March 21, 2018
Harrisburg, March 21, 2018– State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) voted in favor of a package of bipartisan bills pertaining to domestic violence. The bills are aimed to empower victims of domestic violence by helping them leave their abusers and controlling their abusers’ access to firearms.
Most notable in the package is SB 501, which requires domestic abusers to surrender their firearms to law enforcement or to a licensed firearms dealer. If enacted, Schwank said the law would protect the vulnerable.
“This bill would become law in 180 days after passage by the House and the signature of the Governor, and from the time it comes into enforcement it will definitely save lives of women and children at risk of domestic violence,” Schwank said. “This bill will go a long way in our fight to keep men, women and children safe from domestic violence.”
These are the bills which were voted by the Senate today:
- SB 313: Helps domestic violence victims remove abusers from a shared telephone plan.
- SB 449: Also known as Tierne’s Law, will allow Magisterial District Judges to use a risk assessment tool when determining bail in domestic violence cases.
- SB 500: Gives victims the opportunity to have law enforcement with them before or after a Protection-From-Abuse order is served.
- SB 501: Requires domestic abusers to surrender their firearms to law enforcement or a licensed firearms dealer.
- SB 502: Allows courts to more easily extend a PFA order when an abuser is released from custody.
- SB 919: Helps victims of domestic or sexual violence who live in public housing relocate to another unit.
- SB 1011: Also known as Marsy’s Law, amends the state Constitution to create a crime victims’ “Bill of Rights.”
Other than SB 449, which passed on concurrence, the bills now move to the House for consideration.
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March 20, 2018
HARRISBURG − March 20, 2018 − Stating that child protection is a foremost government responsibility, two state Senators have launched a push to reform laws, regulations, and funding for Pennsylvania’s child welfare system. Sens. Lisa Baker, R-20th, and Judy Schwank, D-11th, who lead the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, are looking to establish an Interbranch Commission on the Child Welfare System to help create safer conditions for the thousands of children who find themselves in need of loving, nurturing homes.
For many years, the system of children and youth services has lacked the priority, the funding, and the oversight it warrants. When resources are stretched too thin and shortcomings go unaddressed, heinous acts occur and heartbreaking tragedies result.
“While we have read about several horrific cases of child abuse, the truth is too many children in supervised situations suffer death, serious injuries, or endure abysmal living conditions,” they stated. “The fault for this falls on all of us, irrespective of party or administration or political philosophy. ”
“Recent incidents of children who were abused and died in the foster care system confirm that we need to investigate our foster care and adoption system,” Schwank said. “The proposed Interbranch Commission on the Child Welfare System, which will engage all branches of government to provide recommendations on improving the care and protection of children, is a serious undertaking. We have a solemn obligation to care for those in our society who are most vulnerable – Pennsylvania’s children in foster care are perhaps the most at risk.”
A special “State of the Child” report released last year detailed some alarming deficiencies. Declaring that the “child welfare system is broken,” Auditor General Eugene DePasquale said that despite nearly $2 billion in state spending, 46 children died in 2016, while another 79 nearly perished. Of the fatalities, almost half of those children had been placed with families already known by Children and Youth Services.
“This discussion is not an indictment of the many capable, dedicated, and accomplished folks involved in the system. The problems have been evident for some time and are largely structural, rather than evidence of poor performance,” Baker said. “It is hard to escape the conclusion that the system is underfunded and overburdened.”
As part of its investigation, the commission will be asked to:
- Determine how the child welfare system failed in recent cases of death, or the near death, of children in the child welfare system;
- Restore public confidence in the protection of children and ensure they are adequately safeguarded; and
- Offer recommendations to improve the child welfare system and prevent the reoccurrence of abuse.
Baker noted that the panel is patterned after the Interbranch Commission on Juvenile Justice, which did an outstanding job of investigating the horrific circumstances of the Kids-for-Cash scandal in Luzerne County, and in developing an extensive series of reform recommendations, the majority of which were implemented.
“Advocacy from our communities has not been lacking,” Baker added. “The deficiency has been in effective action, making sure that money and manpower match what we put in law and regulation, and most of all, what children at risk need from us. A commission provided the light and the leadership on juvenile justice, so we have everything to gain by applying that approach to the current crisis in child protection.”
