6 de abril de 2022
Harrisburg - 6 de abril de 2022 - Hoy, State Sens. Judy Schwank y Sharif Street emitieron un memorando de copatrocinador para un proyecto de ley que planean introducir que prohibiría la venta de productos de THC delta-8 en Pensilvania.
La Food and Drug Administration define el delta-8 THC como una sustancia psicoactiva que se encuentra en la planta de cannabis sativa, de la que la marihuana y el cáñamo son dos variedades. Se puede fabricar en mayores cantidades convirtiendo sintéticamente un compuesto no tóxico más conocido, el CBD, en delta-8 THC. En septiembre de 2021, la FDA emitió una advertencia de que a veces se utilizan "productos químicos domésticos potencialmente inseguros" para convertir el CBD en delta-8 THC.
En virtud de la Ley federal de Mejora de la Agricultura de 2018, el cáñamo se eliminó de la definición de marihuana en la Ley de Sustancias Controladas (CSA). La ley define el cáñamo como una planta de cannabis que contiene un 0,3% de THC delta-9 o menos, que se considera demasiado bajo para tener un efecto psicoactivo. Sin embargo, la Ley de Mejora de la Agricultura de 2018 no abordó el THC delta-8, lo que permite que no esté regulado a nivel federal.
Esta omisión creó un vacío legal que permite a los vendedores vender productos con THC delta-8 como comestibles, vaporizadores y tinturas sin ningún tipo de supervisión. En la actualidad, los mayores de 21 años pueden comprar productos con THC delta-8 en gasolineras y tiendas de barrio.
"Lo que estamos viendo ahora mismo es un mercado completamente desregulado para estos productos, que se están haciendo más populares cada día que pasa", dijo Schwank. "Me preocupa especialmente que los adolescentes menores de edad utilicen estos productos porque no tenemos ni idea de cómo se fabrican. Ya he oído hablar de niños en edad de instituto de mi distrito que han enfermado tras consumir THC delta-8, así que están encontrando formas de acceder a él."
Schwank también señaló que los extravagantes sabores de estos productos parecen estar dirigidos a los adolescentes.
"La omisión de delta-8 THC de la regulación federal nos ha dejado con un producto legalmente definido 'cáñamo' con efectos psicotrópicos que existe fuera del Programa de Marihuana Medicinal de PA y puede ser accesible a los menores de 21 años", dijo Street. "Nunca se pretendió que el cáñamo colocara a nadie. Es importante que los consumidores sean conscientes de lo que están comprando, y es nuestra responsabilidad como gobierno garantizar la seguridad y la protección de los consumidores. Esta legislación soluciona este problema y nos recuerda la importancia de un mercado del cannabis bien regulado y seguro."
Puede leer la nota completa de los copatrocinadores aquí.
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25 de marzo de 2022
Reading, PA - 25 de marzo de 2022 - Esta mañana la senadora Judy Schwank (D-11th) y el representante Mark Rozzi (D-126th) hablaron en el 18º Foro Anual de la Comunidad de la Universidad de Kutztown sobre el SB 163 y el HB 1140, que requeriría que los empleados públicos y los profesionales médicos con licencia reciban formación sobre prejuicios una vez cada dos años.
Los profesores de escuelas públicas y privadas también estarían obligados a recibir formación, al igual que los profesores de escuelas profesionales e instituciones de enseñanza superior. Los dos proyectos de ley son piezas complementarias de la legislación Schwank y Rozzi están trabajando juntos para avanzar en la Asamblea General de Pennsylvania. El Departamento de Trabajo Social de la Universidad de Kutztown trabajó en estrecha colaboración con los legisladores en el desarrollo de los proyectos de ley.
La legislación define el sesgo social como "una creencia o conjunto de asociaciones sobre un individuo o un grupo de individuos basadas en características físicas, raza, etnia, sexo, edad, credo religioso u orientación sexual que pueden dar lugar a la atribución inexacta de cualidades particulares al individuo o grupo de individuos".
"Esta legislación ayudaría a los funcionarios públicos y a los profesionales de la medicina a comprender mejor cómo sus acciones, independientemente de la intención, pueden ser percibidas por personas de diferente orientación sexual, raza o religión", dijo Schwank. "La formación y el apoyo que proporcionan estos proyectos de ley no son polémicos y son necesarios para ayudar a hacer de Pensilvania un lugar acogedor para todos. Además, muchos empleados del sector privado reciben una formación similar para mejorar el servicio al cliente y el rendimiento en el lugar de trabajo."
"El senador Schwank y yo trabajamos estrechamente con las partes interesadas, incluida la Universidad de Kutztown, para redactar este proyecto de ley", dijo Rozzi. "Juntos, hemos sido capaces de formular lo que creemos que es una legislación increíblemente impactante que aumentaría la competencia cultural en toda Pennsylvania con una inversión mínima de capital. Estoy muy agradecido por las respuestas positivas que hemos recibido de los estudiantes de hoy, el mismo grupo demográfico que se beneficiarían de la aprobación de este proyecto de ley."
El SB 163 se remitió al Comité Intergubernamental del Estado de Pensilvania en febrero de 2021 y aún no se ha votado. Del mismo modo, el proyecto de ley HB 1140 se remitió al Comité de Gobierno Estatal de la Cámara de Representantes de Pensilvania en abril de 2021 y aún no se ha examinado.
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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 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 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 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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9 de diciembre de 2021
Reading, PA - 9 de diciembre de 2021 - La Primera Dama Frances Wolf se unió a miembros de la Asamblea General y representantes de la red de alimentos de caridad hoy en Mary's Shelter en Reading para anunciar una inversión de $ 11,4 millones en infraestructura de almacenamiento en frío para los bancos de alimentos que sirven a todos los condados de Pensilvania.
