Senator Schwank Proposes Naming “My Home Pennsylvania” as Official State Song

March 6, 2025

State Sen. Judy Schwank has issued a co-sponsor memorandum for legislation to designate “My Home Pennsylvania,” an original song by Berks County native Dave Kline, as the official state song of Pennsylvania.

Schwank said the light-hearted gesture would be an honor for Berks County and highlight the region’s rich musical tradition. She added that she believes the song’s bluegrass and folk style will resonate with communities across the commonwealth.

“This is something we can all feel good about and rally behind,” Schwank said. “Many in our region know Dave Kline and The Mountain Folk Band, but this song has been performed throughout the commonwealth. It’s a charming tribute to Pennsylvania, and I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting this effort to make ‘My Home Pennsylvania’ one of our official state songs.”

You can listen to “My Home Pennsylvania” by Dave Kline and The Mountain Folk Band here.

Senator Schwank Secures Additional $1 Million for Antietam School District’s Stoney Creek Elementary School Project

February 25, 2025

Reading, PA — February 25, 2025 — Yesterday evening, Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, attended an Antietam School District board meeting to announce an additional $1 million in state funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Education to support flood recovery efforts.

Since severe flooding hit Antietam Middle-Senior High School in July 2023, Schwank has worked diligently with the Shapiro administration and Pennsylvania Senate leadership to secure funding to help the district rebuild. The funding will go toward Stony Creek Elementary School, which will house K-3 students.

“It remains critically important to me that the Antietam School District has the support it needs to serve students now and well into the future,” Schwank said. “The district has made tremendous progress overcoming a difficult period and is working toward a permanent recovery. I will continue to do my part to support Antietam students and the people working tirelessly to ensure they receive the quality education they deserve.”

“It is no secret that the current undertaking of constructing a new building for our youngest Mounts at Stony Creek is a difficult one,” Antietam School District Superintendent Dr. Timothy Matlack said in a statement. “Without the robust business base that many other districts around the county enjoy, the homeowners of Mount Penn Borough and Lower Alsace Township shoulder a great deal in helping to provide an education for the 1,100 learners we serve. This is the primary driving factor behind so much of the work we have done to try to secure grant funds to offset the financial impact to our families and residents. Thanks to Senator Schwank’s advocacy efforts on our behalf, I am thrilled that an additional $1 million in grant funding will be added to the little more than $10 million that has been secured thus far.”

Antietam previously received $7.8 million in grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Public School Environmental Repairs Program and $2.5 million from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Public Schools Facility Improvement Grant Program. 

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Schwank and Guzman Announce $850,000 for Penn Square Redevelopment Project

February 24, 2025

Reading, PA — February 24, 2025 — Today, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr. (D-Berks) announced $850,000 in Multimodal Transportation Fund grant funding for Philly Office Retail’s Penn Square Redevelopment Project.

The funding will go toward new ADA-accessible sidewalks, pedestrian lighting, planters, street trees, bicycle racks and benches at the corners of Fifth and Penn Street. The project is part of a larger effort to redevelop five historic properties along Penn Street, including the former Farmers National Bank Building.

The funding comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, which supports projects that improve streetscapes, lighting, sidewalks, pedestrian safety, connectivity, and transit-oriented development.

Schwank and Guzman touted the award and the project’s strategic importance to the City of Reading’s economic future.

“This project is at the very center of our city and plays right into the ongoing redevelopment of downtown Reading,” Schwank said. “I believe we all want to see Penn Street thrive and become a driver of new economic opportunity for Reading and Berks County. We need to do whatever we can to support bold, forward-thinking projects like this one to make that happen, and that is what we’ve done today by securing this award.”

“I am excited to welcome these grants that will support pedestrian protection, creating pedestrian-safe roads in our city.” Guzman said. “Infrastructure development is a critical component for economic growth. Now as a proud member of the House Transportation Committee I feel even more committed and equipped to help improve the quality of the infrastructure and transportation systems in our community. I am advocating for more efficient and accessible systems and structures for all users.”

Other projects awarded in the 11th Senatorial District include:

ReFined Plastics, LLC — $250,000 for the Titus Station Rail Line Upgrade Phase 2 project.

Spring Township — $250,000 for the Harvard Boulevard Curb Replacement and ADA Ramp Installation project. 

City of Reading — $200,000 for the Skyline Drive Improvements project.

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Schwank & Rusnock Applaud Environmental Grant for Mount Penn Borough Municipal Authority

February 11, 2025

February 11, 2025 − Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced that the Mount Penn Borough Municipal Authority received $231,361 in Growing Greener grant funding.

Growing Greener is a funding program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The program invests state dollars in projects that conserve open spaces, restore water quality, improve outdoor recreational areas, and promote environmental stewardship.

The funding will support stormwater corrections and the creation of a constructed wetland at Crystal Lake in Carsonia Park. The project also includes the creation of an outdoor classroom for local schools.

Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Jacklyn Rusnock (D-Berks) applauded the funding and congratulated the MPBMA on submitting a strong proposal.

“This was a long time coming for the folks at the MPBMA as they’ve worked tirelessly to protect the community’s water supply and preserve an area of historical importance,” Schwank said. “This is an important project that will provide long-term benefits to the municipal authority, its customers, and nearby residents for years to come.”

