by Christin Brown | Enero 26, 2022 | News Releases
Philadelphia, Enero 26, 2022 – Philadelphia based programs focused on curbing violence will receive nearly $15 million in new state funding, state Sen. Christine Tartaglione announced today.
The funds, which are provided through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s School Safety and Security Committee, are part of more than $23 million awarded today at the committee’s meeting in Harrisburg. The funding is intended to prioritize support for effective local intervening and preventive measures to stop gun and group violence that occurs across the state.
“Violence has affected neighborhoods and communities across the City of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth, especially the 2nd Senatorial District,” Tartaglione said. “I am thankful that the governor and his administration see and understand that investments in violence prevention are key in helping to heal communities and address the root causes of violence.”
The Wolf administration recently announced that an additional $15 million in American Rescue Plan funds were added to the program, bringing the state’s investment to $45 million in fiscal year 2021-2022.
“Neighborhood by neighborhood and block by block, these grants will support community level organizations that have worked closely with their neighbors to develop programs that will help combat violence and gun violence across Philadelphia and the Commonwealth,” Tartaglione said.
Projects awarded were chosen through a competitive application process with 340 initial funding requests received.
For detailed information the statewide grant winners, click here.
Philadelphia area organizations awarded grants today were:
African Family Health Organization (AFAHO) – $498,278
Requested funds to support the implementation of the “Safe Havens and Mentorship Program” a pilot violence intervention and prevention program for African and Caribbean immigrant and refugee (ACIR) boys and young men between the ages of 16-22 in the greater Philadelphia area. AFAHO will offer a safe-haven at its office location where 20 boys and young men from the ACIR communities will engage in academic tutoring and mentoring; counseling to build trust and understanding; life skills training; developing conflict resolution and de-escalation skills; how to function in a professional work environment and vocational training with tradesmen (general construction, auto mechanics, IT, and electrical) from the community who will serve as both mentors and teachers for their apprentices.
Anti-Violence Partnership of Philadelphia – $1,371,489
Requested funds expand its Counseling Center (CC), Youth Violence Outreach Initiative (YVO), Victim/Witness Services (VWS) and administrative infrastructure to serve more Philadelphians in areas hardest hit by gun violence (Police Districts 12, 16, 18 and 19). Funds will support salaries and benefits for therapists, victim advocates, and other personnel; consultants; laptops for new staff; furniture for new staff; supplies; sound reducing panels; staff/client SEPTA travel passes and other transportation expenses (e.g., parking); and indirect costs.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) $1,119,262
The Violence Intervention Program (VIP) at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) requested funds to support the continuation and expansion of its Hospital Based Violence Intervention Program (HVIP). CHOP’s violence intervention and trauma support services are comprised of three trauma-informed program interventions: intensive case management; mental health therapy; and peer-led psychoeducational peer groups. A portion of requested funding (“Maintenance Funding”) will allow VIP to continue to provide current services to youth and families in Philadelphia, and to evaluate those services with accuracy and rigor. The remainder of requested funding will increase VIP’s reach to a larger number of youth and families (“Expansion Funding”) through CHOP’s Philadelphia-based primary care practices.
City of Philadelphia – Managing Director’s Office $2,000,000
Requested funding to expand the City’s Group Violence Intervention (GVI) strategy, which employs law enforcement and social services to engage individuals at the “highest risk” of gun violence involvement. Funds would support costs associated with one Citywide Caseworker Supervisor and 12 Caseworkers deployed across the Southwest, South, Central, Northwest, and Northeast Divisions as well as the addition of a Law Enforcement Specialist position to enhance coordination and cooperation among law enforcement agencies. Funding would also support costs associated with transportation (leasing GVI MCIT vans) as well as the development and implementation of a comprehensive communications strategy for GVI (full-time communications specialist) to provide a counter-messaging campaign to compete with the rising number of online disputes that lead to gun violence.
Concilio De Organizaciones Hispanas – El Concilio $475,000
Requested funding to support the implementation of Safe Haven services to 250 young adults (16-24 years old). Funds will support staffing a Program Coordinator and two Workforce Development Case Managers, and support personnel; cover a contracted Behavioral Health psychologist/therapist; incentives for 75 internships; operations (supplies, program materials, laptops/cellphones, facilities); and indirect costs. Concilio proposes to incorporate interventions in gun violence prevention that address economic inequities through workforce development training, support services, low social mobility through educational improvement (completion of high school, GED, collegiate or vocational studies), economic opportunities with work experiences and internships, behavioral support through trauma-informed intervention mental health for individuals and families and social services referral.
CORA Services Inc. $726,432
The Good Shepherd Mediation division of CORA Services will receive funds to actualize a two-tiered program that mitigates gun and group violence by empowering neighborhoods with high volumes of assaults to resolve conflicts using mediation, restorative justice, and community dialogue. The program will host a recurring six-month Restorative Justice course that prepares youth in these neighborhoods to become mediators, restorative justice facilitators, and community organizers while simultaneously providing the respective neighborhoods with Restorative Justice services.
The Education Culture Opportunities (ECO) Foundation $150,000
The Education Culture Opportunities (ECO) Foundation requested funding to support youth and young adult workforce development initiatives that train Energy Management Specialists (EMS) to work directly with school- aged youth in managing their emotions, actions, power, energy, and ultimately improving their conflict resolution skills. Trained EMS are young adults who intervene with the demographic of those that are most prone to gun violence involvement. Funds will support young adults to experience more meaningful and desirable workforce development opportunities. They will get on-the-job training, be fairly compensated at $18 an hour, and gain transferable skills for the current job market.
EducationWorks (PowerCorpsPHL) $2,000,000
PowerCorpsPHL (PCPHL), operated by EducationWorks, requested funding to provide innovative paid work experiences and supportive services that lead to career pathway jobs for young Black and Latinx Philadelphians who experience barriers to quality employment related to court involvement, lack of postsecondary education and work experience, and the effects of poverty. PCPHL has two tracks that both lead to career training:
- direct entry into full-time, paid work experience through crew-based AmeriCorps service in Philadelphia communities, or
- for court-involved individuals, more rapid entry through the preparatory TRUST program, which provides part-time paid work experience and robust supportive services that can lead to subsequent AmeriCorps crew enrollment.
Father’s Day Rally Committee – $75,000
Father’s Day Rally Committee, Inc. requested funds to support the implementation of “Fathers On A Mission” program to offer support to fathers that lose loved ones to gun violence. Funds will support the cost of a part-time case worker; part-time administrative assistant; and part-time program manager; and include supplies to support their work, including laptops and cellphones. The organization will provide fathers with the skills and tools to overcome the trauma allowing them to create interaction with members of their families and community to share their experience to help reduce levels of violence.
