Upgrades for Reading Waste Water Treatment Facility Approved by PENNVEST

Harrisburg – Aug. 11, 2016 – Upgrades at Reading’s Fritz Island Waste Water Treatment Facility will be completed thanks to $27.1 million in additional funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST), state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) said today.

“I’m encouraged by the approval of additional state funding to support this important project” Schwank said. “Our residents depend on the efficient operation of this plant for clean water and a functional sewer system. These upgrades are critical to the future of the plant.”

The $27.1 million loan is in addition to $121.8 million that was previously approved by PENNVEST for the facility.

Schwank said that the funding was approved at a special meeting of the PENNVEST board today. The additional funding ensures that all necessary improvements to the facility can be made.

At the Fritz Island solids plant, the dollars will be used to address numerous discharge system issues. It will also pay for the construction of a primary clarifier distribution structure, the rehabilitation of other primary clarifiers and other system improvements.

At the liquids plant, the funds will be used for construction projects to prevent the discharge of sewage into the Schuylkill River.

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.

Reading is under a federal consent decree to fix problems in the city’s sewer system, which serves more than 22,000 households in Reading and customers in other municipalities

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Schwank Looks Forward to Future of Hemp Industry in Pennsylvania

Harrisburg – July 22, 2016 – Legislation recently signed into law by Governor Tom Wolf legalizing the growing of industrial hemp in Pennsylvania represents a significant step forward for the agricultural industry in Pennsylvania, State Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) said today.

“Pennsylvania will now be on the same playing field as other states that have passed hemp legislation” Schwank said. “Bringing this multi-million dollar industry back to Pennsylvania will provide new opportunities for farmers and give Pennsylvania the chance to open new doors for generations of farmers to come.”

Schwank spearheaded the legislation in the Senate and was a tireless advocate for the reestablishment of the industrial hemp industry. Her legislation was unanimously approved by the Senate, while companion legislation – introduced in the House – made its way through the General Assembly and onto the governor’s desk earlier this week.

Act 92 allows for the growing, cultivation and marketing of market industrial hemp within the state and permits growing industrial hemp for research purposes by agencies, colleges, and universities. The new law also establishes the Hemp Research Board and charges it with developing regulations, applications for registration, inspections, a database of registered persons, registration fees, guidelines for labeling and testing.

Schwank said there are many ways to use industrial hemp including its application in textiles, building materials, industrial and environmental products, food and paper.

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State Infrastructure Loan for Reading Airport Industrial/Business Park

HARRISBURG — July 1, 2016 — The Berks County Industrial Development Authority (BCIDA) was approved today by the Commonwealth Financing Authority for a state low-interest Business In Our Sites (BIOS) loan in the amount of $1,119,709 to improve electrical infrastructure at the Reading Airport Industrial/Business Park located in Bern Township, according State Senator Judy Schwank.

Senator Schwank noted that the funds will help the Authority pay for needed work to extend power lines and install related infrastructure to expand electrical power capacity and availability at the airport, which will accommodate existing and future industrial development and growth in the area.

“The Reading Airport holds tremendous potential for development and the BCIDA and the local officials have been working diligently to ensure that the infrastructure is in place to entice new businesses to locate here,” said Senator Schwank.“This investment of state funds will help put us in a better position to attract new ventures to our area and promote job growth.”

Senator Schwank noted that the Business In Our Sites Program provides loans for the acquisition and development of key sites for future use by businesses, private developers, and others. The program is administered through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (“CFA”).

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Berks County Environmental Groups Approved for $470k State Investment, Sen. Schwank, Reps. Caltagirone, Rozzi Announce

HARRISBURG, July 1, 2016 – Three regional conservation, watershed protection, and civic improvement groups will receive a total of $470,000 in new state investments for their ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the outdoor experience for Berks County residents.

Sen. Judy Schwank and Reps. Thomas Caltagirone and Mark Rozzi today said the Commonwealth Financing Authority approved grants for:

  • Implementation of the Berks County Conservancy’s Angelica Park master plan, $200,000;
  • Recreation Commission of the Antietam Valley, Carsonia Park Improvement Project and Watershed Restoration Project, $215,000;
  • Berks County Community Foundation, 18th W.O.N.D.E.R. Neighborhood Improvement Project, $55,000.

“All three of these projects are especially significant because they not only will vastly improve regional recreational resources and preserve the local environment, but also because they are the result of remarkable cooperation among a diverse array of elected and appointed officials and community-based organizations and agencies,” Sen. Schwank said following CFA’s approval of the new investments. “I am just as grateful for the dedication, passion and vision of the many people who work for these groups and strive to improve the quality of life for all Berks Countians.”

“These grant awards are great news for the City of Reading and surrounding communities,” Rep. Caltagirone said. “Everyone who worked so hard to put together such high quality proposals for these competitive grant funds deserves special recognition”

“These projects represent important investment not only in the present needs of our community, but for future generations,” Rep. Mark Rozzi said. “Residents of the Antietam Valley, the City of Reading and beyond will benefit from these projects for decades to come. I was pleased to work with my colleagues and local officials and citizens to make these a reality.”

