por Christin Brown | 20 de noviembre de 2019 | Salario mínimo, Comunicados de prensa
El proyecto de ley 79 del Senado propone elevar el salario mínimo de Pensilvania a 9,50 $/hora para 2022.
Filadelfia, PA, 20 de noviembre de 2019 - Mientras el Senado de Pensilvania adoptaba su legislación para aumentar el salario mínimo del estado por primera vez en 13 años, la senadora estatal Christine Tartaglione (D-Filadelfia) instó hoy a sus colegas a seguir trabajando para lograr una tasa más alta que permita a los trabajadores mantenerse a sí mismos y a sus familias.
El proyecto de ley 79 del Senado propone aumentar el salario mínimo de Pensilvania de 7,25 dólares la hora a 9,50 dólares en cuatro incrementos que concluirán el 1 de enero de 2022. El aumento beneficiaría directamente a unos 385.000 trabajadores con salarios bajos. La legislación pasa ahora a la Cámara de Pensilvania para su examen.
"La Asamblea General no ha aumentado el salario mínimo de Pensilvania en más de 13 años, por lo que cualquier aumento es un paso en la dirección correcta", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Si bien este no es el proyecto de ley por el que he estado luchando, o el proyecto de ley por el que los trabajadores de bajos salarios de Pensilvania han estado luchando, es importante que hagamos todo lo posible en este momento para ayudar a las personas a poner comida en sus mesas, poner un techo sobre sus cabezas y educar a sus hijos."
En marzo, el senador Tartaglione presentó el proyecto de ley 12 del Senado, que propone aumentar el salario mínimo a 12 dólares este año y a 15 dólares en 2025. El SB 12 está a la espera de que el Comité de Trabajo e Industria del Senado tome una decisión.
La última vez que la Asamblea General votó a favor de aumentar el salario mínimo fue en 2006, cuando una ley presentada por el senador Tartaglione elevó la tasa de 5,15 a 7,15 dólares. El salario mínimo subió a 7,25 dólares en 2009, de acuerdo con la ley federal.
Desde entonces, los seis estados limítrofes de Pensilvania y 29 estados de todo el país han adoptado suelos salariales superiores al mínimo federal.
"Mediante la adopción de SB 79, hemos hecho una declaración de que somos capaces de trabajar juntos para avanzar en la legislación que proporciona a los trabajadores de bajos salarios de Pensilvania con un alivio muy necesario y muy esperado", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Animo a nuestros homólogos en la Cámara para apoyar este proyecto de ley y espero con interés trabajar en la legislación adicional que continuará el progreso que hemos hecho hoy aquí."
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
por Christin Brown | 19 de noviembre de 2019 | Salario mínimo, Comunicados de prensa
Mientras avanzaba en el Senado un plan de salario mínimo de 9,50 $/hora, el proyecto de ley enmendado incluía también una moratoria de los cambios en las anticuadas normas de PA sobre el pago de horas extraordinarias.
Filadelfia, PA, 19 de noviembre de 2019 - La senadora estatal Christine Tartaglione (D-Filadelfia) votó ayer a favor de aumentar el salario mínimo de Pensilvania de $ 7,25 por hora a $ 9,50, al tiempo que renovó su llamado a un aumento mucho mayor en el mínimo estatal.
Durante una reunión del Comité de Trabajo e Industria del Senado, los miembros votaron unánimemente a favor de presentar una versión ampliamente modificada del SB 79 de Tartaglione al pleno del Senado para su consideración. Hoy, el Comité de Asignaciones del Senado también aprobó el proyecto de ley con dos votos en contra del panel de 24 miembros. El pleno del Senado puede votar sobre el proyecto de ley tan pronto como mañana.
La legislación propone aumentar el salario mínimo a 8,00 dólares el próximo 1 de julio, y en 50 centavos cada seis meses hasta que la tasa llegue a 9,50 dólares el 1 de enero de 2022. Además, en virtud de una enmienda impulsada por los republicanos, el proyecto de ley impediría al Departamento de Trabajo e Industria actualizar las normas estatales sobre el pago de horas extraordinarias hasta el 1 de enero de 2023. Bajo las reglas actuales, los empleadores pueden negarse a pagar horas extras a cualquier empleado que gane más de 23.660 dólares al año en salarios regulares.
"Con uno de cada ocho habitantes de Pensilvania viviendo en la pobreza, y uno de cada cuatro viviendo casi en la pobreza - a pesar de nuestra tasa de desempleo históricamente baja - simplemente no puedo alejarme de una legislación que podría proporcionar a nuestros trabajadores pobres al menos algún alivio ... incluso el nivel mínimo de alivio", dijo el senador Tartaglione.
En otro proyecto de ley, el SB 12, el senador Tartaglione ha propuesto aumentar el salario mínimo a 12 dólares este año y a 15 dólares en 2025. Esta ley, presentada en marzo, está pendiente de aprobación en la Comisión de Trabajo e Industria.
"Nada me gustaría más que votar a favor de la legislación que proporciona un aumento justo a los trabajadores con salario mínimo de Pensilvania", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Nada me gustaría más que darles el aumento que llevan esperando 13 años, un aumento que necesitan y merecen desesperadamente".
"Del mismo modo, me gustaría ver a la Commonwealth adoptar normas sobre las horas extraordinarias que garanticen a todos los residentes de Pensilvania un día de pago honesto por un día de trabajo honesto. Lamentablemente, el proyecto de ley drásticamente modificado que se votó en el Comité de Trabajo se ha quedado muy lejos de estos objetivos dignos."
En junio de 2018, el Departamento de Trabajo e Industria propuso nuevas normas sobre horas extras que elevarían el umbral de pago de horas extras. Después de un largo período de comentarios públicos, una propuesta de reglamentación modificada se encuentra ahora ante un panel regulador estatal. Según el plan, los trabajadores que ganan menos de $ 45,500 al año en salarios regulares tendrían derecho al pago de horas extras.
Sin embargo, los republicanos del Comité de Trabajo enmendaron el SB 79 para bloquear los cambios en las normas hasta 2023. En virtud de la nueva normativa federal, el umbral aumentará a 35.568 dólares a partir del 1 de enero de 2020. Pero eso excluirá a más de 80.000 trabajadores de Pensilvania que ganarían la protección de pago de horas extras en virtud de las normas propuestas por el estado.
Mientras tanto, unos 385.000 trabajadores con salarios bajos de Pensilvania se beneficiarían directamente de un salario mínimo de 9,50 dólares. Esa cifra palidece en comparación con los más de 1 millón que se beneficiarían de un mínimo de 12 dólares o los 2 millones que se beneficiarían de un mínimo de 15 dólares.
