100 women suffer from severe maternal morbidity. In 2021 alone, roughly 120,500 women nearly died from childbirth.
Additionally, the U.S. maternal mortality rate is consistently higher than other wealthy nations. Black women are disproportionately impacted by maternal mortality, with a rate 2.6 times higher than White women.
Alarms were raised around Black maternal health when Olympic track and field star Tori Bowie died from childbirth complications in May of 2023. Schwank said Bowie’s story demonstrates how much work is yet to be done to fully address the maternal mortality crisis at all levels of government.
“We have a moral obligation to do everything in our power to end maternal mortality in Pennsylvania and throughout the country,” said Schwank. “Tori Bowie was a world-class athlete and only 32 years old. Her story is a tragedy, and I think we need to be very clear about this; we have the ability to do so much better. Lives are literally on the line.”
Dr. Aasta Mehta, the Medical Officer of Women’s Health at the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Public Health, said SB 262 will make pregnancy safer for all Pennsylvanians.
“I applaud the General Assembly for passing SB 262 which empowers the Department of Health to release yearly data on the incidence of severe maternal morbidity in the commonwealth,” Mehta said. “This information serves as a vital tool for monitoring and surveillance, identifying risk factors, improving healthcare quality, and evaluating interventions. By understanding the patterns and causes of severe complications during pregnancy and childbirth, we can develop targeted strategies to reduce maternal morbidity rates and enhance the overall well-being of birthing people. Commitment to data-driven decision-making and evidence-based policies will drive us towards a future where every birthing person receives the comprehensive care they deserve, ensuring safer pregnancies and brighter futures for families.”
Schwank also said she’s optimistic that the unanimous bipartisan support for SB 262 will open the door for more collaborations on legislation addressing maternal mortality.
“I think we are realizing that this impacts all of us,” Schwank said. “With that in mind, we must work together to improve maternal health outcomes for all Pennsylvanians. I’m very pleased that SB 262 passed both chambers with unanimous support. I hope we can continue to work in a bipartisan manor to address maternal morbidity and mortality.”
SB 262 will now head to Governor Josh Shapiro’s desk to be signed into law.
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June 6, 2023
Harrisburg — June 6, 2023 — Today, SB 262, sponsored by Senator Judy Schwank (D-11th), passed the Pennsylvania Senate by a vote of 50-0. Schwank’s bill is part of a legislative package on maternal mortality. SB 262 adds “severe maternal morbidity” to the list of reportable events within the Pennsylvania Department of Health. This change will allow Pennsylvania to gather data on short and long-term health complications from childbirth.
“We are living through a maternal mortality and morbidity crisis,” Schwank said. “We can do so much better than we are right now, and we have to start treating this crisis with urgency. SB 262 is a step in the right direction and will provide us with the information we need to better understand the scale of this problem.”
SB 262 is the companion to legislation introduced by Rep. Morgan Cephas in past sessions and has the support of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus. Schwank said she believes the House of Representatives will quickly take up the bill and send it to Gov. Shapiro’s desk to be signed into law.
“I’m very confident my colleagues in the House will waste little time advancing this bill through committee and get it to the governor’s desk,” Schwank said. “Maternal morbidity and mortality touch the lives of far too many Pennsylvanians. It’s incumbent on us to search for solutions at the state level. Getting SB 262 passed and signed into law is an important first step.”
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June 2, 2023
Reading — June 2, 2023 — Yesterday afternoon, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th) visited the Mt. Penn Fire Company to check on the ongoing renovations to the heavily used day room.
On March 16, 2023, the Mount Penn Fire Company was awarded $60,000 in Local Shares Account-Statewide program grant funding to support the renovations. The LSA-Statewide was established by the Pennsylvania Racehorse Development and Gaming Act of 2004, which provides for the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority to support projects in the public interest within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
“I was proud to support this project and am thrilled to see it moving along,” Schwank said after the visit. “Our first responders are who we rely on in times of need. It’s crucial they have the tool, resources and facilities necessary to get the job done. I have no doubt that the new day room, once completed, will be put to good use.”
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May 26, 2023
HARRISBURG, May 26, 2023 – State Senator Katie Muth (D-Chester/Montgomery/Berks), chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Policy Committee, and Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) co-hosted a public hearing earlier this week in Harrisburg to discuss the effectiveness and accessibility of support services, preventive measures, and the socioeconomic impact that abuse has on individuals and families.
The hearing, held at the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg, featured three panels of testimony from experts in public policy, law enforcement, and prevention of domestic violence.