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Contact: Stacey Witalec

Sen. Judy Schwank

Phone: (717) 787-7683

switalec@pasenate.com

Contact: Chris Winters

Rep. Thomas Caltagirone

Phone: (717) 787-3525

cwinters@pahouse.net

Contact: Chad Schlanger

Rep. Mark Rozzi

Phone: (717) 783-3290

cschlanger@pahouse.net

 

Sen. Schwank, Reps. Caltagirone, Rozzi Announce A Nearly $1 million State Investment to Improve Skyline Drive

HARRISBURG, July 1, 2016 – Historic Skyline Drive will soon be receiving much needed upgrades thanks to a $969,298 Multimodal Transportation Fund grant approved today by the Commonwealth Financing Authority to reconstruct a 2.4 mile stretch of Skyline Drive in Alsace and Lower Alsace Townships and the City of Reading, according to Sen. Judy Schwank and Reps. Thomas Caltagirone and Mark Rozzi. All three state legislators worked together to strongly advocate for the grants approval.

According to the state legislators, Lower Alsace Township will receive the grant and will work with Alsace Township and the City to complete the project. As part of the reconstruction of Skyline Drive, road markings will be added to create shared pedestrian/bicyclist lanes and crosswalks added at key locations to improve safety.  Stormwater facility upgrades will be installed to improve water runoff and limit potential water damage to the roadway in the future.

“This project represents an important investment in improving one of Berks County’s most iconic roadways,” said Senator Schwank. “This effort is especially significant because it involves cooperation among three municipalities, incorporates multiple modes of transportation, and improves safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.”

“Skyline Drive provides access to some of the most beautiful vistas in all of Pennsylvania, as well to our City’s most recognizable and historic landmark, the Pagoda,” added Rep. Caltagirone. “These improvements will help ensure that both residents and visitors continue to have access to these beautiful natural and historical resources.”

“In recent years, Greater Reading has earned an international reputation for being a destination of choice for cyclists, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, who are drawn to both the beauty and challenges Mount Penn offers,” noted Rep. Rozzi. “This project will build on that reputation, enhancing not only access to the recreational opportunities the mountain offers, but also creating economic benefits by drawing more visitors to our area and attracting more premiere events like the Reading 120 and the Duryea Hill Climb.”

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Contact: Stacey Witalec

Sen. Judy Schwank

Phone:   (717) 787-7683

switalec@pasenate.com

Contact: Chris Winters

Rep. Thomas Caltagirone

Phone:   (717) 787-3525

cwinters@pahouse.net

Contact: Chad Schlanger

Rep. Mark Rozzi

Phone:   (717) 783-3290

cschlanger@pahouse.net

Frankel, Schwank Praise Supreme Court Decision on Texas Anti-Abortion Law

HARRISBURG, June 27, 2016 – Two co-chairs of the legislature’s Women’s Health Caucus praised today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down a Texas abortion law that caused all but a few clinics there to close. The number of clinics in Pennsylvania also dropped after a more limited version of the stricken law was enacted here in 2011.

State Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Allegheny, said: “Today’s 5-3 decision by the Supreme Court clearly exposes the sham arguments made by abortion opponents that restricting access to safe, legal abortion is somehow in the best interest of women and their health.

“The motivation for these draconian legislative proposals – requiring hospital admitting privileges for abortion providers and requiring expensive construction overhauls of abortion facilities – has been clear to many of us for a long time,” said Frankel, the WHC House Democratic chair. This should also put the brakes on Pennsylvania efforts to pass additional abortion restrictions. It’s great to see the United States Supreme Court strike down the terrible law in Texas.”

Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, said: “Today’s ruling is an important victory for a woman’s constitutional right to make her reproductive decisions. It reinforces very clearly that government cannot burden this right simply by claiming it is protecting women’s health.

“Those who want to restrict reproductive rights now know for sure that they have to prove their claims,” said Schwank, the WHC Senate Democratic chair. “And that just like decisions on health care, decisions on health legislation need to be based on facts.”

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 a woman’s right to make private, personal medical decisions.

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State Senate Roundtable in Muhlenberg Twp. Focuses on Zika Virus

Reading – June 9, 2016 – At the request of state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), the Senate Democratic Policy Committee held a roundtable discussion today on Pennsylvania’s Zika Virus response plan that focused on measures available for state, local and health officials to educate the public about potential health impacts.

“While I’m pleased to see that our state has already put an extensive plan into place, it is imperative that we do all we can to track the spread of this virus and to keep people informed about how they can best protect themselves,” Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-Northampton/ Lehigh) said. “Today’s hearing is aimed at making sure government is doing all it can to coordinate the best possible statewide response.”

Boscola serves as Democratic chair of the Democratic Policy Committee.

 

Schwank, who serves as the Democratic chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, said “this effort will require a great deal of cooperation and coordination between state, federal and local agencies. It is imperative that we get this right and do this right.”

The Zika virus was first detected in Brazil over a year ago. Spread by infected mosquitos, the virus generally causes very mild symptoms and rarely leads to serious side effects. However, it does pose a serious threat to pregnant women because the infection can cause birth defects.

Experts at the hearing said the risk for Pennsylvanians is low, but the Ebola scare taught lessons about being prepared for things to change.

“As a community and as a state, we’re going to collaborate. It’s cirtical that our communication is clear and that it provides honest information,” said Marie Keim, Director of Epidemiology, Infection Control and Prevention, Reading Hospital. “Whether it’s twitter, whether it’s facebook, whether it’s the news, it’s important that we’re getting it out in a language that is easy to understand.

