September 15, 2020
READING, Sept. 15, 2020 – State Reps. Tom Caltagirone and Mark Rozzi and State Sen. Judy Schwank announced three Berks county organizations received more than $190,000 from the COVID-19 Cultural and Museum Preservation Grant Program. The program, funded through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, is meant to offset lost revenue caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting shutdown order.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) today approved the following grants:
- GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, $66,263
- Foundation for the Reading Public Museum, $85,280
- Reading Symphony Orchestra, $39,083
Funds may be used to offset lost revenue for eligible cultural organizations and museums that were subject to closure by the proclamation of disaster emergency issued by Governor Tom Wolf on March 6, 2020, and any renewal of the state of disaster emergency and that experienced a loss of revenue related to the closure.
“During this difficult time, it’s rewarding when we are able to reach out to local organizations to provide support,” Caltagirone said. “I am relieved to see three local organizations will receive the help they need.”
“I’m hopeful these grants will help our local organizations and help diminish some of the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Rozzi said. “This year has been one unlike any other, so it’s rewarding to see federal funds going back to our community to help some of the organizations in need.”
“Arts and cultural organizations play a critical role in improving the quality of life and economic vitality of Reading and Berks County,” Schwank said. “These funds will help our local organizations weather the impact of COVID-19 and continue to serve our community.”
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August 27, 2020
Harrisburg, PA – August 27, 2020 – Today, State Senators Iovino, Street, Brewster, Schwank, and Hughes joined members of the Commonwealth’s small business community via Zoom to advocate for bipartisan legislation that would help Pennsylvania businesses file claims on their business interruption insurance policies, a potential source of funds that could help prevent businesses from being forced to close their doors. Business interruption insurance is coverage that replaces income lost in the event that business is halted due to a disaster. Since the pandemic and resulting shutdown, many Pennsylvania small businesses have sought financial relief by filing claims on their business interruption insurance policies, only to be denied due to ambiguous insurance policy language.
“To confront the most daunting economic challenge of our time, we need to put in place every available option to provide safety nets and recovery tools to support our businesses and our economy – and that includes business interruption insurance,” said Senator Pam Iovino (D – Allegheny & Washington). “Businesses that have consistently paid their business interruption insurance premiums expect their insurance coverage to provide security during a time of need. They need to know that a lifeline they planned for is available and within reach, and this bipartisan bill would do just that.”
Senator Iovino’s legislation, Senate Bill 1127, is designed to clarify Pennsylvania law and specifically applies to businesses with business interruption coverage that contains a “civil authority” clause. These clauses provide protections when government action, typically taken in response to a natural disaster or similar life-threatening event, prevents the business from operating. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has characterized the pandemic as a “natural disaster and a catastrophe of massive proportions.” Also, the legislation would clarify that the presence of COVID-19 in a community constitutes “property damage.”
Under this legislation, businesses would not receive additional payment beyond what their existing coverage permits. Insurance companies would not be mandated to immediately pay claims – the normal claims review process would take place before any payments are made.
Senate Bill 1127 was referred to the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee on April 30. The next step in the legislative process would be a Senate hearing.
“The economic damage caused by the pandemic is something our communities have never faced,” said Senator Sharif Street (D – Philadelphia). Small businesses are the foundation of economic ecosystems throughout communities in the Commonwealth, we must do all we can to sustain them. As Democratic Chair of the Banking & Insurance committee I am committed to working with Chairman Scavello (R) to convene a hearing pending growing reports of businesses across communities having their insurance claims denied. This bill will ensure that we protect the small businesses that drive our economy which have been interrupted through no fault of their own. I’m proud to join Senator Iovino, a leader in this bipartisan effort. “
“Businesses that have paid insurance premiums to financially protect themselves when there is an interruption in operations – such as when the coronavirus pandemic struck – shouldn’t have to struggle when a claim is made,” said Senator Jim Brewster (D – Allegheny & Westmoreland). “Entrepreneurs and small business owners rely on insurance to cover these types of situations.
Covering losses from situations beyond the control of businesses is exactly why you buy and pay for insurance. There should be no problems when operations are suspended and claims are filed.”
Lori Poe, who co-owns The Tandem Connection Bike & Running Shop in Washington County with her husband, said “if we were able to get some reimbursement from our insurance company for the business interruptions and loss of our second store, it would help us stay above water in the winter months when we are typically very slow. We appreciate Senator Iovino, her staff, and other legislators going to bat for the small businesses in our area.”
“As President/CEO of the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce, one of the largest regional chambers in the Commonwealth, I feel compelled to advocate and to support legislation that is specifically designed to add a ‘lifeline’ to our small business community devastated by the pandemic,” said Chris Heck. “Financial relief should not be denied to those due to ambivalent insurance policy language. We support Senate Bill 1127, introduced by our PA Senator, Pam Iovino.”
“There’s no doubt about it – small businesses in Pennsylvania are suffering,” Senator Judy Schwank (D – Berks) said. “These businesses, which have done everything we’ve asked of them, should not be further penalized by their insurance carriers because of vague language.”
Jack Goodrich, a Pittsburgh attorney who specializes in business interruption insurance claims, said that “all we want to do is protect the small business owners that are the backbone of this country. They paid their premiums for years and deserve compensation now for their business losses through no fault of their own.”
“Small businesses all across Pennsylvania are bearing an undue share of the economic collapse caused by the coronavirus pandemic,” said state Senator Vincent Hughes (D – Philadelphia & Montgomery). “Taking action on business interruption insurance is a must. We should be providing every option possible to help their survival and recovery because they are the backbone of our economy.”
A downloadable video of today’s virtual press conference can be accessed here.
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August 17, 2020
Senator Judy Schwank, Reading Mayor Eddie Moran and Reading City Council Member Maria Goodman-Hinnershitz view Egleman’s Dam
Reading − August 17, 2020 − Twelve Berks County municipalities and municipal authorities, including the City of Reading, have been awarded state water and sewer infrastructure grants totaling $1.78 million by the Commonwealth Finance Authority, State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) announced today.
“Properly functioning water and wastewater infrastructure protects public health and safety and promotes economic growth,” Schwank said. “I strongly advocated for these grants to help our local communities make necessary improvements.”
Of note, the City of Reading is receiving two grants: A $350,000 H2O grant to modify Egleman’s Dam in Reading and a $125,000 Small Water and Sewer System Grant to improve the Fritz Island wastewater treatment plant.
“It is especially important that the City of Reading is receiving state grant assistance to complete Egleman’s Dam and substantial state help to complete a project at the Fritz Island treatment plant project,” Schwank said. “With its limited resources, the city might not have been able to finish these critical infrastructure improvements without this state grant funding.”
“This state investment in our city will help my administration continue our efforts to improve one of our most scenic parks and our wastewater system for the benefit of all city residents,” said Reading Mayor Eddie Moran. “Partnerships like this with state government are critically important for Reading’s future, and I want to thank Senator Schwank and her colleagues for working diligently to help secure these funds.”