Actualmente, Pensilvania tiene un salario mínimo inferior al de sus seis estados limítrofes y se encuentra entre los 21 estados, en su mayoría meridionales y rurales, en los que sigue vigente la tasa federal de 7,25 dólares. El proyecto de ley SB 12 pondría a Pensilvania a la altura de Maryland, Nueva Jersey y Nueva York, que ya han aprobado leyes que establecen un salario mínimo de 15 dólares.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Noviembre 15, 2019 | News Releases
Funding from Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program will support the construction of a new welding lab and expansion of an academic excellence center.
Philadelphia, PA − Noviembre 15, 2019 – State Senators Christine Tartaglione and John Sabatina visited Father Judge High School today to present the school’s leadership, supporters, and students with a $1.5 million state redevelopment grant to assist in the construction of a state-of-the-art welding lab and the expansion of an academic excellence center at the Northeast Philadelphia school.
Dozens of enrollees in Father Judge’s welding program enthusiastically joined a ceremonial check presentation. The funding was awarded to the Friends of Father Judge High School, Inc., through the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, which supports organizations in their acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civc, recreational, and historical improvement projects.
“I was honored to advocate for this funding on behalf of Father Judge because of the high-quality education that the school offers to residents of the 2nd Senate District and the entire Philadelphia region,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The welding program and the academic excellence center are perfect examples of the school’s innovative approach to preparing students for academic success and for prosperous careers.”
“It’s an honor to be able to assist Father Judge High School as it continues to expand its educational opportunities to students from our community,” Senator Sabatina said. “As a graduate of Father Judge, I take great pleasure in seeing the school grow into one of the premier high schools in Philadelphia.”
“As the Chairman of the Friends of Father Judge, I am excited about the possibilities the $1.5 million RACP Grant will provide for current and future Crusaders,” said William St. Clair, IV. “We are extremely grateful to Senator Christine Tartaglione and Senator John Sabatina for supporting our application and believing in our vision to provide expanded academic enrichment as well as career and technical pathways for students.”
Welding is the first of several career pathway programs at Father Judge that will provide enhanced career training and prepare students for in-demand, family-sustaining jobs of the present and future. Together, these programs comprise Father Judge’s Career Technical Education Academy, which is dedicated to a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) curriculum.
“Due to the nation’s tight labor market, there is a high demand for all skilled trades. And welding is at the top of the list,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The welding program at Father Judge is giving local students a big advantage that they will use in the coming years to secure lucrative, family-supporting jobs.”
The Father Brisson Center for Academic Excellence at Father Judge was founded in 2003 to assist students with vital reading and math skills and to prepare them for state and national performance series testing. The RACP grant will allow the school to reconfigure and expand the center to serve a growing demand for academic support.
Collectively, the renovations are expected to create dozens of new construction jobs and 10 permanent full-time positions at Father Judge, which serves about 1,200 students representing 29 different ZIP codes in Philadelphia, Bucks, Montgomery, and Delaware counties.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Noviembre 15, 2019 | News Releases
Los premios a la mejora de la comunidad, el desarrollo económico y la revitalización de barrios apoyarán proyectos en comunidades de todo el2º Distrito del Senado.
Filadelfia, PA, 15 de noviembre de 2019 - La senadora estatal Christine Tartaglione (D-Filadelfia) se complace en anunciar que cinco organizaciones comunitarias en el2do Distrito del Senado han recibido subvenciones por un total de $ 882,477 a través del programa Local Share Account del Departamento de Desarrollo Comunitario y Económico.
Entre los beneficiarios figuran Oxford Circle Christian Community Development Association (200.388 $), Impact Services Corporation (427.479 $), New Kensington Community Development Corporation (150.000 $), Frankford Community Development Corporation (54.610 $) y Mayfair Community Development Corporation (50.000 $).
"Estoy encantado de haber podido ayudar a cada una de estas beneficiosas organizaciones comunitarias a conseguir la financiación crucial que necesitan para realizar mejoras en los barrios que mejorarán la vida de los habitantes del2º Distrito", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "He desarrollado fuertes relaciones con cada organización y espero ver los resultados positivos de sus esfuerzos".
Oxford Circle CCDA utilizará sus fondos para apoyar el proyecto Green Playscape and Community Design en la escuela primaria Laura H. Carnell. El proyecto mejorará la entrada, los pasillos y el vallado, al tiempo que creará una tranquila zona de recreo en el patio del colegio con bancos y marcas en el pavimento. Delante de la escuela se creará otra zona de recreo con una nueva superficie de juego, equipamiento y montículos recreativos, junto con un muro de contención y vallas decorativas.
Impact Services aplicará sus nuevos fondos a la remodelación de una parte de una antigua fábrica textil situada en las calles "A" e Indiana de Kensington para convertirla en un gimnasio comunitario de 13.000 pies cuadrados. Las renovaciones abarcarán la preparación del terreno, la separación de servicios, la demolición de edificios no históricos, la calefacción, el aire acondicionado y la mejora de los cuartos de baño. Este proyecto forma parte de la remodelación de 140.000 metros cuadrados de la antigua fábrica.
New Kensington CDC aplicará su subvención para desarrollar dos escaparates comerciales y tres apartamentos en propiedades vacías en 2513-15 Frankford Avenue. Se prevé que el proyecto cree seis nuevos puestos de trabajo y proporcione viviendas de alquiler asequible para las empresas y los residentes locales.
Frankford CDC tiene previsto utilizar los fondos de su subvención para renovar una vivienda en ruinas en el número 4633 de Paul Street, que es la única propiedad en ruinas del bloque como consecuencia de un incendio ocurrido allí hace varios años. Las renovaciones se centrarán en el tercer piso y aliviarán los problemas de seguridad de la comunidad.
Mayfair CDC destinará los fondos de la subvención a la compra y limpieza de un solar vacío, cubierto de maleza y lleno de escombros en el 7315-33 de Crispin Street (parte trasera). El trabajo incluirá la eliminación de los árboles crecidos y la estabilización de los cimientos. Los posibles usos futuros del solar incluyen un parque comunitario con unidades de almacenamiento para empresas locales y organizaciones sin ánimo de lucro que celebren actos públicos en las inmediaciones, así como un huerto comunitario en beneficio de Feast of Justice, la despensa de alimentos local. Los ingresos de las unidades de almacenamiento proporcionarán fondos de mantenimiento e ingresos para Mayfair CDC.
Las cinco subvenciones se gestionaron a través del programa Local Share Account del DCED, que distribuye una parte de las tasas por licencias de máquinas tragaperras pagadas por los casinos que operan con la ciudad de Filadelfia.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Octubre 10, 2019 | News Releases
The Mayfair Community Center was packed with older residents and their caregivers, who collected meaningful information about a multitude of products and services.