Senate Bill 1087 earned unanimous support in the Health and Human Services Committee today and moves on to consideration by the full Senate.
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March 16, 2018
HARRISBURG, PA − March 16, 2018 − On Monday, March 19 at 12 pm, Democratic women of the General Assembly will gather for a roundtable discussion on what it means to be a woman elected to office in light of Women’s History Month.
They’ll answer questions from the audience, from viewers of the live stream and questions that were submitted in advance of the event.
The panel will be moderated by WGAL anchor Danielle Woods, and is open to the public – but seating is limited and will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Twenty seats will be reserved for juniors and seniors from the Harrisburg School District who are currently taking a course in women’s studies.
It will be livestreamed to www.pasenate.com, www.facebook.com/PASenateDems and www.twitter.com/PASenateDems
RSVP on Facebook
Date: Monday, March 19, 2018
Time: 12pm
Where: Capitol Media Center
Who:
- Senator Judy Schwank
- Representative Carol Hill Evans
- Representative Patty Kim
Media is encouraged to attend!
March 14, 2018
Reading, March 14, 2017 The second session of state Sen. Judy Schwank’s fifth annual “Berks County Model Senate” will give area high school participants to experience the legislative committee process and the opportunity to interview subject matter experts.
The session will open at 11 a.m. in Sen. Schwank’s district office on George Street. The committee sessions are scheduled to take place at noon.
“In the first session, students learned how to elect leaders and propose bills,” Schwank said. “Tomorrow, they’ll introduce bills and hear testimony from experts to help guide their votes.”
Thursday’s Model Senate will include six committee sessions. The topics and experts include:
- Agriculture – Bill Evans, Sen. Schwank’s Chief of Staff
- Judicial – Justin Bodor, Assistant Berks County DA
- Environment – Susan Werner, PA Department of Environmental Protection
- State Government – Debbie Olivieri, Berks County Board of Elections Chief Clerk
- Education – Dr. Solomon Lausch, former Schuylkill Valley School District superintendent and current executive director of the Berks Business Education Coalition
- Health & Welfare – TJ Huckleberry, Director of Berks Medical Society.
Sen. Schwank’s Model Senate will meet once more before concluding.
WHAT: Sen. Judy Schwank’s fifth annual Berks County Model Senate
WHEN: 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Thursday, March 15
WHERE: Conference room, Muhlenberg Township Municipal Building, 210 George St., Reading
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March 12, 2018
Local Food, Farmer’s Markets, Rural Jobs and Investment Initiatives Featured
Harrisburg – March 12, 2018 – Bolstering farms and farmers, promoting the use of locally produced food and significantly increasing a tax credit to spur job creation and investment in rural communities is the focus of a package of bills offered by three state Senate Democrats.
Senate Democratic Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee Chair Judy Schwank (D-Berks), Sen. Art Haywood (D-Philadelphia) and Sen. Vincent J. Hughes (D-Philadelphia) are the prime sponsors of the initiatives which are designed to aid farmers, increase access to healthy foods and ensure markets for locally produced food.
“From my many years of work with farmers and the agriculture industry, I know there are specific initiatives that will help immediately and immeasurably,” Schwank said. “The elements in this package of bills will address key aspects of farm production, market development and making the finances of farming work that much better.”
Schwank’s legislation would allow governmental entities to accept a bid higher than the lowest bid by 10 percent if they use locally-sourced food.
According to the state Department of Agriculture, 93 percent of Pennsylvanians prefer food that is locally produced. There are 58,000 farms and nearly eight million acres devoted to agricultural production in Pennsylvania.
“Giving this small price adjustment to support local food production and use is important to farmers and the farming community,” Schwank said.
Haywood, who serves as Democratic chair of the Senate Aging and Youth Committee, said his legislation would significantly expand the Farmer’s Market Development Program. Under Haywood’s plan, grant eligibility could be used for agritourism, construction and renovation of farmer’s markets, satellite markets and other infrastructure needs. The maximum grant would increase to $100,000.
“Farmer’s markets have become an integral part of the food delivery system,” Haywood said. “Fresh food is now available through farmer’s markets, which have become very popular.”
Pennsylvania has the fourth largest market in the country for direct farm sales.
“The goal of my legislation is to expand access to farmer’s markets to boost local sales and generate more income for farmers,” Haywood said. “Helping develop farmers’ markets is a win for farmers and a win for consumers.”