Two other H2O grants include:
- Oley Township Municipal Authority, Wastewater Treatment Plant Headworks, $250,000
- Muhlenberg Township Authority, Leiscz’s Bridge Road Intercept Replacement, $100,000
Additionally, Schwank announced the Commonwealth Financing Authority approved Small Water and Sewer System grants for:
- Ruscombmanor Township, MS4 Stormwater BMPS, $55,765
- Oley Township Municipal Authority, Sewer Collection System Televising Manhole Rehab, $100,000
- Robeson Township Municipal Authority, Sewing Pumping State #2 Improvements, $50,000
- Mount Penn Borough Municipal Authority, Generate Update, $100,000
- Cumru Township, Tamarack Train I&I, $100,000
- City of Reading, Fritz Island Grit Chamber Project, $125,000
- Centre Township Municipal Authority, Kingsgate WWTP Upgrade, $50,000
- Borough of Laureldale, Sanitary Sewer Lateral Replacement Project, $100,000
- Borough of Kutztown, Solids Handling Improvements, $100,000
- Birdsboro Municipal Authority, Hay Creek Raw Water Pump Station, $100,000
- West Reading Borough, Linden Lane Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project, $200,000
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August 12, 2020
Harrisburg – August 12, 2020 – At the request of state Senator Judy Schwank (D- Berks) and state Representatives Morgan Cephas (D- Philadelphia) and Mary Jo Daley (D- Montgomery), the Senate Democratic Policy Committee today held a joint virtual public hearing with the House Democratic Policy Committee on maternal mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lawmakers and experts in the field discussed the innovative responses to maternal mortality before and during the coronavirus pandemic, which put a unique strain on the overall healthcare system and traditional services.
“The increasing rates of maternal mortality in the United States were extremely concerning before the coronavirus pandemic hit, but as we continue to fight the spread of COVID-19, we need to make sure that we are continuing to work for policies that give new moms and babies the healthiest outcomes possible,” Schwank said. “Not only must our healthcare system continue bracing for the effects of COVID-19, it must also continue to be vigilant in making sure that pregnant and new mothers are receiving the best treatment and care possible.”
Senator Lisa Boscola (D- Lehigh/Northampton), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee, continued, “We have spent a lot of time during this pandemic discussing the best ways to protect so many different segments of society. Maternal mortality is not just a women’s issue, it affects the family unit as a whole. Today we had the opportunity to discuss the best ways to protect mothers and their babies in their most vulnerable moments. This overdue conversation, and practical solutions that came from it, will save lives.”
According to the Harvard Business Review, women in the United States have the greatest risk of dying from pregnancy complications among 11 high-income countries. From 1991 to 2014, maternal mortality in the U.S. increased from 10.3 per 100,000 live births to 23.8 per 100,000 live births.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has swept our communities by surprise both in health and the economic aftermath. As we continue to take a look at the issue of maternal mortality, we must come together to examine ways that we can secure more funding and develop policies that result in better health outcomes for all mothers so they can thrive and take care of their families,” Cephas said. “As this virus rages on, I look forward to hearing from the experts so that we can better inform leaders across all sectors and ensure that our future looks brighter than our past.”
Daley continued, “Pennsylvania has an alarming maternal morbidity rate, and the pandemic is highlighting the barriers and inequity in care. I am grateful for the experts who have joined us today to discuss best practices to protect our mothers and newborns, and I am hopeful these will transition to statewide policies.”
Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Health, Dr. Rachel Levine, said in 2019 that nearly 700 women die from pregnancy-related complications each year in the United States, and more than half of those deaths are preventable. She added that Black women face almost double the rates of maternal mortality when compared to the general population.
“A nation’s rate of maternal mortality is often used to measure overall effectiveness of the health care delivery system through assessment of general medical care. It is necessary to keep this in mind when crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic manifest,” Dr. Aasta Mehta, Medical Officer of Women’s Health, Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Division of Maternal, Child and Family Health, said.
“When it comes to dismantling racism in our institutions and within the U.S. healthcare system, implicit bias is a driving factor that we must bring attention to and address,” Zahada Gillette-Pierce, Trainer at the sexual and reproductive health organization AccessMatters, said. “Implicit bias often shows up in healthcare settings when healthcare providers do not acknowledge pain, when providers restrict traditional cultural birthing practices, or ultimately take on a hierarchical decision-making role because of the stereotypes they hold or deeply-rooted biases.”
While COVID-19 has not proven to be any more dangerous to pregnant mothers than those who are not pregnant, there has been a significant change to birthing procedures in almost every hospital across the nation. Expectant mothers not only have to wear a mask for their entire hospital stay, they also have been limited to choose just one person to accompany them during delivery and their hospital stay. This has caused women who have given birth during the pandemic to lose out on the birthing support of midwives, doulas and other specialist who can ease the stress of childbirth and potentially lower instances of maternal mortality, according to an article published by the Harvard School of Public Health, and echoed by the testifiers today.
Nicole Chaney, a certified nurse midwife at the Reading Birth Center, said, “Twenty-two percent of Pennsylvania counties do not have a hospital with a maternity unit.”
Chaney not only advocates for expanded maternal care across the state, but she also said that integrating midwifery into more medical settings improve the birthing experiences and health out comes for both moms and babies, “When we value reproductive health as a society, and provide as many options as possible for people’s childbirth experience, the outcomes will improve.”
The following testified at today’s hearing:
- Aasta Mehta, MD, MPP, Medical Officer of Women’s Health, Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Division of Maternal, Child and Family Health
- Robert Ferguson, MPH, Chief Policy Officer, Jewish Healthcare Foundation
- Dr. Mark Woodland, Chair & Clinical Professor OBGYN, Reading Hospital
- La’Tasha D. Mayes, President & CEO, New Voices for Reproductive Justice
- Nicole Chaney, CNM, Midwife, Reading Birth Center
- Marianne Fray, CEO, Maternity Care Coalition
- Emily C. McGahey, DM, MSN, CNM , Associate Clinical Director of The Midwife Center for Birth and Women’s Health, State Legislative Co-Chair, PA-American College of Nurse Midwives
- Sindhu Srinivas, MD, MSCE, Director of Obstetrical Services, Vice Chair for Quality and Safety Department OBGYN, Co-Founder Heart Safe Motherhood Program, Penn Medicine
- Zahada Gillette-Pierce, Trainer, AccessMatters
- Kimberly Seals Allers, Maternal and Infant Health Strategist, Founder, Irth app.
Senators who attended this hearing include:
Jay Costa (D- Allegheny), Larry Farnese (D- Philadelphia), Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), Maria Collett (D- Bucks/Montgomery), Art Haywood (D- Philadelphia/Montgomery), and Lindsey Williams (D- Allegheny).