House of Umoja – $150,000
The House of Umoja requested funds to support the implementation of the Umoja Intentional Community, a model multi-tiered community outreach and youth leadership initiative that creates a violence-free zone of Carroll Park community; executes block by block; provides resource triage; mobilizes block captains as advocates for block members who identify families in need while also identifying resources block members may provide to the community; provides sanctuary space for block captains and block members to voice their needs and devise solutions; gives voice to young adults age 15-25 to layout a blueprint for their future through youth editions of Umoja magazine; implements “Planting Seeds of Peace” messaging campaign throughout Carroll Park in partnership with local stores and restaurants; hosts a yearly hybrid Healing Conference bringing stakeholders, community members, youth age 15-25, and wellness and behavioral health practitioners; and has an urban peace corps of students enrolled in 11th and 12th grades trained via the Fattah Peace Corp Academy, a 12-week leadership after-school program. Funds will support the development and training costs of block captains, stakeholders, youth ambassadors, consultants and resource triage workers; cover the cost of part- time consultants, including a Program Director and two Social Workers; as well as supplies to support the work.
Impact Services – $1,500,000
Impact Services requested funds to launch an Anti-Violence Program that connects to its existing community engagement and workforce development programming. Funds will support:
- Direct Outreach/Engagement by hiring a cohort of Kensington residents with lived experience who will engage at-risk young adults (ages 18-34) who are actively or recently engaged in activities that put them at risk of gun violence
- Structured Mentoring at individual and group levels
- Job Placements & Paid Training Programs
- Leadership Development & Community Projects
- Arts & Creative Self-Expression as a tool for engaging and building community; coping with personal and community-based trauma; celebrating individual and community talent and cultures.
North Central Victim Services – $481,019
North Central Victim Services requested funds for the Positive Alternatives for Trauma and Healing (PATH) Program. This program targets youth ages 14-24 and their families living in the Strawberry Mansion and Kensington communities who are at risk for experiencing trauma by promoting positive alternatives to violence through developmentally based mentorship, outreach, making connections, and providing supportive services. Neighborhood mentors will work with youth and their families to support positive relationships and identity additional services that promote not only personal resiliency for the youth but family resilience. In addition, Neighborhood mentors will provide opportunities to get out of the neighborhood to expose the youth to experiences outside of their regular lives in order to increase their worldview and broaden their horizons.
Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC), Inc. $1,393,106
Philadelphia Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) requested funds to support the expansion of its Reentry Services program to assist adults ages 25 years of age or older who were formerly incarcerated in the adult criminal justice system and released from prison or jail within 180 days of program enrollment. Funds will be used to support adults with a history of involvement in the adult criminal justice system acquire industry- recognized credentials, obtain and retain living wage jobs and remain free of criminal justice system involvement. This includes covering the cost of Occupational Skills Trainings; Supportive and Emergency Services; Legal Services; Participant Stipends & Incentives; Program Supplies; Staff Professional Development; Program Marketing/Advertising; as well as Occupancy for Program/ Office Space. Funds will also cover the cost to hire additional program staff to support the program including a Program Coordinator, two Case Managers, an Outreach Coordinator, and an Employment Specialist; and will also include supplies to support their work, including office supplies and laptops. OIC will also budget to cover contractual costs for Domestic Violence/ Trauma & Abuse Specialists and Licensed Therapists.
Philadelphia Department of Public Health $719,019
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health requested funds to support a newly formed collaborative of hospital-based violence intervention programs. Philadelphia has six level 1 trauma centers which vary in the availability of hospital-based violence intervention programs (HVIPs). Funds will support the formation of a team with the singular aim of increasing recruitment for individuals injured by a gun by tracking numbers of eligible patients citywide and developing a central recruitment and referral strategy. This includes direct funding for programs to support the expansion of their work of recruitment and data collection. A citywide, centralized effort to facilitate timely support of those with injury from firearm violence has potential to not only reduce subsequent exposure to violence, but also to increase access to mental health support, employment, legal support, and other services. Centralizing this effort allows for data sharing, tracking of relevant outcomes, and implementation of best practices across institutions.
Temple University Hospital Trauma Department – $961,500
Temple University Hospital, Inc requested funds to support the implementation of the Comprehensive Response to Violence (CRV) project, a hospital-based violence intervention program that will aim to mitigate the effects of community violence by:
- supporting violently-injured patients’ emotional needs immediately following their victimization,
- quickly linking them to a broad network of victim service agencies, and
- providing them high-quality mental health services.
Funds from the two-year grant will cover the salary and benefits for three full-time hospital-based Victim Advocates, two part-time hospital-based Victim Advocates, and one dedicated Trauma Psychologist; support training costs for the Victim Advocates; and include supplies to support their work, including a laptop computer.
University of Pennsylvania – Penn Injury Science Center (PISC) – $1,267,032
The PISC, Penn Trauma, and strategic community partners requested funds to develop and evaluate a collective impact partnership to support community-engaged, evidence-based violence prevention in West/Southwest Philadelphia. This includes
- convening the PHIGHT network (Philadelphia’s Hub to Reduce Interpersonal Violence, Gun Violence, Homicide and Trauma) to align a collective vision, shared metrics, and mutually reinforcing activities;
- identifying a cohort of 40-65 adults and young adults at highest risk for future involvement in gun violence for focused intervention using data systems (i.e. Philadelphia CARES, Shooting Dashboard, Penn Trauma registry), the PHIGHT network, and knowledgeable community partners; and
- implementing and evaluating trauma-informed violence interruption services and tailored assistance from community-based organizations including short and long-term conflict resolution and goal support for the cohort.
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by Christin Brown | Enero 20, 2022 | feature, News Releases
HARRISBURG, Enero 20, 2022 – State Senator Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), Chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Policy Committee, today joined Senator John Kane (D-Delaware/Chester) and Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) to host a virtual public hearing on the recovery challenges associated with substance use disorder.
“Today’s hearing was an opportunity to hear about what we are currently doing here in Pennsylvania and whether our current treatment system is providing positive outcomes for those in recovery from substance use disorder – and more importantly, if it is not working, how can we improve our systems and programs,” Muth said. “We need to ensure that the Commonwealth and our treatment and recovery programs are effective and are providing the best means for sustained, lifelong recovery.”