"Es fundamental que convirtamos las lecciones aprendidas a lo largo de la pandemia en acciones significativas que marquen la diferencia en las vidas de los habitantes de Pensilvania", ha declarado la Primera Dama Wolf. "Esta inversión se traducirá en un sistema alimentario mejor, más fuerte y más resistente, lo que se traduce en una mancomunidad mejor, más fuerte y más resistente".
El Programa de Infraestructura de Almacenamiento en Frío para Bancos de Alimentos COVID-19, financiado por el American Rescue Plan, es un programa de subvenciones que permitirá a los bancos de alimentos de Pensilvania comprar, ampliar o mejorar las instalaciones de almacenamiento en frío para garantizar que puedan entregar alimentos frescos a las familias con dificultades. Las compras subvencionables incluyen frigoríficos, neveras, congeladores, remolques frigoríficos y furgonetas de carga, ampliaciones de edificios y mucho más. Este programa afectará a los 67 condados y es esencial para hacer frente a la inseguridad alimentaria y al desperdicio de alimentos.
El programa financiará a los siguientes bancos de alimentos de toda la Commonwealth, mediante una dotación de $11.392.345 a Feeding Pennsylvania:
- Alliance for Nonprofit Resources - 276.000 dólares, al servicio del condado de Butler
- Bucks County Opportunity Council - 55.025 $, al servicio del condado de Bucks
- Banco Central de Alimentos de Pensilvania: 2.585.000 dólares para los condados de 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 y Union.
- Banco de Alimentos del Condado de Chester - 621.005 $, al servicio del Condado de Chester
- Community Food Warehouse of Mercer County - 137.000 $, al servicio del condado de Mercer
- Agencia de Acción Comunitaria del Condado de Fayette - 130.000 dólares, al servicio del Condado de Fayette
- Food for Families - Cambria - 279.000 $, al servicio del condado de Cambria
- Food Helpers - Washington - 346.000 $, al servicio del condado de Washington
- Banco Comunitario de Alimentos de Pittsburgh: 1.241.740 dólares para los condados de Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Greene, Lawrence y Somerset.
- Helping Harvest - Berks/Schuylkill - 1.077.000 $, al servicio de los condados de Berks y Schuylkill
- Programa de Acción Comunitaria del Condado de Indiana - 265.000 dólares, al servicio del Condado de Indiana
- Philabundance: 156.000 dólares para los condados de Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery y Filadelfia.
- Share Food Program : 2.604.000 dólares para los condados de Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery y Filadelfia.
- SHFB de Lehigh Valley y NEPA - 60.900 $, al servicio de los condados de Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton, Pike y Wayne.
- SHFB of Northwest PA - $748,675, sirviendo a los condados de Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Forest, Jefferson, Mckean, Venango y Warren.
- Weinberg NEPA Regional Food Bank - 580.000 dólares, al servicio de los condados de Lackawanna, Luzerne, Susquehanna y Wyoming.
- Banco de alimentos del condado de Westmoreland - 80.000 $, al servicio del condado de Westmoreland
- Banco de alimentos del condado de York - 150.000 dólares, al servicio del condado de York
"En el último año ha quedado muy claro que la inseguridad alimentaria es un grave problema no sólo en la Commonwealth, sino en todo el país. Las inversiones que la Administración Wolf está haciendo en los bancos de alimentos reforzará nuestra capacidad para conseguir alimentos en manos de las personas que más lo necesitan", dijo la senadora Judy Schwank. "Además, ofrecer una gran diversidad de productos alimenticios nutritivos y frescos gracias a las unidades de refrigeración beneficiará enormemente a la salud de los habitantes de Pensilvania".
El gobernador Tom Wolf ha trabajado para apoyar simultáneamente el sistema caritativo de alimentos y la industria agrícola a lo largo de su administración invirtiendo continuamente en programas que conectan los excedentes de alimentos agrícolas con las familias necesitadas y financiando proyectos para disminuir el desperdicio de alimentos. El gobernador Wolf financió por primera vez el Programa del Sistema de Excedentes Agrícolas de Pensilvania en 2015 y desde entonces ha invertido más de 20 millones de dólares para apoyar a los agricultores y a las familias que se enfrentan a la inseguridad alimentaria.
En 2019, se creó el Programa de Subvención de Infraestructura de Recuperación de Alimentos para abordar las necesidades de almacenamiento en frío de los bancos de alimentos y reducir el desperdicio de alimentos frescos. Cuando COVID-19 llegó a Pensilvania en 2020, el gobernador Wolf amplió el programa y aumentó la financiación de $ 4 millones a $ 9,6 millones para garantizar que se cubrieran las necesidades de alimentos. Este Programa de Infraestructura de Almacenamiento en Frío trabajará para satisfacer aún más la amplitud de las necesidades identificadas durante el proceso de revisión del Programa de Infraestructura de Recuperación de Alimentos.
"Alimentar a más familias de Pensilvania requiere aumentar la capacidad de transporte, refrigeración y medidas para garantizar que los alimentos son seguros", dijo el Secretario de Agricultura Russell Redding. "Estas inversiones ayudan a la agricultura de Pensilvania seguir creciendo, alimentar nuestra economía y fortalecer el sistema de alimentos de beneficencia en toda la mancomunidad."
"La red de alimentos de caridad está más que agradecida por esta inversión en nuestros bancos de alimentos y nuestras agencias asociadas como Mary's Shelter para aumentar nuestra capacidad de almacenar y transportar alimentos frescos y congelados", dijo hoy en Reading la Directora Ejecutiva de Feeding Pennsylvania, Jane Clements. "Estamos agradecidos a la Administración Wolf y Liderazgo Demócrata para el reconocimiento de esta necesidad crítica que apoyará a tantos Pennsylvanians inseguridad alimentaria."
El Programa de Subvenciones para Infraestructuras de Almacenamiento en Frío fue defendido por los demócratas de la Cámara de Representantes y el Senado.
