April 1, 2015
HARRISBURG, April 1, 2015 – Berks Countians who need help paying their heating bills or covering emergency repairs will have another month to apply for Pennsylvania’s federally funded LIHEAP program, Sen. Judy Schwank said today.
The deadline to apply has been moved from Friday to May 1.
“Winter was very cold and troublesome for many people, so the extended deadline should help residents get the assistance they need to keep the heat on during the cool spring or to pay for repairs to overworked heating systems, broken windows or replace cracked pipes,” Sen. Schwank said.
LIHEAP is a grant program. Qualified participants do not have to pay back any award they receive. Annual household income limits apply, however.
INCOME GUIDELINES:
Household Maximum Income
1 $17,505
2 $23,595
3 $29,685
4 $35,775
5 $41,865
6 $47,955
7 $54,045
8 $60,135
9 $66,225
10 $72,315
LIHEAP crisis grants can be between $25 and $500 while the minimum cash benefit is between $100 and $1,000.
Residents who need a LIHEAP application should contact Sen. Schwank’s district office, 210 George St., Suite 210, Reading, or call 610-929-2151.
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
March 31, 2015
Public Utility Commission to talk electric choice
READING, March 31, 2015 – Residents of Centerport and northern Berks County will have the opportunity at 7 p.m., Thursday, April 2, to learn more about electric choice and share their thoughts and concerns on other topics during Sen. Judy Schwank’s next town hall meeting.
“Electric choice has been around for a while but not everyone is aware of how it works or what to do to take advantage of the program,” Schwank said. “An expert on the topic from the PUC will join the town hall to make sure everyone’s questions are answered. They’ll also show attendees how to save money on their monthly utility bills.
“We will also talk about other local issues, thoughts and concerns.”
Thursday’s town hall will happen at the Central Berks Lions Club. These community-wide meetings are an essential part of the senator’s work in the 11th Senatorial District.
Se agradece la cobertura mediática.
WHAT: Sen. Judy Schwank to hold town hall meeting in Centerport
CUÁNDO: 19.00 - 20.30 h.
WHERE: Central Berks Lions Club, 2207 Main St., Centerport
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Siga a la senadora Judy Schwank en su sitio web, Facebook y Twitter.
10 de marzo de 2015
HARRISBURG, 10 de marzo de 2015 - Junto con el Departamento de Asuntos Militares y de Veteranos del estado, la senadora estatal Judy Schwank está recordando a los veteranos de Pensilvania que ahora es el momento de solicitar pagos únicos especiales en honor a su servicio durante las operaciones del Golfo Pérsico en 1990 y 1991.
La fecha límite para presentar solicitudes es el 31 de agosto.
Los pagos son para veteranos que estuvieron en servicio activo durante las operaciones Escudo del Desierto o Tormenta del Desierto entre el 2 de agosto de 1990 y el 31 de agosto de 1991.
"Esto podría suponer cientos de dólares para los veteranos de Pensilvania que lo arriesgaron todo y lucharon para defendernos en el Golfo Pérsico", dijo el senador Schwank.
Schwank dijo que el DMVA también está pidiendo a los veteranos que podrían haber sido previamente negado el bono de volver a aplicar. Se requieren nuevas solicitudes para reabrir una reclamación.
Hasta ahora, unos 11.000 veteranos del Golfo Pérsico han solicitado el programa de bonificación desde su inicio en 2008.
La bonificación paga 75 $ al mes a los miembros del servicio activo que cumplan los requisitos, hasta un máximo de 525 $.
Para el personal cuyo fallecimiento estuvo relacionado con una enfermedad o lesión recibida en acto de servicio en las operaciones Escudo del Desierto o Tormenta del Desierto, hay 5.000 dólares adicionales a disposición de la familia superviviente. Los miembros del servicio que fueron declarados prisioneros de guerra también pueden optar a una ayuda adicional de 5.000 dólares.
En cada caso, el miembro del servicio debe tener:
- Ha servido en las Fuerzas Armadas de EE.UU., en un componente de reserva de las Fuerzas Armadas de EE.UU. o en la Guardia Nacional de Pensilvania,
- Prestó servicio activo en el Teatro de Operaciones del Golfo Pérsico durante el periodo comprendido entre el 2 de agosto de 1990 y el 31 de agosto de 1991, y recibió la Medalla al Servicio en el Suroeste Asiático,
- Haber residido legalmente en Pensilvania en el momento del servicio activo,
- Haber sido licenciado del servicio activo en condiciones honorables, si no está actualmente en servicio activo. Y,
- Recibió la Medalla al Servicio en el Suroeste Asiático.
Para obtener instrucciones detalladas sobre cómo presentar la solicitud, visite www.persiangulfbonus.state.pa.us.
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
March 3, 2015
HARRISBURG, March 3, 2015 – State Sen. Judy Schwank issued the following statement today after listening to Gov. Tom Wolf present his first budget proposal to a joint session of the General Assembly:
“Gov. Wolf has presented an assertive and wide ranging budget that opens the door to many opportunities for the commonwealth. He has boldly addressed some issues that have been neglected for too long, and it is important to note that the budget is a starting point and we have a lot of work ahead to find consensus.
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“I intend to spend the ensuing days and weeks, especially in my role as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, to get into the details on this budget and determine how it impacts my constituents.
“I’m pleased that the governor has not wavered on his commitment to education – not just K-12 but also our community colleges, technical institutions and state universities. It’s encouraging as well that the burden of school property taxes on too many of our citizens is also front-and-center on the governor’s agenda.
[hdvideo id=61]
“I’m ready to get to work not only to learn the details but also talk with my constituents about their perspective on the budget,” Sen. Schwank said.
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
February 25, 2015
HARRISBURG, Feb. 25, 2015 – State Sen. Judy Schwank and advocates will hold a press conference at 3 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 26, in the senator’s district office, to announce the introduction of her bill to best address Pennsylvania’s pension crisis.
