June 24, 2019
Harrisburg, Pa. − June 24, 2019 − Members of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus today jointly sent a letter to Governor Tom Wolf requesting a disaster declaration for gun violence in the Commonwealth.
“We believe it is necessary to raise the public’s awareness of the massive loss of human life and the suffering inflicted on affected family, friends and neighbors where this tragedy is unfolding daily,” they wrote. “Just as you have signed six disaster declarations to provide every tool at the Commonwealth’s disposal to combat the opioid epidemic, the death toll and impact from illegal guns should merit immediate and coordinated attention.”
Specifically, a disaster declaration could do the following:
- Establish a task force led by the Department of Health to create and implement a public health framework for addressing gun violence
- Establish a command center in the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency to coordinate state and local law enforcement response
- Enhance the Joint-Local State Firearm Taskforce through additional personnel and funding to take illegal guns off the street
- Expand information gathering and sharing between all levels of law enforcement and community groups
- Increase law enforcement presence, both local and state, in targeted areas where gun violence is most prevalent
- Expedite and expand grants and other funding sources for community groups and nonprofit associations with a proven record of violence reduction and prevention
- Provide additional state resources for behavioral and mental health
- Bringing to bear the significant wealth of knowledge and experience in the Departments of Health and Human Services to provide de-escalation and de-confliction training throughout the community
- Require the Pennsylvania Department of Education provide training and professional development on trauma-informed education
View full letter →
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June 18, 2019
Harrisburg, June 18, 2019 − State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) is warning residents of a scam targeting Property Tax or Rent Rebate recipients.
Schwank’s office was notified of a scam that consists of unsolicited calls from a person claiming to work for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. The caller says an application for Property Tax or Rent Rebate has been approved and then asks if the recipient would like the rebate directly deposited into a bank account – and asks for his or her bank information.
This is a scam. The Department of Revenue does not make live calls regarding Property Tax or Rent Rebate applications and does not collect applicant banking deposit information over the phone.
The Department of Revenue does contact applicants via automated calls to confirm their information has been received and approved. If the department needs more information about an individual’s Property Tax or Rent Rebate application, it sends a letter through the U.S. Postal Service.
Individuals can request that their rebate be directly deposited; those requests, however, must be made when the signed application is submitted to the Department of Revenue.
If you receive a phone call from an individual claiming to represent the Department of Revenue and is requesting personal bank account information, DO NOT give out any banking information or any personal information (including Social Security numbers) to these callers.
If you received one of these calls and provided your banking information or other personal information, immediately call your bank to make them aware of this potential fraud. Additionally, you can file a scam complaint with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Consumer Protection by calling the toll-free hotline at 1-800-441-2555 or by visiting www.attorneygeneral.gov. Consumer Complaint forms are also available by contacting Senator Schwank’s District Office at 610-929-2151.
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June 4, 2019
Harrisburg PA – June 4, 2019 – State Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) and Rep. Sara Innamorato (D-Pittsburgh) led House and Senate Democrats in announcing several voting reform proposals Tuesday in the Main Capitol Rotunda.
The legislators were joined by a large group of advocates and supporters pushing for automatic voter registration, no excuse absentee voting, same day voter registration and campaign finance reform. Sen. Hughes and Rep. Innamorato are proposing similar bills that would allow those eligible to register to vote when signing up for critical state services such as renewing drivers licenses or applying for a public benefit administered by the state.
“Our democracy depends on its voters, which is why we are fighting to ensure every eligible person has a chance to voice their opinion at the ballot box,” said Sen. Hughes, who is proposing Senate Bill 608. “We have a broad coalition of folks who understand this and are fighting for Pennsylvanians ability to have their voices at the ballot box. Expanding access and simplifying the processes will help do that for our communities across the commonwealth.”
Pennsylvania has 8.6 million registered voters, but less than 55 percent of voting-age citizens turned out in the 2018 midterm elections, with varying reasons impeding participation including work, illness, and other unforeseen circumstances. Research shows higher voter turnout in states that have enacted some or all of the reforms the coalition is seeking.
“Participatory government demands equal access to participation,” said Rep. Innamorato, who has proposed House Bill 1556 on automatic voter registration. “Too often, the complicated registration process we have in place poses a significant obstacle to access to the ballot. Automatic voter registration and our other proposals would make it easier for all Pennsylvanians to have a voice, get informed and be heard. We need to be removing barriers to participation, not erecting new ones. These are the first steps in the fight for a fair, secure democracy in our commonwealth and our communities.”
Sen. Wayne Fontana (D-Allegheny) and Rep. Jennifer O’Mara (D-Springfield) discussed their proposals to expand early voting, which aim to expand voting beyond the 13-hour time frame Pennsylvania currently mandates. Both proposals would expand the time frame greatly and add options to vote on the weekend. Sen. Fontana is proposing SB 294 and Rep. O’ Mara is proposing HB 1558.
“If people don’t vote, democracy doesn’t work,” Sen. Fontana said. “If people can’t vote, we are shortchanging our democracy. During the most recent primary election last month, many counties across the state were lucky to have even a 20 percent voter turn-out. It’s obvious we need to find ways to improve voter access and participation and to me, the task is simple. We need to find ways to make voting easier and more accommodating.”