Representatives who attended include:
Mike Sturla (D- Lancaster), Thomas Caltigirone (D- Berks), Mark Longietti (D- Mercer), Chris Sainato (D- Lawrence), Kevin Boyle (Philadelphia/Montgomery), Melissa Shusterman (D- Chester/Montgomery), Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny), Sara Innamorato (D- Allegheny), Joanna McClinton (D- Philadephia/Delaware), Wendy Ullman (D- Bucks), Mary Issacson (D-Philadelphia), and Joe Webster (D-Montgomery).
The Senate and House Democratic Policy Committees have hosted a number of hearings related to COVID-19, including the reopening of schools, the impact on nursing and veterans homes, food supply chain disruptions, the disproportionate effect of COVID-19 on the African American Community, pandemic-related funding for childcare centers, and assuring that protective equipment and other support is accessible for all frontline workers.
A full recording of this hearing, and links to all previous hearings, is available at senatorboscola.com/policy.
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July 22, 2020
Harrisburg, July 22, 2020 Upgrades to Fleetwood Borough’s Water Distribution System will be completed thanks to $3.5 million in funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST), state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) said today.
“This state funding will help Fleetwood Borough replace a leaking water line and ensure reliable and safe drinking water for system customers,” Schwank said. “I commend local officials for their ongoing efforts to improve borough infrastructure, which will benefit local residents today and for decades to come.”
The $3.5 million, low-interest loan was approved by PENNVEST to replace 8,250 feet of 6-inch ductile iron and cement-lined piping, which serves more than 1,700 residents.
PENNVEST funding comes from a combination of state funds approved by voters, grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection agency, and recycled loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards.
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July 16, 2020
HARRISBURG, July 16, 2020 – A Wyomissing Borough development/transportation enhancement project will again receive a much-needed boost thanks to $633,264 in Multimodal Transportation Fund grant funding approved today by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. Multimodal Transportation Funds are meant to improve transportation infrastructure and promote economic development.
The grant will allow Wyomissing Borough to move forward with the municipality’s planned $4 million 4th Street Extension Multimodal Project, which, among other things, will connect North Wyomissing Boulevard and Innovation Way, according to Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) and Rep. Mark Gillen (R-128th district). Extending Fourth Street will provide more direct access between the Knitting Mills and related redevelopment and the Route 422 Bypass, alleviating traffic congestion on North Park Road and safety issues caused by traffic cutting through residential neighborhoods. The installation of other multimodal improvements such as a bus stop, bike share station, bike racks, and sharrows and pedestrian and bike route signs will further improve accessibility, safety, and traffic flow. Schwank worked closely with Gillen to advocate for the Wyomissing project. The project received $2 million in grant funding in 2019.
“I applaud this approval which will help Wyomissing Borough continue with their efforts to improve traffic and access to the exciting new projects along North Park Road,” Schwank said. “These new developments will be particularly important to the economic vitality of our area especially in these challenging times.”
“I’m pleased to help advance job creation in Wyomissing borough as we collaterally ease traffic flow,” Gillen said. “This state funding represents a wise investment in the economic future of our community.”
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July 9, 2020
Reading, July 9, 2020 − The Pennsylvania Fresh Food Financing Initiative (FFFI), a statewide public-private financing program that invests in new or expanding grocery stores and other healthy food retail outlets in the state, has received $10 million as part of the PA CARES appropriation that is to be doled out to eligible food retailers in one-time grants, State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th District) announced.
“I’ve long advocated for everyone to have access to fresh, local food – no matter where you live,” Schwank said. “I’m happy to see these grant funds become available and I highly encourage our eligible grocery stores, farm stands and farm markets to apply.”
The Initiative aims to:
- provide grant support to food retailing businesses impacted by COVID-19 to ensure that amidst the pandemic, low-income and underserved communities are able to maintain healthy food access;
- contribute to better health outcomes by improving access to fresh foods and, to the extent practicable, Pennsylvania grown and produced agricultural products (eligible products include fresh fruits and vegetables, milk and dairy products, and meat products grown or processed in Pennsylvania);
- stimulate investments in lower-income communities and in food retailing businesses that are owned by people who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and that serve lower-income BIPOC communities;
- remove financing obstacles and operating barriers for grocery stores and other healthy food retail in lower-income communities;
- strengthen the local food system and increase market opportunities for Pennsylvania farmers;
- support the creation and preservation of jobs and create and retain a qualified workforce.
Applications will be accepted by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture until August 14, 2020. For more information on how to apply, visit https://www.agriculture.pa.gov/Food_Security/Pages/Fresh-Food-Financing-Initiative-COVID-19.aspx
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June 29, 2020
Harrisburg, June 29, 2020 State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th District) will soon introduce legislation to repeal the Fireworks Act of 2017. The legislation is inspired by municipalities and police and fire departments across the Commonwealth who are unable to mitigate resident complaints about fireworks that are lit day and night – causing property damage, emotional distress to children and pets, serious injuries and sleepless nights.
“I’ve heard from many constituents who are unhappy with the increase in booms, bangs and ear-splitting explosions throughout the year,” Schwank said. “This law is broken, and it needs to be repealed. Too many of our residents are getting hurt and even killed.”
Across the country, a special study estimated 7,300 fireworks-related injuries were treated by emergency room departments during a 1-month period from June 21, 2019, to July 21, 2019. Children under 15 accounted for about 36 percent of the estimated injuries.
In 2019, Schwank introduced legislation to grant municipalities the authority to regulate and limit the use of fireworks in their cities, boroughs and townships. The bill, SB 827, was never moved from the Senate’s Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and the problem has become so significant across the commonwealth simply modifying the original legislation is not sufficient.
The legislation to repeal the Fireworks Act of 2017 is yet to be introduced as Schwank is currently seeking additional support for the bill from other members of the Pennsylvania Senate.
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June 26, 2020
Reading, June 26, 2020 − Starting Monday, June 29, State Senator Judy Schwank’s district office at 210 George Street will reopen to the public. While following Senate COVID-19 policies and precautions, Schwank and staff will once again be available to help constituents with birth certificate applications, property tax and rent rebate applications and more.
“Since the Governor issued his pandemic closure orders in mid-March, my staff and I have been providing services to our constituents remotely via telephone and e-mail,” Schwank said. “Now that Berks County has moved to the Green Reopening phase, I am pleased that we will be able to resume modified in-person services to residents of the 11th Senate District.”
Visitors are asked to wear a mask and the office will be limited to three visitors at a time.
Appointments are highly encouraged and can be scheduled by calling 610-929-2151 or e-mailing [email protected].
Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays.
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June 25, 2020
Harrisburg, June 25, 2020 − The Pennsylvania Senate approved a bill introduced by Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) and Sen. John DiSanto (R-15th district) that enacts a series of reforms designed to remove several barriers to licensure for Pennsylvanians with criminal convictions.
The bill now heads to the governor’s desk.
SB 637 designates a licensing board or licensing commission go through a two-stage review when considering whether an individual’s criminal conviction disqualifies him or her from licensure, Schwank said.