Another key component of aiding farmers and helping agriculture is providing fiscal stability for farmers and the industry. Hughes’ legislation would raise the rural jobs and investment tax credit from $1 million per fiscal year to $20 million over the next three years. The credit would increase $5 million each year for three fiscal years after rising to $5 million in fiscal 2018-19.
“Ensuring that farmers have capital on hand is important to successful farming and the agriculture industry,” Hughes said. “Increasing the tax credit for investment into our rural areas is critical, given that a large portion of Pennsylvania is designated as a rural area.
“Spurring investment and job creation in rural areas helps the entire state and provides direct financial assistance for farmers and the industry.”
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 48 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties are designated as rural. These counties hold more than a quarter of the state’s population. More than 37 percent of rural household had incomes below $35,000.
The senators said that the bill package would help focus policymaking on issues impacting farmers and the agricultural industry.
“We need to do more to assist farmers and help them become more productive and successful,” Schwank said. “This legislation addresses three key components that are important to agriculture: local production, access to markets and capital.”
Hughes, who is the Democratic chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, echoed Schwank’s comments.
“Finding ways to resolve issues that impact farmer productivity is a benefit to every Pennsylvania resident,” Hughes said.
Haywood said that he was pleased that the legislation was being developed as a package and said he was hopeful that the measures would be considered by the Senate this year.
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February 15, 2018
Harrisburg, February 15, 2018 − A road-naming bill to rename Route 176 in Berks County in honor of veterans was signed into law today by Gov. Tom Wolf. Berks County’s inclusion in the bill was the result of the efforts of State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks).
Under the legislation, HB 1602, separate sections of the Morgantown Expressway between its intersections with Route 422 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike would be marked to recognize veterans of the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War and the Iraq and Afghanistan War, respectively.
“We must always remember what veterans have done for us, and this is one way we’ll preserve our gratitude,” Schwank said. “This legislation was brought to life by local veterans who wanted a way to honor their brothers-and sisters-in-arm.”
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February 13, 2018
Reading, February 13, 2018 −Four dozen high school students from 13 Berks County schools will get a close-up look at being a legislator on Thursday, Feb. 15, during Sen. Judy Schwank’s fifth annual “Berks County Model Senate.”
The event, which will be the first of three planned sessions of the Model Senate, will begin at 11 a.m. in the Muhlenberg Township Building conference room.
This is the fifth consecutive year for Schwank’s Berks County Model Senate.
“I continue to be greatly impressed by the students who participate in our Model Senate program,” Schwank said. “They are keenly interested in governmental affairs and take the program very seriously. They are the future of our county and the commonwealth.”
During tomorrow’s Model Senate, students will elect a governor, caucus leaders, and appoint committee chairs. The students will then decide which bills will be introduced in the Senate and bring up their own proposals for debate.
Media coverage is invited.
WHAT: Sen. Judy Schwank’s fifth annual Berks County Model Senate
WHEN: 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 15
WHERE: Conference room, Muhlenberg Township Municipal Building, 210 George St., Reading
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February 7, 2018
Harrisburg, February 7, 2018– State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) is encouraged by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue’s announcement of $17.5 million in emergency funding to stop the spread of the spotted lanternfly in southeastern Pennsylvania.
“USDA has recognized how important it is to support us in our fight against the spotted lanternfly,” Schwank said. “With USDA, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, as well as local farmers, businesses and homeowners, we have a strong chance of controlling how far the spotted lanternfly spreads, and minimizing the physical and economic damage created by this insect.”
The emergency funding comes at a key time, Schwank said, because spotted lanternfly eggs have not yet hatched. The funds will allow for a two-pronged approach with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service managing the outer perimeter of the infestation and PDA focusing on a 3-mile perimeter surrounding the core infested area, according to a USDA press release.
Pennsylvania also remains committed to the cause. Earlier this week Gov. Tom Wolf proposed $1.6 million in his budget address to fight the spotted lanternfly.
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January 22, 2018
Harrisburg, January 22, 2018 − Today State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) introduced a resolution that would encourage Pennsylvania corporations to pursue more equal and diverse gender representation in senior management and on boards of directors.