“Introducing an early voting bill is a priority for me because voting should be easier for everyone,” Rep. O’Mara said. “When I was campaigning, I met a young woman named Kate who uses a wheelchair. She told me her polling pace is not ADA accessible, and voting is a big challenge for her. So, one reason I decided to introduce early voting is so people like Kate have the ease and access to practice their constitutional right. It’s about time Pennsylvania steps up to make voting easier for all its eligible citizens.”
Sen. Judy Schwank (D- Berks) introduced her proposal for no-excuse absentee voting, SB 411, which would allow voters to submit absentee ballots for any reason. Currently, 27 other states and the District of Columbia have enacted no-excuse absentee voting.
“The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy,” Schwank said. “We need to remove needless barriers that keep people from being able to vote or from having their votes counted.”
Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie) announced HB 101, which aims to bring same-day voter registration to Pennsylvania while also simplifying the process. His legislation would help increase voter turnout because of increased convenience, while also maintaining integrity in the voting process by not counting same-day registrant votes until the Department of State has verified eligibility.
“The right to vote is the perfect symbol of our democracy,” Rep. Bizzarro said. “Unfortunately, it’s perfect in theory, not in practice. Our outmoded laws – including the one requiring that residents register 30 days in advance of an election to vote in that election – discourage participation by imposing unnecessary hurdles. Our legislation to streamline the process would help fix that.”
Sen. Anthony Williams (D-Philadelphia/Delaware) is proposing shifting ballot positions for candidates running for public office in Philadelphia. The goal of SB 602 is to eliminate the advantages held by candidates who draw first position on the ballot.
“A growing number of Pennsylvanians, especially young voters, are unaffiliated with major parties or uninterested in party politics,” Sen. Williams said. “Those voters still deserve to have a voice in who represents them in city council and the mayor’s office, which is why I’m offering legislation to conduct nonpartisan, ranked-choice voting in the Commonwealth’s largest city, Philadelphia.”
Advocates in attendance included the Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center, Common Cause, Pennsylvania for Fair Elections, Committee of 79, League of women Voters, Brennan Center for Justice, Keystone Progress, SiX.
May 15, 2019
Reading, May 15, 2019 State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) is holding a press conference at Reading Hospital – Tower Health’s campus to announce pending legislation that addresses school vaccinations. The bill would require completion of a standardized form for requesting exemptions from vaccination requirements for school-age children and require a consultation with a physician before any exemptions are approved.
“I believe this legislation can enhance health safety while also maintaining our respect for religious beliefs and moral convictions by making sure parents receive accurate medical information before granting exemptions,” Schwank said.
Speakers include Sen. Schwank; Dr. Debra Powell, Chief, Section of Infectious Disease at Reading Hospital; Dr. Georgina Aristotelous, Infectious Diseases medical director for Penn State Health/St. Joseph; Dr. Mary Stock Keister, president of the Pennsylvania Academy of Family Physicians; Dr. Robert Cordes, The Children’s Clinic of Wyomissing; Dr. Eve Kimball, Board Member, PA Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics.
What: Senator Schwank Announcing Vaccination Legislation
Where: Reading Hospital, Conference Room 1 (off of main lobby) 420 S 5th Ave, West Reading
When: Friday, May 17, 10 a.m.
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May 7, 2019
Harrisburg, May 7, 2019 – Senator Judy Schwank (D-Berks) joins legislative members of the Task Force on Lead Exposure at a press conference today to discuss the legislative recommendations that were part of ‘Lead Exposure Risks and Response in Pennsylvania: Report of the Advisory Committee and Task Force on Lead Exposure.’ The legislative members of the task force included Senators Lisa Baker (R – Luzerne/Pike/Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming), Wayne Fontana (D – Allegheny), Judy Schwank (D – Berks), Pat Stefano (R – Fayette/Somerset/Westmoreland) and Gene Yaw (R – Bradford/Lycoming/Sullivan/Susquehanna/Union).
“The members of the Advisory Committee and Task Force on Lead Exposure, created by Senate Resolution 33, have worked tirelessly to analyze the public health threat of lead exposure and their report underscores that lead exposure is an issue in every Pennsylvania county. We come together today, in the spirit of bipartisanship, to advance the legislative policy recommendations put forth by the Joint State Government Commission that will better protect Pennsylvania children from the risks of lead exposure and lead poisoning,” said Senator John Yudichak.
The advisory committee and task force made the following recommendations, several of which are being addressed through legislation announced at today’s press conference:
- Require universal blood screenings for children;
- Mandate inspections/certifications of child-care facilities with vulnerable populations;
- Ensure safe housing is available to families through a residential rental property certification program;
- Establish a statewide rental housing registry;
- Establish a lead abatement grant program to assist property owners in conducting lead abatement;
- Establish an interagency council to coordinate implementation of lead prevention programs and policies among the relevant state agencies;
- Require all school drinking water systems to be inspected and certified;
- Clarify plumbing system lead ban;
- Permit municipal authorities operating public drinking water system to replace lateral lead service lines;
- Require lead service line replacements and restrict partial lead water service line replacements;
- Adopt the Uniform Property Maintenance Code; and
- Provide guidance on private well construction.