“This is a great example of how state funding can address local environmental challenges while improving an important recreational area that so many nearby residents enjoy,” Rusnock said. “I’m proud to support this project, the many environmental and educational benefits it will deliver to our community, and the MPBMA’s dedication to advancing this crucial work.” 

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Four Senate Democratic Lawmakers Unveil Legislative Package to Improve Foster Care and Child Protection Systems

January 29, 2025

Harrisburg, PA – January 29, 2025 − Members of the Democratic Caucus have introduced a package of bills designed to tackle systemic issues within Pennsylvania’s foster care and child protection systems. The proposed legislation prioritizes the well-being of children, families and caseworkers by advancing equity and accessibility in foster and adoption services.

The sponsors of the bill package, State Senators Maria Collett, Judy Schwank, Carolyn Comitta and Patty Kim, worked diligently to craft legislation that addresses the urgent needs of Pennsylvania’s foster care and child protection systems.

“As an attorney who advocated for children’s rights, I know how important it is that those entering the child protection system can access the services and supports they need – and that government inefficiencies aren’t hindering their wellbeing,” said Collett, Democratic Chair of Aging & Youth. “By establishing the Children’s Cabinet and reforming the county licensing process, my legislation will ensure our state and county agencies work more collaboratively and effectively to protect Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable population.”

Schwank added, “Kin care is a safe alternative to foster care that takes pressure off the foster care system and provides children with a familiar, supportive living arrangement. To improve foster care in Pennsylvania, making commonsense changes to remove non-safety-related barriers family members must navigate before getting kinship care certified is a necessary and important step.”

The package features five key bills:

  • Creation of a Children’s Cabinet (Collett, Maria): This legislation establishes a Children’s Cabinet to ensure collaboration across departments and align priorities to improve outcomes for children and families.
  • Licensing of County Child Welfare Agencies (Collett, Maria): Another bill from Sen. Collett focuses on improving collaboration between the Department of Human Services (DHS) and counties by reforming the licensing process to reflect federal outcomes such as timely investigations and enhanced family engagement.
  • Kin Care Support Policy (Schwank, Judy): To expand kinship care opportunities, this bill reduces barriers for relatives to become certified foster parents and allows young adults, ages 18 and older, to care for related children in need.
  • Protections for LGBTQ Foster and Adoptive Parents (Comitta, Carolyn): This legislation prohibits discrimination against foster and adoptive parents based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, ensuring a fair and inclusive system for all.
  • Addressing Staffing Shortages in Child Welfare (Kim, Patty): To address critical workforce shortages, this bill introduces student loan forgiveness for social workers.

“Thousands of Pennsylvania children who are in foster care or awaiting adoption deserve access to a system that works efficiently, effectively, and fairly in placing them in safe, supportive, and loving homes,” said Comitta. “For their sake, all qualified and eligible individuals deserve to be considered as potential foster and adoption parents regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or other factors.”

“Child welfare workers play a vital role in supporting our youth that may be in a vulnerable and often life-threatening situation,” Kim said. “Our case workers are the backbone and often the last resort in addressing foster youths’ safety concerns and in helping connect families with resources. Through their thankless work, lives are changed for the better. One of my priorities is to support the workers who support our communities, and I am proud to be part of this critical effort to help sustain and grow our child welfare workforce.”

The Democratic Caucus remains committed in its mission to ensure that every child in Pennsylvania has access to a safe, stable, and nurturing environment. These bills address critical gaps in the current system, providing the tools necessary to support children and the families who care for them.

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Pennsylvania’s Women’s Health Caucus and the Black Maternal Health Caucus join together to lay out priorities for Pennsylvania’s 2025-2026 legislative session

January 27, 2025

Harrisburg, PA − January 27, 2024 – Today, the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus (WHC) and the Black Maternal Health Caucus (BMHC) released a joint statement after holding a press conference to lay out their legislative priorities for the 2025-2026 session. Watch the recording here. The statement is as follows:

“Our Caucuses are committed to fighting for our driving missions now more than ever, as we head into the new legislative session.  Together, we are furthering a common goal of pushing for policies that provide our communities with the rights, resources, and services they need and deserve in order to survive the current statistical disparities that are plaguing our communities. We will not back down now, and we will continue fighting for the values we believe in here in Pennsylvania, no matter the federal context.”

Together, these legislators laid out what each Caucus is fighting for during this legislative session. The Black Maternal Health Caucus reiterated their commitment to getting the entirety of the MOMNIBUS legislative package across the finish line, building on the success they had last session with the passage of their bills to extend Medicaid coverage to doula services in the state and enhance access to mental health care services for pregnant and postpartum patients.

The Women’s Health Caucus spelled out the core issues that their platform highlights, including reproductive freedom, ending the maternal mortality crisis, health care access & equity, economic empowerment, and justice & inclusion.

About the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus

Co-Chairs: Senator Judith Schwank, Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti, Representative Mary Jo Daley, Representative Gina H. Curry

The Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus is a bicameral caucus of legislators partnering with advocacy groups to advance legislation and policies that promote equity and protect the health and wellbeing of women, gender expansive people, and families in Pennsylvania. As a caucus, we recognize the intersectionality of social issues that support physical and mental health. We are committed to closing existing disparities and removing barriers Pennsylvanians of all backgrounds face when seeking healthcare and systems of support. Integral to our mission is the belief that all Pennsylvanians have the right to make private, personal medical decisions.