"Desde la pandemia, los comedores y despensas locales han compartido conmigo el aumento de la demanda de alimentos y servicios", dijo la diputada Christine Sappey, demócrata de Chester. "El Banco de Alimentos del Condado de Chester sirve como una conexión fundamental en la distribución de bienes donados a las organizaciones locales asociadas en todo el condado, por lo que es importante que tengan la capacidad de garantizar una nutrición segura y saludable llega a las familias que lo necesitan. Esta financiación ayudará al Banco de Alimentos a conseguirlo".
"En el transcurso de esta pandemia, vimos colas de coches de kilómetros de personas que esperaban asistencia alimentaria de nuestros bancos de alimentos locales. Fue un duro recordatorio visual de cuántos de nuestros vecinos viven con inseguridad alimentaria o están a sólo un cheque de pago perdido de distancia de ella", dijo la representante Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny. "Estoy orgullosa de ver que el Gobernador reconoce el papel esencial que desempeñaron los bancos de alimentos para ayudarnos a superar esta pandemia y que se ha comprometido a garantizar que reciban las inversiones necesarias para continuar y ampliar su labor vital en nuestras comunidades."
"Para muchos de nuestros vecinos, no saber cuándo será su próxima comida o de dónde viene es una lucha diaria", dijo el representante Manuel Guzmán, D-Berks. "A medida que la inseguridad alimentaria sigue afectando a más y más de nuestros ciudadanos más vulnerables, es vital adoptar un enfoque proactivo en la lucha contra esta epidemia a través de iniciativas tales como asegurar que nuestros bancos de alimentos locales estén debidamente equipados y financiados. Me enorgullece ver que estos recursos se destinan a una causa tan valiosa y espero explorar vías para ampliar la financiación a todos los bancos de alimentos de la zona."
"Los bancos de alimentos juegan un papel vital en ayudar a los de nuestra comunidad poner comida en la mesa", dijo el representante Kristine Howard, D-Chester. "Al reforzar el almacenamiento de alimentos en frío, los bancos de alimentos pueden centrarse en proporcionar alimentos de calidad y saludables a aquellos que lo necesitan en lugar de preocuparse por si sus donaciones se van a echar a perder."
"En los talones de la pandemia, estoy encantado de que la administración del gobernador Wolf está haciendo esta inversión muy necesaria para ayudar a fortalecer los bancos de alimentos en toda la Commonwealth. Además, el salario mínimo de Pensilvania es lamentablemente inferior a lo que las personas necesitan para llegar a fin de mes", dijo el senador Tim Kearney. "Tener una base sólida para nuestros bancos de alimentos ayudará a asegurar que ninguna persona o familia tenga que elegir entre poner comida en la mesa o pagar otras facturas críticas como el alquiler o los medicamentos recetados."
"Estoy encantado de ver que los fondos ARP se utilizan para financiar infraestructuras de almacenamiento en frío para nuestros bancos de alimentos. Conseguir que estos dólares lleguen a las comunidades que han sido más afectadas no sólo por la pandemia, sino también por factores como la pérdida de transporte público fiable, la falta de opciones saludables disponibles en los barrios y las recesiones económicas que comenzaron mucho antes de 2020 ha sido una enorme prioridad para mí y para todo el Caucus Demócrata del Senado", dijo el senador Lindsey Williams. "Tenemos que gastar este dinero en formas que nos den el mejor retorno de nuestra inversión, y el Programa de Infraestructura de Almacenamiento en Frío es un ejemplo perfecto de cómo hacerlo."
Para más información sobre los esfuerzos de la Administración Wolf para mejorar la seguridad alimentaria en toda la Commonwealth, visite agriculture.pa.gov/foodsecurity.
6 de diciembre de 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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6 de diciembre de 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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6 de diciembre de 2021
READING, 6 de diciembre de 2021 - La senadora estatal Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), presidenta del Comité de Política Demócrata del Senado de Pensilvania, se unió hoy a las senadoras Judy Schwank y Christine Tartaglione para organizar una audiencia pública sobre la evaluación y mejora de los centros de tratamiento de drogas en Pensilvania.
"Los alarmantes índices de abuso de sustancias y sobredosis de drogas se han magnificado a lo largo de la pandemia de COVID-19. Y cuando las personas y sus familias piden ayuda y buscan tratamiento, no disponen de los recursos y la información necesarios para tomar una decisión informada sobre los centros de tratamiento. Las familias de Pensilvania se merecen algo mejor", afirmó el senador Muth. "La audiencia política de hoy permitió a nuestro Comité escuchar a las familias que han perdido trágicamente a sus seres queridos a causa de la adicción, y también nos dio la oportunidad de discutir posibles soluciones legislativas y cambios de política que pueden mejorar el proceso de evaluación y los resultados del tratamiento de los centros de tratamiento de drogas de Pennsylvania. Los datos de las encuestas sobre los resultados de los pacientes deberían guiar los planes de tratamiento, no las compañías de seguros que a menudo deniegan la cobertura de los cuidados necesarios para una recuperación satisfactoria."
Pensilvania tiene una de las tasas más altas de sobredosis de drogas del país y las muertes por sobredosis de drogas han aumentado en 46 de los 67 condados de Pensilvania durante la pandemia de COVID-19. El Centro Nacional de Estadísticas de Salud del Centro de Control de Enfermedades indicó que hubo más de 100.000 muertes por sobredosis de drogas en los Estados Unidos durante el período de 12 meses que finalizó en abril de 2021, un aumento del 28,5% con respecto al año anterior.
"Debemos replantearnos nuestro enfoque para abordar adecuadamente la actual epidemia de opiáceos, y una forma de hacerlo es fijarnos en los centros de tratamiento de la drogadicción. Las personas que dan el paso crucial de buscar tratamiento para la adicción necesitan tener acceso a toda la información que necesitan para tomar la decisión correcta para sus circunstancias particulares", dijo Schwank. "Esta audiencia nos ha brindado la oportunidad de aprender directamente de las personas afectadas por la adicción, de los proveedores de tratamiento y de los reguladores estatales. Nos dará la oportunidad de comprender mejor qué factores hacen que el tratamiento farmacológico sea más eficaz."
