February 19, 2021
HARRISBURG – February 19, 2021 – State Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) and Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler (D-Philadelphia) were joined by several Democratic House and Senate members from a cross Pennsylvania on Friday to call for repairs to hazardous and toxic schools across Pennsylvania.
Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland), Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Kyle Mullins (D-Lackawanna) pointed to public school buildings in their districts in desperate need of repair during the virtual press conference. The legislators spoke in support of recently unveiled proposals in the House and Senate pushing for significant investment in school infrastructure.
“Today’s event addressed conditions in schools all across the commonwealth, and make no mistake, these same hazardous and toxic conditions exist in communities represented by the Republican caucuses,” Sen. Hughes said. “Rural, suburban and urban communities alike face daunting challenges because of our aging public school buildings. We cannot wait any longer to act. I am grateful to my colleagues for their support on this legislation, as well as the awareness they are helping raise for this important issue.”
The first proposal would expand the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) by $1 billion to help address health hazards in public school buildings across Pennsylvania. Gov. Tom Wolf put forth the RACP proposal as a top priority in his recent 2021-22 budget address.
“Our schools were already dangerous places for students, educators and staff before the pandemic hit,” Rep. Fiedler said. “As we seek to make schools safe in the age of COVID, we are determined to also remediate the lead, asbestos and other toxins. Our coalition is powerful. Together, we are committed to investing state dollars in our public buildings and giving communities across Pennsylvania the schools they deserve!”
The second proposal would create the Public School Building Emergency Repair and Renovation Grant program, distributing grants to public schools for emergency repairs including lead and asbestos abatement or remediation, HVAC repair or replacement, electrical system repair or replacement, plumbing repair or replacement, roof and window repair or replacement and other repairs or replacements that present a health or safety issue. This proposal would rely on federal funding provided through the American Rescue Plan.
“Safe and healthy school environments are vital to the success of our students, teachers and staff,” Sen. Brewster said. “As a former educator, I know firsthand the importance of a safe environment for a student’s physical health and academic achievement. While touring schools throughout the district and discussing concerns with numerous school officials, it is evident that assistance in bringing our public school buildings up to date is a top priority. The proposals discussed this morning will give districts the opportunity to make these necessary upgrades.”
Pennsylvania has some of the oldest school buildings in the nation. Most school buildings were constructed between 1950 and 1959. More than 200 buildings constructed prior to 1950. The aging buildings pose many health hazards including lead in the drinking water; asbestos in cracked floor tiles; mold outbreaks in classrooms; broken boilers in the winter; and no air conditioning in the summer.
“Pennsylvania students’ ability to access a quality education is fundamental to our Commonwealth’s future,” Sen. Schwank said. “But how can we expect our students to learn if they are in unfit and unsafe classrooms? Too many schools were in terrible physical condition even prior to the pandemic. They should have been repaired long ago, and now we are facing a crisis. If we truly want to provide a safe environment for our students, faculty and staff these bills must be passed.“
Legislators are hopeful to gain bipartisan support for the initiative to repair schools statewide. Beyond the clear benefits in creating healthier, safer schools, they point to the potential economic impact from the jobs that would be created as a result of the infrastructure investment.
“No child’s health, safety, or the quality of their education should be safeguarded any less simply because of what school district they happen to live in,” Rep. Mullins said. “It is long overdue that state leaders finally rectify these chronic inequities across our school districts and recognize these as matters of civil rights and public health.”
In 2018, the Public School Building Construction And Reconstruction Advisory Committee released the PlanCon final report. The legislature has not funded programs to address the facilities issued raised in the PlanCon report. Conditions in many districts have worsened, and become more costly, as a result of inaction.
Click here to watch the full press event.
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February 10, 2021
Harrisburg, PA − February 10, 2020 − Today, the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus (WHC) hosted a Joint Policy Hearing with the PA House and Senate Democratic Policy Committees on the topic of Maternal Health Amidst COVID-19. Co-Chairs of the WHC include Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks), Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-Montgomery, Delaware), Representative Morgan Cephas (D-Philadelphia) and Representative Mary Jo Daley (D-Narberth).