Learn more here.

About the Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus

The Pa. Black Maternal Health Caucus was formed in 2023 with state Reps. Morgan Cephas, D-Philadelphia, Gina H. Curry, D-Delaware, and La’Tasha D. Mayes, D-Allegheny serving as co-chairs.

Mission: Building on the momentum of legislative victories and the increasing need for attention to maternal mortality and morbidity issues, particularly amongst Black families, the caucus intends to boldly address the disturbing trends of Black maternal mortality and morbidity in our Commonwealth through strategic, intersectional legislation and policy; create a collaborative, representative and action-oriented legislative and policy space for Pennsylvania legislators, advocates and stakeholders; introduce, advance and pass the Pennsylvania MOMNIBUS – a legislative package making critical investments and policy changes to improve maternal health outcomes in Pennsylvania.

Learn more here.

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Senator Schwank Applauds CRIZ Designation for the City of Reading

December 30, 2024

Reading, PA — December 30, 2024 — Today, Gov. Josh Shapiro announced that the City of Reading’s application for a City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) was accepted.

The CRIZ program, established by Act 52 of 2013, is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, the Department of Community and Economic Development, and the Governor’s Office of the Budget. The program aims to stimulate economic development and job creation within designated areas.

A CRIZ can encompass up to 130 acres, comprising parcels selected by a contracting authority, where state and local taxes collected within the zone are reinvested into economic development projects. The program focuses on revitalizing vacant, underutilized, or abandoned spaces to spur growth, create jobs, and enhance local economies.

Sen. Judy Schwank worked closely with Mayor Eddie Moran and state Rep. Manny Guzman to enact legislation reopening the program for new applications. She applauded the City of Reading for preparing the application and Gov. Shapiro for recognizing the impact a CRIZ can make in Reading.

“The City of Reading is gaining a powerful new tool we can use to foster economic growth and breathe new life into our community,” Schwank said. “It took a lot of hard work to reach this point, and I am grateful to all the folks at the City of Reading who spent many painstaking hours preparing a detailed vision for how a CRIZ will be put to good use in our community. We are celebrating today, but there is still much work ahead for our CRIZ Authority in making sure we are using this tool to the best of our ability and moving the City of Reading towards a brighter future.”

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Senator Schwank Issues Statement on NTSB’s Hearing on the R.M. Palmer Explosion

December 11, 2024

Reading — December 11, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, issued the following statement in response to the National Transportation Safety Board’s hearing on the investigation into the cause of the R.M. Palmer natural gas explosion that occurred on March 24, 2023:

“The R.M. Palmer explosion was a tragic event for West Reading and the entire Berks County community. The National Transportation Safety Board has conducted a thorough and meticulous investigation, which will help us fully understand what went wrong and how to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“For now, my main takeaway is the critical importance of recognizing the dangers of natural gas and erring on the side of caution whenever a leak is suspected.

“I will await the NTSB’s complete written report, along with the PUC’s findings, and use the gathered information to make any changes that may be necessary at the state level to improve safety.”

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Sen. Lindsey Williams and Sen. Judy Schwank Reintroduce Universal School Meals Legislation

December 5, 2024

Harrisburg, Pa. − December 5, 2024 – Senator Lindsey M. Williams (D-Allegheny) and Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) joined the School Nutrition Association of Pennsylvania (SNAPA) today for a Day of Action in support of the Senators’ Universal School Meals legislation. This legislation is aimed at fighting child hunger and helping our students succeed by expanding Pennsylvania’s current Universal Breakfast Program to include lunch.

Every day in Pennsylvania, 1 in 8 kids goes hungry. In rural areas, as many as 1 in 5 kids experiences hunger. When students are hungry, they cannot learn. The Universal School Meals program connects kids to healthy foods every day so they can learn and succeed.

“High prices at the grocery store are hurting everyone, and our families are feeling the pinch,” said Senator Williams. “Expanding Pennsylvania’s Universal Breakfast Program to include lunch for all students ensures that every student is fed and ready to learn every day. It also reduces grocery bills for families, while driving down grocery costs for everyone. This legislation is an incredible win for every Pennsylvanian.”

A Wharton School economist study found that expanding school meals lowers grocery prices. Fewer meals being prepared at home means that fewer groceries are being purchased. This lower demand leads to lower prices. The study found that big chains saw grocery sales decrease by 10% in areas where students receive no-cost meals, which was enough to cut prices 2.5% at store locations throughout the entire region, not just at stores within the school district. Residents across Pennsylvania will see the benefits of lower grocery prices as a result of Universal School Meals.

“Students deserve access to the nutritious foods they need to be productive in the classroom and lead healthy lives,” said Senator Schwank. “We took a tremendous step in 2023 by making breakfast free for Pennsylvania students, but we shouldn’t stop there. Expanding access to include lunch will ensure our kids don’t go hungry and will put more locally grown, healthy products on their lunch trays.”