The virtual policy hearing featured three panels of expert testimony that focused on funding issues faced by the recovery community; the oversight of recovery houses in Pennsylvania; and the challenges with relapsing during recovery from substance use disorder.
“This issue is personal for me – I’ve been sober for almost 40 years. And I know firsthand how difficult recovery is,” Kane said. “Individuals in recovery are facing massive challenges. But as legislators, we have the chance to make that journey a little bit easier. I’m grateful to all the panelists who testified at today’s hearing, and I’m looking forward to getting to work to make sure safe and effective recovery options are available for everyone.”
It is estimated that Pennsylvania is set to receive up to $232 million of the $26 billion global opioid settlement in 2022 and up to $1 billion total over the next 18 years. Of that funding, nearly 70 percent of all funds will be distributed to county authorities to fund initiatives that include medication-assisted treatment, naloxone distribution and services for pregnant and parenting persons suffering from opioid use disorder.
“Having been in recovery for more than 18 years, I know first-hand how important it is to ensure people in recovery have the resources they need as soon as they reach out for help,” Tartaglione added. “The 2nd Senatorial District is no stranger to the challenges substance abuse brings. My community, Philadelphia, and Pennsylvania as a whole need to know that there are elected officials that are dedicated to helping end substance abuse and to expanding access to treatment. The hearing today has helped to open people’s eyes to how crucial timely treatment is.”
Testifiers at today’s hearing included Jennifer Smith, Secretary, PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP); Bill Stauffer, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Recovery Organizations Alliance (PRO-A); Deb Beck, President, (Drug and Alcohol Service Providers Organization of PA (DASPOP); Jessica Molavi, Clinical Manager of Specialty Programs at Mirmont Treatment Center; and Adam Al-Asad and Sarah Laurel from Savage Sisters Recovery.
All submitted testimony from today’s hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
# # #
Testimony
Panel 1: Recovery Funding
Panel 2: Oversight of Recovery Houses
Panel 3: Chronic Relapsing
Additional Written Testimony
by Christin Brown | Enero 14, 2022 | Advisory
ROYERSFORD, Enero 14, 2022 – State Senator Katie Muth, chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Policy Committee, will join Senators John Kane and Christine Tartaglione to host a virtual public hearing next Jueves at 10 a.m. to discuss recovery challenges associated with substance use disorder.
The hearing will be held Jueves, Enero 20 at 10 a.m. on Zoom. Interested participants can register in advance by clicking here.
The policy hearing will feature testimony from three panels of experts that will discuss the challenges facing individuals in recovery from substance use disorder. The panels will include representatives from state agencies, treatment clinics, and local recovery houses who will each discuss their specific needs and challenges.
The hearing will also be livestreamed at SenatorMuth.com/Policy and on Senator Muth’s Facebook page.
Media participation is encouraged.
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by Christin Brown | Diciembre 20, 2021 | feature, News Releases
PHILADELPHIA – Diciembre 20, 2021 − State Senator Christine Tartaglione was joined by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR), Councilmember Cherelle Parker (9th District), and Representative Jared Solomon’s Office, to celebrate the opening of new basketball and futsal courts and toddler playground at Tarken Recreation Center in Oxford Circle.
“The Tarken Rec Center has been an important part of the Oxford Circle neighborhood as well as the Greater Philadelphia community for decades,” said Senator Christine Tartaglione. “The renovations to the basketball and futsal courts as well as the playground are a shining example of the greatness of Philadelphia parks.”
“Parks & Rec is working hard to expand access to athletic recreation for our city’s youth,” said Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell. “The new courts and playground here at Tarken provide a safe place to play for all ages. We thank Councilmember Parker, Representative Solomon, and Senator Tartaglione, for all of their support in this project.”
Two former tennis courts at the Tarken Recreation Center were converted into two futsal courts, complete with new goals and a divider. The basketball court was completely refurbished, with new basketball hoops and a polycarbonate backboard. These brightly painted courts are part of PPR’s ongoing efforts to provide Philadelphia youth’s access to more high quality athletic recreation facilities.
New up-to-date play equipment and safety surface were installed in the 2-5 year old play area.
The nearly $500,000 project was made possible by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and the Keystone Recreation, Park, and Conservancy Fund.
“Our neighborhoods thrive when there are strong public spaces where our families can learn, play, and gather together safely,” said Councilmember Cherelle Parker. “The improvements at Tarken Rec Center are a direct reflection of local and state leaders working together to invest in communities and people, and to create spaces where people can do all of those things. As this community continues to grow and evolve, we are working collectively to ensure that our rec centers, libraries and parks are equipped to meet the needs of the people, of all ages, who call this neighborhood home.”
“Government works best when we do things together,” said Representative Jared Solomon. “We are building community by uniting local and state government together, all working to revitalize our community. We are creating a safe, creative, and dynamic space where families can come and build relationships to create bonds that will make for a stronger neighborhood.”
“I look forward to all the pick-up games, practices, and tournaments that will take place on these courts. More courts means more opportunities for kids to join teams, learn new skills, and have fun. Facilities like these are crucial to the health and wellness of the Tarken community,” said Tygh Kane, site supervisor at Tarken Recreation Center.
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by Christin Brown | Diciembre 6, 2021 | feature, News Releases
HARRISBURG, Diciembre 6, 2021 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione D-Philadelphia today announced $10 million in state grants were awarded to North and Northeast Philadelphia for redevelopment projects.
Tartaglione announced the funding, which is awarded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, will provide grants to projects that will expand medical access, recreation space, career development and employment opportunities.
“These grants will go to projects that each will greatly benefit the North and Northeast communities.” Sen. Tartaglione said. “These funds will enable the expansion and renovation of hospital spaces, education opportunities, recreation facilities and businesses in our neighborhoods.”
Projects in the 2nd Senatorial District that won funding are:
Temple University Hospital, Jeanes Campus Emergency Room Expansion
$1,000,000 to expand the existing ED footprint by 3,500 SF, adding 8 additional treatment rooms to accommodate closure of the Elkins Park ED located 1 mile away. The design will be scalable in the event additional treatment rooms are needed. This will be new construction built on land contiguous with the existing ED.
Friends of Father Judge High School, Inc., FJHS Centers for Career & Technical Education and Special Education II
$1,000,000 to construct the Career Pathways Academy Building, a state-of-the-art 20,000 SF, 2-story building to deliver high-level vocational education and workforce development. The current 3-story vacant structure on campus will be knocked down to make room for the new structure. It will have a massive common area for multiple trade disciplines to be taught simultaneously, while 3 classrooms and additional breakout spaces would be created on the first floor. The second floor will have additional workshop spaces, offices for instructors, and an observation deck for Administrators.