The combined unfunded pension liability for the Public School Employees’ Retirement System and the State Employees’ Retirement System is about $50 billion, and the municipal pension shortfall has reached $7.7 billion.
Nearly half of Pennsylvania’s 1,223 municipalities are distressed and underfunded.
“Much is at stake, and it’s important we get this right the first time,” Sen. Schwank said.
Media coverage is invited.
WHAT: Sen. Judy Schwank to formally introduce pension review bill
WHEN: 3 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 26
WHERE: Commissioner’s Boardroom, 1st floor, 210 George St., Reading
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
February 12, 2015
READING, Feb. 12, 2015 – Pennsylvania farmers would be able to grow a new cash crop and participate in a wide range of manufacturing opportunities if a bill that Sens. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Mike Folmer (R-Lebanon) formally introduced today.
Senate Bill 50 would re-establish the industrial hemp industry in Pennsylvania.
“From paper to fuel, clothing to biodegradable plastics, the return of industrial hemp would give Pennsylvania’s farmers the opportunity to grow an in-demand crop that benefits tens of millions of people all over the world,” Schwank, the Democratic chair of the Senate Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee, said.
“Sen. Folmer and I are planning to fervently work to return industrial hemp to Pennsylvania’s menu of growing options,” she said.
The federal 1937 Marijuana Tax Act restricted industrial hemp production. In 1970, the Controlled Substances Act declared hemp to be illegal.
The 2014 Farm Bill loosened restrictions on the production of industrial hemp.
“Industrial hemp does not have a psychoactive effect; the THC level is less than 0.03 percent,” Sen. Folmer said. “Misconceptions are withholding Pennsylvania from an opportunity for our agricultural and business industries to thrive.
“Twelve other states are already ahead of Pennsylvania in this industry. We are long overdue on utilizing the prospects that the Farm Bill of 2014 has offered to us as a state.”
Folmer is planning to hold a town hall meeting March 11 in Annville to discuss this industrial hemp proposal as well as legislation (Senate Bill 3) that would allow the use of medical cannabis.
Under Senate Bill 50, the cultivation and processing of industrial hemp would be allowed in Pennsylvania as part of a research program at a college or university – in accordance with federal law – under the regulation of a five-member Industrial Hemp Licensing Board that would be established within the Department of Agriculture.
Industrial hemp would also be recognized in Pennsylvania as an oilseed.
Should the U.S. government act to once again regulate industrial hemp, Pennsylvania’s Industrial Hemp Act would 60 days after the enactment of that federal statute.
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
February 12, 2015
HARRISBURG, Feb. 12, 2015 – Add another 250 acres of Berks County land to Pennsylvania’s farmland preservation program.
The three tracts, valued at nearly $625,000, were approved for inclusion in the record-setting operation today by the Pennsylvania Agricultural Land Preservation Board, Sen. Judy Schwank said.
The 250 acres added by the panel now mean 687 Berks County farms and 68,622 acres are now protected from future development.
“As food costs continue to increase, it’s extremely important that we make sure Pennsylvania’s farms – especially those in Berks County – are able to grow and harvest produce, meat and cheese for local residents,” Schwank, a member of the preservation board, said. “Buying locally is one of the surest ways to ensure the affordability of a good, nutritious food source.”
The conservation easements approved today by the board total $373,750 and were paid to the following Berks County land owners:
- Louise Rick, Lower Heidelberg Township, 44 acres
- Earl & Ann Martin, Maxatawny Township, 85.3 acres
- Mae Baver, Greenwich Township, 120.6 acres
Since its inception in 1988, the commonwealth has protected 4,750 farms totaling 504,252 acres with nearly $1.4 billion in easements.
La administración local, del condado o estatal - o cualquier combinación de las tres - puede comprar servidumbres. Los condados que decidan tener un programa de compra de servidumbres deben crear una junta de preservación de tierras agrícolas.
El objetivo a largo plazo del programa estatal es preservar permanentemente las tierras agrícolas. Los titulares de las servidumbres tienen derecho a impedir el desarrollo o las mejoras del terreno para fines distintos de la producción agrícola.
For more information on PA’s farmland preservation program, visit the Bureau of Farmland Preservation’s website.
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Siga a la senadora Schwank en su sitio web, Facebook y Twitter.
February 12, 2015
READING, Feb. 12, 2015 – Berks Countians looking for help in paying college tuition can get free guidance and tips this Saturday, Feb. 14, during a FAFSA Preparation Seminar in Sen. Judy Schwank’s district office.
“While improvements have been made to the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid, it can still be overwhelming and confusing, so I am encouraging anyone who plans to attend college or is planning to help someone cover their tuition to attend my free seminar Saturday morning,” Sen. Schwank said.
Financial aid experts from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, or PHEAA, and Kutztown University will be on hand to guide participants.
Computers will be available for attendees so they can complete and submit their FAFSA applications.
Seating is limited, so interested residents should call Sen. Schwank’s office to reserve a spot at 610-929-2151.
Se agradece la cobertura mediática.
WHAT: Sen. Judy Schwank to hold FAFSA Preparation Seminar
WHEN: 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 14
WHERE: Sen. Schwank’s district office, 210 George St., Reading, Suite 201
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Siga a la senadora Judy Schwank en su sitio web, Facebook y Twitter.
January 27, 2015
HARRISBURG, Jan. 27, 2015 – To better help desperate moms and dads who are seeking relief for children who suffer from countless seizures and to help many other Pennsylvanians who need relief from chronic illnesses, Sen. Judy Schwank today urged fellow lawmakers to finally adopt a bill that would legalize medical cannabis.