“Today’s policy hearing on maternal health amidst COVID-19 was incredibly informative. This was a broad discussion about maternal mortality and its prevalence in black women; COVID vaccines; telemedicine and other innovative tools for patients to keep in touch with their health care providers; and the impact of quarantine on pregnant and postpartum individuals,” said Representative Mary Jo Daley. “In Pennsylvania, we are so fortunate to have health care practitioners including physicians, nurse-midwives and psychologists as well as lactation consultants and doulas who provide services during the pregnancy and postpartum time. The need for legislative action on policies that support pregnant women and their families was discussed by the panelists, most of whom have direct interaction with pregnant women, their families, and their support systems.”
Since the onset of the pandemic, the Pennsylvania Department of Health has cautioned pregnant women to take preventative measures in avoiding exposure to COVID-19, as they are considered to be at greater risk of becoming seriously ill if infected with the virus, including possible adverse birth outcomes. A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates pregnant women are more likely to be hospitalized in the intensive care unit and receive mechanical ventilation than non-pregnant women, but they are not at greater risk of death from COVID-19 than non-pregnant women (American Hospital Association, 2020).
“Today’s hearing proved once again how important it is to listen to women, and that we need to focus on inclusion and diversity,” Senator Judy Schwank said. “Some of the suggestions we heard today could literally save lives if we’re able to implement them through policy change or legislation. For example, several of our experts mentioned ensuring pregnant patients have access to monitoring equipment, like an at-home blood pressure cuff, to catch potentially life-ending health problems early. We’ve asked the experts for their advice and they’ve absolutely risen to that challenge. Now my colleagues and I must take this torch and keep this momentum going.”
Policy recommendations from our panelists included eliminating barriers to healthcare access, expanding broadband access for telemedicine, and expanding postpartum Medicaid coverage to one year.
“As co-chair for the Women’s Health Caucus and a newly appointed member of the Pennsylvania Commission for Women, it is imperative for me to ensure that conversations on maternal health continue to be elevated. Testifiers from today’s hearing helped us to understand the impacts of COVID19 on pregnant individuals, mothers, and the healthcare system, but also reiterated much of what we already knew. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues in the House and Senate to take what we discussed in today’s hearing and turn it into substantial reforms that improve maternal health outcomes across the commonwealth,” said Representative Cephas.
The panels covered diverse topics relative to maternal health, including Maternal Care During COVID-19, Vaccines & Pregnancy, Telemedicine, Prenatal Care, & Labor & Delivery, the COVID-19 Vaccine, and the Impact of Quarantine on Pregnant & Postpartum Individuals.
“Today’s policy hearing highlighted the struggle pregnant and nursing people faced prior to the pandemic and how that struggle has increased exponentially since the pandemic. As policymakers, we must take what we heard today and continue to fight for the support and programs pregnant and nursing people need for them and their families to thrive. One vital aspect to that is access to the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Senator Cappelletti. “We must provide pregnant and nursing individuals with scientifically valid, trustworthy, and easy to access information about how it may or may not affect their health and the health of their child.”
As a caucus, we would like to thank our panelists, and everyone who participated in and coordinated today’s hearing. We will continue this conversation far past today and continue to hold important discussions on Women’s Health issues. Our caucus is committed to advocating for the health of women and families across the Commonwealth.
Below are all who testified in today’s hearing:
- Dr. Mark Woodland, M.S., M.D., FACOG, Chair & Clinical Professor OB-GYN, Reading Hospital/Tower Health, Interim Academic Chair, OBGYN Drexel University College of Medicine
- Dr. Hyagriv “Hy” Simhan, UPMC Magee-Women’s Hospital, Division Chief of Maternal Fetal Medicine
- Dr. Richard Beigi, UPMC Magee-Women’s Hospital, President, OB-GYN
- Dr. Aasta Mehta , M.D., M.P.P., FACOG – Philadelphia MMRC, Philadelphia Dept of Health, PA MMRC
- Dr. Sindhu Srivinas , Director of Obstetrical Services – UPenn/Penn Medicine
- Nicole Chaney, Certified Nurse-Midwife, Reading Hospital
- Markita Glenn, Doula, Pettaway Pursuit Foundation
- Dr. Elizabeth Morgan, Maternal Fetal Health Specialist, Baystate Health
- Dr. Richard S. Legro, M.D, Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Public Health Sciences, Penn State Health College of Medicine and Penn State Health
- Dr. Catharine I. Paules, M.D., Assistant Professor, Infectious Diseases, Penn State Health College of Medicine and Penn State Health
- Dr. Rhonda C. Boyd, Ph.D., Psychologist in the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
- Demia Horsley, M.P.H., CLC (DONA), LCCE, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Healthy Start, Inc.