Albert Einstein Healthcare Network, Einstein Medical Center ED Observation Unit and Trauma Expansion
$1,000,000 for the expansion of our Emergency Department observation bays and renovation of existing space to accommodate a Trauma Family Waiting Room. The Medical Records department will be moved to the 3rd floor of Korman to make room for additional observation beds. For the Trauma Waiting Room we are extending the building out onto an existing sidewalk at our front lobby. The security upgrade will consist of the installation of a new turnstile system.
Charles Jacquin Et Cie, Inc., Renewing Pennsylvania’s Oldest Distillery
$1,500,000 to renovate Jacquin’s facilities, creating employee parking, upgrading the security system camera and lighting, repairing the sidewalk, installing a panic device and emergency egress, enhancing security access, replacing fences and improving the permeation tunnels. It will also fix rooftops, restore and add new chillers and a high efficiency boiler, add a quality assurance lab and teaching room, realign conveyors, and upgrade several controls. The appearance of the overall facility will be enhanced and restored by interior and exterior paint and window and fencing replacement.
City of Philadelphia – Rebuild, Lawncrest Recreation Center
$2,000,000 to renovate the existing 21,000 SF Lawncrest Recreation Center building, adjacent accessory buildings, and swimming pool area and include the creation of an ADA accessible route within the building via a ramped hallway and building extension. The Recreation Building interior will be renovated. Improvements to the grounds include the playground, sport courts, sidewalk improvements, site landscaping/lighting, and site accessibility upgrades.
Kinder Academy Development Organization, LLC, Trinity PAL Center II
$1,000,000 to construct a new state-of-the-art, historically compatible facility to house the return of the Gibbons PAL program and other community outreach initiatives. Initial construction plans include stormwater management improvements; hazardous material abatement; utilities; permits; security and access control systems; concrete slab; and site remediation. Ultimately, the space created will encompass a basketball court with high ceiling, homework rooms, restrooms, and office space for program officers.
Police Athletic League of Philadelphia, Samuel D. Cozen PAL Center & Scattered Sites
$1,000,000 to construct, renovate, and/or improve six PAL locations: 2128 W. Ontario St.: site preparation and construction of a new PAL Center; 851 E. Tioga St: HVAC, safety, and efficiency upgrades, and structural improvements; 5330 Germantown Ave: HVAC, safety, and efficiency upgrades, and construction of a zero-maintenance athletic field; 2524 E. Clearfield St: HVAC, safety, and efficiency upgrades, and structural improvements; 124 E. Indiana Ave: build-out of a PAL Center within the empty warehouse space; 2601 N. 11th St: HVAC, safety, and efficiency upgrades, and space renovations.
Cardone Industries, Inc., Operation Rocky
$500,000 to transform the existing warehouse space into a production area, convert/add lighting, set up computer network, add required electrical, add office space, move and install production equipment.
Impact Services Corp., A & Indiana Campus Project
$1,000,000 to develop the A & Indiana Campus including renovation of an existing 150,000 SF Mill Building into mixed-use spaces including affordable housing and a multi-tenant community serving building. The property will be renovated subject to Historic requirements and fit out for the identified tenants. The renovations will include all new systems, floors, historic windows, roofing, elevators, stairs and finishes. The project will also include completion of site work and parking for access to the building.
RACP projects are authorized in the Redevelopment Assistance section of a Capital Budget Itemization Act, have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact, and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenue or other measures of economic activity.
More information on RACP funding can be found here.
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by Christin Brown | Diciembre 6, 2021 | News Releases
READING, Diciembre 6, 2021 – State Senator Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), Chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Policy Committee, today joined Senators Judy Schwank and Christine Tartaglione to host a public hearing on evaluating and improving drug treatment centers in Pennsylvania.
“The alarming rates of substance abuse and drug overdoses have been magnified throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. And when individuals and their families reach out for help and seek treatment, they do not have the resources and information available to make an informed choice about treatment facilities. Pennsylvania families deserve better,” Senator Muth said. “Today’s policy hearing allowed our Committee to hear from families who have tragically lost loved ones to addiction, and it also afforded us an opportunity to discuss possible legislative solutions and policy changes that can improve the evaluation process and treatment outcomes of Pennsylvania’s drug treatment centers. Patient outcome survey data should be guiding treatment plans, not insurance companies that often deny coverage for the care required for successful recovery.”
Pennsylvania has one of the highest rates of drug overdose in the nation and drug overdose deaths have increased in 46 of 67 counties in Pennsylvania throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The Center for Disease Control’s National Center for Health Statistics indicated that there were over 100,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States during the 12-month period ending in Abril 2021, an increase of 28.5% from prior year.
“We must rethink our approach to adequately address the ongoing opioid epidemic, and one way to do that is to look at drug treatment centers. Individuals taking the crucial step of seeking treatment for addiction need to be given access to all the information they need to make the right decision for their own particular circumstances,” Schwank said. “This hearing provided us an opportunity to learn directly from individuals impacted by addiction, treatment providers and state regulators. It will give us a chance to better understand what factors make drug treatment more effective.”
Senator Schwank has introduced two bills – Senate Bill 975 and Senate Bill 976 – to address issues with Pennsylvania’s drug treatment facilities and recovery homes. Senate Bill 975 would require the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) to distribute an annual survey to all substance use disorder treatment centers and recovery homes operating in PA, record, and publish online for public access the responses provided by those treatment centers and recovery homes. Senate Bill 976 would prohibit any treatment center in PA to refuse admittance to anyone reporting to a treatment facility requesting medical or psychological services addressing substance use disorder – even if an individual is under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time they report. It would also prohibit any health insurance company operating in PA from refusing coverage for admittance and provision of medical and psychological services.
“Today was a crucial step in addressing the crisis that is addiction, and the failure of treatment that surrounds it,” Tartaglione said. “The shifting demographics of addiction and overdoses show us that there is no community in this commonwealth that has not been touched by its devastation, from Erie to Philly and Allentown to Pittsburgh, the PA Senate Democrats are dedicated to bettering and expanding addiction treatment services offered.”
The Senate Democratic Policy Committee heard from several panelists at Reading Area Community College that included representatives from the Opioid Crisis Action Network, the Self-Help Movement, the Caron Foundation, the Council on Chemical Abuse, and the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs.