As of May 2, there were no reports of the virus being spread by mosquitoes in the continental United States yet. However, Pennsylvania does have 19 confirmed cases of people who have the virus — with 178 test results still pending.

Dr. Jason Rasgon, Associate Professor of Entomology and Disease Epidemiology at Penn State University noted the rapid manner in which research and information on Zika evolves. “I would say something and it would be outdated the next day,” Dr. Rasgon said. “That’s how quickly things are changing.”

The Wolf Administration has already established an extensive Zika response plan that outlines the phases of education, tracking, and response activities that are to occur based on various levels of mosquito activity in Pennsylvania.

Boscola credited the plan for including public awareness and education. She also said it would be critical for government agencies to work closely together to assure that the state is as prepared as possible. The state Department of Health has already set up a website on the virus at www.zika.pa.gov.

The best way to prevent mosquito bites is to use an insect repellant, take steps to keep mosquitoes out of your home; reduce standing water outside; and wear long sleeves and pants outdoors.

Joining the senators for the roundtable discussion were:

  • Dr. Loren Robinson, Deputy Secretary for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, PA Department of Health
  • Dana Aunkst, Deputy Secretary of Water Programs, PA Department of Environmental Protection
  • Dr. Jason Rasgon, Assoc. Prof. of Entomology and Disease Epidemiology, Pennsylvania State University
  • Dr. Robert S. Jones, D.O., Medical Director, Infection Prevention, Reading Health System
  • Marie Keim, Director of Epidemiology, Infection Control and Prevention, Reading Hospital
  • Dean Druckenmiller, ‎District Executive, Berks County Conservation District

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Schwank’s POW-MIA Flag Legislation Clears Senate Committee

Harrisburg – June 8, 2016 – Legislation sponsored by state Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks), requiring the POW-MIA flag to be flown on state grounds is one step closer to becoming law today after a unanimous vote by the Senate State Government Committee.

pow_mia_flagSchwank praised the efforts of her colleagues to honor the lives and service of military personnel listed as prisoners of war or missing in action.

“I am so pleased that my colleagues joined me in realizing that we can never forget the names and the faces of those held prisoner and those still waiting to return home,” Schwank said. “This legislation will allow us to show support for our service men and women and their families, while honoring their service and sacrifice.”

Senate Bill 1157 would require the POW-MIA flag be flown along with the U.S. flag on state grounds and buildings. The legislation does not impose the requirement on local governments or school districts.

In the last 100 years, more than 1,100 Pennsylvania families have lost loved ones whose bodies have no known resting spot where their service and sacrifice can be marked and remembered. The black-and-white POW-MIA flag depicts the silhouette of a soldier with his head bowed. Behind the soldier are the images of a watchtower, a strand of barbwire and the words “POW,” “MIA” and “You are not forgotten.”

Congress designated the flag in 1990 as “the symbol of our nation’s concern and commitment to resolving as fully as possible the fates of Americans still prisoner, missing and unaccounted for in Southeast Asia.

Senate Bill 1157 now heads to the full Senate for consideration.

30 –

Schwank Applauds Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program Extension

Harrisburg – June 6, 2016 – State Senator Judy Schwank today announced that the filing deadline for Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate program has been extended from June 30 to Dec. 31, 2016.

“More than half a million Pennsylvanians took advantage of the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program last year,” Schwank said. “Extending the program application deadline to the end of the year provides the opportunity for more Pennsylvanians in need to take advantage of this important program.”

Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate program benefits those eligible age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. The income limit for the program is $35,000 per year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters. Half of Social Security income is excluded.

Funded through the Pennsylvania Lottery and slots gaming revenue, the maximum standard rebate is $650 however supplemental rebates for qualifying homeowners can bolster rebates to nearly $1,000. Since the beginning of the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program in 1971, eligible Pennsylvanians have received more than $5.9 billion in property tax and rent relief.

For more information about the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program or to apply visit www.revenue.pa.gov or call toll-free 1-888-222-9190.

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Senate Democrats Outline Legislation to Combat Opioid and Heroin Crisis

Harrisburg, May 18, 2016 – With drug overdose deaths reaching epidemic levels, Senate Democrats unveiled legislation today to address the opioid addiction crisis from prevention through recovery.

“Addiction is a disease that does not discriminate and there is no easy solution to fix the problem,” Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) said. “When addiction finds its way into a family, it can nearly paralyze them for fear of what the future may hold.”

Recognizing the need to provide support at all levels, the Senate Democrats’ legislation focuses on providing new opportunities for education and treatment as well as expanded support options in the community for addicts, professionals and families.

“We cannot address this problem in a vacuum and must work to provide the necessary services and support to everyone involved,” Costa said. “Families are being affected and communities torn apart as a result of opioid abuses and heroin addiction.”

Opioids are a class of drug that include heroin as well as the prescription pain relievers oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, fentanyl and others. According to a University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health study, fatal drug overdoses in Pennsylvania increased 14 fold between 1979 and 2014.

“We are in the midst of the worst ever overdose death epidemic and the worst public health crisis of the last 100 years, Secretary of Drug and Alcohol Programs Gary Tennis said. “It will continue to take a collaborative effort among many partners to effectively address this crisis.”