Expanding the Universal School Meals Program to include no-cost lunch supports local farmers and creates jobs by enabling their farms to provide more food to schools. 44% of Pennsylvania schools already participate in the PA Farm to School network, which provides students with opportunities to learn about food, agriculture, health, and nutrition, while giving farmers the opportunity to sell their products directly to school districts. This expansion will allow more farms and schools to participate the PA Farm to School network, benefitting both our family farmers and our students.

“The School Nutrition Association of Pennsylvania proudly supports Senator Williams’ and Senator Schwank’s reintroduction of legislation to provide school meals for all students. Ensuring every child has access to nutritious meals not only promotes better academic performance and health outcomes but also eliminates stigma and barriers that prevent students from thriving. We believe this legislation is a critical step toward fostering equity and success for all Pennsylvania students, ” said Melissa Froehlich Green, Public Communications Chair of the SNAPA.

Students benefit when they eat local, nutritious food. School meals reduce childhood hunger; improve child nutrition and wellness; enhance child development and school readiness; support learning, attendance, and behavior; and contribute to positive mental health outcomes.

“Hungry kids can’t learn,” said Nicole Melia, public policy and legislative chair for the School SNAPA. “School meals are as essential to education as technology, transportation, and textbooks.”

States around the country have recognized the value of investing in school meals. Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts and Vermont have all stepped up to provide state funding to ensure healthy meals for all their students, and many other states are working towards similar legislation.

Pennsylvania has provided no-cost breakfast to all students since October 2022, when Governor Wolf established the program after Senator Williams’ urging, following the end of federal waivers that provided universal free meals for students during the pandemic.

According to statewide polling, eight in 10 Pennsylvania voters support expanding no-cost school breakfast to include lunch in K-12. Pennsylvanians of all ages in all parts of the state understand the incredible benefits of connecting kids to healthy foods.

The public can join in today’s Day of Action by signing the SNAPA Universal School Meals petition here.

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Schwank Retains Senate Democratic Caucus Leadership Role for 25-26 Legislative Session

November 14, 2024

Harrisburg, PA — November 14, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced today that she has retained her role as the Caucus Administrator for the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus for the upcoming 2025-26 legislative session.

Schwank, who has held the Caucus Administrator title since 2021, said the leadership role helps ensure the policy and legislative priorities for Berks County are represented. She noted that she remains the only state senator in Pennsylvania who lives in Berks County and represents a district made up of all Berks County municipalities.

“I’m grateful to return as the Caucus Administrator and look forward to another productive legislative session,” Schwank said. “This role allows me to have a larger say in what our caucus priorities are, and I will continue to use my position to ensure Berks County has a seat at the table.”

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Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus Elects Leadership Team for 2025-26 Legislative Session

November 13, 2024

HARRISBURG, PA – November 13, 2024 – The Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus today elected its leadership team for the 2025-26 legislative session.

The Senate Democratic Caucus also proudly welcomes two new members: Senator Patty Kim representing Senate District 15, and Senator Nick Pisciottano, who succeeds Senator Jim Brewster in representing Senate District 45.  

The new and returning members elected the following Caucus Leadership Team:

  • Leader – Jay Costa, Jr.
  • Caucus Whip – Tina Tartaglione
  • Appropriations Committee Chair – Vincent Hughes
  • Caucus Chair – Maria Collett
  • Caucus Secretary – Steve Santarsiero
  • Policy Committee Chair – Nick Miller
  • Administrator – Judy Schwank

“I am honored and humbled to announce that I will be serving as the Leader of the PA Senate Democratic Caucus for the next two years,” said Senator Jay Costa. “I’d like to thank my fellow Democratic senators for entrusting me with this responsibility. I look forward to the fight ahead.”

Learn more about the PA Senate Democrats’ commitment to fighting for every Pennsylvanian here.

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 ‘An Investment in the Future of Our Town’: Schwank Joins Stakeholders for Strand Theatre Rehabilitation Update

November 8, 2024

Reading, PA — November 8, 2024 — Earlier this week, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) joined Kutztown Community Partnership, the Greater Berks Development Fund, and DESCCO Design and Construction, Inc. to provide the Kutztown community with an update on the rehabilitation of the Strand Theatre.

The historic Strand Theatre, which opened in 1908, was a mainstay in the Kutztown area for over a century. The Strand closed in 2022 following the death of longtime owner Paul Angstadt. In July 2022, Kutztown Community Partnership formalized plans to purchase the Strand with the assistance of American Rescue Plan Act funding provided by the County of Berks.

The more-than-century-old building needs significant structural improvements. Schwank has worked with Kutztown Community Partnership and the Greater Berks Development Fund to secure two rounds of Local Share Account grant funding for the project, totaling $823,500.

The first round of funding, for $450,000, was announced in March 2023 and covered the installation of a new roof, electrical panels, and an HVAC system. The second LSA grant, for $373,500, will cover bathroom renovations, a fire safety sprinkler system, and other interior improvements.

“When I’m out and about, it’s not uncommon for me to hear from folks who want to know what’s going on at the Strand,” Schwank said. “It’s clear this theatre holds a special place in the hearts of many who have fond memories here. We are blessed to have a great team working together to move this project forward, and I am proud of the investments we have made to ensure that this piece of history remains in Kutztown.”

Barbara Vogelgesang, outreach and theatre director for Kutztown Community Partnership, said the Strand will be a vibrant hub for community engagement. She shared plans to partner with local organizations, businesses, and school districts in the area.