Senator Lisa Baker and Senator Yudichak have introduced Senate Bill 312, which would require universal blood testing for children. Senate Bill 312 has been referred to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.
“We have known for a while now how debilitating lead exposure is to the health and development of children. Recent revelations of lead tainted water in schools and homes have raised additional alarms. There is an obligation to have every child tested, in order to find out who has been affected, to monitor and treat those who have, and to locate the source of contamination so preventative measures can be taken,” said Senator Baker.
Senator Judy Schwank has introduced Senate Bill 39, which will require lead testing at child daycare programs. The bill requires the Department of Human Services to include lead testing of water, paint, soil and dust in the licensing process for child daycare programs. Senate Bill 39 has been referred to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.
“My bill, SB 39, aims to protect children in day care programs by ensuring the facilities where they play and learn at the earliest ages are tested for lead,” Senator Schwank said.
Senator Gene Yaw will introduce legislation that requires all school drinking water systems to be tested for lead contamination.
“Lead contamination in schools and in public drinking water supplies is a real threat across our state and our nation,” said Senator Gene Yaw. “It’s unfortunate that schools, a place where our children spend much of their time, can have unsafe levels of lead in their water supply. The bill is one more step we can take to protect our children and school employees from potential health hazards.”
Senator Wayne Fontana plans to introduce a bill that will establish a statewide rental housing registry.
“Our fundamental job as public officials is to protect the health, safety and welfare of our citizens. With increasingly aging infrastructure throughout our Commonwealth, it’s imperative that we do all we can to help local communities on lead abatement projects,” said Senator Fontana. “We must also monitor the sources of lead contamination in our public spaces and in private homes, so that people are educated to what degree they may be exposed. As a result of the study recommendations, my legislation will establish a statewide rental housing registry that has been certified as lead free or lead safe so as to allow potential tenants to verify if housing they are considering will be safe for their families.”
Senator Pat Stefano will be introducing legislation that clarifies the plumbing system lead ban.
“Consumer education is key in preventing lead exposure. That’s why I am introducing legislation that would put educational information in the hands of consumers who may be most at risk for led exposure,” said Senator Stefano.
The Advisory Committee and Task Force on Lead Exposure was formed after legislation sponsored by Senator Yudichak, SR 33, was approved in 2017. The Joint State Government Commission released the report in April. The report is available online at http://jsg.legis.state.pa.us/
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April 30, 2019
Harrisburg, Pa − April 30, 2019 − Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) today announced the following state funding for school and community safety in the 11th Senate District, which Schwank represents:
- Berks Career and Technical Center, $367,626;
- Brandywine Heights Area School District, $562,775;
- Exeter Township School District, $393,632;
- Fleetwood Area School District, $23,222;
- Reading Muhlenberg Career and Technology Center, $63,429;
- Schuylkill Valley School District, $88,500;
- Wyomissing Area School District, $236,558;
- And Olivet Boys & Girls Club of Reading & Berks County, $350,000.
“I commend the school districts and school-related programs for pursuing funding to strengthen safety initiatives,” Schwank said. “Berks County schools are consistently at the forefront of proactively providing safe school environments.”
Act 44 of 2018 created a School Safety and Security Fund for the purposes of providing funding to school districts for school safety and security concerns and addressing community violence. Part of Pennsylvania’s 2018-2019 budget included adding $60 million to the fund with $7.5 million for community anti-violence programs and the remaining $52.5 million for school safety.
Initial awards to school districts were made in October of 2018. The remaining $40 million was awarded today.
The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency received 638 applications for a total of $177.6 million in funding requests. After a review of each application, 234 applications requesting, $40 million, were approved Tuesday.
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2 de abril de 2019
Lectura, 2 de abril de 2019 La senadora estatal Judy Schwank (D-Berks) organiza un acto en honor del reverendo Martin Luther King Jr. El acto se celebrará en la Iglesia Bautista Misionera de St.th Street, en Reading, a las 13.00 horas del jueves 4 de abril.
El acto es un recordatorio del 51 aniversario del asesinato del Dr. King y marca el inicio del llamamiento de los demócratas del Senado de Pensilvania a 30 días de acción para combatir la pobreza y la inseguridad económica en la Commonwealth.
Entre los ponentes figuran:
Senador Schwank
Rev. Jerry Jones, Misionero de San Juan
Rev. Alberta Jones, Bethel AME
Rev. Dr. Bruce Alick, Iglesia Bautista de Zion
Elsayed Elmarzouky, servidor de la comunidad musulmana del condado de Berks
Los medios de comunicación y el público están invitados.
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March 26, 2019
Harrisburg, March 25, 2019 A Reading local recreation project was approved today for a $725,000 Multi-Modal Transportation Grant by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, according to Sen. Judy Schwank and Reps. Thomas Caltagirone and Mark Rozzi.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority approved a grant to:
- Improve pedestrian and bicycle connectivity and to make safety improvements along East Wyomissing and Hancock Boulevards in the city of Reading.