All submitted testimony from today’s hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
# # #
Testimony
Panel 1: Affected People
Panel 2: Care Providers
Panel 3: Policy Solutions
by Christin Brown | Noviembre 19, 2021 | feature, News Releases
Filadelfia, PA - 19 de noviembre de 2021 - La senadora estatal Christine M. Tartaglione se unió al gobernador Tom Wolf, así como a colegas legislativos y líderes sindicales hoy en Filadelfia para destacar la reciente acción ejecutiva del gobernador y pedir a la legislatura que finalmente apruebe una legislación que apoye y proteja a los trabajadores.
La orden del gobernador exige a todas las empresas que reciban subvenciones o contratos de la mancomunidad que proporcionen a sus trabajadores una baja por enfermedad remunerada y que no paguen menos del salario mínimo de 13,50 dólares la hora para los empleados estatales. Ese salario, para empleados estatales y contratistas, alcanzará los 15 dólares el 1 de julio de 2024.
"La reciente medida del gobernador que garantiza permisos retribuidos, lugares de trabajo más seguros y un aumento de la retribución de los empleados de empresas que reciben subvenciones o contratos de la mancomunidad es un gran comienzo". afirmó Tartaglione. "Pero no podemos dejar que termine ahí. Actualmente tenemos legislación pendiente en el senado que codificaría estas órdenes en ley para todos los trabajadores de esta mancomunidad."
"Legislación como los proyectos de ley 12 y 310 del Senado, que he presentado, aumentaría el salario mínimo de todos los trabajadores de nuestra mancomunidad y extendería las normas de seguridad de la Administración de Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo (OSHA) a todos los empleados públicos. Estas son cuestiones de sentido común que aumentaría los salarios de casi 700.000 trabajadores, así como hacer todos los lugares de trabajo más seguro."
En una rueda de prensa celebrada en Filadelfia, Tartaglione y Wolf estuvieron acompañados por la Secretaria del Departamento de Trabajo e Industria (L&I), Jennifer Berrier, miembros de la Delegación de Filadelfia en la Cámara de Representantes y el Senado, así como miembros del Consejo 13 de la Federación Estadounidense de Empleados Estatales, Municipales y de Condados (AFSCME).
Para obtener más información sobre la orden ejecutiva del gobernador Wolf visite su sitio web. Más información sobre la legislación del senador Tartaglione SB 12 y SB 310 también está disponible.
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by Christin Brown | Noviembre 15, 2021 | feature, News Releases
PHILADELPHIA − Noviembre 15, 2021 – State Senator Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), Chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Policy Committee, today joined Senators Nikil Saval, John Kane, Christine Tartaglione and Lindsey Williams to host a public hearing to discuss issues related to worker misclassification in Pennsylvania.
“Worker misclassification isn’t just about building trades or construction, this issue impacts a whole segment of our workforce that deserves to be protected and paid fairly by their employers,” Senator Muth said. “I appreciate all of my colleagues and the panelists that participated today to shine a light on another instance of corporate greed – employers that are prioritizing profits over workers. It is time that we stand up for our workers in the state Senate.”
The Senate Democratic Policy Committee heard from several panelists at the Sheet Metal Workers Union Building in Philadelphia who all discussed the problems workers are face with when they are misclassified by their employers. The Keystone Research Center indicates that if Pennsylvania has rates of misclassification in the construction industry comparable to those in other states, it loses about $10 million in unemployment insurance taxes, at least $15 million in income tax revenues (and possibly three times as much), as much as $83 million in workers compensation premiums, and $200 million in federal income taxes.
“Worker misclassification is pervasive, and the resulting damages cut across all sectors of employment and all facets of our communities. Pennsylvania is a labor state with a long history of protecting workers’ rights, and it’s imperative that we continue this work in our swiftly changing economy,” Senator Saval said. “Just as companies that exploit workers can take these practices from state to state, Pennsylvania can create a model for worker protections that other states can adopt. How we approach this right now will impact the future of work.”
The hearing featured representation from various regional and statewide labor unions, including the Steamfitters Local 420, Painters DC21, Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council, PA AFL-CIO, and the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters. Senator John Kane spent four decades as a union plumber prior to serving in the Senate and also served for twelve years as the Business Manager for one of the largest plumbers’ unions in the Commonwealth.
“My members earned good, family-sustaining wages and had good benefits. They had protections for workplace injuries and safe working conditions. When workers are misclassified as independent contractors, they lose these protections,” Senator Kane said. “I want to be clear – the misclassification of workers is a form of theft, plain and simple. Businesses cut costs to help their bottom line, and our workers pay the price. It’s long past time we took action to end worker misclassification, and I’m grateful to all our panelists for sharing their perspective in today’s hearing.”
The hearing also highlighted the worker misclassification issues experienced by workers in the app-based gig economy and discussed potential policy solutions to address the issue of worker misclassification. One bill discussed was Senate Bill 879 which was introduced by Senator Saval. This bill would hold general contractors responsible for paying any employees up and down a worksite, even if they are hired by a subcontractor.
“For too long unscrupulous employers have cut costs and corners by misclassifying Pennsylvania’s workers. The Pa Senate Democrats have and will continue to fight for the workers of this commonwealth,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Every worker deserves the protections that come with being an employee not a contractor. The cost of doing business cannot and should not be shifted onto a businesses’ employees.”
“Misclassification hurts workers, hurts employers who are doing the right thing by their workers, and it hurts taxpayers,” Senator Williams added.
All submitted testimony from today’s hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
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Testimony
Panel 1: Local Unions Roundtable
- Gary Masino, Sheetmetal Workers Local 19.
- Tom Redden, Steamfitters Local 420
- Tyler Honschke, Painters DC21
- Brian Eddis, Philadelphia Building Trades
Panel 2: Statewide Unions Roundtable
Panel 3: The Gig Economy
Panel 4: Policy Solutions
por Jessica Marpe | 21 de octubre de 2021 | Comunicados de prensa
Filadelfia, Pa - 21 de octubre de 2021-La senadora Christine M. Tartaglione, presidenta del Comité de Trabajo e Industria del Senado de PA, compartió hoy elogios para la agenda pro-trabajador del gobernador Wolf. El gobernador firmó una orden ejecutiva esta mañana llamando a la acción legislativa para crear lugares de trabajo más seguros, promover salarios más altos y garantizar la licencia pagada para los trabajadores. Animó a la Asamblea General a aprobar finalmente una legislación que apoye a los trabajadores.