“One thing that I’ve learned after discussing this legislation over the past year is to never underestimate the power of a mother or father who wants to see a sick child get cured,” Schwank said to applause. “You really have been the reason why this legislation has moved as quickly as it has and is before us now.”
Sen. Schwank joined fellow Sens. Daylin Leach (D-Delaware) and Mike Folmer (R-Lebanon) as the lawmakers reintroduced their proposal to allow plants containing cannabidiol, Tetrahydrocannabinol or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol acid to be used for medical purposes.
The new legislative vehicle to legalize the use of what has been called “Charlotte’s Web” is Senate Bill 3.
“This treatment is legitimate, its time has come, and our medical professionals ought to have the opportunity to prescribe it as they see fit for patients with many different kinds of illness,” Schwank said.
After visiting a medical marijuana dispensary in New Jersey last week, the Berks County Democrat said her understanding deepened on how Tetrahydrocannabinol works and how it can be supervised and managed.
“What I learned is the use of medical cannabis can be done legally similar to any other pharmaceutical,” Schwank said. “The chemical can be tracked from the growth stage all the way to dispensing. There can be state oversight, as required, to make sure that people are able to use this and … they get a safe dosage.
“I urge my fellow legislators, particularly in the House, to get this going as soon as possible,” Sen. Schwank concluded.
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
January 15, 2015
READING, Jan. 15, 2015 – Berks County’s agriculture industry will continue to have a front-row seat in Harrisburg as state Sen. Judy Schwank will carry on as the Democratic chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.
“We are protecting a record number of acres of prime Berks County farmland and we are now working to allow new crops to be produced in Pennsylvania,” Schwank said. “This is an important time for agriculture and I am proud and privileged to continue my work to ensure that farmers everywhere have an ally in Harrisburg.”
Schwank will also continue serving on the Aging and Youth, Appropriations, and Public Health and Welfare committees. Her new assignment is as a member of the Senate State Government Committee.
Schwank was elected to her first term as the leader of the 11th Senatorial District in April 2011.
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Más información sobre la senadora Schwank en su página web, Facebook y Twitter.
December 18, 2014
BLANDON, Dec. 18, 2014 – Heeding the growing concerns about the safety of Route 222, state Sens. Judy Schwank (D-11) and David Argall (R-29) met here last night with local leaders to work towards solutions that would make the highway less deadly.
The gathering included representatives from Berks County law enforcement, including District Attorney John Adams; PennDOT; local chambers of commerce; Berks County officials; township officials; and business leaders.
“Twelve people have died driving on Route 222 in the past six years and there’s growing concern the highway will grow more dangerous as roundabout construction begins,” Sen. Schwank said during the meeting. “We cannot just hope that 222’s Nov. 19 fatal accident was the last one. We need to act now.”
“We must find solutions to curb the trend claiming innocent lives,” said Sen. Argall. “I’m grateful for the input and expertise shared during the meeting that can put us in the right direction and save lives in the future.”
After Sen. Schwank urged increased police enforcement and reduced speed limits, the group of leaders agreed that additional enforcement should begin to be explored.
PennDOT said it would examine lower speed limits, flashing signs and other enhancements to try to improve the safety of the corridor.
Leaders agreed it would take many additional years to build a limited-access highway to relieve the stress and problems of Route 222 but they said that a new road would still be pursued as a long-term solution.
“The common theme is that we must do more and we must do it now,” Argall said.
“People are justified in their concern about the impact of the new roundabouts,” Schwank said. “Still, we need to move forward with a plan that addresses these issues now, not in 25 years.”
The dangerous five-mile stretch of Route 222 under review is between the intersections of Route 73 in Blandon to Route 662 in Fleetwood.
In addition to the previously mentioned community leaders, representatives from the Pennsylvania State Police, Northern Berks Regional and Fleetwood police departments, North Central Highway Safety; Greater Reading and Northeast Berks chambers of commerce; Fleetwood School District; Berks County Commissioner Kevin Barnhardt; Maidencreek and Richmond townships; Fleetwood Borough; U.S. Rep. Charles Dent; state Rep.-elect Barry Jozwiak; and Redner’s, Quality Carriers and Venezia Bulk Transport attended the meeting.
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December 11, 2014
HARRISBURG, Dec. 11, 2014 – Another 150 acres of prime Berks County agricultural land were added today to Pennsylvania’s record-setting farmland preservation program, Sen. Judy Schwank said today.
The 150 acres added by the Pennsylvania Farmland Preservation Board now mean 684 Berks County farms and 68,372 acres are now protected from future development.
“The Berks Countians who own the tracts that were entered into Pennsylvania’s farmland preservation program today have made good and worthwhile decisions,” Schwank, a member of the preservation board, said. “Because of their actions, Berks County deepens its commitment to making sure agriculture has a bright future here and across the commonwealth.”
El objetivo a largo plazo del programa estatal es preservar permanentemente las tierras agrícolas. Los titulares de las servidumbres tienen derecho a impedir el desarrollo o las mejoras del terreno para fines distintos de la producción agrícola.
The conservation easements approved today by the board total $373,750 and were paid to the following Berks County land owners:
- James & Donna Lee Dietrich, Upper Bern Township, 24 acres
- Michael & Rosita Miller, Heidelberg Township, 79.7 acres
- J. Freymoyer, Upper Bern/Tilden townships, 45.7 acres
Since its inception in 1988, the commonwealth has protected 4,732 farms totaling 502,757 acres with $1.3 billion in easements.
La administración local, del condado o estatal - o cualquier combinación de las tres - puede comprar servidumbres. Los condados que decidan tener un programa de compra de servidumbres deben crear una junta de preservación de tierras agrícolas.
For more information on PA’s farmland preservation program, visit the Bureau of Farmland Preservation’s website.
Siga a la senadora Schwank en su sitio web, Facebook y Twitter.