“This state investment will bolster efforts already underway to improve the vitality of the 18th Ward,” Schwank said. “The combined efforts of city government, local businesses and the community will lead to improved quality of life, revitalized neighborhoods and economic activity.”
“Improving the recreational and commercial amenities available within the 18th Wonder Project Area will benefit residents and visitors alike, and will pay dividends for many years to come,” Caltagirone said.
“I’m proud to represent an area that recognizes the importance of maintaining and expanding its recreational infrastructure,” Rozzi said. “This is a win-win for residents, business and government.”
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6 de marzo de 2019
Hughes, Schwank, Haywood offer multi-faceted approach
Harrisburg – March 6, 2019 – Senate Democrats said today that they are sponsoring a three-bill legislative package designed to provide additional tax credits to farmers, encourage the use of locally sourced food and expand farmers’ markets.
State Sen. Vincent J. Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery), Democratic chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Democratic Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Sen. Art Haywood, (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) who serves as Democratic chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee are the prime sponsors of the package.
Hughes’ legislation would raise the Rural Jobs and Investment Tax Credit from its current capped amount of $1 million per year to $20 million over four years.
“A comprehensive economic plan requires investments in a broad array of industries, including agriculture,” Hughes said. “There is strong justification to raise the tax credit cap and allow farmers to retain and reinvest because agriculture is a key feature of our economy.”
Hughes noted that 48 of 67 counties in Pennsylvania are classified as rural and that more than a quarter of the state’s population lives in rural counties.
Schwank, who has a long record of involvement in agriculture issues, is the prime sponsor of a measure to help farmers sell their products locally. Under Schwank’s legislation, the requirement for using the lowest bidder on a state contract for the purchase of food would not apply to locally sourced products, provided the deviation in price was not more than 10 percent from the lowest bidder.
“It is important that local markets be better developed, and one way to achieve this goal is through a pricing incentive that encourages the use of food produced in state,” Schwank said. “Our farms are able to deliver high-quality foods to local markets at reasonable prices.”
Pennsylvania has more than 58,000 farms and an estimated 7.7 million acres are involved in agriculture production. According to survey data, 93 percent of Pennsylvanians prefer locally produced food.
Haywood said rising demand has opened an opportunity to expand the Farmers’ Market Development Program to serve more communities. His legislation would enable grants through the program to be used for agritourism initiatives, renovations, and establishment of new satellite locations the bill also increases grants per market from $10,000 to $100,000.
“Consumer demand for fresh blueberries, mangoes, and spinach continues to grow exponentially and the expansion of farmers’ markets provide local access to fresh fruits and vegetables,” Haywood said. “Farmers’ markets offer an effective way to make fresh foods available, especially in areas where they are not.”
Pennsylvania has the fourth-largest market in the nation for direct farm sales.
The senators indicated that they were reintroducing the legislation. The bills were initially introduced last session (Senate Bills 1075 -1077) but were not scheduled for a vote.
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March 5, 2019
Harrisburg, March 5, 2019 − Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) recently introduced legislation to expand hemp production in Pennsylvania. SB335, the Industrial Hemp Act, recognizes hemp as an allowable cosmetic ingredient, food, food additive or herb to be regulated as any other food ingredient or food commodity.
“Hemp is a multi-million-dollar industry that is expected to grow as a result of the 2018 Federal Farm Bill which removed hemp from the federal controlled substance list.” Schwank said. “This legislation will allow farmers continued access to a new market and put them on the same playing field as other states like Colorado that have passed hemp food legislation.”
The bill states that hemp products must not must not contain more than 0.3 percent delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is below the psychoactive threshold. Instead, producers will be able to extract cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound that has nutritional and cosmetic uses and is already being sold in consumable food in Pennsylvania.
“CBD is already here,” Schwank said. “We need to ensure what consumers are buying are clearly labeled quality products.”
The bill has already received support from the Pennsylvania Hemp Industry Council.
“This is a great start to ensure Pennsylvania is at the forefront of all things hemp,” said the council’s Executive Director Erica McBride-Stark. “It is another step in Pennsylvania’s commitment to create a world-class hemp industry.”
Schwank, the Democratic chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, has long recognized the importance of hemp. She spearheaded 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 in July of 2016.
“Hemp, and products made from it, played a large role in our history, and has immeasurable benefits for the future of our Commonwealth,” Schwank said. “I hope my senate colleagues will recognize this opportunity and move this bill forward.”
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February 28, 2019
HARRISBURG – February 28, 2019 – Bipartisan legislation would improve screening and treatment of new mothers affected by postpartum depression, according to the bill’s sponsors, Senators Camera Bartolotta (R-46) and Judy Schwank (D-11).
The Prenatal and Postpartum Counseling and Screening Act would require health care providers to offer information to pregnant women regarding parenting and prenatal depression, postpartum depression, postpartum psychosis and other emotional trauma counseling. New mothers would also be required to undergo screening for postpartum depression symptoms prior to hospital discharge and at postnatal check-up visits.