 

The package of legislation includes:

Emergency Addiction Treatment Program – Charging the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs with establishing a comprehensive program that includes new addiction treatment facilities for those drug users that are currently going without care; new intake methods to provide information to those with addiction problems or their family and friends; advice and assistance in accessing treatment; and data collection to help identify patterns of addiction.

School Aged Children Opioid Awareness Education Program – Requiring the Departments of Drug and Alcohol Programs, Health, and Education to work cooperatively to design an opioid awareness education programs to be delivered in schools.

Addiction Treatment Professional Loan Forgiveness Program – Require the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) to develop an addiction treatment professional loan forgiveness program.

Opioid Addiction Prevention and Treatment Assessment – Impose a 10 percent assessment on the first sale of an opioid into the state. Revenues from the assessment will be used to support the purchase of naloxone for local law enforcement and emergency management personnel in addition to supporting addiction prevention and treatment programs.

Responding to the Senate Democratic proposals to the drug and alcohol problem, Deb Beck from the Drug and Alcohol Service Providers Organization of Pennsylvania said that the drug and alcohol problem “has reached epidemic levels in the state and these proposals will be life saving in impact.”

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Senator Schwank and Representative Rozzi Annonunce State Grant to Help Lower Alsace and Mount Penn Borough Enhance Joint Code Enforcement Program

February 1, 2016: Senator Judy Schwank (D-11) and Representative Mark Rozzi (D-126) today announced that Lower Alsace Township has been awarded a $41,300 Municipal Services Program Shared Services Grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to enhance a joint code enforcement program with Mount Penn Borough.

According to the state legislators, the two neighboring communities are consolidating their separate code enforcement officers into a joint program under the operational control of the Central Berks Regional Police Department, which serves both municipalities.  These state grant funds will pay up-front and transition costs and two years of costs and increased level and quality of services, including database and website development.    The total cost of the project is $82,875.

“I commend Lower Alsace and Mount Penn Officials for pursuing this joint effort to improve services in their municipalities,” said Senator Schwank.  “This cooperative effort will save money and help improve the quality of life for residents of the Antietam Valley and is another excellent example of cooperation between these municipal neighbors.”

“This unique blending of police and code services is an innovative approach to managing growth and keeping blight in check,” noted Representative Rozzi.  “Local officials are taking proactive steps to the maintain character and viability of area neighborhoods and that is a smart and effective approach to community-building.”

The Municipal Assistance Program administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development is part of the Commonwealth’s ongoing efforts to promote the efficient and effective delivery of municipal services and improve communities across the Commonwealth.

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Schwank: Financing Tool for Agriculture Industry Approved by State House

Harrisburg – Dec. 3, 2015 – Legislation that would preserve a tool that the agriculture industry uses to finance projects is now on its way to the governor for his signature into law, according to state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), the bill’s author.

“The legislation removes the sunset provisions in law related to the First Industries Program,” Schwank said. “What this means is that farm credit institutions will be able to continue guaranteeing loans for agricultural projects.

“We need to ensure that all tools are available for the agriculture industry to continue to grow and prosper in Pennsylvania that’s why I am confident that the governor will sign the bill into law.”

Schwank’s bill, Senate Bill 756, was approved by the state House of Representatives today 188 -3. The legislation unanimously cleared the Senate in late June.

The bill removes the program end date – or sunset date — which was statutorily set for July 15, 2015. By removing the sunset date, the Commonwealth Financing Authority can continue to guarantee loan principal of more than 51 but less than 90 percent of an agricultural project, Schwank said.

“There is no question that state help in financing projects is critically important to the agricultural community,” Schwank said.

Schwank said that farm credit institutions are frequent users of the First Industries Program. The program was developed to help strengthen agriculture and tourism. Loans from the program, or loan guarantees, can be used to acquire land or buildings, construction projects or purchase equipment.

“We need to do all we can to promote agriculture and make financing available for those who work in the industry,” Schwank said. “Farming is a capital intense industry and it requires significant private investment working in tandem with public dollars to ensure that projects can be completed.”

The Berks lawmaker said that she was very appreciative of the efforts of the Republican chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, Sen. Elder Vogel (R-Beaver), for his support and co-sponsorship of the bill and his assistance in pushing the measure through the Senate.

Schwank serves as Democratic chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. She has been involved in farming issues and land preservation for many years. She started the Berks Municipal Land Preservation Program and has been a strong advocate of retaining farmland in Berks County.

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Legislation to Protect Construction Zone Workers Detailed

Harrisburg May 12, 2015 – After a recent series of accidents in construction zones, a bipartisan group of senators and state officials detailed legislation today that’s designed to protect workers in the zones.

Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) was joined by Sens. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), David Argall (R-Schuylkill), and Camera Bartolotta (R-Washington) in addition to PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards and Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission Chair Sean Logan to discuss how the measures will improve safety in the construction zones.

[hdvideo id=66]

The senators and state officials outlined their plan for increased penalties for those striking or killing highway employees and first responders in construction zones.

“Far too often vulnerable workers and first responders in construction zones are ignored by motorists focused on getting to their destination instead of heeding safety protocols,” Costa said. “We have to remember that these are not just employees reporting to work each day – they are somebody’s mother, father sibling or friend.

“They each deserve the opportunity to leave work as safely as they arrived.”