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December 5, 2014
READING, Dec. 5, 2014 – Reading city food market owners and representatives from local, state and federal governments will meet with state Sen. Judy Schwank at 6:00 p.m., Monday, Dec. 8, at Reading Area Community College.
The informational meeting will detail changes to the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, or SNAP, and other local business issues.
Representatives from the City of Reading, state Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Sen. Robert P. Casey’s office are scheduled to be in attendance.
Se agradece la cobertura mediática.
WHAT: Sen. Judy Schwank to talk business, issues with local company owners, government officials
WHEN: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 8
WHERE: Room 118, Schmidt Technology Center, Reading Area Community College, 10 S. 2nd St., Reading
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December 2, 2014
READING, Dec. 2, 2014 – Sen. Judy Schwank will hold her second annual “Elected Municipal Officials’ Meeting” at 7:30 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 4, at Wyomissing Family Restaurant.
This event gives local leaders with the opportunity to obtain information that impacts their municipality and to interact with state officials whose agencies directly affect their work. It also gives Sen. Schwank the opportunity to hear the concerns of local government officials.
“This event gives our local elected officials the opportunity to not only meet and network with other officials but it also gives us the opportunity to coordinate our efforts to better serve our community,” Schwank said.
Schwank has invited Brian Eckert from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and Jay McGee from the PennDOT to talk about available state resources and programs.
Para más información, llame al 610-929-2151.
Se agradece la cobertura mediática.
WHAT: Sen. Judy Schwank’s “Elected Municipal Officials’ Meeting”
WHEN: 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 4
WHERE: Wyomissing Family Restaurant
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Siga a la senadora Judy Schwank en su sitio web, Facebook y Twitter.
October 28, 2014
HARRISBURG, Oct. 28 – State Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Allegheny, and state Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus, today called for the Corbett administration to take action to extend the federal 1115 Family Planning Waiver, SelectPlan for Women. The waiver is set to expire Dec. 31.
The caucus and other legislative supporters sent a letter to state Human Services Secretary Beverly Mackereth earlier this month, seeking an extension of the waiver through at least 2015. The letter stated that potentially thousands of women will go without access to family planning services currently provided by the SelectPlan waiver as coverage under Healthy PA begins Jan. 1.
“Basically all the administration has to do to protect coverage for thousands, and perhaps tens of thousands of women, is write a letter. But even with the clock ticking, it hasn’t done that or bothered to explain why,” Schwank said. “These are important health issues that need to be resolved for women before they lose coverage, not afterward.”
Currently, the SelectPlan for Women waiver provides crucial family planning health services to nearly 90,000 predominantly low-income women across Pennsylvania annually. Services provided by the waiver include gynecological exams, emergency contraception, screening and treatment for various sexually transmitted infections, and breast and cervical cancer screenings. It does not cover abortion services, since no public dollars are allowed to be used for them in Pennsylvania.
“I have serious concerns about this situation. The thought of ending coverage for tens of thousands of women and forcing them to reapply manually for Healthy PA is mind-blowing,” Frankel said. “This administration cannot continue to erect barriers to health care for low-income women. It should automatically give lower-income women HealthyPA coverage that includes comprehensive family planning services. For higher-income women, it should extend SelectPlan so they do not lose access to their current medical providers as they transition to another plan.”
The letter also stated that the SelectPlan waiver has been effective in reducing the annual federal and state Medicaid expenditures for prenatal, newborn and infant care since its implementation in February 2008.
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A copy of the letter is HERE.
October 27, 2014
READING, Oct. 27, 2014 – With almanacs and woolly bear caterpillars predicting a tough winter and others predicting a mild season, state Sen. Judy Schwank today said the one sure thing about the approaching season is LIHEAP will be there to help those who need it.
“We’ve heard mixed predictions about winter’s menu but the best way for Berks Countians to prepare is to apply with the commonwealth for grants under its Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program,” Schwank said today. “It’s good to heed predictions and prepare for winter. People who are worried about their budgets must include LIHEAP as a way to keep out the chill.”
LIHEAP is a grant program that helps qualified residents pay their heating bills. This year’s program opens Monday, Nov. 3, and is expected to run through the beginning of next April.
LIHEAP customers who received benefits this past winter received their applications about a month ago, Schwank said. New applications may be obtained through the senator’s district office.
Annual household income limits apply. A one-person household must not earn more than $17,505 while an eight-person household can earn a maximum annual stipend of $60,135. Add $6,090 for each additional person.
“LIHEAP delivers crisis benefits of between $25 and $500 and the money will help make the threat of lost warmth go away,” Schwank said.
Schwank said a crisis can include an empty fuel tank, the threatened termination of gas or electric service, broken windows, the sudden need to replace a heating system or frozen pipes.
Residents who need a LIHEAP application should contact Sen. Schwank’s district office, 210 George St., Suite 210, Reading, or 610-929-2151.
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October 20, 2014
READING, Oct. 20, 2014 – Two parks in Berks County and a swimming pool in Fleetwood have been awarded nearly $730,000 in state grants, state Sen. Judy Schwank said today.
The money, from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, will help to expand French Creek State Park, upgrade Pendora Park and rehabilitate the Fleetwood Community Swimming Pool.
“Berks County presents many wonderful options for outdoor enjoyment and these new state investments will ensure that these destinations exist for many new generations of residents and visitors,” Schwank said. “Getting back to nature will be better and easier for many more thanks to the commonwealth’s support.”
The 11th Senatorial District’s grants are part of $33 million in new grants awarded through DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnership Program. Statewide, 219 grants have been awarded to communities and non-profit organizations for recreation and conservation projects.
The grant awards follow Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation plan, which keeps the commonwealth eligible for federal land and water conservation investments.
The following Berks County projects received grants:
- Natural Lands Trust Inc., $316,000 for the purchase of 53 acres along French Creek State Park and Geigerstown Road in Union Township.