“At the Strand Theatre, we are dedicated to creating experiences that honor tradition, celebrate imagination, and foster community through educational opportunities, cinema, and live performances,” Vogelgesang said. “Our commitment to protecting the Strand’s legacy is unwavering. We aim to nurture the next generation of artists and deepen appreciation for the arts through various education programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.”

Sandy Green, the former mayor of Kutztown Borough and community liaison and government relations assistant for Kutztown University, has played a pivotal role in advancing the project. She said the Strand Theatre is a space with history and heart that must be preserved for future generations.

“The Strand Theatre represents more than bricks and mortar,” Green said. “It is a cornerstone of our community and a symbol of our shared commitment to cultural, educational, and community growth.”

The Greater Berks Development Fund, an affiliate of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, assisted Kutztown Community Partnership with writing the grant applications for both rounds of funding. Deb Millman, president of the Greater Berks Development Fund and vice president of development for the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, said investments in small, main street communities like Kutztown are drivers of economic growth and align with the Shapiro administration’s economic agenda to revitalize main streets throughout Pennsylvania.

“To have a second LSA application approved for this building is so important in order to have the critical work needed in the theatre continue,” Millman said. “In Governor Shapiro’s 10-year economic development strategy, Pennsylvania downtowns and main streets were clearly identified as priorities. The Main Street Matters program, launched a few months ago, is further proof that the administration will continue to support redevelopment efforts in communities like Kutztown.”

The Strand Theatre plans to announce movie showings for as early as this December.

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Senator Schwank Applauds $13.75 Million in Capital Redevelopment Funding for Berks County Projects

November 1, 2024

Reading, PA — November 1, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) applauded the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant funding announced today by Gov. Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget.

RACP is a state grant program administered by the Office of the Budget to support the design, acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects. In total, $13.75 million in funding was awarded to six projects in the 11th Senatorial District.

Schwank thanked Gov. Shapiro for his strong support of these projects, noting that each one will have a lasting positive impact on the greater Reading area.

“This round of grant funding speaks to the tremendous energy and economic potential in Reading and Berks County,” Schwank said. “I’m proud to see these projects receive funding, and I’m especially grateful to have worked alongside Gov. Shapiro to secure a substantial investment for the GoggleWorks II adaptive reuse project. This project will not only provide people in need with hot, ready-to-eat meals through Helping Harvest but will also breathe new life into a historically blighted building.”

The awards are listed below:

Our City Reading, Inc. — $5 million for the GoggleWorks II project, which will support the adaptive reuse of a blighted building on Washington Street in Reading. Once completed, the facility will house three high-impact nonprofits, including Helping Harvest and the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts.

ByHeart, Inc. — $5 million for construction, infrastructure upgrades and land acquisition to expand ByHeart’s infant formula manufacturing facility in Exeter Township, equipping it for advanced production and packaging to enhance capacity, capability and efficiency.

Alvernia University — $2 million for the American House project, which will establish a community-based health center on Penn Street in Reading, in partnership with the Berks Community Health Center.

The Rose Corporation — $1 million to upgrade its large-scale industrial metal fabrication facility in Reading to meet growing demand.

Exeter Township Volunteer Fire Department — $500,000 to establish the Exeter Township Emergency Services Main Facility, a more efficient and centralized location for the township’s emergency services.

East Penn Manufacturing — $250,000 for an addition to East Penn Manufacturing’s wastewater treatment plant. 

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Senator Schwank Applauds $3.77 Million in Public School Facility Grant Funding

October 22, 2024

Reading, PA — October 22, 2024 — Today, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced that three school districts in the 11th Senatorial District received a total of $3,775,000 in Public Schools Facility Improvement Grant Program funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

The Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program provides grants to public school districts and area career and technical schools for eligible facility improvement projects. Awards are approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.

“We know that school buildings all across Pennsylvania are in need of serious repairs, and the new Public School Facility Improvement Grant is a tremendous opportunity for the state to make meaningful investments that our students deserve,” Schwank said. “I’m proud to see these important projects receive funding and applaud these school districts for putting together strong applications.”

The school districts receiving funding are:

Antietam School District — $2,500,000 for the Stony Creek Emergency K-3 Addition and Flood Recovery Project.

Fleetwood Area School District — $800,000 for a series of energy and climate-related improvements at the high school.

Kutztown Area School District — $475,000 to upgrade the current HVAC system in the elementary and middle schools.

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PA First Lady, Secretary of Education join Lawmakers in Harrisburg to Celebrate Funding for Period Products in Public Schools and Advocate for Menstrual Equity Act

October 21, 2024

Harrisburg, PA − October 21, 2024 – Pennsylvania’s First Lady Lori Shapiro, Senators, Representatives, Secretary of Education Dr. Mumin, and advocates gathered for a press event to celebrate the $3 million invested through the last state budget to provide period products in public schools and to advocate for the passage of the Pennsylvania Menstrual Equity Act.