Philadelphia, PA, Octubre 10, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione provided Northeast Philadelphia seniors and their caregivers with resources to address a multitude of vital topics as she concluded her 2019 Senior Expo series today.
Older residents eagerly packed the Mayfair Community Center gymnasium to meet dozens of vendors and to collect important information about healthcare, insurance, personal finance, housing, retirement planning, consumer protection, veterans’ services, and many other relevant issues. The event was Senator Tartaglione’s third and final Senior Expo of 2019, following successful sessions at the St. Anne’s/26th District PAL Center on Septiembre 19 and at Lawncrest Recreation Center on Octubre 3.
“I always expect to see big crowds in Mayfair and they did not disappoint this time,” Senator Tartaglione said. “There are a lot of great things happening in this community. Older residents play a major part in all of it. I’m thankful that seniors continue to hold such enthusiasm for the Expo and that my vendor partners continue to offer highly valued products and services.”
Senator Tartaglione greeted guests at the front door with handshakes, hugs, and free tote bags. Inside, visitors mingled with professionals from private companies, non-profit organizations, and public agencies while filling their bags with business cards, pamphlets, pens, sweets, and some unique door prizes.
One vendor handed out back scratchers while another gave out squishy stress-relievers shaped like a foot. Guests were also treated to boxed lunches.
“My goal is to make each Senior Expo both informative and fun,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The most important thing is that older folks can meet many different providers face-to-face under one roof, free of charge.”
Although the 2019 Senior Expo series has concluded, the public can stay informed about all of Senator Tartaglione’s future events by visiting www.senatortartaglione.com regularly and following her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For constituent services, contact the senator’s district offices at 215-533-0440 (1061 Bridge Street) or 215-291-4653 (400 West Allegheny Avenue).
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Octubre 9, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, Octubre 9, 2019 – Tomorrow will be the last opportunity for older Philadelphians and their caregivers to take part in State Senator Christine Tartaglione’s 2019 Senior Expo series as the senator will host her final expo of the year at Mayfair Community Center. The event is the third in Senator Tartaglione’s popular annual series and will present information about senior-oriented programs and services offered by public agencies and private providers. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. News media coverage is invited and encouraged. Great photo and video opportunities will be available.
Date/Time: Jueves, Octubre 10, 2019; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street.
For Information (public): Call 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 (Spanish).
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Octubre 3, 2019 | News Releases
Hundreds of seniors and their caregivers joined more than 50 vendors at the Lawncrest Recreation Center to exchange information about vital programs and services.
Philadelphia, PA, Octubre 3, 2019 – Hundreds of Northeast Philadelphia-area senior citizens and their caregivers joined State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione for her Senior Expo today as she brought the annual event series to the Lawncrest Recreation Center for the first time in its more than 20-year history. Eager attendees collected valuable information from more than 50 vendors about topics ranging from health care to financial services to crime prevention.
The event was the second of the senator’s three 2019 Senior Expos following a kickoff session at St. Anne’s/26th District PAL Center on Septiembre 19. The third and final session will be held on Octubre 10 at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street. There is no charge to attend or participate. All visitors receive a free boxed lunch.
“This was the first time we’ve held a Senior Expo at Lawncrest, so I was very happy to see the enthusiastic community response,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I think seniors really appreciate being able to get information and sound advice about so many important topics, all under one roof.”
The varied lineup of vendors included agencies from the health care and insurance sectors, banking and financial services, adult day care, retirement communities, consumer advocates, assistive technology providers, veteran services providers, state and local police, public utilities, and elected officials from the federal, state, and local levels. Many attendees also took advantage of the opportunity to get a free flu shot. So did Senator Tartaglione.
“Flu shots are a great way to prevent seasonal illness and to promote public health,” Senator Tartaglione said.
The senator will host her third and final Senior Expo of 2019 on Jueves, Octubre 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street. No appointments or reservations are needed to attend. For the latest news about Senator Tartaglione, visit www.senatortartaglione.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For constituent services, call the senator’s district offices at 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Octubre 2, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, Octubre 2, 2019 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione invites older Philadelphians and their primary caregivers to take part in her next Senior Expo tomorrow at Lawncrest Recreation Center. This is the first time in the 15-year-history of her annual Senior Expo series that it will be held at Lawncrest. This is the second of three expos for 2019. The event will present information about senior-oriented programs and services offered by public agencies and private providers. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The final Senior Expo will be held on Octubre 10 at Mayfair Community Center.
Jueves, Oct. 3: Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue.
Jueves, Oct. 10: Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street.
For Information (public): Call 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 (Spanish).
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Octubre 2, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, Octubre 2, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is encouraging middle and high school students to share their ideas about how to support agriculture in Pennsylvania as part of the third annual “Talk to Your State Senator” statewide video competition.
This year’s competition challenges students to produce a video that includes ideas about how to ensure the agriculture industry will have a bright future in Pennsylvania. Agriculture is the state’s top industry and a major part of the state and local economies, but the industry faces a variety of challenges based on market conditions and the number of farmers who are expected to retire during the next decade, Senator Tartaglione said.
The contest, which is sponsored by the Senate of Pennsylvania and Rutter’s, is open to Pennsylvania students in grades 6 through 12, including all public school, private school, and home school students. Participants are encouraged to submit video entries of no longer than three minutes that promote the future of farming in Pennsylvania.
A total of $10,000 in prizes will be awarded through the PA 529 college savings program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Treasury. Prizes will be deposited into a college savings account in the winner(s) name. Videos will be judged based on creativity, content and effectiveness of message delivery.
The contest will remain open through Enero 31, 2020. Winners will be announced in Mayo 2020. More information on the contest is available online at www.legis.state.pa.us/talk-to-your-state-senator/.
Previous “Talk to Your State Senator” video competitions have explored the impact of the heroin and opioid crisis, and generated ideas to help improve school safety.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Septiembre 19, 2019 | News Releases
Anne's/26th District PAL fue el escenario de la primera de las tres Expos Senior 2019 del senador. Los vendedores entregaron información vital para mejorar la vida de los adultos mayores.
Filadelfia, PA, 19 de septiembre de 2019 - La Exposición Anual de Adultos Mayores de la Senadora Estatal Christine M. Tartaglione fue un gran éxito entre los adultos mayores y los cuidadores del área de Port Richmond, que se reunieron en el Centro PAL de St. Anne's/26th District y recopilaron información valiosa sobre temas que van desde la atención médica hasta los servicios financieros y la prevención del delito.