- Reading City, $250,000 for the rehabilitation and continued development of Pendora Park, including an upgrade of the spray park, new playground equipment, ADA access, landscaping and related improvements.
- Fleetwood Borough, $164,000 to renovate the Fleetwood Community Swimming Pool’s large pool and its bathhouse and concession stand, install a portable pool lift and improve ADA access.
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March 28, 2013
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.
“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.
Para más información, llame al 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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November 23, 2011
READING, Nov. 23, 2011 — After receiving public input on the recent storm-related power outages that occurred in Berks County, State Sen. Judy Schwank provided the results of a storm-related power outage survey, she recently conducted, to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and asked the Commission to come up with a specific plan of action plan to improve the performance of utilities in future weather emergencies.
“More than 250 residents responded to my request for information with detailed accounts of their storm and power-outage experiences,” Schwank said. “I am grateful for their input and believe the responses will help improve how our utilities and the PUC respond during emergencies such as this.”
Earlier this month, Schwank asked the tens of thousands of Berks County residents who were left without power to provide her with specific information about their utility’s response to any problems they experienced with their service during and after the storm in an effort to gain an understanding of the storm’s impact on consumers.
Schwank said the results of the survey provided an eye-opening perspective of the storm’s impact and the response of the utility companies. The survey found that:
- Nearly 80 percent of respondents experienced power outages of more than 3 days;
- Sixty-five percent endured more than five days without power;
- More than 40 percent of the respondents cited poor communication and financial loss as their chief concerns;
- A third of respondents cited inadequate line maintenance as an important concern; and
- Eighteen percent mentioned frequent outages and service reliability and medical concerns as major issues.
Today, Schwank sent a letter to the PUC detailing the results of the public survey and requesting a specific action plan from the commission.
“The purpose of this effort is not to castigate or vilify utility employees; indeed, the linemen and women and other workers worked very hard under extraordinary conditions to restore power,” said Senator Schwank. “The goal here is to get the Commission to consider the real faces and real life impacts of the storm and the response of utilities to it and take substantive action to ensure that they do better in the future. In particular, two glaring areas that need improvement are the method and manner utilities employ to communicate with customers during outages and the extent and quality of their preemptive maintenance and equipment repair and replacement programs. “
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October 18, 2011
Day Care, Adult Care, Job Training, School-to-Work Transition, and Green Jobs are Targeted
HARRISBURG, October 18, 2011 – – Today members of the Senate Democratic caucus unveiled legislation to be introduced this week to supplement the “PA Works Now” job creation plan, which has become the centerpiece of their agenda for the fall session. Senate Democrats will continue to offer solutions to the problems that prevent Pennsylvanians from finding and maintaining jobs in hopes the dialogue in the Capitol will begin to center on this pressing issue.
[hdvideo id=14 ]
Senator Schwank on “Pa Works” Tax Incentive Proposal for Day Care unveiled at State Capitol news conference today. [audio:https://www.senatorschwank.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/pa-works-schwank-day-care-alternatives1.mp3|titles=pa-works-schwank-day-care-alternatives]
“We can’t drag our feet when it comes to this. Families are struggling, and with each day that goes by they lose hope in our ability to help them,” said Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-Lehigh/Monroe/Northampton), Senate Democratic Policy chair. “We visited a number of communities across the state and gathered valuable – and in many cases very moving – feedback. This is the number one issue on people’s minds. We need to keep talking until we make it the number one priority on the minds of those serving in Harrisburg.”
The plan focuses on 6 key areas:
Tax credit incentives to encourage employer supported day care alternatives
This measure would provide tax incentives to small businesses that help employees cover the costs of child care and adult day care. Working families should not be constrained because they can’t find day care services. It’s not good for their quality of life. And it’s not helpful to our economy.
Sen. Judy Schwank is the prime sponsor of this legislation. “Many of us know all too well that day care is expensive, and many families have to weigh the cost of day care verses their weekly paycheck,” said Schwank (D-Berks). “For others, there is no choice. They have to work, and the only way they can work is if they have child care or adult day care and know their loved ones are safe while they earn a day’s pay.”
Improve School-to-Work Transition
Successful careers in today’s knowledge based economy require most students to pursue some post secondary training. However, many of these experiences do not require a four-year baccalaureate degree. Community colleges, technical colleges, apprenticeship programs, direct employer sponsored programs, and the military services all have important roles in providing these education and training experiences. Unfortunately, many students fail to receive the necessary career advice and training in the final years of their high school education to properly transition into these training and education opportunities following their high school graduation.
Boscola is the prime sponsor of legislation that would require every local school district to develop an individual education plan to ensure that every student’s high school experience envisions and prepares them for a career path. “We need to do everything in our power to get kids on the right track early. Many don’t know all of the options available to them until they have already pursued another path,” said Boscola. “In this economy there isn’t time for do-overs. This legislation would give them the tools and information they need to make these decisions which may ultimately impact their entire lives.”
Youth Summer Job Program
Summer employment programs can provide a valuable public service while giving youth valuable training and career experience. This measure would focus exclusively on youth summer employment opportunities at state parks and municipal recreational facilities throughout the commonwealth. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) would directly administer jobs created at state parks, while local governments could apply to DCNR to receive grants, not to exceed $2,500 per job, for work experiences at local recreational facilities. An estimated 10,000 jobs could be supported annually through a $25 million transfer from the Oil and Gas Fund.
Sen. Shirley Kitchen is introducing the legislation this week. “This is a win-win situation,” said Kitchen (D-Philadelphia). “Not only will youth learn valuable job skills and gain work experience, but our state parks and other recreational areas, which were hit particularly hard by last spring’s budget battle and the harsh cuts that resulted, will benefit too.”