The full recording of today’s hearing will be available at: https://www.senatormuth.com/policy/
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February 8, 2021
HARRISBURG − February 8, 2021 — In response to soaring rates of COVID-19 infection and death among incarcerated people and throughout the Pennsylvania prison system, nearly three dozen State Senators and State Representatives have issued a joint letter to Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf, urging him to utilize his power of reprieve to immediately release incarcerated people who are elderly or medically vulnerable.
Pennsylvania’s correctional institutions now see a death rate from COVID-19 three times that of the general population.
“There is a growing crisis in our correctional facilities. Department of Corrections Secretary Wetzel has testified that they cannot stop the spread of the virus within the prison walls. Facility spread threatens to enhance community spread as more men and women die behind the walls and in our communities every day. I urge Governor Wolf to once again use his reprieve power to protect our communities,” said Senator Sharif Street (D–Philadelphia).
“As elected officials, we have taken an oath to do everything in our power to keep those we represent safe,” said Senator Nikil Saval (D–Philadelphia). “Each person who has died leaves behind them a grieving family and community. These unnecessary deaths are unacceptable. We call upon Governor Wolf to act immediately to prevent additional suffering and additional loss of life.”
More than 1,200 people were identified as being eligible for reprieve by Governor Wolf’s administration in Spring 2020, but since that time, reprieve has been granted to only 159 people.
Senator Anthony H. Williams (D–Philadelphia/Delaware) recognized the urgent need for immediate government action to keep people safe, stating, “Gandhi captured it best, ‘The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.’”
On January 28, Senators Williams, Street, and Saval released a co-sponsorship memorandum titled “Expanded Eligibility for Medical and Elderly Release to Mitigate COVID-19 in PA’s Prisons,” with the objective of expanding eligibility and improving the process to facilitate the release of those most at risk for severe illness and death.
“We cannot allow a prison sentence to be a death sentence,” said Senator John Kane (D–Delaware/Chester). “COVID deaths in prisons are preventable—period. I urge the Governor to use his reprieve power to prevent these unconscionable deaths.”
This letter represents a significant bicameral effort among legislators, with 16 Democratic Senators (a majority of the Senate Democratic Caucus) and 16 Democratic State Representatives signed on, and with particular support from the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus.
“I am heartbroken by the countless stories from constituents in my district of loved ones in jail who have gotten sick during this pandemic, and we know people are dying in jails on a weekly basis,” said Representative Rick Krajewski (D–Philadelphia). “There is an absolute health crisis in Pennsylvania’s prisons. The governor has the ability to end this suffering right now, these deaths are unnecessary and I am urging the governor to recognize his power and responsibility to grant reprieve to people in prison who are at risk from COVID-19.”
Representative Chris Rabb (D–Philadelphia) emphasized the boundless impact of the pandemic, and the need for bold action for the sake of public health.
“Community spread does not acknowledge social status. The virus is opportunistic and spreads irrespective of the politics or position of the people it infects, and doesn’t care about the nature of the congregate population it devastates,” said Representative Rabb. “Without speedy releases of incarcerated Pennsylvanians following the guidance of public health officials, men and women in our prisons will continue to receive de facto death sentences due to the inaccurate—and now dangerous—assumption that people convicted of certain criminal offenses are a significant threat to the public. We cannot let politics and misinformed public perception about bold necessary public health measures get in the way of making Pennsylvanians safer. It is not fair to DOC staff nor to incarcerated people, nor all those with whom they come in contact beyond the prison walls.”
People who are incarcerated do not have the ability to socially distance. As a result, the Department of Corrections has resorted to the use of solitary confinement—a punitive measure—to try to prevent widespread infection and harm. Findings from throughout the country have definitively linked COVID-19 outbreaks in prison settings with increased cases in the surrounding community.
“Asking Governor Wolf to exercise his power of reprieve is just sound public health policy. This will save the lives of those incarcerated and the individuals who work at our correctional facilities,” said Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D–Montgomery/Delaware). “Of the 47,000 people in state prisons and community corrections centers, many are elderly or have health conditions that put them at greater risk of hospitalization and death should they become infected with COVID-19. We must take the necessary steps to protect their health and ensure they are safe. This is what is best for our public.”
Senator Lisa M. Boscola (D–Lehigh/Northampton) noted efforts on behalf of incarcerated people as part of holistic work for the health of the state.