El evento de hoy fue el primero de los tres 2019 Senior Expos del senador. Las próximas sesiones están previstas para Lawncrest Recreation Center el 3 de octubre y Mayfair Community Center el 10 de octubre. No hay ningún cargo para asistir o participar. Todos los visitantes reciben una caja de almuerzo gratis. Más de 60 agencias y organizaciones del sector público y privado participaron en el evento de hoy, que atrajo a cientos de personas mayores y sus cuidadores.
"Este es el segundo año consecutivo que celebro una Exposición de Mayores en St. Anne's, y la respuesta del público sigue creciendo", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Esto demuestra que las personas mayores están muy interesados en aprender acerca de las formas de mejorar su calidad de vida, y que tenemos muchas organizaciones que se han comprometido a ayudar a nuestros familiares mayores y vecinos a navegar por los desafíos de la vida."
El senador Tartaglione dio las gracias a todos los socios y proveedores que hicieron posible el acto. En el cartel figuraban organismos de los sectores de la asistencia sanitaria y los seguros, servicios bancarios y financieros, centros de día para adultos, comunidades de jubilados, defensores de los consumidores, proveedores de tecnología de asistencia, proveedores de servicios para veteranos, policía estatal y local, servicios públicos y cargos electos federales, estatales y locales.
"Mi objetivo para cada Senior Expo es ofrecer a los visitantes una amplia gama de servicios e información bajo un mismo techo", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Queremos crear una ventanilla única en la que la gente pueda encontrar respuesta a todas sus preguntas y donde pueda obtener muchos consejos sólidos sobre temas a menudo difíciles. Estoy seguro de que hoy lo hemos conseguido".
La Senadora Tartaglione será la anfitriona de su segunda Exposición para Adultos Mayores 2019 el jueves 3 de octubre de 10 a.m. a 1 p.m. en el Centro Recreativo Lawncrest, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue. La tercera 2019 Senior Expo será el jueves 10 de octubre, de 10 a.m. a 1 p.m. en Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street. No se requieren citas ni reservas para asistir. Póngase en contacto con la oficina del distrito del senador en 1061 Bridge Street, 215-533-0440, para obtener información sobre cómo participar como vendedor.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Septiembre 3, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, Septiembre 3, 2019 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione invites older Philadelphians and their primary caregivers to her annual Senior Expo series in the coming weeks. The senator will host the Expos at three community venues in the 2nd Senate District, including the Lawncrest Recreation Center for the first time!
All three events will present information about many senior-oriented programs and services offered by public agencies and private providers. The Expos will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join Senator Tartaglione and dozens of presenters on the following dates at the corresponding locations:
Jueves, Sept. 19: St. Anne’s Parish-PAL Center, Memphis and Tucker streets.
Jueves, Oct. 3: Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue.
Jueves, Oct. 10: Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street.
For Information (public): Call 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 (Spanish).
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Agosto 27, 2019 | News Releases
HARRISBURG, Agosto 27, 2019 – After a months-long review of a sexual misconduct complaint against a former Pennsylvania House member, a Dauphin County grand jury has called for the Pennsylvania Legislature to create a new, independent Office of Legislative Responsibility to create a centralized reporting system for victims to report sexual harassment and sexual misconduct.
Among other things, the grand jury recommended the new independent office be led by a qualified investigator, have subpoena power in consultation with the district attorney in the relevant jurisdiction and have authority to investigate any alleged misconduct, not limited to sexual harassment or assault.
Members of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus have welcomed this idea and plan to move forward when the legislature returns in Septiembre.
“Women in the capitol deserve to be safe, to feel safe, to be heard, and to be respected,” said Sen. Larry Farnese (D-1). “We must act swiftly and stand together to enact these policy changes to create a better working environment for everyone in the Capitol.”
“To protect the safety of all individuals in and around the Capitol, as well as those who interact with the General Assembly anywhere throughout the Commonwealth, we must empower and encourage victims to report alleged incidents of harassment and misconduct as soon as possible,” said Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-2). “By creating an office dedicated to investigating these incidents independently, we will be sending a powerful message that the Pennsylvania Legislature takes all allegations seriously and that every voice will be heard.”
“This process has revealed the deficiencies in policy and reporting that has failed to keep women safe in and around the Capitol for years,” said Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11). “It is time that we take this conduct seriously and create a reporting process that affords victims the opportunity to come forward in safety and with dignity. It is time for today’s legislative leaders to lead the way in creating a path forward to ensure that the workplace is a safe place for all.”
“The findings of the Grand Jury Report reiterate what we already know and what the #MeToo Movement has made clear for years: there can be no tolerance for workplace harassment. Period,” said Sen. Maria Collett (D-12). “Our General Assembly needs to hold itself to the highest standards and lead by example by implementing and improving the procedures in which we address all claims of workplace harassment by adopting these recommendations. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature as we take up this issue when we return to session.”
“Having an independent office as a central reporting and investigation unit makes some sense,” said Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-18). “It will help ensure consistency and efficiency in all caucuses and both Chambers.”
“As a career public servant, I believe that members of the General Assembly should be held to the highest standards of ethics and behavior to uphold the public trust,” said Sen. Pam Iovino (D-37). “The establishment of the Office of Legislative Responsibility will serve to ensure that public trust. An independent office will secure credible due process for all victims, regardless of gender, as well as all accused.”
“Our current system of reporting and investigating claims of workplace harassment is woefully inadequate and, in many cases, damaging to the very people it is designed to serve,” said Sen. Lindsey Williams (D-38). “We need to take this opportunity to implement the Grand Jury’s recommendations and create a system that ensures all victims and witnesses alike are protected from retaliation and encouraged to report instances of workplace harassment.”
“The recommendations of not pursuing criminal charges in this incident is a direct example of how the “justice” system and old boys club enable rape culture and abuse of power in our government,” said Sen. Katie Muth (D-44). “How many more of us have to be harassed, bullied, assaulted, and raped before real accountability is enforced? The recommendations made by the grand jury should’ve been mandated decades ago. Until there is true, unbiased, outside oversight of the members of the General Assembly, the current system of internal regulation and self-policing will continue to cause more harm, corruption, and wasted taxpayer dollars on salaries for predators and those that enable them.”
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by Christin Brown | Agosto 22, 2019 | News Releases
Children of the 2nd Senate District frolicked in the summer sun with music, face painting, and refreshments. They took home free backpacks and school supplies, too.
Philadelphia, PA, Agosto 22, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione concluded her 2019 Community Picnics on a high note today as local school children flocked to Wissinoming Park for the third and final gathering of the annual summertime series.