El senador Schwank ha presentado dos proyectos de ley - Proyecto de Ley del Senado 975 y Proyecto de Ley del Senado 976 - para hacer frente a los problemas con los centros de tratamiento de drogas de Pennsylvania y hogares de recuperación. Proyecto de ley del Senado 975 requeriría que el Departamento de Programas de Drogas y Alcohol de Pensilvania (DDAP) para distribuir una encuesta anual a todos los centros de tratamiento de trastornos por uso de sustancias y hogares de recuperación que operan en PA, registro, y publicar en línea para el acceso público las respuestas proporcionadas por los centros de tratamiento y hogares de recuperación. El proyecto de ley 976 del Senado prohibiría a cualquier centro de tratamiento de Pensilvania negarse a admitir a cualquier persona que se presente en un centro de tratamiento solicitando servicios médicos o psicológicos para tratar un trastorno por consumo de sustancias, incluso si la persona se encuentra bajo los efectos de las drogas o el alcohol en el momento en que se presenta. También prohibiría a cualquier compañía de seguros médicos que opere en Pensilvania negarse a cubrir la admisión y la prestación de servicios médicos y psicológicos.
"Hoy ha sido un paso crucial para abordar la crisis que es la adicción, y el fracaso del tratamiento que la rodea", dijo Tartaglione. "Los cambios demográficos de la adicción y las sobredosis nos muestran que no hay comunidad en esta mancomunidad que no haya sido tocada por su devastación, desde Erie a Philly y Allentown a Pittsburgh, los demócratas del Senado de PA se dedican a mejorar y ampliar los servicios de tratamiento de la adicción ofrecidos."
La Comisión de Política Demócrata del Senado escuchó a varios panelistas en el Reading Area Community College, entre los que se encontraban representantes de la Opioid Crisis Action Network, el Self-Help Movement, la Caron Foundation, el Council on Chemical Abuse y el Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs.
Todos los testimonios presentados en la audiencia de hoy y el vídeo completo están disponibles en SenatorMuth.com/Policy
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Testimonio
Panel 1: Personas afectadas
Panel 2: Proveedores de asistencia
Panel 3: Soluciones políticas
December 3, 2021
Reading − December 3, 2021 − Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district), Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-126th) and Rep. Manny Guzman (D-127th) applauded today’s awarding of $7.5 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) funding by Gov. Tom Wolf and the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget in support of the construction of new facilities at FirstEnergy Stadium.
In December of 2020, Major League Baseball (MLB) contracted and consolidated its affiliations with minor league baseball franchises. Reading was offered a license, which maintained its affiliation with the Philadelphia Phillies MLB franchise. As part of the new Minor League Baseball (MiLB) license agreements, improvements must be made to stadium facilities at all minor league baseball venues within the next two years. Improvements needed at FirstEnergy Stadium include, among other things, the construction of home and away team clubhouses and new player practice and training facilities.
“Losing the Reading Fightin Phils was never an option and keeping the team in Reading has been one of my top economic development priorities,” Schwank said. “Officials from the state, county and local level were all on the same page and acted quickly and with urgency to find funding. We really worked together, and across party lines, to get this done. The R-Phils have a storied history in Berks County as the longest-running minor league affiliate in professional baseball. People who grew up going to games now take their own kids to the ballpark. We would have lost a piece of our heritage, our identity as a community and sustained a significant hit to our regional economy. I’m deeply grateful to Gov. Wolf for understanding this team’s role as a crucial driver of economic activity and a source of community identity. Team Owner Craig Stein, General Manager Scott Hunsicker the entire R-Phils staff deserve a lot of credit for working tirelessly to ensure that baseball town continues to have a hometown team.”
“My priority has always been to protect the legacy and tradition of the Reading Phillies,” Rozzi said. “I am proud to bring home the funding necessary to support our mission of preserving FirstEnergy Stadium as the premier minor league ballpark in the country. It is my honor to keep one of the greatest organizations, the Fightin Phils, right where it belongs, here in Reading.”
“Like the pinstripes on their jerseys, the Reading Phillies are stitched into the fabric of our community,” Guzman said. “Generations of families have made it a tradition to visit this historic ballpark and root for their home team. I am so grateful this tradition and the memories that come with it will remain steadfast here in Reading.”
Funding from the state is in conjunction with dollars put forward by R-Phils ownership and funding promised by Berks County and the City of Reading. More details about the plans for the stadium and funding will be made public in the coming weeks.
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November 19, 2021
Reading, PA – November 19, 2021 – Berks County State Legislators announced three Greater Reading Area projects received a total of $1,352,687 in grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community of Economic Development’s (DCED) Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA).
Governor Mifflin School District was awarded a $620,000 Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF) grant for Secondary Campus Transportation Improvements. Mifflin will use the grant to update and improve S Waverly Street, the main access point to the district’s Middle School and High School. The project will include updating crosswalks, sidewalks, implementing traffic-calming measures, and constructing a new entrance. The street improvements are an integral part of the plan to build the new Governor Mifflin Community Center.
“This is just one piece of a much larger project Governor Mifflin has taken on,” Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) said. “When I met with school district administrators about the plans for a new facility and what it would mean not only for students, but the entire community, it was clear to me this project was worthy of support. The safety improvements to Waverly Street will ensure an already busy street is capable of accommodating the increased traffic it will see when the facility is constructed and help keep students and faculty safe.”
“Competition for Multimodal Transportation Program grants is always very strong,” Rep. Mark Gillen (R-128th district) said. “I commend Governor Mifflin School District officials for developing a successful grant proposal, which included input from the community, and which will greatly improve safety through the school complex. These state grant funds will complement the significant investment the district is making in its school campus construction project, which will pay dividends for the Governor Mifflin community for many decades to come.”