“Last session I was proud to work in a bipartisan fashion to craft legislation to release elderly and sick nonviolent prisoners because it costs taxpayers too much money,” said Senator Boscola. “Releasing elderly and medically vulnerable individuals who are not a danger to the community in order to reduce the likelihood they will get COVID in prison is in line with responsibly reducing our prison population.”
On January 7, at the request of Senators Williams and Street, the Senate Democratic Policy Committee held the hearing “Pandemic in Our Prisons—Protecting People and Communities.” Recommendations following the hearing included urging Governor Wolf to use reprieve to reduce the prison population.
“Every day that passes with no action taken to expand reprieve efforts adds an increase in risk for incarcerated elderly and medically vulnerable individuals,” said Senator Katie Muth (D–Montgomery/Chester/Berks), Chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee. “Urgent action is needed now and we cannot wait another minute for the unnecessary and unjust harm to take another life.”
“The Wolf administration should be commended for introducing the reprieve program in April,” said Senator Judy Schwank (D–Berks). “However, it hasn’t done what it needed to and our state prisons are still overwhelmed by the coronavirus. We ask Governor Wolf to reevaluate this program.”
Read the full letter here
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January 25, 2021
Reading, January 25, 2021 − State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) is hosting a live telecast on BCTV on Thursday, Jan. 28, at 8 p.m. The program is on Pennsylvania’s Economic Outlook for 2021 and will include a panel conversation between Matthew Knittel, director of the Independent Fiscal Office, Mark Mekilo, Executive Director of the Senate Democratic Appropriations Committee and Toni Marchowsky, Deputy Chief of Staff to Senator Vincent Hughes. Schwank will serve as moderator.
During the live telecast, home viewers can call 610-378-0426 to converse with the panel. The telecast can be viewed on BCTV, Comcast Reading Channel 15, Service Electric CableVision Channel 19, and Comcast Southern Berks Channel 965.
“Dollars drive policy and my constituents need to know where the state is as we navigate a financial recovery from the coronavirus pandemic,” Schwank said. “I am hopeful that this panel will leave viewers with a better idea of where our Commonwealth stands and how we move forward.”
The show will also stream live on www.bctv.org.
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January 22, 2021
HARRISBURG − January 22, 2021 − Yesterday, members of the Pennsylvania’s Women’s Health Caucus (WHC), Public Citizens for Children and Youth (PCCY), and other elected officials held a press conference to call on Governor Tom Wolf to restore subsidies to child care centers to pre-pandemic levels.
At an October rally, a sampling of 81 child care centers reported a loss of $1.5 million in state funding during just the first month of the OCDEL funding change. More than four months after that policy change, the accumulated financial loss has had devastating effects with 154 child care centers in Southeast Pennsylvania going out of business; hundreds more are barely able to keep their doors open. Governor Wolf has the authority to direct new federal funding to child care providers to increase payments moving forward and to pay back the funding they lost.
Starting in September 2020, the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) slashed payment levels to child care providers. Speakers shared how this has reverberated throughout their communities, hurting children, families, and child care center employees and owners.
The PA Women’s Health Caucus is a bicameral caucus co-chaired by Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks), Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-Montgomery, Delaware), Representative Morgan Cephas (D-Philadelphia) and Representative Mary Jo Daley (D-Narberth). The caucus’ mission statement is “The Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus is a bipartisan, bicameral caucus of legislators partnering with interest groups and advocacy organizations to develop and implement legislation and social policy that protects and respects women’s health, including the right to make private, personal medical decisions.”
Under this umbrella of women’s health, access to affordable child care has been at the forefront of discussions during this pandemic, as the burden has mostly fallen on women. Providing accessible and affordable child care has not been easy during this crisis, and child care centers need help. This is why members of the caucus and other lawmakers joined with PCCY to call on Governor Wolf to restore child care subsidies to pre-pandemic levels.
“Child care needs to be prioritized at every level of government,” Newly elected co-chair of the caucus, Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti said. “This issue overwhelmingly effects women, who are primarily the owners and employees at child care centers. We know especially women of color have been disproportionately affected by this pandemic. They need our help now.”
“Child care is absolutely as much a part of our state’s infrastructure as roads and utilities,” Senator Judy Schwank, co-chair of the WHC, said. “It’s far past time we treat this service as such. I urge the Wolf administration to restore funding for child care providers to pre-pandemic levels and use additional federal relief to reinforce our child care system.