PA Training Program for Marcellus Shale Drilling Operations
Marcellus Shale drilling has been a major economic boost for many areas throughout our state. Unfortunately, significant numbers of currently employed workers at these job sites continue to be people from outside of Pennsylvania. When we enact a drilling fee on Marcellus Shale operators later this fall, an annual set-aside of $5 million should fund specialized training programs, administered through local organized labor groups, to give Pennsylvanians the necessary skill sets to fill these jobs. A portion of these funds should be earmarked specifically to develop and staff a call center, with preference for the disabled to fill these jobs. The unemployment rate among the disabled is nearly 50 percent higher than for the rest of the workforce.
Sen. Christine Tartaglione is the prime sponsor of this measure. “My bill would set aside a portion of the revenue from a Marcellus Shale extraction tax to develop specialized training programs for jobs in the gas industry. The recent cuts to higher education have made college less likely for thousands of people. With a dedicated training program geared toward the various parts of the extraction, storage and transport of natural gas, we can put Pennsylvanians back to work,” said Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia). “While we push for specialized training for jobs in the gas industry, we will also push to make sure that this effort involves every Pennsylvanian who wants to work. My bill calls for development and staffing of a call center to connect willing workers with the right training program and for that call center to be staffed by people with disabilities.”
Incentives to Grow Women & Minority Owned Businesses
We are making a renewed push to encourage the growth of women, minority, or veteran-owned, or other disadvantaged small businesses by providing an array of incentives. Sen. LeAnna Washington’s Senate Bill 696, which was introduced as part of our original PA Works package, calls for a statewide bonding guarantee program, mentor-protégée support, a 10 percent reserve program for state contracts and other targets and incentives to increase employment opportunities for these businesses.
“Women, minority, and veteran-owned businesses all have bring something different to the table that you might not see every day in every business,” said Washington (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery). “Women have firsthand knowledge of some of the barriers to pursuing a career and the pull of other responsibilities. Minority and veteran business owners may be a bit more sensitive to the difficulties in finding work because of the hurdles and high unemployment statistics they face.”
Green Jobs Employment & Training Program
Sen. Kitchen’s Senate Bill 687, which was also introduced as part of our original PA Works package, creates the Green Work Force Training Program. The program would provide $5 million annually for each of the next three fiscal years to the Department of Labor and Industry to provide grants to vocational technical schools, community colleges, public or private higher education institutions, labor organizations, or privately licensed schools. The grants would be used to develop training programs for careers in emerging renewable energy or energy efficiency.
“If we are going to get out of this economic slump and compete in a national and global economy, a well-trained workforce is essential,” said Kitchen. “One of the areas that has great potential for our economic outlook is the green jobs sector. It’s an emerging industry that we must invest in if we want to move Pennsylvania forward.”
Dr. Thomas Rushton, the director of the Monroe Career & Technical Institute, also shared his firsthand experiences with school-to-work transition and gave input on how a program like the one introduced by Sen. Boscola would benefit the students he deals with in Monroe County.
PennEnvironment Director David Masur participated and shared information about the potential impact of Senate Bill 687 and the Green Workforce Training Program.
For more information on the PA Works Now program go to http://www.pasenate.com.
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27 de septiembre de 2011
27 de septiembre 2011, Harrisburg - El senador estatal Judy Schwank (D-Berks) anunció hoy que el condado de Berks recibirá casi $ 27,000 en subvenciones estatales para ayudar con los esfuerzos de reciclaje y gestión de residuos.
"El reciclaje y la gestión de residuos son dos formas eficaces de combatir la contaminación en Pensilvania", declaró Schwank. "El Departamento de Protección Medioambiental lo reconoce y trabaja diligentemente para proporcionar a las comunidades locales los recursos que necesitan para combatir la contaminación. Estos fondos contribuirán en gran medida a ayudar a estas comunidades con sus programas de reciclaje y gestión de residuos."
La Autoridad de Residuos Sólidos del Condado de Berks recibirá una subvención de 22.861 dólares para reembolsar el 50% de los costes de desarrollo y funcionamiento de una recogida de residuos domésticos peligrosos (HHW) en el Edificio Municipal del Municipio de Exeter, que se celebró el 26 de abril. La Autoridad también recibió una subvención de 2.087 dólares para reembolsar el 50% de los costes de desarrollo y funcionamiento de un evento de recogida de HHW para productos farmacéuticos, que se celebró el 16 de abril.
Estos fondos de subvención se distribuyeron a través del Programa de Subvenciones para la Prevención de la Contaminación en Pequeñas Empresas y Hogares del DEP de Pensilvania.
También recibió una subvención el municipio de Fleetwood. El municipio recibió 2.026 dólares en función de las 187,2 toneladas recicladas en 2009 y de su población. La financiación, proporcionada a través del Programa de Subvenciones para el Reciclaje del DEP, se concedió para ayudar al municipio a aumentar la cantidad de materiales reciclados.
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September 26, 2011
HARRISBURG – September 26 – State Senate Democrats today unveiled their revised job creation plan, called “PA Works Now,” which they claim would create 80,000 new jobs and leverage billions in private investment to generate jobs and economic activity.
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State Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) said job creation is the number one priority for this fall’s session of the General Assembly. He added that the PA Works Now package does not require new broad based taxes, is fully paid for and does not put additional strain on the state General Fund.
“PA Works Now features a new investment vehicle called the Pennsylvania Investment Bank that will quickly pump $1.2 billion into the economy and create jobs,” Costa said. “Our goal is to jump start the economy and create new jobs in the shortest possible time.
“Job creation is the most important issue lawmakers must tackle this fall.”
The Democrats’ plan includes renewed investment in job-producing programs and public works such as water and sewer projects as well as money for new business investments. The plan also provides a new round of capital infusion for the state Machinery and Equipment Loan Fund and would establish Pennsylvania’s version of the successful “Georgia Works” on-the-job training program.