“Postpartum depression can create a whole host of health risks for both mothers and babies, so identifying and treating this condition is crucial,” Bartolotta said. “We need to make sure mothers are aware of the signs of postpartum depression, as well as all of the resources that are available to help families who are affected by it.”
Many mothers experience a mild, short-term form of postpartum depression commonly referred to as the “baby blues.” However, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, 10 to 20 percent of mothers experience more intense symptoms that can last a year or more and may require counseling and/or medication.
“This legislation is an important step in ensuring every baby has a healthy start,” Schwank said. “Thousands of mothers a year in Pennsylvania are affected by Post-partum depression and it’s vital they have access to the services they need to avoid serious and costlier problems later. For the benefit of new mothers, babies and families throughout the Commonwealth, I am hopeful that this legislation can be enacted quickly.”
At least six other states have enacted similar laws to improve diagnosis and treatment of postpartum depression.
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CONTACT: Colleen Greer (717) 787-1463
February 1, 2019
Harrisburg, February 1, 2019 − Caernarvon Township will receive $208,854 in Multimodal Transportation Fund grant funding approved today by PennDOT, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced. The funds will be used to decrease the turning radius from Route 10 onto Shiloh Road and improve sight distances at the intersection.
Multimodal Transportation Funds are meant to improve transportation infrastructure and promote economic development.
“This investment of state dollars will improve traffic safety in the area and help facilitate several economic development projects in the area,” Schwank said. “It’s a win-win for residents of the area and our local and regional economies.”
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January 8, 2019
Harrisburg, January 8, 2018 Sen. Judy Schwank was again appointed to Senate leadership by being renamed the Democratic vice-chair of the Senate Appropriations committee by Senate Democratic leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny). The committee is the legislative panel charged with allocating billions of taxpayer dollars throughout the commonwealth.
“The appropriations committee has the primary responsibility to ensure the budget is balanced and state services are properly funded,” Schwank said. “I’m honored to serve in this way for another legislative session and will continue to advocate for the issues that are important to Berks County and to ensure that Pennsylvanians’ limited tax dollars are used wisely.”
Schwank will also once again serve as the Democratic Chair of the Senate Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee.
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December 4, 2018
Reading, December 5, 2018 − State Sen. Judy Schwank and State Rep. Mark Rozzi are hosting a free Affordable Care Act (ACA) enrollment event from 10 a.m. to noon at the Muhlenberg Township Building at 210 George Street on Dec. 12. Pennsylvania’s Insurance Commissioner Jessica Altman will open the event and be available for media questions.
During the two-hour session, healthcare consumers will have access to expert help signing up for ACA coverage only as Medicare enrollment ends December 7. The open enrollment period for ACA ends December 15.
Los participantes necesitarán documentación que acredite sus ingresos anuales (un W-2 o un recibo de sueldo) y un permiso de conducir u otro documento de identidad con fotografía expedido por el gobierno.
“Access to healthcare is critically important for all Pennsylvanians and increased access to affordable healthcare results in more families living healthier and more productive lives,” Schwank said. “It is my hope that this event gives the citizens of Reading and Berks County another opportunity to sign up for healthcare.”
“We want to make sure everyone has access to the resources necessary to choose the best health care plan for themselves and their families – and the deadline to sign up is approaching quickly,” Rozzi said. “It can seem like a daunting process, but help is available. I’m happy to work with Sen. Schwank to make it easy for local residents to get that assistance.”
Representatives from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Lebanon VA Medical Center will also be onsite to assist any Veterans attending in enrolling in VA health care as well as to provide other informational materials related to VA benefits. Veterans seeking to enroll in VA health care at the event should bring a copy of the DD214, their 2017 tax return and a list of their medical expenses. VA health care enrollment meets ACA coverage requirements and Lebanon VA Medical Center maintains a community clinic locally in Wyomissing. Veterans with any eligibility questions prior to the event can call Lebanon VA Medical Center enrollment specialists at (717) 228-6000.
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17 de octubre de 2018
READING, October 17, 2018 – The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs has awarded the Pennsylvania Department of Education $1 million to equip students and educators across the state with strategies to prevent school violence, State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), State Rep. Mark Rozzi (D-126th District) and State Rep. Tom Caltagirone (D-127th District) announced.
The following Reading School District schools will receive funds awarded through the STOP School Violence Prevention and Mental Health Training Program and authorized by the STOP School Violence Act enacted in March 2018:
- Northeast Middle School
- Northwest Middle School
- Reading Intermediate High School
- Reading Senior High School
- Southern Middle School
- Southwest Middle School
“This funding will help Reading School District better serve its students,” Schwank said. “Students need a safe environment to focus on their studies, and this money will help provide that setting.”
“Students, faculty and staff all deserve to learn and work in a safe environment, we must do everything we can to support them,” Rozzi said.
“In this day and age, we must do all we can to equip our students and educators with tools they can use to keep safe. This funding will go a long way toward achieving that goal,” Caltagirone said.