Members of the caucus include senators, representatives, and advocates. Here’s what members and other lawmakers had to say on the issue:
- “Child care dollars are some of the most effective dollars we spend in government. We have to get more members to understand and appreciate the importance of this issue and build a broader base of support,” Senate Democratic Leader Senator Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) said.
- “Child care workers keep our country going, and since COVID-19 hit, they’ve taken one gut punch after another. We can, and must, do better for them. That starts with immediately putting federal funding to use so we can keep providers afloat. The success of childcare workers is the success of parents, children, and our entire Commonwealth,” Senator Tim Kearney (D) from Delaware County said.
- “Quality childcare is essential to starting our children on the right track to a strong educational foundation that will support them throughout their life,” said state Rep. Jordan Harris, House Democratic Whip. “I encourage our governor, who I know puts early education and childcare at the top of his priority list, to reevaluate funding priorities and ensure childcare providers have the resources they need.”
- “The Wolf administration can’t continue to talk about making affordable childcare a priority for working families then take actions that shut their doors. Our budget is a direct reflection of our priorities.” Said Senator Maria Collett (D-Montgomery, Bucks). “If this really is a priority, now’s the time to pay up. Because without more funding, child care providers won’t survive. Without a functioning child care sector, Pennsylvania’s economy won’t recover. More women will leave the workforce and an employment sector will disappear. And most dangerously, the opportunity to educate a generation of new learners will be lost.”
- “High quality childcare and early education make the difference not only for students, but also for parents. When I was a single mother raising my son, access to community resources and care options allowed me to develop my career, start a business, and continue to provide for my child. COVID-19 has pushed many parents to a crossroads, and I believe that this funding could alleviate the tough choices facing many families,” said Rep. Melissa Shusterman (D-Chester, Montgomery).
January 15, 2021
Reading, January 15, 2021 − Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) will continue her post as the Democratic Chair of the Senate Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee for the 2021-2022 legislative session, Senate Minority Leader Sen. Jay Costa (D-43rd district) announced today. She will also serve on the Appropriations, Aging & Youth, Health & Human Services and Game & Fisheries committees.
“Serving on these key committees will allow me to discuss issues of critical importance to my constituents, like helping Berks County recover from COVID-19 both economically and through vaccine rollout,” she said.
Schwank was also named the Senate Democratic Caucus Administrator, which is a Senate leadership role.
“I look forward to continue working with my colleagues in the Democratic caucus to ensure that our legislative priorities reflect those of the people I represent,” Schwank said. “I am humbled by the trust my leadership has placed in me.”
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January 6, 2021
Harrisburg, PA – January 6, 2021 – The PA Senate Democrats released the following statement on the violent protest today in the nation’s Capitol:
The First Amendment is one of our most sacred. It is not political and it is not partisan. The rights to free speech, assembly and petition are what allow this country to flourish. However, those rights do not permit the violence we are seeing today in the nation’s Capitol building and in state capitols across this country.
We held an election in November, and now – like every four years – we must have a peaceful transition of power. Our form of government cannot survive without it.
Without qualification or equivocation, we condemn the actions at the US Capitol Building today. We are asking protestors to stand down and leave peacefully.
January 5, 2021
Reading, January 5, 2020 − State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) is thrilled to see Albright College receive an “It’s On Us PA” grant award for nearly $30,000.
Albright College was awarded $29,969 to address campus sexual assault through Gov. Tom Wolf’s “It’s On Us PA” Grant Program. The program is part of Wolf’s It’s On Us PA campaign, which invites education leaders and all Pennsylvanians to be part of the solution to protect students from sexual violence.
The grants provide funding from January 2021 through May 2022 to implement strategies on campuses to address goals of the Governor’s It’s On Us PA campaign, which include:
- Improve awareness, prevention, reporting, and response systems regarding sexual violence in schools, colleges, and universities to better serve all students.
- Remove/reduce barriers that prevent survivors of sexual violence from reporting and/or accessing vital resources by creating a more consistent, empowering reporting process for student survivors of gender-based violence.
- Demonstrate significant, proactive, and sustainable leadership to change campus culture by challenging Pennsylvania’s education leaders – including college and university presidents, as well as students, teachers, faculty, staff, families, and communities to pledge to improve their institutions’ climate around sexual assault.