Senator Tartaglione distributed close to 1,000 backpacks stuffed with school supplies during the series, which included picnics at Fairhill Square Park on Agosto 8, Lawncrest Recreation Center on Agosto 15, and today’s event in Wissinoming. Numerous sponsors and vendors teamed with the senator to make the picnics, supportive, informative, and fun for all the families who participated.
“We’ve been doing these Community Picnics for 15 years and they seem to grow bigger and bigger each year,” Senator Tartaglione said. “No matter what type of school your child attends, education can be a financial challenge. My goal each year is to make attending school a little easier for the kids and their families while giving them one more chance to enjoy the summer before classes begin.”
Wissinoming Park provided an ideal venue. With DJ Carlos Sanchez providing a danceable soundtrack, children beat the heat in the park’s new water spray area. The youngsters eagerly visited the face painting booth and the fingerprinting table staffed by the 15th Police District. Some of the kids and many of their parents also tested out one of the city’s new touch-screen voting machines, courtesy of the City Commissioner’s Office.
A host of sponsors, both longtime and new, made the picnics possible: Acme of Oxford Avenue, Aetna Better Health of PA, All American Home Care, Altrusa International of South Central PA c/o Bobbi Wertz-Hoy, America Health/Keystone First, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Dietz & Watson, West Kensington Ministry/DJ Rev. Adan Mairena, DJ Carlos Sanchez, Giant Supermarket, Hyperion Bank, La Fortaleza, Laundry Café, UFCW Local 1776, Ray Pastrana, Philadelphia Pharmacy, Plaza Allegheny, ShopRite-Harbison & Castor, ShopRite-Oxford & Levick, ShopRite-Zallies, Tom Walter on behalf of the late Jeanne M. Walter, and the 26th Police District.
This year’s vendors included Aetna Better Health of PA, All American Home Care, America Health/Keystone First, Brightside Academy, City Commissioner’s Office, West Kensington Ministry/DJ Rev. Adan Mairena, DJ Carlos Sanchez, Hyperion Bank, The 6th Man Project, 25th Police District, 26th Police District, 2nd Police District, and 15th Police District.
Senator Tartaglione will move indoors for her upcoming Senior Expo series in Septiembre and Octubre. The events will be held at St. Anne’s Parish, Lawncrest Recreation Center, and Mayfair Community Center. Dates and times will be announced. For information, follow Senator Tartaglione on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Agosto 16, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Agosto 16, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione handed out free backpacks and back-to-school supplies to more than 400 appreciative children at the Lawncrest Recreation Center yesterday as she hosted a Community Picnic at the bustling neighborhood playground for the first time in the 15-year history of her late-summer event series.
Youngsters and their caregivers enjoyed Dietz & Watson hot dogs, Philly Pretzel Factory soft pretzels, Philadelphia Water Ice, and DJ music. A Face painting booth, child fingerprinting, a coloring book contest, and a basketball raffle kept the excitement going throughout the four-hour picnic. The picnic also benefitted from a special contribution by Altrusa International, a nonprofit community service organization that donated books for each child to take home with them as part of its ongoing commitment to youth literacy.
“Lawncrest is a vibrant family community with many dedicated leaders and volunteers. I was thrilled when they asked me to host one of my Picnics at the rec center. And the public response was outstanding,” Senator Tartaglione said. “These events are a great opportunity for folks to meet their neighbors in a purely social setting and to help their kids get a head start on the upcoming school year. Lawncrest took full advantage of those opportunities today.”
The Lawncrest event followed Senator Tartaglione’s successful picnic on Agosto 8 at Fairhill Square Park in North Philadelphia. The third and final picnic of 2019 is scheduled for Jueves, Agosto 22, at Wissinoming Park. All activities will be set up around the park’s multi-purpose building on Cheltenham Avenue, between Frankford Avenue and Charles Street. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult and obtain a ticket from the senator’s table to receive a backpack.
Each backpack comes stuffed with pencils, erasers, notebooks, and other school supplies.
“The start of a new school year can be a serious financial burden for many parents. I hope these backpacks and supplies make the transition from summer to fall easier for local families,” Senator Tartaglione said.
Many longtime partners and some popular new ones teamed up with the senator to make the event possible. All-American Home Care provided the child face-painting station, while the Philadelphia City Commissioner’s Office showed off its new touchscreen, paper-ballot voting machines. Hyperion Bank, Brightside Academy, Fortaleza Rehabilitation and Wellness, and Oak Street Health were among the participating vendors.
“I look forward to seeing the families of Wissinoming and neighboring communities at Wissinoming Park next week,” Senator Tartaglione said.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Agosto 8, 2019 | News Releases
Music, face painting, hot dogs and the senator’s back-to-school backpack giveaway made it a special occasion for local children and their caregivers.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Agosto 8, 2019 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione’s Community Picnic was a huge hit with the children and their families who gathered at Fairhill Square Park today to delight in free music, hot dogs, soft pretzels, water ice, face painting, and the senator’s popular back-to-school backpack giveaway. Hundreds of youths walked away wearing new school bags on their shoulders and smiles on their faces.
The event was the first of the senator’s three annual Community Picnics in her 2nd Senate District. The next two will be held on Agosto 15 at Lawncrest Playground and on Agosto 22 at Wissinoming Park. All three events last from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and are open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Each child may receive one backpack.
“This is a great time of year to be a youngster in the 2nd District and it’s a pleasure for me too. I really enjoy mingling with the children and their families while helping them ease the costs of the upcoming school year,” Senator Tartaglione said. “When we give each child a backpack filled with supplies like pencils, erasers, and notebooks, it means they will have the tools to succeed during the upcoming school year.”
Many longtime partners and some popular new ones teamed up with the senator to make the event possible. Picnic-goers enjoyed Dietz & Watson hot dogs, Philadelphia Water Ice, and soft pretzels from the Philly Pretzel Factory. All-American Home Care brought its child face-painting station, while the 26th Police District conducted child fingerprinting.
The Philadelphia City Commissioner’s Office showed off its new touch-screen, paper-ballot voting machines, and the folks from Hyperion Bank handed out lollipops along with information about their financial services. Brightside Academy was on hand to inform parents about their child daycare programs.
Senator Tartaglione is looking forward to the next Community Picnic at Lawncrest Playground, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue, on Agosto 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children wishing to get a free backpack must first visit the senator’s table to obtain a ticket from a staff member.
“I welcome everyone to join us again next week. It’s a great chance to meet new friends and enjoy the summer one more time before the new school year!” Senator Tartaglione said.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Agosto 1, 2019 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, Agosto 1, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione today announced that Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) has awarded almost $2.5 million in grants to applicants within the 2nd Senate District.
RCAP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. Beneficiaries in the 2nd District include the Free Library of Philadelphia, Friends of Father Judge High School, and Esperanza Health Center, which was awarded grants for two projects.