“Companies benefit from the input of women,” Schwank said. “We’ve seen the numbers, we have tangible evidence that women have so much to offer to their companies. This is an important and positive step for businesses as well as for the community.”
Studies have shown that companies with more women in positions of power outperform companies without equal representation.
The resolution, SR 255, recommends all nonprofit, privately held and publicly traded institutions and companies in the Commonwealth make a commitment to increase gender diversity on their boards of directors and in senior management positions by Dec. 31, 2020.
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January 18, 2018
Reading, January 18, 2018 – State Sen. Judy Schwank, Berks Country and the Berks Agricultural Resource Network invite Berks County students to share their thoughts about farming in an essay and video contest celebrating National Ag Day. The day reminds people where their food comes from and the contribution agriculture makes to their everyday lives.
Essays will be grouped into three categories based on the students’ grade. A winning essay from each grade level will receive a cash award from BARN and be published in the March 21st edition of Berks Country. Winning videos will air on BCTV.
The categories and essay topics are as follows:
- Fourth to sixth grade: Farmers can raise sheep for their meat, wool or lanolin—a waxy substance found on sheep’s wool that is often used in lotions. Some farmers have raised sheep for landscaping or even as pets. In 100 to 150 words answer the question, If you were a farmer, why would you raise sheep?
- Seventh to eighth grade: The Spotted Lanternfly was found in Berks County in 2014 and threatens Pennsylvania’s grape and wine industries, as well as its hardwoods and fruit tree industries. In 250-300 words, write a letter to Gov. Tom Wolf explaining why Berks County farmers are worried about the Spotted Lanternfly.
- Nine to twelfth grade: Pennsylvania legalized the growing of industrial hemp in 2016 for research purposes by agencies, colleges and universities. Industrial hemp has many uses in textiles, building materials, industrial and environmental products, food and paper. In 450-500 words present an argument for why farmers should grow hemp.
- Fourth to twelfth grade: Bountiful Berks is a branding program developed by BARN to identify local products. A list of what the brand includes can be found at senatorschwank.com/essay. In a 30-second video, create an advertisement for a Bountiful Berks product. Videos must be uploaded to YouTube.
Essays and videos must be submitted online at www.senatorschwank.com/essay by February 19.
The National Ag Day program was started in 1973 by the Agriculture Council of America (ACA) to encourage every American to understand how food and fiber products are produced; value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy; and to appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products.
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December 22, 2017
Harrisburg, December 22, 2017 − Three organizations in Reading will receive a total of $2.25 million in new state investments for their ongoing efforts to revitalization the city and improve educational opportunities for students and the community at large.
Gov. Tom Wolf today approved Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants for:
- Berks County Convention Center Authority, Expansion of Santander Arena, $1.5 million;
- Reading, Alvernia University, Recreation, Wellness and Health Science Complex, $500,000;
- Reading, Albright College, Albright College Track & Field Facility, $250,000.
The monies will help the Convention Center Authority expand the Santander Arena by adding approximately 22,000 square feet of complementary and contiguous food and beverage, entertainment, meeting and support space. And will help Alvernia University community access to campus and Angelica Park, and Albright College prepare for a new track and field venue.
“These organizations are key economic and educational institutions in Reading,” Schwank said. “I am pleased by Gov. Wolf’s announcement and was more than happy to advocate for these projects.”
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December 14, 2017
Reading, December 14, 2017 − State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) hosted a press conference with State Inspector General Bruce Beemer to heighten public awareness of welfare fraud and announce a new enforcement initiative to stop the illegal sale of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cards.
“Unfortunately, welfare fraud is an issue in my district,” Schwank said. “It is my hope that we protect these dollars and ensure these programs are being used for what was intended, helping the most needy.” Schwank noted that in fiscal year 2016-2017 there were 768 Office of State Inspector General (OIG) investigations into welfare fraud in Berks County alone.
“We don’t know the reasons someone might sell their SNAP card,” Schwank said. “They may need cash for rent, a repair, or, sadly, they may be struggling with an addiction and use the cash to buy drugs.”
Earlier this year, Act 29 became law and provided the OIG with original jurisdiction over criminal statutes relating to public benefit fraud. The law also gave the OIG the ability to issue subpoenas or search warrants and partner directly with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
“Selling SNAP cards to merchants for cash is a crime which happens in Reading, and cities like it, every day. The merchants who buy these cards for pennies on the dollar prey on the vulnerable and literally take food from the needy,” Beemer said. “With the Senate’s help, my office now has new enforcement tools to prosecute this kind of trafficking in public benefits. I look forward to joining Senator Schwank to announce our new enforcement efforts in Berks County and across Pennsylvania.”