Before, men and women who had already served their sentences were finding themselves automatically disqualified when applying for occupational licenses.
Part of the review designated by SB 637 includes asking the applicant if the crime was directly related to the occupation her or she is pursuing. If the answer is no the review moves to further questioning to determine whether issuing the license would create a substantial risk to patients or clients or risk of re-offense.
“Finding a job is one of the most important factors in a person’s successful re-entry to their community, to their lives and to their families,” Schwank said. “The way our system worked with automatic disqualifications; the original punishment often carried well beyond the intended sentence. That is not right. This legislation will help them to make that first big step toward employment and the rest of their lives.”
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June 18, 2020
Harrisburg – June 18, 2020 – At the request of state Senators Judy Schwank (D- Berks) and Maria Collett (D- Bucks/Montgomery), the Senate Democratic Policy Committee held a virtual public hearing today on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Pennsylvania’s food supply chain.
Lawmakers discussed ways the legislature can assist struggling businesses through this difficult time and how to prevent future food chain issues.
“Agriculture is integral to Pennsylvania economics and society,” said Schwank, Democratic chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. “The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply affected our farmers, businesses, and consumers across the state. We need to make sure that in the event of another emergency, our supply chain is better prepared to handle disruptions.”
The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic triggered a statewide shutdown order, closing all nonessential businesses across the state. This led to an exponential increase in the number of people staying home who were buying more food from grocery stores. Many stocked up in case they needed to self-quarantine for two weeks because they or someone in their house were exposed to COVID-19.
On the other side of the supply chain, suppliers were harmed through a significant drop off in business with restaurants, schools and large-scale institutions.
The Reading Eagle reported that farmers were forced to dump milk, throw out fresh eggs, and let produce rot because the food supply chain had shifted so rapidly. They claim there was simply nowhere for the food to go.
“A number of businesses in my district, from meat producers to commercial equipment suppliers to linen services — have shared stories about the far reaching ripple effects of disruptions in the food chain — and that is one of the main reasons I fought for this hearing today,” Collett said. “Protecting our frontline workers and our most vulnerable communities is of the utmost importance as we continue to fight this pandemic, but we also need to make sure that we take this time to craft solutions to address the many other issues that this virus has caused.”
Benjamin Davies, accompanied by his wife Karah, of Wild Fox Farms spoke to their experience of continuing the legacy of their family farm in Pennsylvania, “Taking what we have observed during the Covid-19 Pandemic and doubling down on what worked is the only way forward. Focusing on building thriving local supply chains and building regional self-reliance will create resilience in the long term.”
Meat-packaging plants were also temporarily shut down in Pennsylvania and across the country due to the spread of COVID-19 among workers, causing further disruptions in the food supply chain. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that despite known outbreaks among workers at meat-packaging plants, Pennsylvania did not release specific data on workers who contracted COVID-19 at the plants. The Inquirer also reports that Latino workers, who primarily make up the workforce of these plants, had a higher exposure to COVID-19.
“We are supportive of efforts to direct personal protective gear to workers employed in food processing plants, such as House Bill 2435, that would create a grant program that assist these businesses for the purchase of PPE,” Darrin Youker, Director of State Government Affairs at the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau said.
Youker also said that the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau also supports the ‘Very Small Meat Processing Grants’, which allowed additional meat processing plants to open or expand. He said that the additional processing capacity in Pennsylvania will further secure the supply chain for Pennsylvania farmers, and ultimately benefit consumers.
The stay-at-home order resulted in many people losing their jobs and struggling with unexpected losses in income and financial security. The order also closed all schools, so children receiving subsidized meals lost access to consistent healthy meals. Food banks and schools across the state had to rapidly adjust their food distribution methods and respond to an explosive increase in need.
The PA Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding said that projections by Feeding America show percentage of Pennsylvanians experiencing hunger will rise from 10.9% in 2018 to 15.9% in 2020. He said that there are projections that child hunger in Pennsylvania will increase from 15.1% in 2018 to 23.8% in 2020.
The state Department of Agriculture consequently released more information and resources for those struggling with hunger.
“As counties move into stages of reopening, the department remains dedicated to providing guidance, resources, and support to the agriculture community. One area that remains a critical focus is workforce,” Redding said. He also said that the Wolf Administration will continue to provide grants for PPE those within the food supply chain.
“It is incredibly important that as we continue to put people back to work so they can support themselves and their families,” said Sen. Lisa Boscola (D- Lehigh/Northampton), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee. “We need to make sure workers are safe and supported as they face challenges of entering the ‘new normal’ of the post-COVID world.”
The following testified at today’s hearing:
- Russell C. Redding, Secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
- Caryn Long Earl, Director, Bureau of Food Distribution, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
- Sheri Morris, Assistant Director of Food Distribution and Laboratory Services, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
- Steve Tracey, Professor, Executive Director of the Center for Supply Chain Research, Penn State University, Smeal College of Business
- Dr. Patrick Drohan, Professor of Pedology and Creator of the Pennsylvania Agriculture Resilience Network, Penn State University
- Brad Clemens, Senior Vice President, Clemens Food Group
- Darrin Youker, Director, State Government Affairs, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
- Ben and Karah Davies, Wild Fox Farm, Barto, Pennsylvania
Senators Lindsey Williams (D- Allegheny), Pam Iovino (D- Allegehney/Washington), Maria Collett (D- Bucks/Montgomery) Shariff Street (D-Philadelphia), Katie Muth (D- Berks/Montgomery/Chester) John Blake (D- Lackawanna/Luzerne/Monroe), and Tim Kearney (D- Chester/Delaware) also attended this hearing.
The Senate Democratic Policy Committee has already hosted a number of hearings related to COVID-19, including the impact on nursing and veterans homes, the disproportionate effect on the African American Community, pandemic-related funding for childcare centers, and assuring that protective equipment and other support is accessible for all frontline workers.
A full recording of this hearing, and links to all previous hearings, is available at senatorboscola.com/policy.
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May 27, 2020
Harrisburg – May 27, 2020 – At the request of state Senators Judy Schwank (D – Berks) and Lindsey Williams (D – Allegheny), the Senate and House Democratic Policy Committees today held a virtual public hearing to discuss critical funding for childcare centers, pre-K, and Head Start programs; and their hard-working employees affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has exposed the true struggle of working families to access quality childcare at all levels,” Schwank said. “As we ask these essential workers to put themselves on the frontlines of fighting this virus, they should have the peace of mind that their children have the highest quality of care and academic resources.”
Williams added, “Pre-pandemic, one of the most important issues we as a Commonwealth faced was access to quality, affordable childcare. Asking parents to return to work now without providing them quality childcare for their children is unthinkable. We need to pay providers the wages they deserve for keeping our children safe and educating them during such crucial development periods. A fair and just economic recovery for our workforce must include investing in childcare.”
Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler (D-Phila.) said, “Investing in childcare centers is investing in the next generation, our children. As a working mom with two young kids I know just how important it is to have great childcare right in the neighborhood, providing safe, reliable care. Childcare centers are places of learning, growing and nurturing for our children, and we need to do everything we can to support them so that when working parents are at work, their doors are open!”
Rep. Mary Jo Daley (D-Montgomery) added, “Balancing childcare and a job is one of the very real challenges that parents face in normal times. Considering the topsy-turvy world of COVID-19 and the economic necessity of getting people back to work, we must do everything we can to stabilize and support childcare centers so that our children and caregivers have a safe, healthy place to work and play.”
According to the Start Strong PA and Pre-K for PA campaigns, Pennsylvania could see the permanent closures of nearly one-third of its childcare centers due to this extended economic shut down.
Pennsylvania has received $106 million in funding to support childcare providers through the federal CARES Act, with $51 million already being allocated and in the process of being distributed to eligible certified childcare providers through regional Early Learning Resource Centers.
However, Schwank, Williams, Fiedler and Daley plan to introduce legislation to further assist childcare centers with administrative expenses, including payroll, and compensate for the loss of tuition payments from families. They also want to extend Pre-K and Head Start programs into the summer to mitigate early childhood learning losses for students.
“We need to make every effort to support our essential workers, and also to support those who will be returning to work as our counties enter the Yellow and Green phases of reopening across Pennsylvania,” said Sen. Lisa Boscola (D – Lehigh/Northampton), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee. “I am very happy that we are able to host these virtual hearings to obtain ideas on the best ways to help our workers during this COVID-19 pandemic.”
Rep. Mike Sturla (D-Lancaster) chair of the House Democratic Policy Committee, thanked Representatives Fiedler and Daley for “requesting this important hearing. Childcare centers serve a vital role in our economy that must not be overlooked, and they deserve our support to ensure safety for all.”
Testifiers at the policy committee hearing included numerous experts and advocates who spoke on what is needed in the childcare sector during this pandemic, and the best ways that the legislature can assist workers and their families.
“Childcare is a critical infrastructure to the economic well-being of Pennsylvania and her citizens now,” said Tracey Campanini, deputy secretary of the state’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning. “High-quality childcare is critical to Pennsylvania’s future. As important as the discussion is to reopen childcare, I would just remind you there were funding needs of this industry that existed prior to COVID-19.”
Oriana Hood, owner of Pembroke Pee Wee Daycare & Little People Daycare School of Lehigh Valley, told the lawmakers that childcare centers face great uncertainty and daunting financial challenges as Pennsylvania struggles to regain some level of “normalcy.”
“We need help recouping monies lost; we need help to open and remain functional until everyone feels comfortable coming back, she said. “I pray that the businesses I have worked so hard to make a success can remain intact. But for all of this to happen we need funds to operate.
Joining Campanini and Hood, the following testified:
- Jen DeBell, executive director, Pennsylvania Association for the Education of Young Children;
- Donna Cooper, executive director, Public Citizens for Children and Youth;
- Cara Ciminillo, executive director, Trying Together;
- Damaris Alvarado-Rodriguez, executive director, Children’s Playhouse Early Learning Center;
- Laura Heckart, director, Albright Early Learning Center;
- Laura Crispin, Professor of Economics, Saint Joseph’s University;
- Kate Reber, parent; and
- Beckey Flaherty, executive director, Shady Lane School
In addition to Boscola, Schwank and Williams, the following senators participated: Pam Iovino (D-Allegheny), Maria Collett (D-Bucks/Montgomery), John Blake (D-Lackawanna) and Shariff Street (D-Phila.) Joining Sturla, Fiedler and Daley were the following House Legislators: Sara Innamorato (D-Allegheny), Ed Gainey (D-Allegheny), Joe Webster (D-Montgomery) and Dan Miller (D-Allegheny).
A full recording of the hearing will be available at senatorboscola.com/policy.
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May 11, 2020
Harrisburg, May 11, 2020 Legislation proposed by state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) that would ensure Pennsylvanians who receive federal stimulus payments don’t lose state related benefits because of an increase in income received unanimous support from the Senate Finance Committee.
“While I applaud Congress for approving these cash payments, I worry for individuals, particularly seniors, who could lose benefits they rely on because their income will be recertified as too high to be eligible,” Schwank said. “These one-time payments should not be the tipping scale between receiving or losing a benefit.”
Income verified benefits include: the property tax/rent rebate program, PACE/PACENET, childcare subsidies, medical assistance and CHIP.
Senate Bill 1100 now heads to the full Senate for consideration
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May 7, 2020
READING, May 7, 2020 – At the request of State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district), the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate will intercede on behalf of ratepayers in a case involving the Pennsylvania American Water Company’s request to increase its overall water and wastewater rates.
The PAWC recently requested that the Public Utility Commission grant an overall rate increase of $138.6 million over two years for all of its water and wastewater operations. This would mean a nearly 80 percent increase for the average customer by the second year.
Schwank wrote a letter to the POCA on behalf of her constituents who will be affected by the proposed increase. In addition, Schwank has requested that the PUC schedule public hearings to allow residents and business owners to express their concerns on the proposed rate increase. (As yet, she has not received a reply from the Commission to her request.)
“With more than 1.7 million Pennsylvanians currently out of work and seeking unemployment compensation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many families are already struggling to pay their bills,” Schwank said. “While it is not unreasonable for a company to seek sufficient revenue to cover operating and capital expenses and earn a reasonable return on their investment, now is not the right time to pursue it.”
“When it comes to these matters, we need to make sure the public has the opportunity to have their voices heard,” Schwank added. “And, I am grateful that the Consumer Advocate is willing and able to lend the expertise and resources of her office to help protect the interests of consumers.”
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May 1, 2020
READING, May 1, 2020 – State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) will be hosting a live telephone town hall on issues associated with the coronavirus COVID-19 on Wednesday, May 6, at 6:05 p.m. Joining her are:
- Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry Secretary Gerard Oleksiak; and
- Dr. Debra Powell, Section Chief of Infectious Diseases and Medical Director for Infection Prevention for Tower Health Reading Hospital.
To sign up for the telephone town hall, visit https://www.senatorschwank.com/telephone-townhall.
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April 23, 2020
Harrisburg – April 23, 2020 – State Senators Judy Schwank (D – Berks) and Lindsey Williams (D – Allegheny) joined State Representatives Joanna McClinton (D- Philadelphia) and Sara Innamorato (D – Allegheny) for a telephone town hall hosted by the State Innovation Exchange (SiX) to discuss COVID-19 legislation.
“This public health crisis has unearthed glaring inequities faced by our working class and low-income families,” Schwank said. “Ensuring all Pennsylvanians have access to basic necessities like health care, decent housing, food and quality childcare will take bold actions. Please join our teleconference to share your thoughts on how we will improve our Commonwealth.”