“I am very pleased to share the good news with these benevolent organizations and the communities that they serve. Each of the four projects selected for funding will greatly improve the lives of people throughout the district and beyond,” Senator Tartaglione said. “They will create new jobs while improving community access to education, career training, healthcare, and wellness.”
Projects funded in Senator Tartaglione’s district include:
- Esperanza Health Center was awarded a $500,000 grant to develop its new medical care and wellness campus in Kensington. The center will provide primary medical, dental, and behavioral health services, along with substance abuse and opioid use disorder treatment, while offering a gymnasium, fitness center, and multipurpose community space. A second $500,000 grant was awarded to Esperanza for a second phase of development on its new campus, including the renovation of a 35,000-square-foot former bank building at Kensington and Allegheny avenues.
- Friends of Father Judge High School was awarded a $1,000,000 grant to develop two spaces known as the Brisson Center for Academic Excellence and Welding Lab that will provide enhanced career training to prepare students for high-demand jobs of the present and future.
- The Free Library was awarded $480,000 to repair and upgrade two branch libraries, including McPherson Square and Kingsessing, as part of the 21st Century Libraries Initiative. The project will make the buildings more structurally sound, enhance their telecommunications and technological capabilities, ensure their compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and improve their security systems.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Julio 30, 2019 | News Releases
During a public information session hosted by the legislators, Medical Marijuana experts shared information about the potential benefits of the alternative medicine.
Philadelphia, PA, Julio 30, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione and State Representative Angel Cruz welcomed dozens of constituents to the senator’s district office in Fairhill today to share valuable information about Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana program and to help folks access the potentially life-changing medicines.
Senator Tartaglione and Representative Cruz partnered with the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, known as Philly NORML, for the four-hour event, which was also attended by a physician from Medically Assisted Recovery Services, along with representatives from Hemp Health Labs and Herbology, a company that operates nine licensed medical marijuana dispensaries across the state.
“I truly hope and believe that the information we shared here today will help members of the community who are struggling to cope with many different medical conditions and those who seek access to a safe, non-addictive, and legal way to relieve their symptoms,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Opioid use disorder is a major public health crisis across Pennsylvania and especially in the 2nd Senate District. Medical marijuana offers people an alternative, whether they have cancer, glaucoma, autism, chronic pain, or any of more than 20 different diagnoses.”
“We had a packed house, which is a sign that people need more information and are looking for ways to get help with chronic medical conditions,” Representative Cruz said.
The list of eligible conditions continues to grow. Earlier this month the Pennsylvania Department of Health added anxiety and Tourette syndrome to the list. The Commonwealth is one of just three states to allow medical marijuana prescriptions for anxiety.
Robert Rudnitsky, executive director of Philly NORML, said that public events like today’s information session help to shed light on the state’s medical marijuana program, break down the stigmas often associated with the substance, and educate people about marijuana’s medical uses.
“My goal is to remove the negative stigmas and have people know this is an alternative to the traditional pharmaceuticals,” Rudnitsky said. “It’s safe with minimal to no side effects, and for many people it’s an effective way to treat their ailments.”
Todd Eachus, managing partner for Hemp Health Labs, said that events like this provide “remarkable access for products that people really need to relieve their symptoms. The healthcare community knows so little of this because it has just emerged, but it’s not going away.”
Information about the Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Program is available online by visiting www.health.pa.gov. Each week in Philadelphia, Philly NORML hosts a series of state medical marijuana card registration events. For a listing, visit www.PhillyNORML.org.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Julio 29, 2019 | News Releases
Harrisburg, Pa. – Julio 29, 2019 – Members of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus sent a letter to the state’s congressional delegation, urging that the federal Department of Agriculture does not end automatic eligibility for Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This change would impact 3.1 million Americans; 120,000 living in Pennsylvania.
The caucus urged the Congressional delegation to stand united in opposition to this devastating rule change that would strip food from Pennsylvania families in need.
Writing jointly in its letter, the caucus wrote:
This proposal is heartless, callous, and Pennsylvanians cannot afford it.
Feeding America estimates that more than 1.5 million Pennsylvanians are food insecure. Worse, 1 in 6 of Pennsylvania’s children struggles with hunger. These numbers are staggering enough without the addition of 200,000 more who could soon be without SNAP. The current rules allow those food insecure individuals who are single parents, disabled veterans, victims of domestic violence and individuals with a disability to receive vital benefits that allow them to put a healthy, fresh meal on their table.
Societies are judged by how they treat their most vulnerable; if we let this change to SNAP go unchallenged, we will fail that judgement.
Our caucus will oppose the rule change in every way that we are able, and we ask that our federal representatives join us in that fight. We, and our constituents, thank you for the advocacy you have already undertaken.
Download Letter →
by Christin Brown | Julio 15, 2019 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, Julio 15, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is pleased to announce that seven elementary schools within the 2nd Senate District have been selected to receive federal funding to provide students with fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the school day.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will distribute almost one-quarter of a million dollars to the seven schools in the form of grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP). The program’s goals are to create healthier school environments by providing healthier food choices, expanding the variety of fruits and vegetables students experience, increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, and positively impacting students’ health. FFVP was first implemented in Pennsylvania in 2004 and expanded to all 50 states in 2008.
“Good nutrition is critical for young scholars so that they arrive in class ready to learn,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This program provides children with healthy food options and teaches them how to eat balanced meals.”
Schools that receive grants are required to spend the majority of the funds to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables. They also must provide nutrition education to students. Funding priority is given to schools with the highest rates of students who are eligible for free and reduced-price meals.
“Children are better prepared to learn when they have access to healthy food choices during the day,” Governor Tom Wolf said. “By expanding breakfast programs, offering reduced-price meals, and providing fresh produce, we’re improving the conditions to help students succeed.”
“Fresh fruits and vegetables provide vital nutrients to growing children,” Education Secretary Pedro A. Rivera said. “These grants are another way to help address food security in our schools while also providing an opportunity to teach students how to make smart and nutritious choices.”
More than 220 elementary schools from across the Commonwealth were chosen to receive grants totaling $5.5 million. In the 2nd Senate District, seven schools received $228,332 in grants, including Pan American Academy Charter School, Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter School, Visitation BVM School, Mastery Charter School-Smedley Elementary, William Cramp School, Lewis Elkin School, and Fox Chase School.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | Junio 27, 2019 | News Releases
Despite additional funding for education, workforce development, human services, and healthcare services, budget bill ignores minimum wage.
Philadelphia, PA, Junio 27, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) today voted ‘no’ on House Bill 790, the $34 billion 2019-2020 state spending plan that failed to include language to raise the Commonwealth’s long-stagnant minimum wage.