The Rundown:

  • Following up on a May press conference, Senators Cappelletti, Collett, and Schwank hosted a press event today to celebrate the budget initiative (See “Increasing Access to Menstrual Hygiene Products in Schools” here.) to provide menstrual products in public schools and express their hopes to build on the investment in future budgets. They used the opportunity to advocate for legislative solutions to tackle menstrual equity across the Commonwealth.
  • Specific legislation discussed: 
  • See the period product funding allocations by school district here. 

Relevant Facts and Figures:

  • An October 2024 poll found that 76.5 percent of those surveyed either “agreed” or “strongly agreed” with a statement that menstrual supplies like pads and tampons should be freely available in public schools and universities.
  • Two in five people who need period supplies have struggled to buy them, a survey by U by Kotex found. The same study found that more than a third of people who menstruate had to miss school, work or a similar activity in the previous year because they did not have the products to manage their periods (Source).
  • In Pennsylvania 1 in 7 women and girls between the age of 12 and 44 lives below the Federal Poverty Level. See full Pennsylvania Period Poverty Fact Sheet here. 

Speaking on the issue: 

  • Lori Shapiro, Pennsylvania’s First Lady

“I am proud to stand with leaders in the General Assembly and from across our Commonwealth to bring attention to critical issues facing young women and girls in Pennsylvania,” said First Lady Lori Shapiro. “I’ve spent time listening to young women and girls in Pennsylvania who have been forced to miss school or other opportunities due to not having the menstrual products they need. We need to support and empower those girls — and that’s why Josh secured $3 million in this year’s budget proposal to provide pads and tampons in schools at no cost to our students.”

  • Dr. Khalid N. Mumin, Pennsylvania Secretary of Education 

“As a former teacher and school administrator, here’s what this program means to me: Making period products easily available to students in school will keep them in school,” said Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “Making period products available to students in school is no different than stocking band-aids in the nurse’s office or serving healthy food in the cafeteria. When students have their basic needs met, they can learn. Hence, that is the key to freedom and opportunity that Governor and First Lady Shapiro advocated to accomplish with this $3 million investment in the future of Pennsylvania students.”

  • Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti, Senate District 17

“It was a moment that I won’t soon forget when Governor Shapiro mentioned period products in his budget address – acknowledging an issue that so many Pennsylvanians face yet has received so little attention by those in charge,” said Senator Cappelletti. “And now, as I work in the legislature while raising my daughter, while our rights are under attack, it is more important than ever for me to use the tools at my disposal to destigmatize menstruation and promote understanding of basic bodily needs. I’m hopeful we can continue to build on this momentum in our next state budget and pass the legislative solutions we have proposed, like the Pennsylvania Menstrual Equity Act.”  

  • Senator Judy Schwank, Senate District 11

“We came together to secure a historic investment that makes period products free for all students in Pennsylvania’s public schools, but we know there is much more we can do to advance menstrual equity in the commonwealth. We have a tremendous opportunity to build on this success by passing the Pennsylvania Menstrual Equity Act and making tampons and period products as universally accessible as toilet paper, paper towels, and hand soap, which are found in every public restroom in America. This is something I know we can achieve next session, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature and the Shapiro Administration to get this done!”

  • Senator Maria Collett, Senate District 12

“Everyone should have access to the menstrual products they need to live healthy, productive lives, and thanks to the historic funding we secured in the 2024-25 budget, students across the Commonwealth will be able to find these essential products for free in their schools. But as we celebrate this historic win, we can’t let up on the gas. We must pass the Menstrual Equity Act, and we must make sure our state benefits cover menstrual products for low-income families – period.”

  • Lynette Medley, founder of The Spot, the first menstrual health hub in the nation, located in Philadelphia.

“’Menstrual equity,’ means ensuring equal access to menstrual health and hygiene resources for those impacted by menstruation; and, also, the term means ensuring fairness in how menstruation is perceived by those directly and indirectly experiencing menstruation.”

See the recording of the event here. 

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Schwank Applauds Facility Improvement Grant Funding for Connections Work

October 10, 2024

Reading, PA − October 10, 2024 − The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority today announced $722,852 in COVID-19 ARPA PA Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program grant funding for Connections Work.

The Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program is funded by the Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund, established under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. A total of $45 million in grant funding was awarded across the state to community anchor institutions and units of local government for projects to construct, acquire or improve facilities that are or will be open to the public.

The funding will allow Connections Work to renovate its current facility, increasing efficiency and capacity. These renovations are necessary to keep up with growth and to fulfill a critical need in the Berks County area.

State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) applauded the funding for Connections Work and praised the nonprofit for the services it provides to Berks County residents.

“Connections Work is a tremendous asset to our community and does an incredible job providing job training and reentry services,” Schwank said. “I’m confident this funding will empower Connections Work to improve upon the outstanding work it’s doing as it continues to help Berks Countians achieve a better tomorrow.” 

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Senate Dems Highlight Need for Election Reforms at Capitol Hearing

September 26, 2024

HARRISBURG, September 26, 2024 – State Senator Katie Muth (D-Chester/Montgomery/Berks), chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Policy Committee, joined Senator Amanda Cappelletti (D-Montgomery) and Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) to host a public hearing on access to mail-in and absentee voting.

The hearing, held yesterday in the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg, featured two panels of discussion that included perspectives from local government officials and voting rights advocacy groups highlighting the different election policies and procedures in place across the Commonwealth and how the state government can improve the process.