The legislators discussed the bills that have been brought forward to assist in K-12 online learning, work to make unemployment compensation more accessible and comprehensive, and the movement of the Pennsylvania primary election to June 2 for the health and safety of all residents of the Commonwealth.
“We’ve been working to pass legislation that will protect and support our constituents, our communities, and our businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, whether that’s through providing our front-line essential workers with PPE or ensuring that childcare facilities can stay open to care for the children of those essential workers while they risk their lives for us,” said Williams. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to discuss these and other measures with people from across Pennsylvania.”
A full list of legislation proposed by the Pennsylvania Senate Democrats to adequately respond to the needs of all Pennsylvanian’s during this pandemic can be found here on our website.
“Even as we stayed home to save lives by flattening the curve, we made sure the people’s voice is heard,” said House Democratic Caucus Chair, McClinton. “This statewide telephone town hall proved now, more than ever, the people want us fighting for the issues that matter – fair pay, safe workplaces for everyone, paid sick leave and so much more that needs to happen even after the virus has been defeated. I want to thank the thousands of people who took time to join us and remind us all it’s always the right time to stand up for fairness and justice for all.”
For more information of McClinton’s work to help those effected by the COVID-19 pandemic, visit her website.
“When I hear the stories of how my neighbors are struggling, my heart breaks,” said state Rep. Sara Innamorato, D-Allegheny. “It is clear that to address these real needs we need to reimagine our social contract. We need a government that provides for the people before it rushes to defend private profits. We need policies that puts food on families’ tables, and keeps people safely housed while they shelter-in-place. We have already sacrificed so much in this fight, and it is clear after talking to people at events like this that not only do we have more to do, but we must continue to fight to put people first.”
To follow all the work that Innamorato is doing to help those effected by this pandemic, visit her website.
All legislators voiced their support for the American Working Family Relief Action Plan to protect workers, ensure adequate healthcare, and provide economic relief as we endure and emerge from this pandemic.
For the most up to date information concerning the COVID-19 coronavirus statistics and protection guidelines in Pennsylvania, visit the PA Dept. of Health’s website.
April 22, 2020
READING, April 22, 2020 – Reading School District and the Berks County Intermediate Unit have been selected for Continuing of Education Equity Grants (CEEG) for the 2019-2020 academic year, State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th District), State Rep. Tom Caltagirone (D-127th District) and State Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-126th District) announced.
CEEG grants are designed to help provide access and inclusion for all learners by bridging the gap for students who are currently limited in their ability to participate in continuity of education.
The grants may be used to purchase computer equipment, such as laptops, tablets and internet hot spots, or be used toward providing instructional materials, such as paper lessons and coursework. Schools with the highest percentages of students lacking access to resources were given priority in receiving CEEG grants.
The following organizations received a CEEG grant:
- Berks County IU 14: $11,300.00
- Reading School District: $500,000.00
“In these difficult times it is imperative that we give students access to every resource available to ensure that they are able to continue learning, especially in districts like Reading where not every student has access to a computer or the internet,” Schwank said. “These funds will help our dedicated education professionals better reach their students.”
“Access to education is of paramount importance, and some of those connections have been lost while students have been out of school,” Caltagirone said. “I’m grateful to see these funds bridge that gap.”
“We know that students have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Rozzi said. “These grants will help bring a little bit of normalcy back to their lives by getting them back in touch with their teachers.”
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April 22, 2020
READING, April 22, 2020 – A low-interest loan in the amount of $1.7 million approved today by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) will help fund the Mount Penn Borough Municipal Authority’s recently completed Perkiomen Avenue Water Main Replacement Project, according to state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11) and state Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-126).
“This project will help ensure that the residents of Mount Penn Borough and the Antietam Valley continue to enjoy the benefit of a safe and high-quality municipal water service for decades to come,” Schwank said. “I commend local officials for their foresight and diligence in coordinating this infrastructure project with PennDOT’s Perkiomen Avenue upgrade work.”
“Replacement of aging infrastructure and preventative maintenance are some of the more difficult challenges local officials face,” Rozzi said. “This project addresses both those needs—it protects water quality, improves service reliability, and will lessen the potential of breaks and service loss.”
The project included the replacement of 5,740 feet of water lines, as well as valves, hydrants, and customer service connections.
PENNVEST funding comes from a combination of state funds approved by voters, grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection agency, and loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards.
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April 9, 2020
READING, April 9, 2020 – State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) will be hosting a live telephone town hall on issues associated with the coronavirus COVID-19 on Monday, April 13, at 6 p.m. Joining her are medical professionals including:
- Psychologist Dr. Timothy Ring, American Red Cross Disaster Relief Specialist who practices at Berkshire Psychiatric & Behavioral Health Services, P.C.
- Penn State Health St. Joseph President John R. Morahan
- Penn State Health St. Joseph Vice President of Medical Affairs Dr. Jeffrey Held
- Penn State Health St. Joseph Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer Sharon Strohecker
To sign up for the telephone town hall, visit https://www.senatorschwank.com/telephone-townhall.
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April 8, 2020
Harrisburg, PA − April 8, 2020 − The Senate adjourned Tuesday afternoon after the House Republicans indicated they would not be taking up Senate Bill 841, legislation that would have enabled local municipalities to hold their meetings remotely, permitted e-notary use; lengthened the time period a property tax payer can receive an early payment discount and delay penalties for late payments to Dec. 31st; and allowed businesses to make delayed payments on EITC. Another important amendment offered by Senator Pam Iovino (D-Allegheny) allowed school districts to renegotiate contracts to ensure contracted school workers can get paid and continue to receive benefits.
The amended SB 841 passed the Senate with bipartisan support. While the Senate Democrats and Republicans chose to put partisan difference aside, the House Republicans were pushing to please special interests and big donors. Intending to use this crisis as leverage, Speaker Turzai and his caucus passed legislation to prematurely allow businesses to reopen during this public health crisis and create a partisan task force to interfere with the Governor’s disaster response, both of which unnecessarily risk lives and threaten to expend the emergency.
“While the Governor and Department of Health Secretary offer leadership on public safety in daily briefings and Democratic members of the PA House and Senate draft legislation to protect working people who are either out of work or employed on the front lines of essential businesses, Republicans are putting lives at risk and undermining the Governor and Secretary Levine’s best efforts to end this crisis,” said Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa, Jr. “Instead of taking the advice of our Health Secretary, they are trying to slow down our response and hasten the re-opening of non-essential businesses against the guidance of every public health entity in the country.”
The House Republicans were seeking even more egregious measures to provide civil immunity to big businesses, upend school districts ability to pay their teachers, and leave our corrections department employees at serious threat of the Coronavirus. Perhaps worst of all, the language does nothing to protect frontline workers, provide assistance to those that are out of work, or to help small businesses weather this crisis.