“This initiative has made Pennsylvania a leader in combatting sexual assault in colleges and universities,” Schwank said. “I’ve supported these programs from the beginning and I’m beyond pleased to see Albright College successfully pursue these funds to better support the students on campus.”
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December 23, 2020
Reading, December 23, 2020 Two Berks County institutions of higher learning will receive $5 million in state grant funding, announced State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district). Alvernia University will receive $4 million from the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant to move forward with its Reading College Towne initiative at its downtown Reading campus. Albright College will receive $1 million from the same grant program to renovate the college’s Gingrich Library. Schwank strongly advocated for both projects.
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects.
“These funds are an incredible boost for downtown Reading and our efforts to revitalize Penn Street,” Schwank said. “I am beyond pleased to see Alvernia making such a bold move to locate part of their campus in downtown Reading. I’m equally grateful to Gov. Tom Wolf who has been so supportive of the economic development projects in the city.”
Schwank congratulated the efforts of all involved in securing the funding, including Reading Mayor Eddie Moran, who Schwank lauded for helping make the vision of a downtown campus a reality.
Albright College’s project is especially meaningful for Northeast Reading.
“These state funds will help Albright remain an anchor in Northeast Reading and allow the institution to transform Gingrich Library into a state-of-the-art learning facility that will benefit both college students and the community at-large,” Schwank said.
“These are two great projects that will bring immediate jobs to Berks in terms of construction, and long-term these projects will have a tremendously positive impact on Reading and the greater Reading area,” Schwank said.
“It’s important to note that I’m excited about these projects, but I am also continuing to work to make sure we help other businesses who have been so negatively impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic,” Schwank said.
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December 10, 2020
HARRISBURG – December 10, 2020 – Today the following members of the Pennsylvania State Senate signed a joint statement – set forth below – denouncing the brazen attempt of the attorneys general of Texas and seventeen other states to disenfranchise millions of Pennsylvanians and voters in three other states by asking the United States Supreme Court to prevent electors in Pennsylvania and those other states that voted for Joe Biden from certifying him the winner when they meet in Harrisburg and the other state capitals on Monday, December 14.
The statement reads as follows:
“The lawsuit by the attorneys general of Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah and West Virginia is based on the outright lie that voter fraud prevented Donald Trump from getting re-elected. Since Election Day, the Trump legal team has filed scores of such suits trying to overturn the will of the people. Time and again, the judges in those matters – in many cases conservative, Republican judges, some of whom Donald Trump appointed himself – have found that there was no evidence to support those claims and dismissed the suits accordingly.
The bedrock of our democracy is the right to vote and the right of voters to be sure that their votes will be counted. This lawsuit and the others like them are a direct attack on that fundamental principle. It seeks to perpetuate the lie that the presidential election was somehow stolen. While partisan politics – and a desire to appease the president’s restive base – may be the motivation for this latest court challenge, allowing it to go forward in silence is dangerous and, we believe, would constitute a dereliction of our duty as elected representatives of the people to uphold the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
The facts are these: Joe Biden received over 81 million votes, more than any candidate for president in the history of the United States and about 7 million more than Donald Trump. He received 80,555 more votes than the president in Pennsylvania. Mr. Biden received the most votes in 25 states and the District of Columbia, and, therefore, on December 14 when the Electoral College convenes, will be awarded 306 electoral votes, 36 more than the 270 needed to be elected president. Every vote cast for Joe Biden was cast freely and fairly, whether in person or by mail. In each state the vote-counting process was transparent and undertaken pursuant to law. Local and state officials, both Republican and Democratic alike, have attested to those facts, and, as noted, the courts have agreed. Joe Biden won the election.
Donald Trump has lost his bid for re-election; he seems incapable of accepting that fact. For the first time in American History, a sitting president who lost re-election has refused to acknowledge his loss, acting instead like a would-be autocrat who cannot accept any outcome that does not have him staying in power. While that may be a commentary on the character of the man, it cannot be a cause for setting aside the will of the people.
All of us have a responsibility – indeed we would go so far as to say a sacred duty – to ourselves, our fellow Americans and generations to come to prevent the lie that this election was stolen from living on and undermining future elections. For these reasons we have signed this statement and call upon others to likewise speak out and denounce this lawsuit against our state for what it is: an attack on our democracy.”