“The ability to cast a vote is one of the cornerstones of our democracy and I was grateful to have bipartisan participation in our Policy Committee hearing to highlight some of the ways we can make our elections more accessible, transparent, and efficient,” Muth said. 

In May, the House of Representatives passed House Bill 847 by a party-line vote which would require a County Board of Elections to meet no earlier than 7 days prior to an election to pre-canvas all ballots received to that point. Under current law, counties can only begin pre-canvassing ballots at 7 a.m. on Election Day. The bill has now been stuck in the Senate State Government Committee for over four months.

“Yesterday’s hearing was a powerful discussion on how we can work together to remove barriers for both voters and county election workers during the mail in and absentee ballot process in the Commonwealth,” Sen. Cappelletti said. “My priority continues to be expanding access to the ballot, streamlining our election processes, and supporting the counties and poll workers that put in many diligent hours to ensure we have a free and fair election process here in the Commonwealth. Every eligible Pennsylvania voter deserves to be heard in this and every election.”

Testimony at the hearing also focused on current Pennsylvania law that disqualifies mail-in ballots if they have any one of several defects, including an incomplete voter declaration, missing signature, inaccurate date, or failure to use the secrecy envelope, or if they are received after 8 p.m. on Election Day. In the 2024 April primary, nearly 16,000 ballots from otherwise-eligible voters were disqualified.

“We want to ensure that Pennsylvania voters understand that mail-in ballots are a safe and convenient way to make their voices heard during elections. It’s also crucial for the legislature to partner with county governments responsible for administering our elections to guarantee an efficient process,” Sen. Schwank added. “Yesterday’s hearing not only allowed us to dispel some of the misinformation surrounding mail-in voting, but it also provided us with a better understanding of how the legislature can assist election administrators.”

Participants in the hearing included participants in the hearing include Krista Kerr, Deputy Director of Voter Services, Chester County; James Allen, Director of Elections, Delaware County; Lauren Cristella, President & CEO, Committee of Seventy; Jeff Reber, Union County Commissioner and Chair of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania Election Reform Committee; and Philip Hensley-Robin, Executive Director, Common Cause Pennsylvania

“This hearing was an important reminder that our elections are fair, free, safe, and secure, and that mail-in ballots are a great way for voters to make their voices heard,” Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) said. “I look forward to continued conversations about expanding the freedom to vote encourage more Pennsylvanians to be voters in every election.”  

Pennsylvania’s official voter information website is accessible at www.vote.pa.gov. The site also includes information about how to register to vote and how to register to vote by mail. If you have any questions about voting locally, click here for a full listing of all county election officials.

State Sen. Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny) also participated in the hearing virtually.

For more information on this policy hearing and to access all submitted testimony and a full recording of today’s hearing, visit www.SenatorMuth.com/policy.

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Testimony

Panel 1: Municipal Officials

Panel 2: Policy Solutions

Schwank Applauds Criminal Justice Funding Awarded to the 11th District

September 11, 2024

Reading, PA — September 11, 2024 — The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency today awarded $2,263,680 in criminal justice and crime prevention grant funding to six entities in Berks County.

“Today’s awards acknowledge the tremendous services these grant recipients are delivering for the people of Berks County,” said Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks). “I’m grateful to the PCCD for making these investments that will support victims and provide them opportunities to seek the services and assistance they need.”

The recipients, funding sources and award totals are as follows:

Federal Byrne Justice Assistance Program

Connections Work — $135,773 for reentry coalition coordination.

Federal STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program

SAFE Berks — $125,000 to support the Berks County STOP team.

Federal Victims of Crime Fund Program

Berks County Commissioners — $131,862 to enhance services for Berks County victims.
CASA of Berks County — $45,183 to support the continuation of child victim advocacy services.
Community Justice Project — $42,928 for immigration legal services for victims.
SAFE Berks — $1,136,592 to support victims of crime.
MidPenn Legal Services — $646,342 for the Legal Intervention for Victims Empowerment program. 

Sen. Schwank and Rep. Rozzi Announce $7.8 Million Grant for Antietam School District

September 10, 2024

Reading — September 9, 2024 — Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-Berks) today announced $7.8 million in grant funding for the Antietam School District for environmental repairs.

The funding comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Public School Environmental Repairs Program, established as part of the 2023-24 fiscal year state budget. The new grant program provides assistance to remediate environmental hazards in school buildings.

Schwank and Rozzi have worked together since flooding hit Antietam Middle Senior High School on July 9, 2023. The lawmakers engaged the governor’s office and the Department of Education to assist the school district after Pennsylvania’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency was denied. Schwank and Rozzi also collaborated with leaders in the House and Senate to create grant funding programs to help the school district with facility repairs.

“This significant investment was a long time coming and will help put Antietam School District on the path to a full, long-term recovery,” Schwank said. “Since flooding devastated our area last year, we’ve explored every possible avenue to make the district whole again and provide students with the safe educational facilities they deserve. I want to express my thanks to the entire Antietam community for their patience while we worked internally to secure this funding.”

“The severe flooding that hit Antietam Middle Senior High School last year presented an unprecedented challenge for the entire community,” Rozzi said. “It was clear to us that the state needed to be part of finding a solution, and this historic investment is a major step in that process. This funding announcement is the culmination of months of hard work.”