The Pennsylvania Investment Bank would target more than $1.2 billion for water and sewer system reconstruction, new business investment and other public works. The bank would capture funds generated from existing borrowing capacity. The bank would use $500 million in Commonwealth Finance Authority dollars plus a half-billion from PENNVEST (Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority).
The investment bank would also utilize $80 million in funds from a proposed Marcellus Shale tax or fee along with surplus state revenues. Democrats estimate that these sources would generate $180 million.
“There are so many workers who are looking for jobs and even more who are worried about what is next for them in this very difficult economic recovery,” Costa said. “Our comprehensive PA Works Now plan addresses job creation and presents an opportunity to move our economy forward.”
Democrats said action is needed now on their job creation plan because of the recent increase in unemployment. Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate spiked by nearly a half percent from July to August – rising to 8.2 percent. Since May, the number of unemployed Pennsylvanians grew by 45,000.
Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair Vincent J. Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) decried the alarming increase in unemployment and the inaction of both the Corbett Administration and Republican lawmakers who control floor action in both the state House and Senate.
“The Corbett Administration has failed to respond to the hardship in the labor market in any discernable way,” Hughes said. “The administration is either tone-deaf to the plight of the unemployed or focusing on political wedge issues that do not create jobs. They’ve produced no new jobs plan.
“The priorities of the administration are skewed,” Hughes said.
Hughes criticized Corbett and Republicans for focusing on changing the apportionment of electoral votes, English-only legislation and voter ID legislation. These issues interest only “politicos on the extreme political fringe of the Republican Party. These proposals do nothing to help our economy grow,” Hughes said.
“We are stuck debating issues that appeal to the political extreme at the expense of working families,” Hughes said. “Working men and women need jobs. They don’t need political talk. That is a sham and it’s a shame.”
Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) said the state has lost an opportunity to reverse negative economic trends. She noted that the recent business downturn has had a disproportionate impact on educators, women, minorities and Pennsylvania’s youth.
According to Schwank, the Corbett budget cuts have put several thousand educators or school staff out of work. The Berks county lawmaker said Senate Democrats will soon flesh-out a package of bills that would specifically help women, minorities and young people find jobs.
“Failing to take action now condemns those who have a difficulty getting jobs in a robust economy – women, minorities and our youth – to even deeper despair when the labor market contracts,” Schwank said. “Doing nothing on job creation is not an answer and it’s not fair. That’s why we need to work on a jobs plan like PA Works Now.”
Sen. John Blake (D-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Monroe), who previously served as secretary of the state Department of Community and Economic Development, said PA Works Now would inject much-needed capital into business investment and job creation programs. He said doing so is essential toward generating economic activity and employment opportunities now.
“There is no question that our recovery from the recession is soft,” Blake said. “The state has a responsibility to incent private sector investment for job growth.”
Costa, Hughes, Schwank and Blake were joined by a host of Senate Democratic colleagues at the Capitol news conference.
Senate Democrats unveiled a previous version of PA Works earlier this year.
Senators who attended today’s news conference included Democratic Whip Anthony H. Williams (D-Philadelphia), Caucus Chairman Richard Kasunic (D-Fayette/Somerset), Caucus Secretary Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia), Caucus Administrator Wayne Fontana (D-Allegheny) and state Sens. Andy Dinniman (D-Chester), Daylin Leach (D-Delaware/Montgomery), John Yudichak (D-Luzerne/Monroe/Carbon) and Tim Solobay (D-Washington/Greene).
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September 20, 2011
Harrisburg News personalities, government officials and youth dairy exhibitors joined forces in heated competition to make the coolest milkshakes on Tuesday, Sept. 20, at the 2011 All-American Dairy Show in Harrisburg.
All-American Milkshake Madness participants (l-r) Elizabeth Weber, Caitlin Pool, Matt Barcaro, Sen. Judy Schwank, Tom Russell, Cassie Musser, Sen. Elder Vogel, Jr., Valerie Pritchett, Lane Kummer, Agriculture Secretary George Greig, Jesse Kline, Cody Stephenson and Rep. Stephen Bloom.
The All-American Milkshake Madness contest is a new addition to the show, pitting four teams in a competition to create the best milkshake, evaluated on taste, creativity and presentation by a panel of judges.
Each team had 15 minutes to create a milkshake, a name for it and a team name. The energetic, festive and hectic atmosphere was punctuated by shouts of encouragement, the flutter of camera shutters and the smell of decadent dessert fixings.
Team Yeah Baby, We Got Milk was first to finish, with their All-American milkshake. Agriculture Secretary George Greig joined WHTM-ABC27 anchor Valerie Pritchett and Butler County youth exhibitor Lane Kummer in creating a chocolate-based milkshake using peanut butter, pretzels, chocolate chips, chocolate fudge and low-fat milk.
Low-fat milk ensures that our milkshakes arent just tasty, but healthy, too, quipped Jean Kummer, contest coordinator and emcee.
I cant wait, said Senator Kim Ward, one of the contest judges. The entries look like theyll taste great!
Senator Judy Schwank, of the 11th Senatorial District, joined Matt Barcaro, WGAL -TV News 8 reporter and Caitlin Pool, a Berks County youth exhibitor, in a tropically themed Strawberry Margarita Milkshake, which featured French vanilla ice cream, crushed strawberries and crushed pretzels to add salt, served in a margarita glass.
The Senators, a team comprised of Senator Elder Vogel, Jr. of the 47th Senatorial District, WHP- CBS 21 meteorologist Tom Russell and Lawrence County youth exhibitor Cassie Musser, created the Classic Western PA Milkshake. Vanilla based with a generous helping of pretzels and butterscotch, the teams twist involved a generous helping of chocolate syrup in the bottom of the milkshake.