In an amendment to Senate Bill 327, House Republicans designed a task force with partisan appointees to usurp the Governor’s ability to rapidly respond to this quickly-evolving crisis. Their bill would require the Secretary of Health to leave PEMA, take hours away from public health crisis planning and defend her work in front of a redundant, political body.
The Senate Democratic Caucus will not support these bills. Alternatively, this caucus will be supporting legislation on the following issues:
- The American Working Family Relief Action Plan for front-line worker protections (Collett/L. Williams)
- Protecting workers during public health emergencies (Santarsiero)
- COVID-19 Food Worker Safety Act (Tartaglione)
- COVID-19 Grocery Store Worker Safety Act (Tartaglione)
- Payment of contract services in schools (Iovino)
- Childcare assistance (Schwank/L. Williams)
- Emergency expansion of the Family Medical Leave Act to provide paid sick leave (Farnese)
- Crisis grants for volunteer fire and EMS companies due to COVID-19 (Brewster)
- Require business interruption insurance to cover COVID-19 related business closures (Hughes)
- Eviction protection for all disaster emergencies (Farnese)
- Coronavirus disease and schools: allowing for online instruction (Dinniman)
- Creating a Common Wealth Fund to collect donations from individuals to provide for essential needs of those in need (AH Williams)
- Providing a presumption of eligibility for Workers’ Compensation benefits for workers that get sick in the workplace (Tartaglione)
- Ensuring receipt of a stimulus check from the Federal government is not included in an individual’s income for purposes of qualifying for social safety nets (Schwank)
- Exempting stimulus checks from the Federal government from State and local taxation (Brewster)
- Collaborating with financial institutions to mandate mortgage loan forgiveness, assistance to homeowners that were laid off due to state emergencies (Farnese)
“While many working Pennsylvanians are suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic, facing lost hours or even complete unemployment, others who find themselves in more fortunate circumstances have expressed a desire to help their fellow citizens by either donating to a local charity or patronizing local businesses,” said Senator Anthony H. Williams. “By establishing the “Pennsylvania Common Wealth” restricted account, taxpayers could redirect all or a portion of their stimulus check to the state, which in turn would be authorized to direct those funds into programs which help the neediest Pennsylvanians – property tax & rent rebates, temporary assistance for needy families, CHIP or medical assistance.”
“Pennsylvania needs solutions that help protect its working people who have been hit the hardest by the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic,” Senator Vincent Hughes said. “We in the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus have put forth a number of policy proposals that would do just that, meanwhile House Republicans have chosen to ignore these needs and push an agenda that jeopardizes public health and puts additional pressure on working people by delaying immediate relief. Our mission should be helping people in this unprecedented time of need and we will remain vigilant in protecting hardworking folks across the commonwealth.”
“As public servants, our most important duty is to protect the health, safety and welfare of our citizens. This includes making difficult decisions in challenging times. We all want businesses to reopen, employees back on the job, students back in classrooms and some semblance of normal life to resume, but that cannot happen unless we first continue mitigation efforts and follow the advice of our scientists and experts,” said Senator Wayne D. Fontana. “Anything contrary can set back progress and cause further harm on our economy and most importantly, on human health. The bipartisan legislation the Senate approved provides some necessary guidance and relief to local governments, businesses, school employees and property taxpayers during this unprecedented situation. It is unconscionable that House Republicans blatantly disregarded that duty and have chosen not to act.”
“The spread of coronavirus has not quieted the voice of special interests in Harrisburg and that’s tragic,” said Senator Larry Farnese. “Mitigation through isolation is working and we have to recognize that sacrifice through legislation that actually helps front-line workers instead of just saying nice things on social media.”
“This crisis and the Commonwealth’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic requires leadership, transparency and cooperation – not partisan politics,” said Senator John Blake. “While we’ve worked well with the Senate majority on real solutions that actually help people in this crisis, the House majority looks to undermine the executive authority of the Governor as well as the advice of medical and scientific experts regarding public health. I applaud the work being done by Governor Wolf and his administration to keep Pennsylvanians safe and to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. I will continue to support important legislation to help our business community, front-line workers and medical professionals; and to protect our citizens, schools and local governments across this state. We need to remain vigilant in following the recommendations of the PA Department of Health and the federal CDC.”
“Issues that the Commonwealth was already facing have been exacerbated by this pandemic, and child care services and early learning programs are near the top of the list. Childcare centers are teetering on the brink of insolvency, which is why part of our legislative package addresses early childhood learning and safe, quality childcare. We will not be able to restart Pennsylvania’s economy without this key component,” Senator Judy Schwank said. “Additionally, it’s vital that the income requirements of state programs like PACENET and Property Tax and Rent Rebate are adjusted so that Pennsylvanians receiving federal aid are not penalized later.”
“The key to an effective response to the pandemic is to ensure that our citizens are protected, health risks are addressed, and our economy restarts quickly,” Senator Jim Brewster said. “That’s why I introduced a six-point stimulus plan that will help small business, protect workers and create jobs once we are clear the threat posed by the pandemic. In addition, we need to make sure to address the immediate and long-term needs of first responders and all workers and businesses who are providing essential services during this time of extraordinary stress.”
“There is no segment of our Commonwealth that hasn’t been upended by this crisis. Everything is a priority. But in order to save livelihoods, we must first save lives,” said Senator Maria Collett. “As a nurse, I know firsthand the challenges our health care workers are up against and the urgency of passing legislation like the American Working Family Relief Action Plan for Front-Line Workers. Our doctors, nurses, first responders, senior care aides and others should not have to worry about getting sick or infecting others while performing their essential work.”
“It is irresponsible for the state to reopen businesses at the height of the COVID-19 outbreak. Those who are not essential workers should remain home,” said Senator Art Haywood. “We need to do all we can as legislators to support essential employees risking their lives on a daily basis,” said Senator Haywood (D-Montgomery/Philadelphia). “I will continue to support the work Governor Wolf and Secretary Levine have done to inform the public to remain safe and stay home.”
“The citizens of Pennsylvania are counting on their elected representatives to save lives by responding swiftly, pragmatically, and in a bipartisan manner to slow the spread of this highly contagious virus,” said Senator Pam Iovino. “To fulfill our duty to the public, we must follow the consensus guidance of public health professionals, focus on protecting front-line essential workers, and put in place protections that allow furloughed or unemployed workers and small businesses to weather the economic disruption.”
“As the Democratic chair of the Local Government Committee, I worked with stakeholders for weeks to craft the provisions of SB 841, I am disappointed these commonsense measures, which passed the Senate with bipartisan support, are being held up by House Republicans for little reason,” said Senator Tim Kearney. “The House should immediately pass SB 841 and focus on bringing relief to Pennsylvanians, rather than sabotaging the Governor’s efforts to keep our families safe.”
“Yesterday, the majority party in both chambers failed to use their legislative power, where they can literally pass any bill they want to, and instead decided to pack up and go home without,” said Senator Katie Muth. “Failing to pass meaningful bills when people are fighting for their lives is simply negligent.”