In addition to the Public School Environmental Repairs Program, the 2023-24 fiscal year state budget also created the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. This is an opportunity for Antietam to secure further funding, and the district has submitted two applications.

Funding announcements for the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program are expected to be made in the coming months. Schwank and Rozzi have endorsed Antietam’s application and requested DCED waive the required match associated with the grant under an emergency clause stipulated in the grant guidelines.

Schwank Applauds Major State Investment in Reading Area Community College Capitol Project

August 27, 2024

READING, Pa. — August 27, 2024 — The Pennsylvania Department of Education today announced $6.5 million in funding for improvements to the Student Union Building at Reading Area Community College.

The funding comes alongside substantial increases in higher education investments in Pennsylvania’s 2024-25 budget. This includes a $35.1 million increase for Pennsylvania State System universities, a $15.7 million increase for community colleges, and an additional $143 million to PHEAA to make college more affordable for Pennsylvania students.

The budget also establishes a new State Board of Higher Education, as proposed by Gov. Josh Shapiro in a visit to RACC earlier this year, in an effort to overhaul higher education in the commonwealth and increase coordination between community colleges and PASSHE schools. Sen. Judy Schwank, who serves on the PASSHE board of governors, said this investment in RACC demonstrates the governor and the state legislature’s ability to work together to improve higher education.

“No one can question our commitment to ensuring that public higher education meets the immediate and long-term needs of Pennsylvania students,” Schwank said. “RACC is a source of pride for our community because of its ability to provide excellent educational opportunities to Berks Countians at an affordable price. RACC is worthy of the state’s support, and I can’t thank the Shapiro administration enough for recognizing the value this institution brings to our area with this investment.”

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Senator Amanda Cappelletti Hosts Roundtable on Women’s Health and Pennsylvania State Budget

August 23, 2024

Upper Merion, PA – August 23, 2024 – Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-17) led a roundtable discussion, focusing on the intersection of women’s health and the Pennsylvania state budget. The event gathered key stakeholders, including state legislators, healthcare providers, and community leaders, to address the implications of recent budget decisions on women and girls across the Commonwealth.
The roundtable highlighted the state’s continued commitment to women’s services through the newly introduced Women’s Service Grants, which are designed to ensure that women, particularly pregnant women and new mothers, receive comprehensive support. “We must prioritize women’s health as a fundamental right, addressing critical issues with compassion and urgency,” stated Senator Cappelletti. “Every woman deserves access to comprehensive care, support, and the freedom to make informed choices about her body and health.”
The Women’s Service Program, supported by the new grants, aims to bridge gaps in healthcare by providing access to prenatal care, postpartum supports, early detection of health conditions, parenting education, and menstrual and reproductive health education. Additionally, the program addresses the needs of marginalized groups, offering culturally informed care regardless of background, identity, or income.
One of the key budget wins highlighted at the event was the allocation of $3 million to provide period products in public schools across Pennsylvania. “We are all just so excited that we passed this legislation that will make sure schools have free period products available for its students. No student should miss a day of learning due to a lack of basic necessities,” remarked Senator Judy Schwank.
Panelists shared insights from their work on the ground, emphasizing the ongoing challenges and the importance of the continued focus on women’s health. Fran Held from Mitzvah Circle pointed out the stark realities faced by many in the community: “Our data indicates that over 70% of the menstruators we serve miss school or work because they can’t afford pads or tampons. Those are the same people who can’t afford diapers. We know the need exists, but we just don’t have the cash.”
Samia Bristow, Vice President of Programs at Maternity Care Coalition, also underscored the broader impact of these initiatives, noting, “Ultimately, the things we put in place impact human bodies, so it’s important that the things we put in place represent the needs of our human people.”
Despite the progress, there is acknowledgment of the work that remains. “Are we making progress? Small steps. There is a lot more that we need to do, and that we can do,” said Shelly Buck, President of Riddle Hospital, Mainline Health.
The roundtable ended with a collective call to action for continued advocacy and support for women’s health across Pennsylvania. As Representative Mary Jo Daley concluded, “All the stages that women go through are very important.”

CG Broadcasting LLC Receives $1.525 Million in Transportation Infrastructure Grant Funding

August 19, 2024

Reading, Pa. — Aug. 19, 2024 — Today, PennDOT announced $1,525,000 in Multimodal Transportation Fund grant funding for CG Broadcasting LLC to support a major redevelopment project in Spring Township.

The funding will support a series of transportation infrastructure and traffic improvements at the intersection of Route 222, Broadcasting Road, North Meridian Boulevard, and Paper Mill Road in Spring Township, aiding the construction of a mixed-use development in the area. The improvements include the addition of new traffic lanes, modification of existing turning lanes, installation of new stop signs, restriping of current roadways, and the establishment of a site driveway.

State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), who endorsed CG Broadcasting LLC’s application for funding, applauded the award and said it’s a sign of Berks County’s positive trajectory.

“This is an exciting project for Berks County that will breathe new life into an area long targeted for redevelopment,” Schwank said. “Developers are recognizing the potential in Berks County, and key investments made by the commonwealth are helping move these meaningful projects forward. I’m proud to back this initiative and thankful that PennDOT recognized the merits of this proposal.”