The City of Reading received $600,000 for the 18th Ward Bicycle Pedestrian Trail Project. The funding will improve and connect bicycle trails and is a piece of the ongoing 18th Wonder Revitalization Association plan announced in 2017.
“Trails and spaces residents can use for outdoor recreational activities make our community healthier and give us all an opportunity to enjoy the scenery of Berks County,” Schwank said. “The ongoing improvements taking place in the 18th ward ensure that the needs of residents are met. I’m grateful the commonwealth sees the value in this project.”
“It’s been an honor to work with the community and business leaders of the 18th Ward and the 18th Wonder Community Association,” Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-126th district) said. We set a vision for the area and I am thrilled to see it coming to fruition. This is a huge addition for residents and visitors of the area!”
City of Reading Mayor Eddie Morán also touted the importance of the project and thanked Schwank for supporting the city’s grant application.
“I am tremendously grateful to Senator Schwank for helping the City of Reading secure this grant,” said Morán. “Connectivity and accessibility for all is a priority for me. Upon completing this project, we will have new ADA ramps, a pedestrian and bike trail, better signage, and other enhancements, ensuring the 18th Ward and Oakbrook community can safely perform their daily tasks with the option to use alternative transportation. Our goal continues to be to make Reading a better place to live, learn, work and play.”
The CFA also approved Act 13 Programs grants at today’s board meeting. The Borough of Fleetwood was awarded $132,687 in Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program (GTRP) grant funding. The money will be used to construct a new bandshell, seated area covering, American’s With Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant pathways and new landscaping at Fleetwood Park.
“When Fleetwood officials realized the existing bandshell was structurally compromised, they quickly acted to and moved forward with a plan to replace it,” Schwank said. “The bandshell has been a central feature in the Fleetwood community for years and has been home to countless event that bring people together. The new and improved bandshell will be structurally sound, safe and provided expanded coverage so events don’t have to be canceled due to rain.”
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November 15, 2021
Reading, PA – November 15 – State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) will host a telephone town hall on Thursday, November 18 at 7 P.M. on fraud prevention.
The event will give constituents an opportunity to ask questions they may have about how to protect themselves from credit card scams, identity theft and other common schemes.
Entre los invitados figurarán:
- Lucas Miller, Pennsylvania State Inspector General
- John Adams, Berks County District Attorney
- Sarah E. Frasch, Chief Deputy Attorney General and Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection
To sign up for the telephone town hall or submit a question, visit www.senatorschwank.com/telephone-townhall. You can also sign up to attend by texting SENSCHWANK to 833-898-5483.
For more information, please call 610-929-2151.
4 de noviembre de 2021
HARRISBURG, 4 de noviembre de 2021 - La senadora estatal Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), presidenta del Comité de Política Demócrata del Senado de Pensilvania, se unió hoy a los senadores estatales Sharif Street (D-Filadelfia), Anthony Williams (D-Filadelfia/Delaware) y Judy Schwank (D-Berks) para organizar una audiencia pública virtual sobre la necesidad de poner fin a la libertad condicional de por vida en Pensilvania.
"Estamos gastando demasiados recursos como estado en el seguimiento de violaciones no violentas y técnicas de la libertad condicional en lugar de centrar nuestros esfuerzos en mejorar y ampliar los programas de reinserción y los recursos para asegurar que aquellos que han cumplido su condena tengan la oportunidad de prosperar y tener éxito", dijo Muth. "Tenemos que poner fin al castigo ineficaz del ciclo de prisión y libertad condicional. Las investigaciones demuestran que las condenas a cadena perpetua en libertad condicional no mejoran la seguridad pública ni disminuyen la delincuencia. Nuestro estado tiene el mayor número de personas en libertad condicional y la mayor tasa de supervisión de la libertad condicional en el país. Los contribuyentes de Pensilvania están pagando por este inútil mecanismo de control indefinido que impacta negativamente en las vidas de personas que están tratando de establecer sus vidas de una manera positiva y productiva."
El Comité de Política Democrática del Senado escuchó el apoyo de los testigos para la legislación redactada que propone poner fin a las sentencias de libertad condicional de por vida en Pennsylvania. La propuesta de Sunset de Libertad Condicional y Libertad Condicional Ley limitaría las penas de libertad condicional a seis años y permitir una vía para una reducción de esa sentencia a tres años mediante la creación de un sistema para reducir la duración de una sentencia de libertad condicional por 30 días por cada 30 días que la persona va sin una violación de la libertad condicional.
"Pensilvania tiene demasiadas personas bajo supervisión, estamos a la cabeza del país en este aspecto. La supervisión masiva y el encarcelamiento masivo están inextricablemente vinculados. La libertad condicional y la libertad bajo palabra tenían por objeto reducir el número de personas que encarcelamos. Pero dados los abusos y la forma en que ha evolucionado el sistema, ahora está alimentando el encarcelamiento masivo", dijo Street. "Aprecio la humanidad de los testigos y defensores de hoy por presentar ideas en torno a la política para solucionar esto. Es un imperativo moral que no encarcelemos ni supervisemos en exceso. También es un imperativo fiscal que el gobierno administre bien el dinero de los contribuyentes. En última instancia, las personas a las que pagamos por hacer este trabajo tendrán una vida más plena, al igual que las que están bajo supervisión constante".
En la audiencia participaron tres residentes de Pensilvania afectados por la libertad condicional: Megan French-Marceilin, Color of Change; Reuben Jones, Dignity and Power Now; Insha Rahman, Vera Institute for Justice; y Nicole Porter, Sentencing Project.