Despite vocal opposition, the Republican-led Senate adopted the budget bill, 42-8, and advanced the legislation to the governor’s office for his consideration.
The full Senate vote occurred one day after the Senate adopted legislation, 26-24, mostly along party lines to eliminate the state’s general assistance program that provides modest, temporary, and reimbursable cash assistance to poor people in crisis, including those with disabilities and illnesses, crime victims, and disabled military veterans.
“It has been 4,736 days since Pennsylvania last raised the minimum wage. It is unconscionable that we are walking out of here without doing that,” Senator Tartaglione said. “People are having to choose between food on the table, medicine, rent. They need this!”
Pennsylvania last raised its minimum wage in Junio 2006 via Senator Tartaglione’s SB 1090 as part of the budget negotiations that year. The measure raised the state’s minimum wage from $5.15 an hour to $7.15. Pennsylvania’s minimum wage later increased another 10 cents an hour when the federal government enacted a $7.25 minimum wage.
At that rate, a full-time, year-round worker would make just over $15,000 a year, which is less than the federal poverty threshold for a single parent with one child or any other two-person household. About 13 percent of Pennsylvania’s 5 million households fall below the poverty threshold.
All six of Pennsylvania’s neighboring states have raised their minimum wages above the federal minimum and are among 29 states that have done so nationwide in recent years.
“Every state bordering Pennsylvania has raised the minimum wage and some have done it twice. (Many minimum wage workers) have children to take care of and many are working two or three jobs,” Senator Tartaglione said.
Senator Tartaglione’s SB 12 proposes to raise the minimum wage to $12 this year and to $15 by 2026 through annual increases of 50 cents. It also would eliminate the sub-minimum wage for tip-earning workers, who can make as little as $2.83 in hourly wages. After 2026, the bill would tie the minimum wage to annual cost of living adjustments.
SB 12 awaits action in the Senate Labor and Industry Committee. The same proposal awaits action as a separate bill in the Pennsylvania House. Both bills have the governor’s support. Senator Tartaglione will continue fighting for legislative action on the issue.
Senator Tartaglione also voted “no” on HB 33 on Miércoles, the legislation that proposes to eliminate the general assistance program that provides temporary transitional income of about $200 a month to just over 11,000 Pennsylvanians as they await approval for federal safety net benefits.
Despite her opposition to the budget, Senator Tartaglione supported many of the provisions contained within it, including funding increases for early education, public education, higher education, career and technical training, student grants, and public libraries. The bill also funds health care and social services for more than 4,000 additional senior citizens and people with disabilities.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
por Christin Brown | 24 de junio de 2019 | Comunicados de prensa
Harrisburg, Pa. - 24 de junio de 2019 - Los miembros del Caucus Demócrata del Senado de Pensilvania enviaron hoy conjuntamente una carta al gobernador Tom Wolf solicitando una declaración de desastre por violencia armada en la Commonwealth.
"Creemos que es necesario aumentar la conciencia pública sobre la pérdida masiva de vidas humanas y el sufrimiento infligido a la familia afectada, amigos y vecinos donde esta tragedia se desarrolla diariamente", escribieron. "Al igual que usted ha firmado seis declaraciones de desastre para proporcionar todas las herramientas a disposición de la Commonwealth para combatir la epidemia de opioides, el número de muertos y el impacto de las armas ilegales deben merecer atención inmediata y coordinada."
En concreto, una declaración de catástrofe podría hacer lo siguiente:
- Crear un grupo de trabajo dirigido por el Departamento de Sanidad para crear y aplicar un marco de salud pública que aborde la violencia armada.
- Establecer un centro de mando en la Agencia de Gestión de Emergencias de Pensilvania para coordinar la respuesta de las fuerzas de seguridad estatales y locales.
- Reforzar el Grupo Operativo Estatal Conjunto sobre Armas de Fuego mediante personal y financiación adicionales para retirar las armas ilegales de las calles.
- Ampliar la recopilación y el intercambio de información entre todos los niveles de las fuerzas del orden y los grupos comunitarios.
- Aumentar la presencia de las fuerzas del orden, tanto locales como estatales, en las zonas donde la violencia armada es más frecuente.
- Agilizar y ampliar las subvenciones y otras fuentes de financiación para grupos comunitarios y asociaciones sin ánimo de lucro con un historial probado de reducción y prevención de la violencia.
- Proporcionar recursos estatales adicionales para la salud mental y del comportamiento
- Aportar el importante acervo de conocimientos y experiencia de los Departamentos de Sanidad y Servicios Humanos para impartir formación sobre reducción de la tensión y de los conflictos en toda la comunidad.
- Exigir que el Departamento de Educación de Pensilvania proporcione formación y desarrollo profesional sobre educación informada sobre traumas.
Ver carta completa →
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by Christin Brown | Junio 10, 2019 | News Releases
Pennsylvania State Senator Christine Tartaglione Receives Honor
Philadelphia, PA − Junio 10, 2019 − Marsy’s Law for Pennsylvania, which is aimed at providing equal rights to crime victims in Pennsylvania by ensuring constitutional protections, announced that State Senator Christine Tartaglione has been presented the Guardian of Victims’ Rights Award.
The Guardian of Victims’ Rights Awards are presented to people who have served as advocates and ambassadors for crime victims across the state, working to ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect. Sen. Tartaglione is one of the co-sponsors of Marsy’s Law legislation, which is seeking an amendment to ensure that the Pennsylvania Constitution enumerates rights for victims of crime.
“The Guardian of Victims’ Rights Award is a tremendous honor and I am very thankful to Marsy’s Law for PA and all of your partners for choosing me to receive it,” Sen Tartaglione said. “The issue of victims’ rights is very important to me and to the constituents of the 2nd Senate District. Acts of crime can be very traumatic to victims and their families, but the pain does not stop with the act itself.”
The award was recently presented to Sen. Tartaglione on Junio 10 during a meeting with Marsy’s Law for Pennsylvania and Jennifer Storm, Commonwealth Victim Advocate.
Although the state constitution enumerates rights for individuals accused and convicted of crimes, Pennsylvania is one of only nine states that does not afford the same protections to crime victims. Rep. Sheryl Delozier (R-Cumberland) recently introduced House Bill 276 for Marsy’s Law, which was approved by the House of Representatives on Abril 8, 2019. Sen. John Sabatina (D-Philadelphia) is sponsoring the bill in the Senate during this legislative session.
For the state constitution to be amended, legislation must pass in two consecutive legislative sessions before being added to the ballot for voter approval. During the 2017-18 legislative session, Marsy’s Law passed unanimously in the state Senate and House.