The bills offered by Costa and Bartolotta would increase fines and penalties by $1,000 for minor violations and $5,000 for more serious offenses involving highway workers or first responders, plus a six month drivers license suspension.

“Too many construction workers have been sent to the hospital in recent weeks and too many turnpike employees killed over the years by speed and distraction in work zones,” Logan said. “Motorists simply aren’t getting the message.

“The enforcement tools we have at our disposal today are not making enough of an impact.”

Bartolotta reflected on the impact of careless driving in many incidents and stressed the need for drivers to remain aware in their travels.

“We owe it to all of these workers and their families to do our part to protect them against reckless, irresponsible and distracted drivers,” she said.

With a focus on increased safety measures in work zones, legislation introduced by Schwank and Argall would provide speed cameras in active work zones on limited access highways.

“Families of the men and women who work to improve our roads can’t wonder if their moms or dads are going to return home from work every day,” Schwank said. “Drivers must know that if they go too fast through a construction zone they will be hit in the wallet with a stiff fine,” Schwank said.

“The recent tragedy on the Pennsylvania Turnpike near Bensalem reminds us that, as more state dollars are invested in improving our infrastructure, the problem facing our construction workers will only grow more dangerous,” Argall said.

Ensuring that work zones are safe places is a top priority for PennDOT, according to Pennsylvania Transportation Secretary Leslie S. Richards.

“Since 1970, 85 PennDOT workers have been killed in the line of duty,” Richards said. “Our workers want to see their families at the end of their work days. Work zone safety awareness is essential, for your safety and ours.”

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Sen. Schwank, Officials to Dedicate ‘Special Warfare Operator Chief (SEAL)  Lance Vaccaro Highway’

READING, Oct. 23, 2014 – Sen. Judy Schwank, Congressman Jim Gerlach, Alsace Township officials and family and friends will hold a dedication ceremony at 1:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24, at the Alsace Township Building to officially name a stretch of Route 12 in Alsace Township, Berks County, as the “Special Warfare Operator Chief (SEAL) Lance Vaccaro Highway.”

The community’s work and the senator’s legislative efforts brought this tribute. The governor signed House Bill 2072 into law this past June.

SOC Lance M. Vaccaro served as a member of the elite U.S. Navy SEAL Team. He was part of the East Coast-based SEAL Team and earned a multitude of awards and decorations for his service in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kosovo. In March of 2008, he was mortally wounded during a training exercise.

An Alsace Township resident, Vaccaro attended the Oley Valley School District.

The stretch of Route 12 to be named the “Special Warfare Operator Chief (SEAL) Lance Vaccaro Highway” winds throughout Alsace Township.

Media coverage is invited.

WHO: Sen. Judy Schwank, Congressman Jim Gerlach, Alsace Township officials and family and friends of SOC Lance Vaccaro

WHAT: Dedication ceremony to name stretch of Route 12 as the “Special Warfare Operator Chief (SEAL) Lance Vaccaro Highway’

WHEN:    1:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24

WHERE:  Alsace Township Building, 65 Woodside Ave, Temple, PA 19560

 

Schwank: Veterans Designation Driver’s Licenses Now Available

HARRISBURG, March 4, 2014 — Pennsylvanians who have served in the armed forces can now apply for a driver license designation identifying them as veterans, state Sen. Judy Schwank announced today.

“Fortunately, veterans are eligible for numerous discounts, benefits and services because of their service,” Schwank said. “This special driver’s license should serve as all the identification they need to prove their eligibility.”

VetStatusUnder legislation passed in 2012 by the General Assembly, Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation worked with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to come up with procedures and requirements to issue special “V” designation licenses.

Qualified applicants for a Veterans Designation on their driver’s license or identification card include those who have received a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty/DD214 or equivalent for service in the United States armed forces, including a reserve component or the National Guard, who were discharged or released from such service under conditions other than dishonorable. 

Once the Veterans Designation has been added to a license or ID, it will automatically appear each time the license or ID is renewed.

The licenses are now available at all the PennDOT service centers and online at http://www.dmv.state.pa.us (click the American flag logo that says “Veterans Designation” at the bottom of the page).

For veterans who are renewing their license, the “V” designation is free with the cost of renewal. Veterans who want to change their valid license to a Veterans Designation license before renewal will be required to pay the duplicate license fee.

Schwank: Berks Continues to Lead in Ag Preservation

HARRISBURG, February 19, 2014 – Nearly 700 additional acres of Berks County farmland will be preserved through the purchase of agricultural easements, state Sen. Judy Schwank announced today.

“Adding more land to the acreage protected from development does more than keep the county green,” Schwank said. “It also helps protect the environment and the agricultural economy that is critical to our prosperity.”

The 682 acres of easements are valued at over $1.6 million dollars and were approved today by the Pennsylvania Agricultural Land Preservation Board, of which Schwank is a member.

William & Laura Lesher                            Upper Tulpehocken Twsp.                    75.2
Wayne Schrack                                            Upper Tulpehocken Twsp.                    42.7
Bruce & Cathy Light                                   Bethel Twsp.                                                113.7
Larry & Billie Jean Stoudt                       Upper Bern Twsp.                                       68.2
Scott Troutman & Families                     Marion Twsp.                                             189.2
Durkin, DiNunzio&Rick Families         Lower Heidelberg Twsp.                        182.2

Since its inception in 1988, the commonwealth has protected 4,558 farms totaling 486,628 acres have been preserved since the program’s inception. In Berks County 674 farms consisting of 67,666 acres have been preserved. Berks County has preserved more acreage of farmland than any other county in the state program.