"Es inaceptable que los miembros de nuestras comunidades, que han cumplido el tiempo asignado para los delitos por los que fueron condenados, se enfrenten a una interminable condena de libertad condicional tras su puesta en libertad. Esto no hace que nuestras comunidades sean más seguras ni reduce la reincidencia, sino exactamente lo contrario. Permite que personas inocentes vuelvan a la cárcel por violar técnicamente las condiciones de su libertad condicional, pero sin cometer nuevos delitos", añadió Williams. "Esto no es justicia, y debemos poner fin a esta práctica sistémicamente injusta que da lugar a una costosa e indebida puerta giratoria desde nuestras comunidades de vuelta al sistema penitenciario".
Según un informe de Human Rights Watch, Pensilvania tiene la tasa más alta de libertad condicional del país, y en 2016, más personas fueron enviadas a centros correccionales estatales por violaciones de la libertad condicional que por cualquier otro delito.
"Como muchos estados, Pensilvania no ha dado los pasos necesarios para mejorar la equidad de nuestro sistema de justicia penal. Cada vez más, la gente empieza a darse cuenta de que encerrar a la gente no siempre es la mejor respuesta a los problemas de la sociedad. Lo que podemos hacer es invertir en las personas y ofrecer a todos la oportunidad de corregir sus errores y desarrollar todo su potencial", declaró Schwank. "Este excelente grupo de testigos compartió de manera muy poderosa cómo podemos hacer esto en Pensilvania y por qué es importante que actuemos ahora".
Según la Prison Policy Initiative, aproximadamente dieciséis estados han abolido o reducido la libertad condicional discrecional. La mayoría de los estados tienen desde un sistema de libertad condicional presunta -cuando se cumplen determinadas condiciones, la libertad condicional está garantizada- hasta políticas y prácticas que dificultan enormemente la obtención de la libertad.
"El testimonio escuchado esta mañana pone en evidencia el diseño oneroso y cruel del actual sistema de libertad condicional - un sistema que está funcionando precisamente como fue diseñado para extender el castigo carcelario a través de grilletes invisibles", dijo Megan French-Marcelin, PhD, Directora de Campaña para la Justicia Penal de Color of Change. "Si supiéramos que más de la mitad de las personas en las prisiones estatales están allí por violaciones de la libertad condicional, podríamos reducir la población carcelaria a la mitad - acabando así con la separación familiar y fomentando la estabilidad socioeconómica de las familias y las comunidades."
Todos los testimonios presentados en la audiencia de hoy y el vídeo completo están disponibles en SenatorMuth.com/Policy
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Testimonio
Panel 1: Personas directamente afectadas condenadas a cadena perpetua
Panel 2: Política
Panel 3: Expertos nacionales
4 de noviembre de 2021
Reading, PA − November 4, 2021 − Yesterday, State Senator Judy Schwank (D-11th district) toured and met with the staff at the Berks Women, Infant and Children (WIC) Nutrition Center at 1110 C Rockland Street, Reading, PA 19604.
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. Through WIC, pregnant women, mothers, and caregivers of infants and young children learn about good nutrition to keep themselves and their families healthy. All WIC services are free to women, infants and children who are Pennsylvania residents, at nutritional risk and meet the income guidelines.
The 100 percent federally funded program is the cornerstone for producing a healthy mother and baby. However, PA’s WIC program has been in decline for many years, despite a critical need for the program to grow, evolve, and connect families with a broad array of social, mental, education and other healthy support programs.
“The opportunity I had to meet with that staff members who deliver this resource to our community everyday was invaluable,” Schwank said. “The staff shared some great ideas with me on how we can grow WIC and make sure we are engaged with the people that could benefit most from this service. I’m not sure everyone knows this is available, so spreading the word is vital. A person’s income should never decide the quality of care they receive, especially not babies and children. I’m a firm believer that all children deserve a healthy start. I look forward to continuing to work with the dedicated team at WIC and will support them in any way I can in the state legislature.”
For more information on the WIC program and information on how to apply, call 1-800-WIC-WINS. You can also apply online at www.pawic.com/OnlineApplication.aspx.
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November 1, 2021
Reading, PA- November 1, 2021- Today, State Senator Judy Schwank (D-11th district) and Berks County District Attorney John Adams announced the beginning of the Pardon Project of Berks County.
Pardon Projects pair individuals seeking a pardon for a past crime with a pardon coach. Pardon coaches help applicants tell their stories and walk them through the application process free of charge. Anyone looking to volunteer can become a pardon coach by attending a training session.
Since 2019, eight out of 10 applicants have received a hearing before the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons. Governor Tom Wolf approves over 95% of applications recommended by the board.
“Pardon Project has the potential to be a game-changer in Berks County,” Schwank said. “As soon as I learned about the possibility of implementing something like this here in our community, I knew it could make a difference in a lot of people’s lives. Having a record can make it difficult for people who just want to move on with their lives to land a job or receive the occupational license they need. Pardon Project removes the unnecessary barriers to success people face and rewards them for doing the right thing.”
Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity (PLSE) Pardon Project Director Tobey Oxholm has been working to establish projects in counties across Pennsylvania. Oxholm contacted Schwank’s office in the Spring of 2021 about convening a Pardon Project presentation for key community groups and elected officials in Berks County. The presentation took place in early June. Oxholm has applauded how quickly the Berks County Pardon Project steering committee got up to speed.
“Over the past year, I have been working in a dozen counties across Pennsylvania to help set up Pardon Projects,” said Oxholm. “None, not one, has moved as quickly from idea to action as the one in Berks County. What’s been achieved here in record time shows the rest of the state just what is possible when a whole community comes together in common cause to help their own. I applaud Senator Schwank and all who have been working with her to make this day possible.”
Oxholm also noted that only 29 people living in Berks County submitted applications for pardon review last year.
Adams was a leading member of the steering committee tasked with establishing Pardon Project and played a crucial role in determining the eligibility guidelines for applicants.