The Department of Education is working with Sandy Hook Promise (SHP), a national, nonprofit organization established following the mass shooting at a Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012 to provide training to educators and students across the state.
The funding will be used to implement SHP’s Start With Hello and Say Something, which are among SHP’s Know the Signs programs aimed at empowering students. Start With Hello encourages and guides students in creating socially inclusive school communities, while Say Something trains students to recognize the signs and appropriately intervene when they identify someone as exhibiting behaviors that they may be a threat to themselves or others.
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12 de octubre de 2018
Harrisburg, 12 de octubre de 2018 - Hoy, el Departamento de Protección Ambiental de Pensilvania anunció que casi 200 gobiernos municipales y del condado recibirán un impulso a sus programas de reciclaje y recolección de hojas este año, gracias a $ 37 millones en subvenciones para el desarrollo y la implementación del reciclaje.
"Esta inversión de fondos estatales reforzará significativamente los esfuerzos locales de reciclaje y marcará una diferencia real en la protección de nuestro medio ambiente", dijo la senadora estatal Judy Schwank (D-Berks). "Felicito a nuestros funcionarios locales por sus exitosos esfuerzos para asegurar la financiación a través de este competitivo programa estatal".
A través del programa de subvenciones, los municipios y condados de Pensilvania pueden optar a una financiación de hasta el 90% de los costes aprobados del programa de reciclaje. Los municipios considerados en dificultades financieras en virtud de la Ley de Comunidades en Dificultades Financieras pueden recibir financiación para un 10% adicional de los costes aprobados. También se han concedido subvenciones a programas diseñados para satisfacer la demanda actual de productos reciclables.
Algunos ejemplos de proyectos subvencionables son el funcionamiento de instalaciones de compostaje de hojas; el desarrollo de programas web sobre reciclaje para consumidores; la ampliación de las instalaciones de procesamiento de reciclaje; la instalación de sistemas de recogida de datos en vehículos de reciclaje; la continuación y creación de programas de reciclaje en la acera; y el desarrollo de materiales educativos para animar a los residentes a reciclar adecuadamente.
Algunos de los proyectos del condado de Berks son
- Autoridad de Residuos Sólidos del Condado de Berks, 85.545 dólares;
- Municipio de Berna, 239.292 $;
- Municipio de Cumru, 47.152 dólares;
- Municipio de Exeter, 248.074 dólares;
- Municipio de Kenhorst, 25.974 dólares;
- Municipio de Lower Alsace, 283.249 dólares;
- Municipio de Maxatawmy, 32.538 $;
- Municipio de Muhlenberg, 335.619 dólares;
- Ciudad de Reading, 349.992 dólares;
- Distrito de West Reading, 141.772 $;
- Wyomissing Borough, 122.715 dólares.
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October 5, 2018
Harrisburg, October 5, 2018 – The Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Office for Safe Schools has selected Kutztown Area School District to receive $10,190 for programming to address school violence, State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced.
Specifically, the district was the recipient of the Office for Safe Schools’ 2018-19 Safe Schools Targeted Program Grant. The grants are part of a statewide effort to help schools reduce unnecessary student disciplinary actions and promote an environment of greater productivity, safety and learning; andenhance anti-violence efforts between schools and parents, local governments, law enforcement and community organizations.
“I commend Kutztown Area School District officials for pursuing this funding to help students and staff be more aware of how to be safe,” Schwank said. “Through this grant, and the district’s participation in the CrisisGo pilot, Kutztown has been at the forefront of proactively providing a safe school environment.”
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October 2, 2018
Harrisburg, October 2, 2018 − Exeter Township will receive $2.9 million in Multimodal Transportation Fund grant funding approved today by PennDOT, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced. The funds will strengthen the township’s efforts to increase safety along Perkiomen Avenue.
Exeter Township will receive $2,955,670 to design and construct pedestrian improvements on Perkiomen Avenue, which includes continuous sidewalk, pedestrian lighting, pedestrian buffer, trees, and defined entrances and exits for business driveways.
“Foot traffic has grown along Perkiomen Avenue as the township has grown, which is why we need enhanced safety features,” Schwank said. “These funds will improve the avenue for pedestrians and motorists alike and help them safely travel to and from businesses and other destinations along Exeter’s main business corridor.”
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October 1, 2018
HARRISBURG, PA – October 1, 2018 – Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children (PPC) today presented Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) with its annual “Be Someone for Kids” award in recognition of her work to enact public policies that benefit the commonwealth’s children.
“As the Democratic chair of the Senate Health & Human Services Committee, Judy Schwank has played a critical role in recent years in helping to propose and enact numerous laws to better protect our commonwealth’s children,” said PPC President and CEO Joan Benso. “We all owe her a debt of gratitude, and our ‘Be Someone for Kids’ award is one way we are saying thanks for standing up for kids.”
Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children has worked closely with Sen. Schwank since she arrived in the General Assembly in 2011. Since then she has worked to improve the lives of children including her support for increased investments in high quality pre-k, home visiting child care and basic education funding. The position Sen. Schwank holds on the Appropriations Committee enables her to set priorities for children as part of the state budget process on an annual basis. Additionally, in her role on the Health and Human Services Committee as well as her position on the Aging and Youth Committee have elevated her to be a champion on issues such as child welfare and children’s health care coverage.
“PPC is a child welfare, health care, early childhood education and K-12 education advocacy organization, and we pride ourselves in building partnerships with members in the General Assembly who share the goal of ensuring a bright future for Pennsylvania’s children,” Benso said. “Judy’s prior experience as a county commissioner has been invaluable in helping us to establish a wonderful partnership because she has been working to make life better for children for more than 20 years.”
PPC launched the “Be Someone for Kids” award in 2015 to honor those who have made extraordinary efforts to help Pennsylvania’s nearly 2.8 million children. This year’s award was given to Sen. Schwank by Benso during a ceremony at the state Capitol attended by several dozen people including legislative colleagues, officials from Berks County, and children’s advocates. PPC thanks the generous sponsors who supported this event; Customers Bank, Highmark, Maverick Strategies, PA Chamber of Business & Industry, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, PNC Financial Services, PPL Corporation, and Shelly Lyons Public Affairs & Communications.
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CONTACT: Justin Fleming 717-236-5680 or [email protected]
September 27, 2018
East Stroudsburg, PA − September 27, 2018 − East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania announced the selection of its 2018 Legislative Fellow, State Senator Judith L. Schwank, at a breakfast held in her honor on Thursday, September 27. ESU President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., introduced Senator Schwank at the event to university faculty, students, staff and special guests from the community.
Pictured from left to right: ESU Council of Trustees member, Bruno Klaus; Professor of communication and member of the Legislative Fellow Committee, Andrea McClanahan, Ph.D.; ESU 2018 Legislative Fellow, State Senator Judith L. Schwank, ESU President, Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D.; Student Senate President, Judaha Amoroso; ESU Council of Trustees Chair, Patrick Ross ’67.
The Legislative Fellow program, established in 1999, is designed to bring state legislators to campus to participate in a variety of campus activities and to meet formally and informally with students, faculty and staff throughout the year. As part of the program, ESU Legislative Fellows may also request a student intern.
The program is co-sponsored by the university administration and the local chapter of the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF). Fellows are selected by a committee of faculty and administrators, and jointly appointed by the university president and the president of APSCUF at the beginning of each academic year.
Senator Schwank was elected to represent the 11th Senatorial District in a 2011 special election. She was re-elected in 2012 and 2016. She serves as the democratic chair of the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and the Health and Human Services Committee, and democratic vice chair of the Appropriations Committee. She also serves on the Aging and Youth, Local Government, State Government, and Policy Committees. Senator Schwank has also been appointed by Senate leadership to the Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education and the Pennsylvania Interbranch Commission for Gender, Racial, and Ethnic Fairness.
Schwank earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in agricultural education from Penn State University. After college, she worked as a Berks County horticultural agent for Penn State Cooperative Extension and established the Master Gardener Program. She became director of the Berks County Cooperative Extension Program in 1991 and was elected as the first female Berks County Commissioner in 2000.
Schwank serves as president of 10,000 Friends and is a member of the board of directors for Girl Scouts of Southeast Pennsylvania She also served as Dean of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at Delaware Valley College.
Senator Schwank resides in Reading, Pa. with her husband, Jim. She is the proud parent of three children and has four grandchildren.
For more information on the Legislative Fellow program, contact Miguel Barbosa, chief of staff in ESU’s Office of the President at 570-422-3545.
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September 26, 2018
Harrisburg, September 26, 2018 – The Pennsylvania Senate today approved a bill introduced by Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Sen. Randy Vulakovich (R-Allegheny) to criminalize the coercion of sexual conduct.
Senate Bill 1134, which Schwank and Vulakovich introduced earlier this year, was approved by the upper chamber, 48-0.
La sextorsión se produce cuando se exige sexo o imágenes sexuales a cambio de dinero u otros objetos de valor económico. Este acto se considera una forma de agresión sexual y está tipificado como delito en Alabama, Arkansas, California, Texas y Utah.
“This legislation was brought forward by the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape (PCAR), and I was proud to join their efforts to end sexual extortion,” Schwank said. “Its use has grown in both intensity and frequency in the digital age, outpacing our current laws and mechanisms, and leaving victims without adequate recourse.”
“As a former police officer, I have seen this inexcusable and exploitive behavior,” Vulakovich said. “Too often, victims are often unable to recover from the stigma and its psychological repercussions. This legislation will create stronger punishments to help deter this cruel behavior.”
Donna Greco, PCAR’s Policy Director, applauded both senators for the legislation.
“PCAR is grateful to senators Schwank and Vulakovich for their leadership on this legislation. We applaud the senate for their unanimous passage of SB 1134 today,” Greco said. “Establishing sextortion as a crime in the commonwealth will help protect victims who too often fall through the cracks of our criminal justice system. This bill clarifies and elevates sexual extortion as the serious sex crime that it is.”
The bill moves to the House now for consideration.