En respuesta a la acción y a la firme postura que el gobernador está adoptando en favor de los trabajadores, el senador Tartaglione emitió la siguiente declaración:
"El anuncio de hoy de la Administración Wolf es un primer paso crucial para ampliar las protecciones de los trabajadores y garantizar que las empresas que reciben subvenciones o contratos de la mancomunidad proporcionen salarios de sustento familiar a todos los empleados.
"La creación y el mantenimiento de salarios sostenibles para las familias y la ampliación de las protecciones de la OSHA (Administración de Seguridad y Salud Ocupacional) han sido la piedra angular de mis prioridades legislativas. Las acciones del gobernador Wolf hoy proporcionan un gran lugar para continuar las conversaciones con respecto a la legislación, incluyendo SB12, un proyecto de ley que presenté para aumentar el salario mínimo para todos los trabajadores en toda la mancomunidad y SB310 que ampliaría las protecciones de OSHA a los empleados del sector público."
by Christin Brown | Octubre 7, 2021 | News Releases
Philadelphia Pa. − Octubre 7, 2021 − More than 100 seniors, direct caregivers, and vendors attended the first of three Senior Expos hosted by Sen. Tina Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia).
The expo was organized and hosted by Sen. Tartaglione at the St. Anne’s Rectory PALS Center in Philadelphia. Representatives from various government agencies as well as public and private providers were on hand to discuss programs and services for older Philadelphians, as well as organizations providing health screenings. A free lunch was provided to attendees as well.
“Connecting seniors with the services that are offered and available to them is one of the most important jobs as a senator,” Sen. Tartaglione said. “These events are always a huge hit with my constituents, and every time I interact with constituents around the 2nd district, they always tell me how much they love the senior fairs and are already looking forward to the next one.”
Sen. Tartaglione’s offices will be hosting two more senior expos in the 2nd District:
- Jueves Octubre 21st 10am-1pm at the Mayfair Community Center
- Jueves Octubre 28th 10am-1pm at the Lawncrest Recreation Center
The Senior Expos are free to attend and open to all seniors and their caregivers in the 2nd district.
For more information contact Sen. Tartaglione’s district office at (215) 533-0440.
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by Christin Brown | Octubre 1, 2021 | News Releases
Harrisburg, PA − Octubre 1, 2021 − This week, Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D- Philadelphia) hosted members of the Suicide Prevention Alliance at the Pennsylvania State Capitol in recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Sen. Tartaglione met with the Suicide Prevention Alliance, a non-profit organization solely dedicated to prevention suicide across the country, to discuss the importance of education, awareness, and community support for suicide prevention. Members also shared their own personal experiences related to suicide and why they are passionate about working to help those who need support.
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-34 and the 10th overall leading cause of death in the United States
“I’ve been in your shoes, I’ve felt your pain, I’ve thought of taking my own life too,” said Sen. Tartaglione. “After my accident 18 years ago, I struggled, but through a powerful support group, I made it through and that’s why I have dedicated my career to giving a voice to those in pain. More can and must be done to educate about harm reduction and the resources that are available to anyone in crisis. Any life lost to suicide is one too many, we have the resources to save these lives. We just need to make them more accessible.”
Sen. Tartaglione and her guests and members of the Suicide Prevention Alliance recorded videos which can be found here.
If you or someone you know are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255)
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by Christin Brown | Septiembre 23, 2021 | News Releases
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant will support the expansion of robotics and technology rehabilitation spaces at Moss’ Brain Injury Center.
Philadelphia, PA – Septiembre 23, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-2nd District) was joined by state Senator Art Haywood (D-4th District) today at MossRehab/Einstein Medical Center-Elkins Park to present a $1 million redevelopment grant to support the expansion of Moss’ Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center.
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) funding from the Commonwealth will be used to grow robotics and technology rehabilitation spaces at Moss and to renovate the on-site pharmacy in accordance with safety standards and regulatory guidelines.
“I know first-hand the difference Einstein and Moss are making in patients’ lives, how in our darkest hours, they provide a glimmer of hope and restore our will to overcome all obstacles,” Senator Tartaglione said. “That’s one of the many reasons I am honored to help them continue their mission.”
“Investing in quality healthcare builds community and generates jobs,” Senator Haywood said. “I want to thank Einstein Healthcare Network for their part in building opportunities that our neighbors and families greatly need.”
During a ceremonial check presentation, Dr. Alberto Esquenazi, Chief Medical Officer of MossRehab, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support that the senators have provided.
“We are delighted to have been able to count on the support of Senator Tartaglione and Senator Haywood to help us deliver the highest quality of care to residents in Montgomery and Philadelphia counties,” Dr. Esquenazi said. “Because of their vision and understanding of the needs of the community, the funds provided will improve our facilities, making them even more compatible with the level of clinical and research expertise available at MossRehab/Einstein Elkins Park. We are very grateful.”
Senator Tartaglione noted that Septiembre 20th through 26th is National Rehabilitation Awareness Week as recognized annually by the National Rehabilitation Awareness Foundation.
“This week, I encourage us all to focus our attention on the remarkable and transformative patient outcomes that are achieved through medical rehabilitation,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Rehabilitation increases access and opportunity for the 50 million Americans living with disabilities, and it helps them live up to their fullest potential.”
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by Christin Brown | Septiembre 16, 2021 | News Releases
The Senator and Governor met with other elected leaders and local stakeholders in a renewed effort to combat the devastating individual and community-wide effects of the epidemic.
Philadelphia, PA – Septiembre 16, 2021 – At the request of state Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia), Governor Tom Wolf, state leaders, and local stakeholders visited Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood today to assess the devastating effects of the opioid epidemic and to discuss new strategies for ending the crisis while revitalizing the community.
“The opioid epidemic is at a crisis stage throughout the Commonwealth and across the country, but in many ways we are standing here today at Ground Zero,” Senator Tartaglione said during a news briefing at Esperanza Health Center. “The toll it has taken on human lives is immeasurable. There is no way to put a number on the emotional despair and physical pain felt by the people trapped in addiction and the families – the children – who live in this community and are forced to experience what we saw today every day. I hope today marks a new beginning in our effort to stop the opioid epidemic and rebuild Kensington.”
The Governor and Senator were joined by Jennifer Smith, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, on a tour of the neighborhood. The officials then gathered with state Representative Angel Cruz, other elected officials, and leaders of community organizations that are working to combat the epidemic.