Signed,
Senator Steve Santarsiero, 10th District
Senator Vincent Hughes, 7th District
Senator Maria Collett, 12th District
Senator Judy Schwank, 11th District
Senator Tim Kearney, 26th District
Senator Christine Tartaglione, 2nd District
Sen.-Elect Amanda M. Cappelletti, 17th District
Sen.-Elect Carolyn Comitta, 19th District
Senator Jay Costa, 43rd District
Senator Anthony H. Williams, 8thDistrict
Senator Katie Muth, 44th District
Senator Art Haywood, 4th District
Senator Sharif Street, 3rdDistrict
Senator Lindsey Williams, 38th District
Sen.-Elect Nikil Saval, 1st District
Sen.-Elect John Kane, 9th District
December 7, 2020
Reading, December 7, 2020 − The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has awarded $812,416 to the city of Reading through the Automated Red Lights Enforcement (ARLE) program to make safety improvements on city roads, announced State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) and State Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-126th district).
The funds will be used to replace outdated traffic signals with new signals with multiple heads and improved traffic control features, and to install ADA curb ramps and crosswalks along North Front Street at the intersections of Greenwich Street, Oley Street, Douglass Street and Windsor Street.
“Ensuring the safety of pedestrians and motorists alike requires continual efforts to update traffic control infrastructure,” Schwank said. “This project accomplishes that. I commend the city for pursuing these state funds which will help make this project a reality.”
“I’m thrilled to see Reading receive these award funds,” Rozzi said. “These improvements will have a positive impact on our economy by making roadways easier to navigate for residents, workers and visitors while also improving safety and traffic flow.”
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November 20, 2020
Reading, November 20, 2020 − In response to the continuing spread of COVID-19, beginning Monday, November 30, State Sen. Judy Schwank’s district office at 210 George Street will be temporarily closed to the public and will instead serve constituents by e-mail, phone and fax.
“Positive COVID-19 cases and COVID-related hospitalizations are rising in Berks County and throughout the commonwealth,” Schwank said. “Out of an abundance of caution, our district office will temporarily close for in-person constituent service. My staff, however, will continue to be available to help constituents with questions about or issues with state government.”
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 senatorschwank@pasenate.com; call 610-929-2151; or send a fax to 610-929-2576.
Any paperwork constituents need Schwank’s office to process can be mailed to :
Senator Judy Schwank
210 George Street
Suite 201
Reading, PA 19605
Additional information on services offered can be found at www.senatorschwank.com.
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November 18, 2020
Berks Community Health Center Oakbrook Community Outreach and Enrollment Specialist, Guadalupe Flores, helps a constituent sign up for health insurance during Sen. Judy Schwank and Rep. Mark Rozzi’s ACA Enrollment Event Wednesday.
Reading, November 18, 2020 – State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) and State Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-126th district) hosted a free Affordable Care Act (ACA) enrollment event at the Muhlenberg Township Building on Wednesday, Nov. 18.
During the event, healthcare consumers had access to expert help from the Berks Community Health Center to sign up for ACA or Medicare coverage through the new state insurance marketplace, Pennie. The open enrollment period is from November 1st to January 15th.
“Access to quality and affordable healthcare is now more important than ever,” Schwank said. “Yet finding and signing up for the right insurance plan can be intimidating. The Berks Community Health Center is a great resource for those who need help with health insurance decisions.”
“The deadline to sign up for healthcare is coming up fast and Berks residents need access to resources to help them choose the best health care plan for themselves and their families,” Rozzi said. “The process may seem difficult, but help is easy to find.”
The Berks Community Health Center is offering free appointments in-person or by phone to enroll. Call 484-772-4080 to make an appointment.
Contact: Jamie Klein, 610 929-2151, jklein@pasenate.com
November 16, 2020
Harrisburg, November 16, 2020The Pennsylvania Department of Education has awarded $155,000 to Berks County schools to prevent and reduce violent incidents, to purchase safety and security-related equipment, and to provide for the training and compensation of school resource and police officers, announced State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th District).
The following schools will receive funds awarded through the Education Department’s Office for Safe Schools, which offers four types of safety grants: equipment grants, program grants, School Police Officer (SPO) grants and School Resource Officer (SRO) grants:
- Antietam School District, Equipment Grant, $25,000
- Antietam School District, Program Grant, $20,000
- Brandywine Heights Area School District, Equipment Grant, $20,131
- Brandywine Heights Area School District, Program Grant, $20,000
- Muhlenberg School District, Equipment Grant, $25,000
- Muhlenberg School District, Program Grant, $20,000
- La Salle Academy, IU Non Public Equipment Grant, $25,000
“We expect our students to focus on their studies – how can they do that if safety is a concern?” Schwank said. “This funding will help these schools provide a safer environment for their students and staff.”