“The burden of a criminal record can handicap individuals from obtaining employment, professional licenses, housing and many other things,” Adams said. “Pardon Project will assist people who have established a proven track record as law-abiding, productive members of our community an opportunity to obtain relief from the burden of a criminal record. Pardon Project will help those candidates apply for a pardon from the Pennsylvania Board of Pardon if they can demonstrate true remorse and change. This will be beneficial not only to the individuals seeking a pardon but in the long run, will benefit our entire community.”
Pardon Project will be overseen by Berks Connections / Pretrial Services (BCPS). The program will launch initially with a selected group of participants and pardon coaches to pilot the program and assure the process runs smoothly. As the program grows, BCPS will work with non-profits, colleges, universities, churches and other institutions to establish pardon hubs throughout Berks County.
“We have witnessed firsthand how someone’s criminal history can hinder their success long after they have completed their sentence,” said Nicole Schnovel, Co-Executive Director of BCPS. “BCPS is thrilled to coordinate the efforts of the Pardon Project of Berks County and serve as the official Pardon Hub. It a natural extension of our Life Improvement Business and we look forward to being able to offer this service to the community!”
BCPS provides pretrial services and programs for individuals re-entering society and has been leading the effort to implement a Pardon Project in Berks County since Oxholm’s presentation in June.
Brandon Flood, who was appointed as Secretary of the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons in 2019, knows first-hand how a criminal record can hinder success. Flood had his own prior conviction forgiven by the board and Gov. Wolf just weeks before taking the position. Flood spoke at the event and touted the promises of the project.
“Applying for a pardon in Pennsylvania is easier than it’s ever been,” Flood said. “The Berks County Pardon Project will in essence serve as an extension of our office by ensuring that prospective pardon applicants in Berks County are provided with the tools and resources that they need in order to confidently navigate the executive clemency process. The fine residents of Berks County have both Senator Schwank and the project coordinators to thank for this vitally important development.”
Although lawyers are not needed to apply for a pardon, they often volunteer as pardon coaches. The Berks County Bar Association coordinated the first Berks County pardon coach training session and contacted local lawyers about participating.
“Our members are proud to volunteer their skills for this collaborative effort to remove barriers blocking far too many from better jobs and from contributing to our community,” said Bar Association President Justin D. Bodor. “Attorneys are uniquely qualified to help balance the scales for individuals who have earned a second chance. And the Bar Association is truly grateful for the unwavering support and guidance provided by Sen. Schwank and District Attorney Adams as we embark on this new initiative together.”
It’s not just attorneys that recognize the potential impact a pardon can have on someone’s life. Magisterial District Judge Tonya Butler has voiced support for Pardon Project and served as a member of the steering committee.
“The Pardon Project of Berks County represents hope and opportunity for these members of our society who will no longer be held back due to a criminal record,” said Butler. “In my experience, many ex-offenders have already made positive impacts in our community and need to be able to realize their full potential.”
As Pardon Project gets up and running, eventually, BCPS will look to help establish pardon hubs throughout Berks County. Pardon hubs increase access to pardon information and coaches. Reading Area Community College (RACC) is one local institution that has express interest in becoming a pardon hub.
“Education can be a gateway to social and economic mobility,” said Dr. Susan Looney, President of RACC. “Providing access, opportunity, excellence and hope to those willing to commit to a fresh start is a critical and essential community investment strategy.”
Individuals who would like to be paired with a pardon coach are encouraged to contact BCPS at PardonMeBerks@bcpsreentry.org. Individuals who are interested in volunteering as Pardon Coaches can contact BCPS at BerksPardonCoach@bcpsreentry.org.
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October 22, 2021
Harrisburg – October 22, 2021 – This week Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) and Sen. Elder Vogel (R-47th district) announced plans to introduce legislation that 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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October 18, 2021
Harrisburg, PA – October 18, 2021 – State Senator Judy Schwank (D-11th district) introduced an amendment to SB 224 that would authorize Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) recipients to obtain teaching certifications in Pennsylvania.
SB 224 removes barriers teachers from out of state face when trying to obtain a teaching certification in Pennsylvania to help address the commonwealth’s ongoing teacher shortage. Schwank’s amendment also seeks to address the teacher shortage by allowing DACA recipients to teach in Pennsylvania.
“We all know about the teacher shortage. It’s a big problem, and even though I support SB 224, I don’t think this legislation alone will get us where we need to be,” Schwank said. “We are trying to fix the teacher shortage by importing teachers from other states while we have people who are already living in Pennsylvania who are ready, willing, and capable of teaching in our schools, but we aren’t letting them. That doesn’t make sense to me. We should be doing both.”
Schwank also noted that DACA recipients who want to teach often join Teach for America or relocate to neighboring states.
“Young teachers who grew up in Pennsylvania and want to go back into the communities they call home and make a difference are being pushed away. These are individuals with college degrees and all the necessary qualifications. The only thing holding them back is where they were born, which they had no control over. Not to mention, in addition to the teacher shortage, we are also struggling with a real lack of diversity among our teachers which has real consequences.”
Numerous studies have found that students perform better in the classroom when their teacher is a racial or ethnic match. According to The Education Trust, a national non-profit working to close the diversity gap in schools, 12.1 percent of Pennsylvania students are Latino while only 1.1 percent of teachers are.
The amendment failed by a vote of 21-27. SB 224 passed unanimously and is now headed to the Pennsylvania House or Representatives.
5 de octubre de 2021
HARRISBURG, 5 de octubre de 2021 - La senadora estatal Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), presidenta del Comité de Política Demócrata del Senado de Pensilvania, se unió hoy a las senadoras estatales Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-Montgomery/Delaware) y Judy Schwank (D-Berks) para organizar una audiencia pública virtual sobre la necesidad de adaptaciones laborales para las embarazadas de Pensilvania. Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-Montgomery / Delaware) y Judy Schwank (D-Berks) para acoger una audiencia pública virtual sobre la necesidad de adaptaciones en el lugar de trabajo para las embarazadas de Pensilvania.