Thursday’s press conference was Beemer’s first stop in educating the public about welfare fraud and how to report and stop it. If you suspect fraud you can report it via phone at 1-800-932-0582 or make an online complaint using the “Report Fraud” section of the OIG’s website.
“The State Inspector General’s Office is now ready, willing and — thanks to the legislature and the governor — able to vigorously enforce these provisions of the law,” Beemer said.
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December 13, 2017
Harrisburg, December 13, 2017 A road-naming bill to rename Route 176 in Berks County in honor of veterans was approved today by the Pennsylvania Senate. Berks County’s inclusion in the bill was the result of the efforts of State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks).
Under the legislation, HB 1602, separate sections of the Morgantown Expressway between its intersections with Route 422 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike would be marked to recognize veterans of the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War and the Iraq and Afghanistan War, respectively.
“Local veterans came to me with this idea because they wanted a way to honor their brothers-and sisters-in-arm, and to encourage the public to remember what they did for us,” Schwank said. “I’m thrilled that it’s moving a step closer to becoming reality.”
Because the Senate amended the bill to include the Berks County highway, it now returns to the House of Representatives for its approval before it can be sent to Governor.
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December 12, 2017
HARRISBURG, December 12, 2017 – The Women’s Health Caucus, a bipartisan, bicameral legislative group supporting women’s health issues, introduced the Pennsylvania Agenda for Women’s Health in a press conference on Tuesday, Dec. 12. The agenda is a package of bills supported by the caucus.
Caucus co-chairs State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), State Rep. Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny) and State Rep. Frank Farry (R-Bucks) were joined by outside advocates to discuss the agenda.
The Agenda for Women’s Health covers a broad range of proposals that advance three main goals to enhance the health and well-being of women, families and communities: Safety and Dignity, Economic Security and Access to Health Services Across the Life Span.
“The Women’s Health Agenda is about empowering the 6.5 million women living in Pennsylvania,” Schwank said. “These bills will help them, and, in turn, help Pennsylvania prosper. The ability for our state to grow culturally and economically depends on how we face new challenges. The Women’s Health Caucus recognizes that we cannot afford attitudes and practices that hamper, stifle and waste the talent, skills and creativity women – and sometimes only women – can bring to the table.”
“Members from all political parties have a shared interest in empowering women to live healthier, happier lives. It is encouraging that the scope of this effort has expanded in recent years to include not only physical health, but also the financial and emotional wellbeing of women as well,” said Women’s Health Caucus Member, Sen. Charles McIlhinney (R-Bucks). “The Women’s Health Caucus has done a tremendous job of bringing more of these issues to the forefront, and it is an honor to work with all of the members of this body to advance bills that promote a safer and healthier future for women.”
“The PA Agenda for Women’s Health provides a clear vision to address the issues facing women in the Commonwealth today,” Frankel said. “At a time when we’re hearing from women that they’ve had enough of the constant attacks on their reproductive choices, lack of concern for their safety and barriers to success in the workplace, our Agenda will hopefully show them that there are legislators in Harrisburg who are listening and making a plan to pass legislation that will enhance their lives and the lives of their families.”
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December 11, 2017
Reading, December 11, 2017 State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) is hosting a press conference with State Inspector General Bruce Beemer to heighten public awareness of welfare fraud and announce a new enforcement initiative.
“Unfortunately, welfare fraud is an issue in my district,” Schwank said. “It is my hope that we protect these dollars and ensure these programs are being used for what was intended, helping the most needy.” Schwank noted that in fiscal year 2016-2017 there were 768 Office of State Inspector General (OIG) investigations into welfare fraud in Berks County alone.
Earlier this year, Act 29 became law and provided the OIG with original jurisdiction over criminal statutes relating to public benefit fraud. The law also gave the OIG the ability to issue subpoenas or search warrants and partner directly with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Schwank and Beemer will discuss how this new enforcement authority will be brought to bear on the problem of welfare fraud.