“The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence stated that there were 3,209 unmet requests for service related to domestic violence in 2022. That is over 3,000 people dealing with a domestic violence incident last year that couldn’t be helped because we don’t adequately fund human services in Pennsylvania,” Muth said. “We must address these issues and ensure the programs that support domestic violence survivors have adequate state funding and resources.”
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner contact sexual violence, and/or intimate partner stalking.
“Domestic violence is often an issue that’s overlooked, so I’m very pleased that we were able to hear directly from the folks on the ground supporting Pennsylvania’s survivors about what they need,” Schwank said. “The testimony made it clear that the legislature must step up and provide a consistent stream of financial support to adequately address domestic violence. As we head into budget season, it’s imperative that we take what we heard today and turn those words into action.”
Senator Muth and Senator Schwank have introduced Senate Bill 281 this session which would require that first time firearm owners receive training in areas of safe handling and storage of firearms, suicide awareness, child access awareness, domestic violence awareness, road rage awareness and prevention and safe interaction with law enforcement while carrying a firearm. Senator Schwank has also introduced Senate Bill 388 which would require schools to establish specific policies regarding dating violence, including reporting procedures for students, parents, legal guardians, or third parties; disciplinary procedures and penalties for students perpetrating dating violence against other students; and information regarding the Protection from Abuse law.
Senate Bill 281 remains in the Senate Judiciary Committee and Senate Bill 388 remains in the Senate Education Committee.
Participants in the hearing included Beth Garrigan, CEO, Safe Berks; Deanna Dyer, Policy Director, Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV); Lt. Mary Gausman, Pennsylvania State Police; Danni Beinschrotch, Legal Services Manager, PCADV; Hon. Christopher Mallios Jr., Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County; Aishwarya Sinha, Prevention Specialist, PCADV; and Kiara Allison, PhD., Title IX Coordinator and Equal Opportunity Officer, Widener University.
All submitted testimony from the policy hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
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May 25, 2023
HARRISBURG, May 25 – Pennsylvania Jewish Legislative Caucus Co-chairs Rep. Dan Frankel and Sen. Judy Schwank praised the White House announcement Thursday that the Biden-Harris Administration has established the first-ever U.S. national strategy to fight antisemitism.
“While antisemitism is not new, we are seeing a deeply disturbing rise in incidents fueled by inflammatory political rhetoric and a digital world in which hate-based speech can be spread at the touch of a button. Those special challenges demand new solutions, including decisive action at the national level,” Frankel said. “I am particularly encouraged that the new plan the Biden-Harris Administration has announced is a broad one, including new action by executive agencies, calls for new legislation and outreach to mobilize every sector of society.”
Frankel and Schwank highlighted the support and participation of the Anti-Defamation League, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the Asian American Foundation, the Sikh Coalition, the National Urban League, the National Basketball Players Association and many other groups.
“Antisemitism and hatred of all forms thrive in the darkness, and that’s why calling it out can be so powerful,” Schwank said. “The administration’s new plan and call to action are essential first steps in generating the kind of broad, unified efforts that can combat the dangerous rise in intolerance against Jews in the United States. I’m very grateful to President Biden and Vice President Harris for their leadership commitment on this issue.”
Frankel and Schwank founded Pennsylvania’s first ever Jewish Legislative Caucus earlier this year.
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May 24, 2023
HARRISBURG – May 24, 2023 – Sens. Elder Vogel, Jr. (R-47) and Judy Schwank (D-11) provided the following statements urging the Pennsylvania Milk Marketing Board (MMB) to extend the Over-Order Premium during their June 7 public meeting.
“Last month, we opened the doors to dairy industry stakeholders to begin crafting solutions to the ongoing over-order premium dilemma in Pennsylvania,” said Vogel. “It is a great start to the conversations we seek to have in the near future, which is why the MMB needs to extend the over-order premium and give us the opportunity to continue to work with stakeholders in an organized and efficient manner.”
“Last month’s conversation allowed dairy stakeholders to address the over-order premium on Class I milk, but we still have work to do to find a long-term solution,” said Schwank. “The dairy industry has drastically changed since the over-order premium was enacted. We want to find a thoughtful resolution to the issues surrounding the over-order premium and welcome continued stakeholder input. This will take time, which is why we encourage the MMB to extend the over-order premium and allow for continued collaboration as we work towards a solution that meets the modern needs of Pennsylvania’s dairy producers.”