The long-term goal of the state’s program is to permanently preserve farmland. The holders of the easements have the right to prevent development or improvements of the land for purposes other than agricultural production.

Local, county or state government – or any combination of the three – may buy easements.

Counties that decide to have an easement purchase program must create an agricultural land preservation board.

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Schwank to Host Town Hall Meeting in Caernarvon Township

READING, Sept. 25, 2013 — State Sen. Judy Schwank will hold a town hall meeting at 7 p.m., Sept. 26, in Morgantown for new residents of the 11th Senate District.

TownhallMeeting_September2013“Legislative district boundaries changed for many state lawmakers following the 2010 Census, and I am looking forward to meeting with the residents of Caernarvon Township and neighboring communities in the southern end of my district,” Schwank (D-Berks) said.

The meeting is part of an ongoing series of town halls the senator hosts in various communities throughout the 11th Senate District.

For more information, call 610-929-2151.

WHAT:          Sen. Judy Schwank to hold Town Hall Meeting

WHEN:          7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

WHERE:       Caernarvon Township Social Hall, 3307 Main St., Morgantown

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Follow Sen. Judy Schwank on her website, Facebook, and Twitter.

 

Schwank Says Airport Grant Will Help Facility Better Serve Berks

Harrisburg, July 23, 2013 – Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) today said the Reading Regional Airport will receive state funding to make safety improvements and increase the quality of air travel in Pennsylvania.

“Thanks to PennDOT’s aviation development program, the Reading Regional/Carl A. Spaatz Field will get $37,500 to remove runway obstructions and make general improvements,” Schwank said. “This extra support will help Reading Regional compete with larger airports in surrounding areas and bring business to Berks County.”

Located on Route 183, Reading Regional Airport is a full-service transportation center serving a growing part of southeastern Pennsylvania. Reading Regional opened as a civil airport in 1938 and is served by three charter airlines.

Nineteen airports in 17 counties across Pennsylvania will receive a portion of the $2.1 million state investment. The grants are funded by Pennsylvania’s jet fuel tax and were approved by the State Transportation Commission.

“This grant will allow Reading Regional to continue safely serving the people of Berks County,” Schwank said.

For more details about the state’s 2013 transportation program, click here.

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More information about Sen. Schwank is available on her website, Facebook and Twitter.

 

$ 300 Million Education Common Core Mandate Threatens Graduation

No Legislative Oversight, Lack of Financial Backing Panned by Senate Democrats

Harrisburg, May 13, 2013 – A new unfunded education mandate now being quietly pursued by the Corbett administration will soon saddle school districts with a $300 million expense and threaten graduation for thousands of students across Pennsylvania, Senate Democrats said today at a Capitol news conference.

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Sen. Andrew Dinniman (D-Chester) Democratic chair of the Senate Education Committee, Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny), Sens. Judy Schwank, John Blake and Jim Brewster all expressed their displeasure and concerns about the proposed changes.

“We are not opposed to the implementation of Common Core standards for Pennsylvania’s students,” Dinniman said. “But we are opposed to Common Core standards without adequate state financial resources for our schools so that all of our students have the opportunity to succeed under those standards, including those in financially distressed school districts.

“For the Commonwealth to increase standards without the adequate fiscal resources is a charade. It is a sham that will only lead to false hope,” Dinniman said.

Common Core standards are being sought by the state Department of Education as a way to determine proficiency and graduation eligibility.

According to Dinniman, the implementation of Common Core standards will result in an unfunded mandate of at least $300 million for local schools. There is no specified funding or plan to provide for the remedial instruction, the redesign of curriculum, or the project-based assessments for those who repeatedly fail the tests.

“The implementation of these new standards should be reviewed thoroughly by the General Assembly,” Costa said. “This whole new testing structure will cost taxpayers dearly and it is being implemented without a full understanding of the benefits for students, teachers, administrators and taxpayers.

“A complete explanation of what is being sought by the department is necessary before Pennsylvania schools put these new standards into play.”

Schwank, who represents the economically and academically struggling Reading School District, said the new testing will be particularly devastating to fiscally challenged schools.

“School districts like Reading, as well as many others around the state, are drowning in red ink now,” Schwank said. “These new mandates, without proper fiscal support, will make their financial plight even worse.

“There is certainly nothing wrong with increasing proficiency standards but students, teachers and schools must have resources to invest to address deficiencies.”

To implement new standards and testing procedures without adding dollars makes no sense, Blake (D-Lackawanna) noted. Especially, he said, after the Corbett administration has slashed basic education support by $900 million.

“To add new core testing procedures and a mandate at a cost exceeding $300 million after cutting education support is irresponsible,” Blake said. “The local property taxpayer is going to get squeezed and economically strapped schools and taxpayers will bear an even greater burden.”

Brewster said instead of implementing more tests and costs, educators and the Corbett administration need to step back and decide whether the current testing structure is constructive. He has proposed Senate Bill 823 to create a bi-partisan commission to recommend changes or a total scrapping of the current student testing procedures.