“Now is not the time to play politics,” said Senator Steve Santarsiero. “Saving lives has to be the first priority. In order to do that, we must all do our part and follow the Governor’s and Department of Health’s plans as they’ve been explained to us countless times. SB 841 is just one of many ways our caucus has worked in a bipartisan effort to provide relief to those who need it most. However, SB 327 is exactly what our healthcare professionals warn us against. Promoting a premature return to normalcy will only undermine our effort to keep the public safe, and further endanger thousands of lives.”
“Government’s most important role is the protection of its people. Since the COVID-19 crisis the Senate has met three times, with little to show for it. Communities across the commonwealth have no interest in the paralysis of government especially in the most desperate of times. What they do care about is the protection of our essential workforce, the interruption of our small businesses, job loss, staying in their homes and educating their children. The only thing that matters is the preservation and protection of every resource needed to keep families safe during this health crisis,” said Senator Sharif Street.
“We need to be back in Harrisburg, we need to get back to work. We must work together to ensure our communities are protected during uncertain times.”
“As thousands of Pennsylvanians continue to get sick and hundreds die, now is no time to play partisan politics,” Senator Tina Tartaglione said. “As public leaders, we must unite behind the common goal of reducing the threat of this virus and mitigating the harm being done to our constituents. The package of bills we have proposed will directly help all Pennsylvania families, including essential workers, displaced workers, first responders, school children, those who have become sick, and those in need. I urge all legislators from all political parties to support these bills.”
“Stopping the spread of COVID-19 and saving lives is our top priority. We also need to protect and support our constituents, our communities, and our businesses,” said Senator Lindsey Williams. “Our front-line essential workers – our hospital workers, grocery store workers, emergency service personnel and others – cannot afford to wait for PPE. They needed it weeks ago. Our childcare facilities need our help to stay open and provide care to the children of our essential workers while they risk their lives for us. Our small businesses need financial support to stay afloat. Our municipalities need the ability to meet remotely and make decisions that will ensure the safety of all of residents. There are a lot of needs right now and our constituents do not have time for us to waste playing partisan games or naming bridges. The Senate Democrats have offered concrete solutions that will help people. We should all be working together to get them to the Governor’s desk for signature as soon as possible.”
More information on the work of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus during the COVID-19 crisis can be found at pasenate.com/covid19.
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March 28, 2020
HARRISBURG, March 28, 2020 – State Senator Judy Schwank (D-11th District) and State Senator Lindsey M. Williams (D-38th District) will soon introduce legislation to support childcare centers, pre-K, and Head Start programs, as well as their hard-working employees affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the Start Strong PA and Pre-K for PA campaigns, Pennsylvania could see permanent closures of nearly one-third of its childcare centers from an extended economic shut down, which is why Schwank and Williams are taking action.
Their proposed legislation would:
- Provide $100 million to childcare centers to cover administrative expenses, including payroll, and fill the loss of tuition payments from families;
- Provide $17 million for Pre-K and Head Start to cover administrative expenses, including payroll to compensate for lost co-payments that would otherwise have been collected;
- Appropriate $50 million to extend Pre-K and Head Start programs into the summer to mitigate early childhood learning losses for students.
“Early childhood learning and safe, quality childcare is critical for restarting our economy as we come out of this crisis,” Schwank said. “It’s important that we act quickly to strengthen and sustain our childcare and early learning systems.”
Key, but often neglected components of workforce development are early childhood learning and childcare. However, these programs are critical to enabling parents to return to work confident that their children are being properly cared for and are receiving the education they will need to succeed in life.
“We know that affordable, quality childcare is a major barrier to entry into the workforce during normal times. Our essential workers should not have to worry about finding childcare as they work to care for us in hospitals, keep supermarkets stocked, and keep our communities clean and safe,” Williams said. “Childcare workers have traditionally been underpaid and undervalued, but times like these show how critical their role is. We must treat these professionals like the integral part of our workforce that they are.”
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March 16, 2020
Reading, March 16, 2020 − In order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, beginning Tuesday, March 17, State Sen. Judy Schwank’s district office at 210 George Street will be closed to the public and will instead serve constituents by e-mail, phone and fax.
“This measure is out of an abundance of caution,” Schwank said. “As you are able, please avoid large gatherings and stay home if you are feeling sick.”
To reach Schwank’s office during business hours (Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), e-mail [email protected]; call 610-929-2151; or send a fax to 610-929-2576.
As the Pennsylvania Capitol Complex is closed for the next 14 days, Schwank’s Harrisburg office is also closed during that time.
Additionally, in adhering to the CDC’s recent recommendation to avoid gatherings of more than 50 people, Schwank’s Earth Day Celebration scheduled for Saturday, April 18, at Third and Spruce Recreation Center in Reading is cancelled, as is a Coffee with Constituents event on Wednesday, April 15, at Airport Diner in Kutztown.
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March 11, 2020
Reading, March 11, 2020 − A Mohnton church and Wyomissing Synagogue each received a Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) Non-Profit Security Grant to improve the safety and security of their facility, State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11) announced.
The new grants, which stemmed from legislation supported by Schwank (Act 83 of 2019), are meant for non-profit entities that principally serve individuals, groups or institutions that are included within a bias motivation category for a single bias hate crime incident identified by the FBI. Those incident categories include: race/ethnicity/ancestry, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender and gender identity.
Eligible projects include:
- Purchase of safety and security equipment
- Threat awareness and response training
- Upgrades to existing structures that enhance safety and security
- Vulnerability and threat assessments
- Any other safety or security-related project that enhances safety or security of the non-profit organization
Of more than 800 applications, the two Berks recipients are:
- Allegheny Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mohnton, $23,648
- Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, Wyomissing, $25,000
“The sad reality is that hate crimes can happen anywhere,” Schwank said. “The grants will help these local worship centers better ensure the safety of their congregations and the many community groups who also use their facilities.”
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March 3, 2020
Reading, March 3, 2020 − Sen. Judy Schwank is inviting constituents to meet her for coffee, pastries and conversation at Clair’s Family Restaurant on Tuesday, March 10, at 9 a.m.
Instead of a typical Town Hall, Sen. Schwank has decided to hold an open forum for constituents to address concerns, share comments and ask questions.
The event is free and open to the public.
What: Coffee and Conversation
Where: Clair’s Family Restaurant, 3146 W Main Street, Morgantown
When: Tuesday, March 10, 9 a.m.
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February 6, 2020
Reading, February 6, 2020 − Sen. Judy Schwank is inviting constituents to meet her for coffee, doughnuts and conversation at the Shillington Farmers Market on Thursday, February 13, at 9 a.m.
Instead of a typical Town Hall, Sen. Schwank has decided to hold an open forum for constituents to address concerns, share comments and ask questions.
The event is free and open to the public.
What: Coffee and Conversation
Where: Shillington Farmers Market, 10 S. Summit Ave., Shillington
When: Thursday, February 13, 9 a.m.
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