The MMB will be hosting its public meeting on Wednesday, June 7, at 9 a.m., at the Department of Agriculture Building, Room 309, 2301 North Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110. To listen to the hearing dial 267-332-8737 and enter conference ID 849 531 250.
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May 9, 2023
HARRISBURG – May 9, 2023 − Today, Sens. Elder Vogel, Jr. (R-47), majority chair; and Judy Schwank (D-11), minority chair; and members of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee gave a unanimous, favorable recommendation for Russell Redding to serve as the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
“Secretary Redding has remained dedicated to serving and advocating for Pennsylvania’s ever-growing agriculture industry in his role as secretary over the last several administrations, as an educator, and as a farmer,” said Vogel. “He not only is a great asset to our Legislature, but to our Commonwealth. I want to congratulate him on his successful recommendation and look forward continuing to work with him to better the future of agriculture in our state.”
“Russell Redding has provided outstanding service to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as Secretary of the Department of Agriculture for many years and fully deserves to be reconfirmed,” said Schwank. “Under his leadership, the agency has thrived, and he’s formed a deep connection with Pennsylvania’s agriculture community. I’m very pleased to see his nomination take a step forward and fully expect my Senate colleagues to join me in voting to reconfirm him as Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Agriculture.”
Redding’s nomination will be re-referred to the Senate Committee on Rules and Executive Nominations.
During its meeting, the committee also considered Senate Bill 152 (Sen. Judy Ward, R-30), Senate Bill 277 (Sen. Gene Yaw, R-23); and Senate Bill 694 (Sen. Frank Farry, R-6), which were unanimously approved.
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May 2, 2023
Action comes as federal trial against shooter gets underway
HARRISBURG, May 2, 2023 – With trial of the perpetrator in the 2018 Pittsburgh synagogue attack underway, state Rep. Dan Frankel and state Sen. Judith Schwank are encouraging their colleagues in the General Assembly to wear blue ribbons on Wednesday to show their support for family members and survivors of the attack.
“Family members and survivors of the Oct. 27th attack live with those events every single day, and the court proceedings and media attention they generate stand to intensify those painful memories,” said Frankel, D-Allegheny. “We can’t erase the trauma for those hurting, but by wearing this ribbon, we can let them know that we stand with them and wish them strength.
“As a body, we can also act quickly to pass the anti-hate crimes legislation we recently unveiled. Doing so will send a strong, bipartisan message that our commonwealth will not tolerate acts of hatred against Pennsylvanians based on how they worship, who they are or who they love.”
Schwank said, “This is just one small way we can express support for the family members and survivors of the Pittsburgh Synagogue attack as the trial begins. It’s crucial that we do not allow this attack to be forgotten or minimized and that it serves as a reminder to us all of the very real threats members of the Jewish faith face. Together, we can send a message to all that wish to intimidate, threaten or attack others that hatred will not be tolerated in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”
The bipartisan anti-hate crime bill package recently unveiled by Frankel, state Sen. Democratic Leader Jay Costa, D-Allegheny, and state Rep. Napoleon Nelson, D-Montgomery, would expand protections to cover LGBTQ+ people and people with disabilities, strengthen civil and criminal penalties, increase training for police and educators, encourage the reporting of hate-based incidents in schools and provide a means for those convicted of hate crimes to perform community service or complete classes related to the motivating factor in the crime.
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April 26, 2023
Harrisburg — April 26, 2023 — Today, state lawmakers and advocacy groups rallied to support SB 393, SB 394, and both House companion bills at the Capitol Plaza Fountain.
The bills would allow Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients to be certified as teachers in Pennsylvania schools and permit undocumented students that graduated from a Pennsylvania high school to receive in-state tuition and financial aid. Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) said that both bills support Dreamers and undocumented students while acknowledging their contributions to the commonwealth.
“We should be doing everything we can to help talented and dedicated young people that want to serve in our public schools and complete their post-secondary education in Pennsylvania,” Schwank said. “Given the teacher shortage and declining enrollments at our state system schools, it just doesn’t make sense to tell these folks, eager to give back to their communities, to go somewhere else. That should never happen.”
As of 2020, 17 states permit DACA recipients to become certified teachers. Neighboring states New Jersey, New York and West Virginia have passed laws that certify DACA recipients as teachers, which means qualified, motivated DACA educators can easily move to a neighboring state and teach there. Additionally, 16 states offer comprehensive access to in-state tuition, scholarships and financial aid. This includes Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Virginia.