“Selling SNAP cards to merchants for cash is a crime which happens in Reading, and cities like it, every day. The merchants who buy these cards for pennies on the dollar prey on the vulnerable and literally take food from the needy,” Beemer said. “With the Senate’s help, my office now has new enforcement tools to prosecute this kind of trafficking in public benefits. I look forward to joining Senator Schwank to announce our new enforcement efforts in Berks County and across Pennsylvania.”
Thursday’s press conference is Beemer’s first stop in educating the public about welfare fraud and how to report and stop it.
When: 1 p.m., Thursday, December 14, 2017
Who: Sen. Judy Schwank and State Inspector General Bruce Beemer
Where: Muhlenberg Township Building, 210 George Street, First Floor, Reading
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December 8, 2017
HARRISBURG, December 8, 2017 – The Women’s Health Caucus, a bipartisan, bicameral legislative group supporting women’s health issues, will introduce the Pennsylvania Agenda for Women’s Health in a press conference on Tuesday, Dec. 12. The agenda is a package of bills supported by the caucus.
Caucus co-chairs State Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), State Rep. Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny) and State Rep. Frank Farry (R-Bucks) will be joined by outside advocates to discuss the agenda.
The Agenda for Women’s Health covers a broad range of proposals that advance three principle goals to enhance the health and well-being of women, families and communities:
Safety and Dignity,
Economic Security,
And Access to Health Services Across the Life Span.
When: 10 a.m., Tuesday, December 12
Where: Capitol Media Center, Capitol Complex, Commonwealth Avenue, Harrisburg
Who: Sen. Schwank, Rep. Frankel, Rep. Farry, Women’s Issues Advocates
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December 7, 2017
Reading, December 7, 2017 − The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture recently expanded the industrial hemp program, which allows hemp to be grown for research purposes.
Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) spearheaded the legislation that legalized the growing of industrial hemp 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.
For 2018, the commonwealth will permit up to 50 individual growers or institutions of higher education to grow up to 100 acres apiece, according to a press release issued by Gov. Tom Wolf. Institutions of higher education also may partner with individual growers to produce larger quantities of hemp. Last year, the department limited the number of growers to 30, each of whom could grow no more than five acres.
“This is a great day for Pennsylvania,” Schwank said. “Hemp, and products made from it, played a large role in our history, and it has one to play in the future of this Commonwealth. I encourage anyone who is interested in growing hemp to check out the program’s expansion.”
Information about the industrial hemp program can be found at http://www.agriculture.pa.gov/Plants_Land_Water/industrial_hemp/Pages/default.aspx.
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November 15, 2017
Reading, November 15, 2017 State Sen. Judy Schwank will review cleanup efforts in Ruscombmanor Township Thursday morning. The cleanup is the result of state actions after a township resident found lead battery casings and residue on a private lane. The project removed 1,000 tons of soil and included cartway and drainage improvements. Representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection will join Sen. Schwank in the tour.
What: Noll Lane Hazardous Sites Clean-Up Project Walk-Through
When: November 16, 2017, 10 a.m.
Where: Noll Lane, Ruscombmanor Township. Between Sand Hill and Stitzer roads on Walnutttown Road Road.
Who: Senator Judy Schwank; Joe Adams, Southcentral Regional Director for PA DEP and other DEP representatives.
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November 14, 2017
Harrisburg, November 14, 2017 − Three Berks County municipalities will receive a total of $1.3 million in new state investments for their ongoing efforts to improve recreation services and transportation along 5th Street Highway.
Sen. Judy Schwank today said the Commonwealth Financing Authority approved Greenway, Trails and Recreation Grants for:
- Topton Borough, Topton Community Park Playground, $100,000;
- Muhlenberg Township, Jim Dietrich Park Trail and Recreation Improvements, $100,000;
- Fleetwood Borough, Fleetwood Park Phase 1 Improvements, $100,000.
Additionally, Muhlenberg Township was awarded a $1 million Multimodal Grant to support the second phase of the 5th Street Highway Corridor Revitalization Initiative. This money is in addition to the $750,000 the township received last year through the same grant program.
“The 5th Street Highway is the key commercial corridor in Muhlenberg Township,” Schwank said. “These state funds will help local officials continue their efforts to improve safety and traffic flow along the corridor for pedestrians and motorists alike, and promote economic growth.”