“Victims shouldn’t have to relive the trauma each time they go to court, and they shouldn’t have to live in fear not knowing if their tormentor may be walking free,” Sen Tartaglione said. “Just as our state Constitution protects the due process rights of the accused, it should protect the rights and the peace of mind of those who have been victimized through no fault of their own.”
by Christin Brown | Mayo 23, 2019 | News Releases
As part of a statewide “RealJobs RealPay” Day of Action, the senator visited La Barberia in Suburban Station and highlighted the benefits of raising the minimum wage.
Philadelphia, PA, Mayo 23, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) today led Pennsylvania legislators on a tour of a successful Philadelphia business that chooses to pay its employees a far, living wage, rather than Pennsylvania’s outdated minimum wage.
The visit to La Barberia, a full-service barber shop inside Suburban Station, was one of many events held across the Commonwealth in conjunction with the “RealJobs RealPay” day of action. Senator Tartaglione and her colleagues seek to heighten awareness about the need to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage and showcase businesses that understand the interdependent relationship of higher employee wages, satisfied customers, and financial success.
Senator Tartaglione is the prime sponsor of Senate Bill 12, which proposes to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage for the first time in a decade. The legislation calls for an increase from $7.25 per hour to $12 this year, and additional annual increases that would lead to a $15 minimum wage by 2025.
“Many entrepreneurs are proving that taking care of your employees goes hand-in-hand with taking care of your customers and taking care of your bottom line,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This formula works, no matter where you do business: whether it’s in the heart of a major city, in the suburbs, or in Pennsylvania’s beautiful rural communities.”
La Barberia has locations in Philadelphia and in Jenkintown, Montgomery County. Owner Michael O’Connor said: “We know that by paying fair wages, our employees are happier and they stick around, providing the great service that keeps our customers coming back and recommending us to others. When the minimum wage goes up, businesses will see costly turnover go down.”
Pennsylvania’s minimum wage is also the federal minimum, which was last raised in 2009. Pennsylvania lawmakers last acted to raise the state’s minimum wage in 2006. Since then, all six of Pennsylvania’s border states have raised their minimum wages above the federal minimum. In all, 29 states mandate wages greater than $7.25.
At 40 hours per week for 52 weeks, the minimum wage converts to annual earnings of just over $15,000 a year, which is below the federal poverty level for a family of two, such as a single parent and child. Among those who would benefit directly from Senator Tartaglione’s minimum wage legislation, 61 percent are women, 55 percent work full time, and 24 percent are parents.
In Philadelphia, 35 percent of workers would benefit directly. In dozens of Pennsylvania’s rural counties, more than 40 percent of workers would benefit. Statewide, more than 1.1 million workers would benefit directly from a $12 minimum wage this year, while another 500,000 would get raises as pay scales rise. A $15 minimum wage would directly benefit 2 million Pennsylvania workers.
“Higher wages put more money into workers’ pockets. Seeing as workers are consumers too, they will be able to spend more at the businesses they patronize,” Senator Tartaglione said. “In turn, businesses will grow and be able to employ more people.”
For more information about minimum wage and businesses that choose to pay fair, living wages, visit RealJobsRealPay.com.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
por Christin Brown | 20 de mayo de 2019 | Comunicados de prensa
Pensilvania - 20 de mayo de 2019 - Defensores, legisladores y funcionarios estatales participarán en recorridos y un día de acción en todo el estado el jueves 23 de mayord con empresas que optan por pagar a sus empleados un salario digno.
El salario mínimo de Pensilvania se mantiene en el mínimo regional de 7,25 dólares por hora, el mínimo que sigue fijando el gobierno federal. El estado necesita con creces un aumento de este salario de miseria.
Según un informe reciente del Keystone Research Center, un aumento del salario mínimo del estado a 12 $/hora el 1 de julio de 2019 (como proponen el gobernador Tom Wolf y los miembros de la Asamblea General como parte de las negociaciones presupuestarias de este año) afectaría a un total de 1,7 millones de trabajadores de Pensilvania. Más de 1,13 millones verían un aumento directo; 540.000 personas que ganan un poco más de 12 $/hora verían aumentar sus salarios a medida que las escalas salariales se ajusten al alza.
A pesar de una década sin un aumento obligatorio por parte del gobierno estatal o federal, los empresarios de toda Pensilvania entienden que un salario de 7,25 dólares es inaceptable y se han encargado de garantizar que sus trabajadores puedan mantenerse con un trabajo a tiempo completo. Esas empresas están prosperando.
Los miembros de la prensa están invitados a asistir a estas visitas y hacer preguntas a los legisladores y empresarios. Las paradas incluyen:
Harrisburg
14:00 en Elementary Coffee
Broad Street Market, 1233 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102
Pittsburgh
15:30 h en el Bar Marco
2216 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Filadelfia
13:30 h en La Barberia
Suburban Station Concourse, 17th St. & JFK Blvd, Filadelfia, PA 19103
Condado de Delaware
17:00 en la cafetería Five Points
47 Long Ln, Upper Darby, PA 19082
Condado de Chester
15:00 en Mabel's BBQ
607 East Market St. West Chester, PA
Condado de Bucks
13.00 horas en Exact Solar
82 Walker Lane, Newtown PA 18940
Lancaster
11h en el restaurante mexicano El Pueblito
1027 Dillerville Rd., Dillerville Square, Lancaster
Siga la jornada de acción en Twitter con #RealJobsRealPay
Para más información sobre la urgente necesidad de aumentar el salario mínimo, visite realjobsrealpay.com
by Christin Brown | Mayo 8, 2019 | News Releases
The senator will join Governor Wolf, Philadelphia Mayor Kenney and leaders from the Commonwealth’s private and public sectors on the university’s governing body.
HARRISBURG, PA, Mayo 8, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) was appointed by the Senate today as the newest member of the Temple University Board of Trustees. She will join Governor Tom Wolf, Philadelphia Mayor James Kenney, and other high-ranking leaders from Pennsylvania’s public and private sectors on the body that governs the 135-year-old state-related research institution.
“It is an honor to serve such a venerable and influential institution. I accept this appointment knowing that it comes with a tremendous responsibility,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Higher education is one of the pillars of prosperity for this Commonwealth and its citizens. As a trustee, I will seek to ensure that willing and deserving students have access to the many programs offered at Temple. And I will also seek to ensure that the university makes optimal use of the resources invested in it.”
Based in North Philadelphia, Temple has four branch campuses in Southeastern Pennsylvania, one in Harrisburg, and foreign campuses in Rome and Tokyo. It is the second-largest university in the Commonwealth with an enrollment of more than 40,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. The university offers more than 500 academic programs.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