“My belief is we need to look at what we are doing with student testing and come up with a new, better approach that accurately reflects student, school, teacher and community performance,” Brewster said. “Today’s tests are flawed and the whole system is need of restructuring.”

Senate Democrats also lamented that the new Common Core tests involve 10 days of testing, which takes even more time away from traditional instruction.

They added that districts could receive a deeper financial bludgeoning if students fail to pass the tests.

The new Common Core standards will exacerbate the problem of teaching to the test, Senate Democrats said.

 

Senate Democrats Seek Job Creation, Education, Safety Net Dollars in Budget Discussions

Harrisburg, April 17, 2013 – Senate Democrats’ 2013-14 budget priorities are heavily weighted toward job creation, education investments, strengthening the social-services safety net, modernizing liquor sales and refocusing Pennsylvania’s business tax menu to help small businesses, they announced today at a Capitol news conference.

Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) said that Senate Democrats will go into this year’s budget negotiations with a clear purpose and “are resolved that the state’s economy must be jump-started. New jobs must be created and we have to reverse the negative course that the Corbett administration has plotted for Pennsylvania on education and protecting our most vulnerable.”

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“We have an opportunity and a responsibility to seek new investments and use resources that are available to change policy direction during this year’s budget negotiations.”

Costa said Senate Democrats believe that more than 120,000 jobs can be created quickly by enacting a responsible transportation plan, expanding Medicaid and using economic development policies outlined in their PA Works plan.

Costa was joined by a host of Senate Democrats in making today’s announcement.

Sen. Vincent Hughes, who serves as the Democratic chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said that by taking action now on key economic initiatives then restoring job creation and community programs to their past luster — before Corbett budgets sliced them to the core — is an excellent starting point.

“We need to start creating jobs right now and we can do that by working on transportation and Medicaid expansion,” Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) said. “These initiatives coupled with rebuilding water and sewer systems, investing in schools and new technologies will create economic growth immediately.

“In addition, by investing in programs such as Main Street, Elm Street and international business we can help small business here while they market their products abroad.,”

Democratic Whip Sen. Tony Williams (D-Philadelphia/Delaware) said that the caucus was turning up the heat on the Corbett administration on jobs, health care, education and social safety net issues because the governor has failed to lead.

“We’ve outlined reasonable strategic policy alternatives that will reverse direction and provide a new path and we’ve identified revenues that will pay for the proposed expenditures,” Williams said. “Pennsylvania is rudderless on job creation and our economic numbers and business indicators under this administration illustrate the problem.

“Our most vulnerable can also not withstand another senseless round of Corbett cuts and we have to restore programs that promote help for those in need.”

Williams said that Pennsylvania is now 43rd in job creation, falling from eighth place among all states under Gov. Ed Rendell’s leadership. Plus, he said, last month’s unemployment claims fell nationally to below 350,000 but, because of Corbett policy short-sightedness, Pennsylvania led the country in new unemployment claims.

Senate Democrats said that they have laid out specific plans to achieve results in the 2013-14 budget in five areas. These include: strategic investments to create jobs; improving education; repositioning business taxes while closing business tax loopholes; modernizing the wine and spirits stores; and repairing and protecting social safety net programs.

The caucus leaders said that they’ve noted at least $750 million in annual savings, plus another $150 million in one-time revenues. They also said that we need to find resources to pay for specific new expenditures including $225 million for basic education, $50 million to aid distressed cities and communities, $40 million for transitional housing and homeownership among other items, and funds for new tax credits for a variety of areas including film production.

Democrats said that priority details include a three-year phase in of new monies to restore education dollars and key student-performance based initiatives that were cut by the Corbett administration in the last two budgets.

They also said that they would emphasize rebuilding struggling communities through their Growth, Progress and Sustainability (GPS) plan; seek new funds for transitional housing and new homeownership opportunities; and push for modernizing the wine and spirits stores rather than the opt for the risky privatization scheme that has been sought by the Corbett administration.

The Democrats indicated that they expected the negotiations to become more focused once the Senate returns to session in late April.

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Schwank to Host Town Hall Meeting in Exeter Township

READING, March 28, 2013 — State Sen. Judy Schwank will hold a town hall meeting at 7 p.m., April 4, for residents of Exeter Township and surrounding communities in the Community Room of the Exeter Community Library, 4569 Prestwick Drive, Exeter.

TownHallMeet_Apr4_2013“This is an opportunity for us to have a conversation about the issues impacting our communities,” said Schwank (D-Berks).

The meeting is part of an ongoing series of town halls the senator hosts in various communities throughout the 11th Senatorial District.

For more information, call 610-929-2151.

WHO:             State Sen. Judy Schwank

WHAT:          Town Hall Meeting

WHEN:          7 p.m. – 9 p.m., Thursday, April 4

WHERE:       Community Room, Exeter Community Library, 4569 Prestwick Drive, Exeter.

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Pennsylvania Senate Democrats Discuss Plan to Address Distressed Cities

Harrisburg, December 18, 2012 – Acknowledging the escalating problems in economically-challenged communities across the state, Pennsylvania Senate Democrats today discussed their plans to address a wide range of problems impacting aging and distressed cities.

The “Growth, Progress & Sustainability” or GPS plan focuses on developing new policies that foster cooperation while addressing and strengthening the core of distressed communities.