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November 12, 2020
Reading, November 12, 2020 − The Pennsylvania Department of Education today awarded Schuylkill Valley Community Library $134,712 in a Keystone Grant for building improvements, including replacing the roof, improving ADA accessibility and adding restrooms, State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) announced.
Award recipients were selected through a competitive grant process. The Keystone grants will aid public library facilities in installing equipment, upgrading security systems, and more.
“Libraries play a key role in our communities,” Schwank said. “I’m thrilled to see some of these funds help make the Schuylkill Valley Community Library more accessible to the Leesport community.”
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October 15, 2020
Reading, October 15, 2020 The Penn State Agricultural Council today recognized State Senator Judy Schwank (D-11th district) as their Leadership Award recipient for 2019.
The Council, first formed in 1961, is comprised of organizations, groups and businesses that represent a strategic agricultural or related interest in Pennsylvania.
The Leadership Award is one of three awards given annually to outstanding leaders in the agricultural community in Pennsylvania that:
- Demonstrate outstanding communication and advocacy skills.
- Exhibit the highest levels of professionalism, performance, innovation, judgment, and problem-solving skills.
- Encourage personal development, partnerships, collaboration, and respect.
- Serve as a role model, mentor, diplomat, and inspiration.
The other awards are the Youth Leadership Award (to a student) and the Leadership in Action Award (given to an organization, group or event).
Nominations are solicited from Penn State Ag Council member organizations and their membership. The selection committee is comprised of the Penn State Ag Council President and the Penn State Ag Council Membership Committee.
“It’s truly an honor to receive this award,” Schwank said. “This is the part of my work as a state senator that I find so rewarding. Our agriculture industry in Pennsylvania and the agriculture economy are so important to me, to my constituents and to all of the people of the Commonwealth.”
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October 6, 2020
Harrisburg, October 6, 2020 Today the Pennsylvania Senate approved 50-0 a bill that would allow milk processors more flexibility in labeling. The legislation was inspired by a dairy industry study Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) requested in 2018 which suggested clarifying milk date coding requirements as a way for the state to bolster the dairy industry.
SB 1330 allows milk processors to use a “best by” date instead of a “sell by” date, which was also recommended by a recently released report by the Dairy Future Commission of which Schwank was a member. The proposal also allows milk processors to request a later “best by” or “sell by” date from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture than the current 17-day milk code, after product testing.
“Other states don’t have that 17-day milk code requirement, which is an arbitrary deadline and really doesn’t reflect the freshness of the milk,” Schwank said. “Milk doesn’t necessarily spoil once you get to day 18. But consider consumers in the grocery store – they buy the carton with the latest date. This legislation will help make Pennsylvania milk the fresher choice.”
The bill now moves to the House for consideration.
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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 31, 2020
Reading, July 31, 2020 State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11th district) applauds $878,612 for the former Buttonwood Gateway site in Reading granted to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Reading through the Industrial Sites Reuse Program (ISRP).
The ISRP provides loans and grants for environmental assessments and remediation carried out by eligible applicants who did not cause or contribute to the contamination. The program is designed to foster the cleanup of environmental contamination at industrial sites, thereby bringing blighted land into productive reuse.
“This is fantastic news for our ongoing efforts to revitalize Reading,” Schwank said. “The Buttonwood Gateway project is an exciting opportunity that brings us one step closer to achieving that goal.”
Project details: The Redevelopment Authority of the City of Reading was granted $878,612 for environmental remediation of the former Buttonwood Gateway site in Reading. The authority is partnering with the Delaware Valley Development Company (DVDC) to revitalize a long-blighted property by constructing 28 interlocking townhomes with integral parking garages, 12 walk-up apartments, and six three-bedroom townhomes, all with individual entrances and on-site parking. ISRP funds will be used to excavate the soil to an off-site disposal facility; place a cap to eliminate direct contact with soil; install monitory wells and three separate phase liquid recovery wells; conduct quarterly groundwater sampling, soil sampling, and separate phase liquid sampling; liquid waste characterization and disposal; drum disposal; soil vapor reporting; inspections; well abandonment; and reporting.
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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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