“Tragically, opioid deaths are not a new problem in Pennsylvania and the Kensington community we toured today has been particularly hard-hit by this crisis,” Governor Wolf said. “Every death caused by an overdose is a tragedy. They deserve our help to get quality treatment and support. I am committed to fight for the people and communities harmed by the opioid epidemic and the disease of addiction.”
In 2017, Pennsylvania saw a record number of overdose deaths. In Enero 2018, Governor Wolf signed the Commonwealth’s first opioid disaster declaration to help break down government barriers and bring together 17 state agencies to address the epidemic in a coordinated effort. The work performed under the declaration helped to decrease overdose deaths in the Commonwealth by nearly 20% from 2017 through 2019. Unfortunately, preliminary data from 2020 shows an increase in overdoses comparable to 2017 figures. At the current rate, the administration expects to see a similarly high number of overdose deaths this year.
The Governor renewed the opioid disaster declaration 15 times before the Republican-led General Assembly adopted legislation to curtail the Governor’s emergency declaration powers and allowed the latest opioid disaster declaration to expire on Agosto 25th. Without a declaration in place, state agencies have lost the emergency authorization to share data through the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP), which has proven to be an effective and important tool in monitoring the prescriptions of dangerous and potentially deadly opiates to Pennsylvanians. Under the recently enacted emergency declaration requirements, only the General Assembly can renew the disaster emergency through legislation, and thereby restore the data-sharing program.
“I encourage the General Assembly to urgently turn their attention to renewing that data-sharing capability so that we can make sure every Pennsylvania agency has the information they need to work toward our shared goal of reducing overdose deaths,” Governor Wolf said. “We made progress against the opioid epidemic before, and by working together we can do it again.”
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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 30, 2021 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – Agosto 30, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-2nd District) will host a free document shredding and electronics recycling event for the community on Sábado, Sept. 25th, 2021, in Wissinoming Park, 5773 Frankford Ave. (entrance on Cheltenham Ave.), Philadelphia, PA 19135. Please include the following information in your community event listings or calendars. Event flyer is attached.
- What: Free Document Shredding and Electronics Recycling Event hosted by Senator Christine Tartaglione.
- When: Sábado, Sept. 25th, 2021, 9 a.m. to noon.
- Where: Wissinoming Park, 5773 Frankford Ave. (entrance on Cheltenham Ave.), Philadelphia, PA 19135.
- How: No appointment is necessary. Participants are encouraged to bring their old bank statements, tax returns, and financial documents for secure shredding. They may also bring their old computers, TVs, and other devices for “green-friendly” disposal. For more information, contact Senator Tartaglione’s office at 215-533-0440.
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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 5, 2021 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – Agosto 5, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-2nd District) announces that five elementary schools within the 2nd Senatorial District are among 288 statewide that have been awarded a combined $7 million in grants to provide fresh fruit and vegetable snacks to students during the school day.
The local awardees are the School District of Philadelphia’s William Cramp School, Lewis Elkin School, and Fox Chase School; the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Visitation School; and Mastery Charter School-Smedley Elementary.
“Providing quality education to children in their most formative years must be our highest priority as a Commonwealth, and good nutrition is a vital component of quality education,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This state funding will help children start each day right and focus on their classwork until the final bell.”
The funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP). The program’s goals are to provide students with healthier food choices, expand the variety of fruits and vegetables available to them, and increase their fruit and vegetable consumption. Funding priority is given to schools with the highest rates of students who are eligible for free and reduced-price meals.
Grantees are required to spend most of their funding on the purchase of fresh fruit and vegetables, and they must develop a plan to establish partnerships to reduce other costs. Schools are required to provide nutrition education to students but cannot use FFVP funding to purchase nutrition education materials.
The full list of grant recipients and more information about the program is available by visiting the Department of Education’s School Nutrition Programs website.
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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 2, 2021 | News Releases
Keystone Communities Program grants totaling $122,000 will support the revitalization of commercial and mixed-use properties along the Frankford and Kensington avenue corridors.
Philadelphia, PA – Agosto 2, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-2nd District) today announced the award of Keystone Communities Program grants totaling $122,000 to two local community development corporations (CDCs).
Frankford CDC was awarded $96,977 in support of its continued revitalization of 4663 Paul Street, while New Kensington CDC was awarded $25,000 in support of its Kensington Avenue Commercial Corridor Plan.
“I am thrilled to bring these much-needed Commonwealth funds back to the 2nd Senatorial District. I know they will be put to great use,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I have worked side-by-side with the Frankford CDC and the New Kensington CDC for many years as we invest in these neighborhoods and strive to overcome the many socioeconomic challenges that impact the diverse groups of people who live and work here.”
Among its many ongoing projects, Frankford CDC is rehabilitating two formerly vacant and dilapidated commercial properties on the 4600 block of Paul Street, adjacent to the CDC’s own headquarters. The plan includes the development of two new commercial units/storefronts on the ground floor and eight affordable rental units on the second and third floors.
The effort is part of Frankford CDC’s Reimagining Margaret-Orthodox strategy for the Frankford Avenue commercial corridor and around SEPTA’s Arrott Transportation Center.
New Kensington CDC will use its Keystone Communities funding to develop a new Kensington Avenue Commercial Corridor Plan to guide the CDC in the purchase and redevelopment of properties that will be used to provide opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs. The effort will focus on the avenue as well as connecting corridors that link to Frankford Avenue.
Funding will help the CDC hire a consultant, engage the community, and provide incentives for stakeholder participation with a focus on streetscape, façade, and signage improvements.
Administered through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), the Keystone Communities Program is designed to encourage the creation of partnerships between the public and private sectors that jointly support local initiatives such as the growth and stability of neighborhoods and communities; social and economic diversity; and a strong and secure quality of life. The program allows communities to tailor the assistance to meet the needs of its specific revitalization effort.
Grants may be used in a variety of ways including planning activities, façade improvement programs, accessible housing programs, and development grants. Eligibility is open to units of local government; redevelopment and/or housing authorities; nonprofit organizations engaged in economic development or housing; CDCs; business, neighborhood, or downtown improvement districts; or similar organizations incorporated as authorities.
For more information about the Keystone Communities Program, visit the DCED website. Information is also available via the Frankford CDC and New Kensington CDC websites.