“The reality is instead of planning for growth and economic development, many cities are contemplating bankruptcy,” Senator Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) said.   “We could no longer stand back and watch while the rich heritage of Pennsylvania erodes amid shrinking tax revenues and tax bases.”

Costa said the intention of the plan is to help transform communities and bring some much needed light to the end of the tunnel.

“Pennsylvania needs a new road map to help our cities and our towns,” said Senator John Wozniak (D-Cambria).  “Communities are struggling – from Scranton to Harrisburg and Reading to Johnstown and all places in between.  Today we’re presenting the GPS plan to serve as a foundation to address the issues and transform our cities and communities.”

Senate Democrats are committed to working with local leaders to further develop the GPS plan which highlights broad areas of legislative interest.  The areas the Senate Democrats outlined are including:

  • Economic development
  • Rebuilding the local tax base
  • Urban blight
  • Crime/Public Safety Initiatives
  • Education & workforce development
  • Modernizing and streamlining local government to reduce costs
  • Act 47 and Local government Unit Debt Act

According to Senate Democrats, many of the identified communities continue to face huge obstacles as each attempts to provide government services at a time when tax revenues and tax bases are shrinking.  They said that they recognize no solution can be effective or lasting without addressing each of the interconnected parts outlined in the plan and understanding how they affect residents.

“Revitalizing our urban areas and strengthening surrounding communities requires we assess and understand their struggles,” said Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks).  “Our focus needs to be squarely on quality of life for the families living in these areas.  We owe it to them to ensure these issues are addressed and their needs met, as we move forward.”

Working with local governments, Senate Democrats acknowledged the need for vision, focus and commitment.  This includes providing the tools communities need to help themselves before their circumstances become untenable, they said.

“We want public policy that is proactive, cooperative and supportive, not reactive, punitive and vindictive,” said Senator John Blake (D-Lackawanna).  “We want to develop long-term, sustainable solutions that will enable these communities to rebuild and thrive.”

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State Sen. Judy Schwank Rallies to Restore Funding to Programs Assisting Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities

May 8, 2012 – At a rally today in Harrisburg, people with disabilities, advocates, families, service organizations and supporters called on the state legislature to oppose the proposed 20 percent in state budget cuts to programs that support individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Sen. Shirley Kitchen (D-Phila.) said individuals with intellectual disabilities thrive when they receive ongoing support, and community-based services are crucial and needed more than ever.

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“You would think that we’d want to secure more funding for the programs that help this population of individuals. Instead, it has become one of the governor’s targets for budget,” Kitchen said. “I am outraged that this administration has yet again put its sights on the Department of Public Welfare to make debilitating cuts.”

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Schwank Seeks Residents’ Feedback on Storm-Related Power Outages

READING, Nov.  9, 2011—State Sen. Judy Schwank is seeking the public’s input on the recent storm that brought winter weather to Berks County and left hundreds of thousands of residents without power.

“While we couldn’t anticipate the scope of this pre-winter snowfall, it left many residents in the cold and dark for days. I believe the lagging response from our local utilities must be examined,” said Schwank, who also lost power for several days. “I am asking for constituents to share their stories with me so that I can take the right steps to ensure that we receive a better response from our local utilities in the future.”

The senator recently sent a letter urging the Public Utility Commission to review the response of the area’s utility companies to the Oct. 29 storm and she plans to follow up with PUC and the utilities to discuss this issue further.

“It would be helpful if residents who were affected could provide me with specific information about their utility’s response to any problems they experienced with their service during and after the storm,” Schwank said. “Their story will be used for the sole purpose of gaining an understanding of the storm’s impact on consumers.”

A submission form is available on the senator’s website at www.senatorschwank.com/outage. Residents may also submit their account in writing to State Sen. Judy Schwank, RE: Power Outage, Rockland Professional Center, 1940 N. 13th St., Suite 232, Reading, PA 19604.

Editor’s Note: Attached is a copy of the letter Sen. Schwank sent to the Public Utility Commission.

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Senator Schwank Announces Local Recycling Grants

Harrisburg, June 23, 2011 – A number of Berks County municipalities have received state grants totaling $62,772 for local recycling programs, according to state Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks).

“Recycling is a vital part of keeping our local communities clean and our environment safe,” Schwank said.  “These funds will go a long way to help communities boost their recycling efforts, improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods and keep our air and our drinking and recreational water systems clean and healthy.”

The state’s Recycling Performance Grant Program provides incentive to help Pennsylvania communities increase recycling collection and promote economic growth through job creation and market expansion.

Grant funds were awarded to the following municipalities, based on the amount of materials recycled in 2009 and the municipality’s population:

  • Berks County – $25,594 (2,789.5 tons recycled)
  • West Reading Borough, Berks County – $19,497 (1,251.5 tons recycled)
  • Kutztown Borough, Berks County – $5,071(428.5 tons recycled)
  • Bally Borough, Berks County – $4,828 (182.4 tons recycled)
  • Longswamp Township, Berks County – $3,460 (305.6 tons recycled)
  • Bernville Borough, Berks County – $3,131 (130.9 tons recycled)
  • Leesport Borough, Berks County – $1,191 (99.9 tons recycled)

The grants were awarded as a part of the Department of Environmental Protection’s Recycling Performance Grant Program.

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