Rep. Peter Schweyer (D-Lehigh), Majority Chair of the House Education Committee, said he is eager to consider the bills in committee. He called on the advocacy groups assembled at the event to push their lawmakers to support the legislation.
“This is not only a question of whether we have the best education system possible or about economic growth for our commonwealth,” Schweyer said. “It’s a question of fairness and a moral question. The good news, now we are not only in a position where we can have these conversations and raise awareness, but we can actually start moving this legislation.”
Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D-Berks), who has issued a co-sponsor memorandum to certify DACA recipients as teachers, said the measure offers an opportunity to ease Pennsylvania’s teacher shortage.
“Pennsylvania’s teacher shortage is worsening, and qualified immigrants can help with this teaching crisis,” Cepeda-Freytiz said. “I am introducing a bill to amend the qualifications of a teacher by adding that department-certified or permitted teachers who hold a valid immigrant visa, work visa, or valid employment authorization document which allows them to work in the United States are eligible to teach in the public schools of the Commonwealth.”
Other speakers at the event included Kutztown University Student education student Andrea Jeronimo, Program Manager at the Woori Center Dr. Kate Firestone, Norristown Area School District Teacher Selenia Tello, Senior Managing Director of External Affairs for Teach for America Mamie Doyle Mannella, Isabelle Martinez of CASA and Pennsylvania Executive Director of Teach Plus Laura Boyce.
For more information about today’s event, please visit senatorschwank.com/PADREAMAct.
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April 26, 2023
HARRISBURG – April 26, 2023 – The Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, led by Chairman Sen. Elder Vogel, Jr. (R-47) and Minority Chairwoman Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11), held a public hearing today to open an in-depth discussion about the state’s Over Order Premium on Class I milk and what the future of that premium could look like.
Representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Pennsylvania Milk Marketing Board (PMMB), Pennsylvania State Grange (PSG), Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB), Pennsylvania Milk Dealers Association, Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Association of Dairy Cooperatives (PADC), and the Pennsylvania Dairy Association were present to lend their expertise and point of view to the conversation.
“The issues surrounding the over order premium are not new to the dairy industry and today’s hearing was meant to be a collaborative effort between all involved parties to see if and how we can potentially address the premium in the future,” said Vogel. “This matter has proven to be one of complexity and is not one to be taken lightly as it is comprised of many moving parts.”
“Pennsylvania’s dairy industry has changed dramatically since the launch of the Over Order Premium,” Schwank said. “Today’s hearing was an essential first step in working towards a transparent and equitable process for updating the Over Order Premium. It’s encouraging that so many stakeholders offered informed and thoughtful testimony. I believe we have many opportunities to craft a program that better reflects the needs of Pennsylvania’s dairy farmers and processors.”
Over the past several decades, there has been much debate as to the effectiveness, fairness, and necessity of the current over order premium being that the premium was initially adopted by the PMMB in 1988 as part of a drought relief order.
During the hearing, testifiers seemed to be divided on whether the premium should be fully dissolved going forward.
Some PMMB members felt the premium is getting more difficult to defend and has proven to showcase an inequality in distribution to dairy farmers, while other PMMB members pointed out the premium is beneficial to dairy farmers and may need some modernizing to increase the effectiveness of the premium.
Other testifiers such as the PSG recommended while it would be good to entertain improvements to the premium, other avenues should be explored as well to ensure there are equitable measures established for all of the state’s valued dairy producers.
The PFB supported the notion the General Assembly has the greatest ability to enact material changes to the premium with the PADC suggesting the Legislature amending the Milk Marketing Law to allow the PMMB to change how the premium for state dairy farmers is collected and distributed.
Additionally, there was collectively expressed support of a legislative package that was sponsored by Vogel and Schwank (Senate Bills 840 and 841) last session, which would give the PMMB the ability to collect information it currently does not have the authority to collect and is necessary for effective administration of the Milk Marketing Law; and add milk distributors to the Milk Marketing Fee Act.
Vogel added, “I want to thank everyone for taking the time to have this important discussion. The valuable information and perspectives shared will be most helpful as we try to navigate through this complex issue moving forward.”
Pennsylvania is divided into six milk marketing areas overseen by the PMMB and the federal government who monitor and enforce minimum payments to milk producers. The state-mandated over order premium is paid to Pennsylvania farmers for milk that is produced, processed, and used as class I milk (fluid drinking milk) in Pennsylvania. The Federal Milk Marketing Orders only cover specific geographic areas in Pennsylvania and can cross state lines; these orders establish minimum prices for all classes of producer milk.
To watch the full hearing, click here.
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