All-American exhibitor Caitlin Pool, Sen. Judy Schwank and WGAL-TV News 8 reporter Matt Barcaro pose with their “Strawberry Margarita Milkshake” Tuesday during the All-American Milkshake Madness at the 2011 All-American Dairy Show in Harrisburg
The final entry was a nod to the Guernsey breed by the Golden Guernseys, consisting of Representative Stephen Bloom of the 199th Legislative District, Pennsylvania Alternate Dairy Princesses Jesse Kline and Elizabeth Weber and Butler County youth exhibitor Cody Stephenson.
The Golden Guernseys described their product as capturing the essence of Golden Guernsey milk, through creating a rich, French vanilla base using tans and browns, with nuts, chocolate chips and chocolate sauce. The product was aptly named the Guernsey Special.
During evaluation by judges Ward, Centerplate Concessions Chef Kasey Kirk, Franklin County dairy producer and All-American Dairy Show exhibitor Claire Burdette and Pennsylvania Dairy Princess Marissa Weidensaul, team members lobbied the judges on behalf of their creations.
After lengthy deliberation, judges settled on the following awards:
- Best Overall Classic Shake The Senators
- Healthiest Yeah, Baby, We Got Milk
- Freshest Flavor Strawberry Maragrita Milkshake
- Best Presentation Golden Guernseys
The ice cream was donated by PA Preferred member, Way-Har Farms of Berks County, and the winning team members received PA Preferred prize packs.
The 48th All-American Dairy Show, the worlds largest dairy show, runs Sept. 17-22 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg. This years show features 23 shows in six days, the nations only all-dairy antiques show, more than 2,400 animals and 935 exhibitors from 24 states and Canada. For more information, visit www.allamerican.state.pa.us or call 717-787-2905.
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September 10, 2011
El senador Schwank asiste al Berks County Heim Fest.
Haga clic en las miniaturas para ver la galería.
24 de agosto de 2011
READING, August 24, 2011 – – Local and state agriculture professionals today traded ideas and shared concerns and goals regarding food safety and agriculture profitability in Pennsylvania with the state Senate Democratic Policy Committee at a roundtable discussion at Penn State University, Berks Campus.
“Protecting Pennsylvania’s food supply is of paramount importance, not only to maintaining the profitability of the state’s agricultural industry, but to the health and safety of Pennsylvania citizens,” said committee Chair Lisa Boscola (D-Northampton/Lehigh). “I am happy to have had this opportunity to meet with top agriculture and food safety experts in the state to discuss ways to keep Pennsylvania consumers safe from food-borne illnesses that threaten the health of the public and the economic development of the state.”
The discussion centered on how to keep food safe and Pennsylvania agriculture profitable. Topics included legislation regarding food safety regulations, particularly how they pertain to fresh produce, farmers, and farmers markets; a discussion on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP); a discussion on food-borne illnesses and the most common causes of the illnesses; and information on how Pennsylvania producers are keeping food safe, as well as the challenges the industry faces regarding food safety.
“We have all read about the series of recent incidents regarding food-borne illnesses throughout the nation and here in Pennsylvania. As both a lawmaker and a consumer, this greatly concerns me,” said state Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks). “It was very beneficial for my Senate colleagues to join me here in Berks County to discuss this critical issue. We must understand how these illnesses spread and eliminate that problem from the food supply chain. It is important to our citizens and to the economic welfare of the state, as agriculture is our leading industry.”
Schwank, who serves as Democratic Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, requested this meeting in an effort to examine current policy on food safety and to discuss concerns the industry and the public have regarding the issue.
The informal roundtable discussion featured experts and educators from agriculture, academia, health and the food industry.
“This roundtable discussion is a step in ensuring that our current food safety laws are working to keeping consumers safe,” said Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny). “Senate Democrats are dedicated to protecting the health and welfare of our citizens and we thank the panelists for their expert input on this issue. As we move forward in this process, it is our hope that we can rely on these experts to help guide future policy on this matter.”
State Sen. John Wozniak (D-Cambria/Somerset/Centre/Clinton/Clearfield) was also on hand at the event.
“It is important that we all work together — the legislature, the industry, and the public — to protect against food-borne illnesses,” Wozniak said. “This discussion was a great opportunity to begin open dialogue on food safety issues.”
Panelists included Dr. Lydia Johnson, director of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Bureau of Food Safety and Laboratory Services; James Weaver, GAP-certified farmer at Meadow View Farm; Dr. Hassan Gourama, associate professor of food science at PSU Berks; Gary Zanecosky, director of quality at Giorgio Foods, Inc.; Brian Snyder, executive director of the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture; and Brent Ennis, Southeast district executive director of the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
Johnson stated that the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is committed to protecting Pennsylvania citizens from food-borne illness.
“It is essential that we protect the citizens of Pennsylvania,” Johnson said. “Because contamination can happen at every step in the food process, we must have consistent regulations.”
Weaver expressed concerns that cuts in funding make it difficult for farmers to comply with regulation requirements.
“Cuts in funding hurt farmers,” Weaver said. “It makes the process progressively harder as time goes on. I fear there will come a point in time where it is too hard for farmers.”
Gourama discussed the importance of researching food-borne illnesses and their causes, but also stressed the importance of funding this research.
“We must improve detection methods to determine where contamination is coming from,” Gourama said. “Researching this issue takes money, but it is harder to get funding due to the economy.”
Zanecosky stressed the importance of collaboration between the agricultural industry and academia.
“In order to stay in this business, you have to be on the cutting edge,” Zanecosky said. “Academia is the cutting edge.”
Snyder stressed the need for assistance from the legislature to keep food safe and agriculture profitable.
“There are four things that the legislature can do to assist farmers,” Snyder said. “Provide access to capital and quality insurance; clear, flexible and consistent regulations; tax code adjustments, and public support.”
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