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November 13, 2017
Harrisburg, November 13, 2017 − Sen. Judy Schwank will introduce legislation that will ensure victims of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct are not silenced by a non-disclosure agreement.
“Non-disclosure agreements can make it easier for serial predators to continue their patterns of abuse,” Schwank said. “And victims who want to report them are often pressured into keeping quiet via NDAs. This legislation will be a positive step forward in protecting Pennsylvanians from sexual harassment.”
Sen. Schwank will discuss this proposal in the Capitol Media Center on Wednesday, Nov. 15, at 10 a.m. Representatives from the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape will also speak.
When: Wednesday, Nov. 15, 10 a.m.
Where: Capitol Media Center, Capitol Complex, Commonwealth Avenue, Harrisburg
Who: Sen. Judy Schwank and representatives from the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape
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November 3, 2017
Reading, November 2, 2017 − Sen. Judy Schwank is hosting a Home Water Workshop for residents who get their drinking water from a private well, spring or cistern on Thursday, Nov. 16, at Penn State Berks, 1800 Broadcasting Road. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Franco Building, Room 109.
The program, presented by Penn State Extension, the Delaware River Basin Commission and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, will cover proper well construction and maintenance. That includes factors to consider when siting a well, tips for selecting a well driller, what to test for, maintenance issues, groundwater protection, and treatment options should a contaminate issue arise.
Participants may bring a sample of their drinking water for basic water testing during the session. The testing is for nitrates, total dissolved solids and pH will be provided during the event. Educators will be available to advise participants if their test results suggest further water analysis by an accredited lab is recommended.
For the sample: Empty a fresh, store-purchased plastic bottled-water container and refill it with water from the tap.
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November 1, 2017
Philadelphia – November 1, 2017 – At the request of state Sen. Lawrence Farnese (D-Phila.), the Senate Democratic Policy Committee today held a roundtable discussion at City Hall on strategies for preventing street harassment.
“It is really important to have this meeting at a time when we’re talking about this on a national level and at a state level,” Farnese said. “Street harassment is not a new problem but by bringing it to light and making it a policy issue, it’s my hope we can empower women to understand and let them know there are folks around the state who believe and support them and want this to end.”
Sen. Lisa Boscola, who chairs the committee, added, “This affects everyone. In light of recent national news about sexual harassment and violence and the subsequent #MeToo social media campaign, it’s clear that people simply aren’t going to take it anymore. No one should have to tolerate it. The panelists today provided insightful and helpful input on initiatives that are already in place, resources that are available and ideas on ways we can all discourage street harassment further.”
Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks), who chairs the Women’s Health Caucus said, “Everyone at some point has experienced this type of harassment and has, unfortunately, considered it to be part of life. In a way, this recent national conversation has brought it to a new light in all levels of society, so this is exactly right time to address this. While it may be difficult to talk about it, this is the time to talk about it and how we change this culture.”
“It’s important that we engage the public to educate people so everyone can feel safe and welcome in all environments in Pennsylvania,” said state Sen. Sharif Street (D-Phila.). “I appreciate the community engagement today to help us develop what will hopefully be effective policies to address this issue.”
According to a 2014 survey of 2,000 women commissioned by the organization Stop Street Harassment, 65 percent of women said they experienced some form of street harassment. More than half experienced verbal harassment and 41 percent endured physical aggressive forms ranging from being followed to sexually touched.
The lawmakers added that members of the LBGTQ community and religious, ethnic and racial minorities are also routinely subjected to street harassment.
The panelists addressed how to continue the conversation and develop a roadmap to educate the public about and ensure consequences for perpetrators of street harassment.
Panelists said that this is a complex issue, so as a society we should approach street harassment as a social, cultural, economic, public health and a law enforcement issue that requires the community, the government, the workforce and law enforcement to work together to prevent it.
“It’s a human rights issue because when women experience street harassment, society is saying that they do not have equal access to public spaces,” said Dr. Nina Ahmad, Ph.D., the City of Philadelphia’s deputy mayor for Public Engagement. “The consequences to this disparity impacts us in many ways. It’s not a mere inconvenience; it translates into affecting our livelihoods.”
“It’s not just a woman’s issue. It hurts all of us. We need to do a better job of changing the culture,” said Jovida Hill, executive director of the Philadelphia Commission for Women.