"Las estadísticas muestran que las mujeres constituyen aproximadamente la mitad de la población activa, y que las mujeres trabajadoras son el principal o único sostén económico del 40% de las familias estadounidenses. Aún así, las mujeres se enfrentan a obstáculos en el lugar de trabajo que ponen en peligro su capacidad para mantener a sus familias, como la discriminación por embarazo y la negativa de un empresario a conceder a una empleada una solicitud razonable de adaptaciones menores temporales", dijo Muth. "El proyecto de ley 716 del Senado es una legislación de sentido común que protegería a las mujeres embarazadas de Pensilvania y espero que la audiencia de hoy haya llamado la atención sobre estas adaptaciones tan necesarias en el lugar de trabajo."
El Comité de Política escuchó el apoyo de los ponentes al proyecto de ley 716 del Senado, presentado por el senador Cappelletti, que considera ilegal que un empresario rechace la solicitud de un empleado de una adaptación razonable, a menos que ello suponga una carga excesiva para el empresario.
"La audiencia de hoy ilustró lo necesarias que son las protecciones del proyecto de ley 716 del Senado para las embarazadas de Pensilvania", dijo Cappelletti. "Las personas embarazadas no deberían tener que elegir entre un cheque de pago y un embarazo saludable, especialmente cuando se pueden hacer cambios pequeños y razonables para acomodar a las trabajadoras embarazadas mientras se mantiene un ambiente de trabajo saludable y productivo."
Participaron en la audiencia Marianne Fray, directora ejecutiva de Maternity Care Coalition; Sophia Elliot, becaria jurídica de Women's Law Project; Kerin Kohler, trabajadora social de Women's Health Center; y Myra Taylor, miembro de SEIU, enfermera titulada de Allegheny General Hospital.
"Los problemas a los que nos enfrentamos en materia de adaptaciones laborales para las mujeres embarazadas no son nuevos. Como señalaron nuestros testigos, demasiadas mujeres sufren discriminación por embarazo en el lugar de trabajo y, de forma desproporcionada, suelen ser mujeres de color. Negar a las mujeres embarazadas adaptaciones sencillas y de sentido común puede dar lugar a complicaciones de salud a largo plazo y obligar a las mujeres a abandonar el mercado laboral", añadió Schwank. "La promulgación de la SB 716 es una medida no controvertida que debería haberse adoptado hace tiempo y que ya no obligará a las mujeres a elegir entre su salud y un sueldo".
Según el proyecto de ley, algunas adaptaciones razonables son proporcionar descanso periódico o una silla a un empleado que permanezca de pie durante un largo periodo de tiempo, ayuda para levantar objetos pesados, acceso a agua potable, tiempo de descanso no compensado y reestructuración temporal del puesto de trabajo. Además, la legislación prohibirá a los empresarios negar oportunidades de empleo a los empleados basándose en su solicitud de adaptaciones.
"Cuando un empresario niega a una persona embarazada adaptaciones razonables -como un
Para Sophia Elliot, del Women's Law Project, "el SB 716 garantiza que los empresarios protejan la seguridad y promuevan la igualdad de un segmento importante y crítico de la mano de obra, pero al mismo tiempo este proyecto de ley no impone dificultades indebidas a ningún empresario". "El SB 716 garantiza que los empleadores protejan la seguridad y promuevan la igualdad de un segmento crítico y amplio de la mano de obra, pero por la misma razón este proyecto de ley no impone una dificultad indebida a ningún empleador."
En la actualidad, doce estados han aprobado leyes que obligan a las empresas a realizar ajustes razonables para las empleadas embarazadas.
"El número de demandas por discriminación en el embarazo presentadas anualmente ante la Comisión para la Igualdad de Oportunidades en el Empleo no ha dejado de aumentar desde hace dos décadas", declaró Marianne Fray, directora general de Maternity Care Coalition. "La discriminación por embarazo afecta a todas las personas que dan a luz, pero afecta de manera desproporcionada a las mujeres de color, muchas de las cuales están representadas en empleos de bajos ingresos."
Todos los testimonios presentados en la audiencia de hoy y el vídeo completo están disponibles en SenatorMuth.com/Policy
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Testimonio
September 27, 2021
Harrisburg, PA − September 27, 2021 − The Co-Chairs of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus again calls on their colleagues and the citizens of Pennsylvania to support the #OptInPA Campaign, a movement to help birthing people and improve maternal health across the state with policies that would ensure families have a healthy start for newborn Pennsylvanians.
Once a Pennsylvanian is born, their new parents need to have the resources available to give the newborn a safe, healthy life that will have a successful and happy outcome. The goals of this campaign ensure just that.
The #OptInPA campaign is motivated by two goals:
- Highlighting Pennsylvania’s need for holistic, extended postpartum coverage, specifically as it pertains to families that participate in Medical Assistance;
- Gaining public support for the program to implement its permanent extension through action at Pennsylvania’s executive level.
Maternal mortality is a crisis in Pennsylvania that has been climbing over the last few years. It is driven by inequities in healthcare coverage. An estimated 1 in 10,000 women and birthing individuals, including 1 in 5,000 black birthing people are dying after childbirth. Fifty-eight percent of those deaths occurred between 42 and 365 days after delivery, beyond the standard 60 days of Medical Assistance (MA) coverage for pregnant people in Pennsylvania. In addition, 53 percent of the cases of maternal death between 2013 and 2018 affected birthing parents who were enrolled in Medical Assistance when they delivered.
This policy change can be transformative for Pennsylvania’s new parents. It is within the power of the executive branch to permanently extended this expansion, which is the ultimate goal of this campaign.
Legislators must focus on policies like #OptInPA, rather than wasting time and energy on policies which have the proven effect of increasing maternal mortality rates. Our work is done best when we are working to solve problems and improve everyone’s access to healthcare. We ask our allies in this fight to continue to voice their support for #OptInPA and other measures that will increase access to healthcare and lead to positive outcomes for Pennsylvania’s families.
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