Contact: Jamie Klein (610) 929-2151, [email protected] (Schwank)
Nathan Silcox (717)-787-6538, [email protected] (Vulakovich)
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September 20, 2018
Reading, September 20, 2018 − Due to the privatization of a York County home, the Berks Heim is estimated to receive an additional $596,000 during the 2018-2019 fiscal year, State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) announced.
“The Berks Heim has a remarkable reputation in our county, and countless Berks Countians have had a loved one, friend or neighbor stay at the Heim,” Schwank said. “The facility’s dedication to providing its residents top-notch care is one of the reasons why I am so pleased to learn about this extra funding.”
Originally, the Berks Heim was expected to receive $2.556 million through Internal Government Transfers (IGT) for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. But due to Medicare rates increasing and the privatization of the York County home, the Berks Heim will receive the additional $596,000, which will mean $3.152 million in funding.
In 2016, the Heim received approximately $1.28 million in IGT funds and in 2017, it received approximately $1.45 million.
Part of the increase is one time in nature because York County is contributing to the upper payment limit for the days they were a county home for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. The remaining homes get to reap the benefit of that room since York is not eligible for a payment.
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September 20, 2018
Reading, September 20, 2018 Gov. Tom Wolf recently announced the availability of $5 million in grant funding to help Pennsylvania dairy farmers overcome challenges and capitalize on new opportunities. This historic funding, made available for the first time under the Pennsylvania Dairy Investment Program, is the most recent of several initiatives from the Wolf Administration to support Pennsylvania’s dairy industry.
“I’m happy to see this quick action to assist our dairy industry in the Commonwealth,” Schwank said. “I supported this funding in this year’s budget as a way to ensure our Berks County farmers have resources available to them as they explore additional options to expand and transition their dairy operations.”
The Pennsylvania Dairy Investment Program was established under Act 42 of 2018 and will provide $5 million in grants to eligible applicants for researching new technologies, products and best practices; marketing to new domestic and international markets and exploring new business opportunities to diversify their operation and revenue streams; transitioning to organic production methods; and incorporating or expanding value-added dairy production, such as cheese and yogurt products. The program is now open for applications after guidelines were approved at today’s Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) board meeting.
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September 18, 2018
HARRISBURG, September 18, 2018 – Three local recreation and conservation projects were approved today for grant funding totaling $375,000 by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, according to Sen. Judy Schwank and Reps. Thomas Caltagirone and Mark Rozzi.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority approved grants for:
- Berks County Conservation District, Antietam Valley Storm Water Improvements and Lake Restoration, $125,000
- Reading, Schuylkill River Trail Gap Improvement Project, $125,000.
- Reading, Replacement of the YMCA of Reading and Berks County’s Washington Street location’s roof, $125,000.
“These state grant funds will allow Reading and the Berks County Conservation District to better address the recreational needs of area residents for many years to come,” Schwank said. “I’m glad that we have local officials taking initiative and pursing these funds.”
“The approval of these funds is great news for Reading and the surrounding communities who benefit from YMCA programming,” Caltagirone said. “I commend all involved who worked hard to put together high-quality proposals for these competitive grant funds.”
“These projects, especially the YMCA improvement, represent important investments not only in the present needs of our community, but for future generations,” Rozzi said. “Residents of the Antietam Valley, the City of Reading and beyond will benefit from these projects.”
The funding is through the Act 13—Marcellus Shale Legacy Fund and is administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
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Contact:
Jamie Klein
610 929-2151
[email protected]
September 18, 2018
HARRISBURG, September 18, 2018 – Thirteen Berks County municipalities will receive a total of $1.325 million in new state investments for their ongoing efforts to improve water and sewer services.
Sen. Judy Schwank today said the Commonwealth Financing Authority approved Small Water and Sewer System grants for:
- Robeson Township Municipal Authority, Sewage Pumping Improvements, $125,000;
- Joint Authority of the Wyomissing Valley, UV Light Disinfection Enclosure, $75,000;
- Caernarvon Township Authority, Mill Road Water Softener Replacements, $50,000;
- Antietam Valley Municipal Authority, Friedensburg Road Sewer Main Extension, $125,000;
- Fleetwood Borough, E. Locust Street Water Main Extension, $125,000;
- Ruscombmanor Township, Walnuttown Road Sewer Extension, $125,000;
- Western Berks Authority, Mohrsville Water District Arsenic Removal System, $125,000;
- Alsace Township, Sewer Extension, $125,000;
- Reading Area Water Authority, Filtration Bed Rehabilitation, $125,000;
- Mount Penn Borough Municipal Authority, Emergency Water Interconnection, $81,250;
- Maxatawny Township Municipal Authority, Village of Bowers Waterline Replacement Project, $81,250;
- Muhlenberg Township Authority, SCADA System Upgrades, $81,250;
- Wyomissing Borough; 2018 Capital Sewer Project, $81,250.
“These projects are vital to critical infrastructure in these Berks communities and to protect our local environment,” Schwank said. “I was pleased to advocate for these grants to help these local communities make necessary improvements.”
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