“It begins at a very age so it’s our job to protect children because victims are often children. Changing the culture is very important.”
Nuala Cabral, communications manager at Temple University Community Collaborative, made a film about street harassment and discovered that the ways people respond to street harassment depend on the location and situation. “We are making decisions in a matter of seconds about how to safely respond,” she said. “We need to emphasize the importance of teaching consent. Honestly, we can start at kindergarten, we can start talking about consent. Students are hungry about this conversation and they’re not having it.”
“Black girls under 18 are extremely vulnerable to harassment and attacks. We need to acknowledge this problem in a delicate way. We need to teach resistance — that not only is it wrong but there’s something you can do about it,” said Temple student Kayla Watkins. “Young women aren’t aware that it’s not their fault.”
Further, Watkins added, “Education is the best way to get ahead of this thing.”
Among the recommendations were educating children, educating the public at large, collecting data, developing codes of conduct, promoting a culture of consent and enforcing and improving laws.
Roundtable participants included the following:
- Amber Hikes, executive director, Office of LGBT Affairs, City of Philadelphia;
- Dr. Nina Ahmad, Ph.D., Deputy Mayor for Public Engagement, City of Philadelphia;
- Attorney Terry Fromson, managing attorney, Women’s Law Project;
- Donna Greco, policy director, Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape;
- Dr. Monique Howard, executive director, Women Organized Against Rape
- Nuala Cabral, communications manager, Temple University Community Collaborative;
- Kayla Watkins, Temple University student;
- Jovida Hill, executive director, Philadelphia Commission for Women; and
- Noelle Marconi, member of the legislative Policy and Advocacy Committee for the Philadelphia Commission for Women.
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October 26, 2017
Harrisburg, October 25, 2017 − Gov. Tom Wolf recently named Sen. Judy Schwank to the Pennsylvania Commission for Women.
The Commission for Women, which was created by Executive Order and consists of volunteer members, is responsible for advising the governor on policies and legislation that impact women. It also supports economic and civic opportunities for women, encourages mentoring programs for girls and young women, identifies programs and opportunities for the benefit and advancement of women and serves as a resource center for Pennsylvania women. The Commission also acts as an advocate for policies and legislation it feels serves the best interest of women and girls in Pennsylvania.
“I am honored to join a group that is filled with women who share a common goal: to uplift and advocate for the rights of Pennsylvania’s women and girls,” Schwank said. “I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners.”
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October 25, 2017
Harrisburg, October 25, 2017 Legislation sponsored by Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) that would require the POW-MIA flag to be flown whenever the American and state flags are flown on state grounds was approved by the Senate today.
Senate Bill 882, which Schwank introduced in June, was approved by the upper chamber, 50-0
The bill would require the POW-MIA flag be flown along with the U.S. flag on state grounds and buildings. The legislation does not impose the requirement on local governments or school districts.
In the last 100 years, more than 1,100 Pennsylvania families have lost loved ones whose bodies have no known resting spot where their service and sacrifice can be marked and remembered. The black-and-white POW-MIA flag depicts the silhouette of a soldier with his head bowed. Behind the soldier are the images of a watchtower, a strand of barbwire and the words “POW,” “MIA” and “You are not forgotten.”
Congress designated the flag in 1990 as “the symbol of our nation’s concern and commitment to resolving as fully as possible the fates of Americans still prisoner, missing and unaccounted for in Southeast Asia.”
“We must never forget those we’ve lost in combat, or the men and women who never came home, either because they have sacrificed their lives or are held against their will,” Schwank said. “This legislation will ensure we keep our promise to remember.”
The bill moves to the House now for consideration.
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October 2, 2017
Reading, September 26, 2017 – Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency are holding a College Financial Aid Awareness Seminar at 7 p.m. on Oct. 5 at the Muhlenberg Township Building to inform high school juniors and seniors how to apply for college financial aid.
The seminar ensures students and their parents are well informed of their many financial aid options regarding college. Representatives from PHEAA and the Pennsylvania Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators will give presentations and will be available to answer questions.
What: College Financial Aid Awareness Seminar
When: Oct. 5, 2017, 7 p.m.
Where: Muhlenberg Township Building, 210 George St., Reading
Registration: Not required (More information is available by calling 610-929-2151)
Cost: Free
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