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por Christin Brown | 9 de julio de 2021 | Salario Mínimo, Comunicados de Prensa
FILADELFIA, 9 de julio de 2021 - En el15º aniversario de la firma, los senadores estatales Vincent J. Hughes y Christine M. Tartaglione han conmemorado hoy la promulgación de la última ley de salario mínimo de Pensilvania con una recreación y un mitin con líderes estatales en el lugar de la ceremonia de 2006. Vincent J. Hughes y Christine M. Tartaglione conmemoraron hoy la promulgación de la última ley de salario mínimo de Pensilvania con una recreación y un mitin con líderes estatales en el lugar de la ceremonia de 2006.
Hughes y Tartaglione estuvieron acompañados por el gobernador Tom Wolf, el ex gobernador Ed Rendell, el representante estadounidense Dwight Evans y la líder demócrata de la Cámara de Representantes Joanna McClinton, junto con los demócratas de la Cámara de Representantes y del Senado, para recordar la lucha por la aprobación del proyecto de ley 1090 del Senado y reconocer a los líderes que siguen denunciando los salarios de miseria en Pensilvania.
"Mi histórica ley de salario mínimo de 2006 representó lo que legisladores inteligentes y concienzudos con puntos de vista opuestos pueden lograr cuando nos dedicamos a encontrar un terreno común. Luchamos y nos abrimos camino a través de la desinformación, los estudios dudosos y la avaricia corporativa para ofrecer un alivio a 400.000 trabajadores de Pensilvania y sus familias", dijo Tartaglione, que fue el autor y principal impulsor del proyecto de ley del Senado 1090 (Ley 112) en 2006. "Pero ahora esa legislación ampliamente celebrada es un ejemplo flagrante de lo mucho que nos hemos quedado rezagados con respecto a nuestros vecinos y a nuestra nación. El momento de corregir este fracaso económico y moral es ahora".
Hughes, que asistió junto con Tartaglione y el Gobernador Ed Rendell a la firma de la ley en 2006 en la iglesia baptista de Sharon, afirmó que la ley demostró que los escépticos estaban totalmente equivocados.
"Nos dijeron que la Ley 1090 del Senado costaría puestos de trabajo. Oímos predicciones funestas y advertencias sombrías e informes falsos del lobby empresarial", dijo Hughes. "Nada de eso era cierto. La pobreza se redujo. El empleo creció. Miles de ciudadanos de Pensilvania vieron cómo su poder adquisitivo aumentaba hasta situarse donde estaba una década antes. No pueden decirnos que no podemos permitirnos pagar salarios mejores que el nivel de pobreza. Sabemos que no es así".
La Ley 112 elevó el salario mínimo de Pensilvania de 5,15 a 7,15 dólares en dos años, antes de que el gobierno federal elevara la tasa actual a 7,25 dólares, donde se ha mantenido. Un informe del Departamento de Trabajo e Industria de Pensilvania elaborado tras la subida demostró que, en general, se había logrado aumentar los salarios y que las predicciones de pérdida de empleo se habían cumplido con miles de puestos de trabajo ganados en sectores que emplean a trabajadores con salario mínimo.
"El hecho de que el salario mínimo de Pensilvania no ha aumentado en 15 años es una vergüenza", dijo el gobernador Wolf. "Es un insulto a los trabajadores de Pensilvania que están haciendo la misma cantidad de trabajo, pero encontrando que sus cheques de pago cubren menos y menos cada año. La mayoría republicana en la Asamblea General se niega a hacer lo correcto para los trabajadores en nuestro estado. Nuestro salario mínimo está dejando atrás a los habitantes de Pensilvania, y eso está mal".
Tartaglione ha seguido proponiendo nuevos proyectos de ley sobre salario mínimo que no han sido aprobados por la mayoría del Senado.
"Es una absoluta parodia y un insulto a los trabajadores de todo el mundo que otros legisladores hayan estado bloqueando a los ciudadanos de Pensilvania el aumento del salario mínimo durante 15 años. 15 años!", dijo el senador Tim Kearney, que habló en la manifestación instando a una votación en el pleno del Senado sobre una actualización del salario mínimo.
El actual proyecto de ley de Tartaglione, el Proyecto de Ley 12 del Senado, elevaría el salario mínimo a 15 dólares en una serie de incrementos a lo largo de seis años. Permanece paralizado en la Comisión de Trabajo e Industria del Senado.
Los participantes en la concentración firmaron una carta dirigida a los líderes de la mayoría del Senado en la que pedían una votación y predecían que se aprobaría si se permitía en el pleno.
"El salario mínimo no es ni de lejos un salario digno", declaró la senadora Amanda Cappelletti, que representa a partes de los condados de Delaware y Montgomery. "En mi distrito no hay viviendas asequibles para los que ganan el mínimo actual. Ya es hora de hacer algo al respecto. Debemos aumentarlo inmediatamente".
La senadora Katie Muth, que representa a partes de los condados de Montgomery, Chester y Bucks, calificó de "vergonzoso" el salario mínimo actual y dijo que su valor sería mucho mayor si se ajustara para compensar la disminución del poder adquisitivo.
"Animo a quienes se oponen a aumentar el salario mínimo de Pensilvania desde la vergonzosa tasa de pobreza de 7,25 dólares la hora a que lo prueben por sí mismos con un salario anual inferior a 15.000 dólares después de impuestos", dijo. "En Pensilvania, a una familia de cuatro miembros le cuesta aproximadamente 59.340 dólares cubrir sus necesidades básicas. Si el salario mínimo hubiera aumentado al ritmo de la productividad desde principios de los años 60, estaría en torno a los 22,50 dólares. La desigualdad de ingresos es evitable y los que tienen el poder mayoritario en Harrisburg han mantenido como rehenes a los trabajadores de Pensilvania con su inacción."
Para ver el evento completo, visite aquí. Enlace FTP disponible previa solicitud.
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by Christin Brown | Junio 25, 2021 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – Junio 25, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) voted in support of the $38 billion Fiscal Year 2021-2022 budget adopted by the Pennsylvania General Assembly today, but voted against accompanying Administrative Code and School Code legislation.
“I am extremely dismayed that the Republican leadership in the General Assembly once again turned their backs on Pennsylvania’s lowest-paid workers by neglecting to raise the minimum wage for the 15th consecutive year,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I am also deeply disappointed in the regressive overtime changes in the Administrative Code bill. Yet, the budget delivers much-needed and timely funding in many areas, including education, nutrition assistance, violence prevention, human services, and replenishing our workers’ compensation fund.”
As adopted, the budget features $611 million in expanded education funding, with $300 million for basic education. $200 million of that would be distributed among public schools using the state’s fair-funding formula, which adjusts for factors such as poverty, English language proficiency, and local tax revenues. The remaining $100 million would be allocated through the Level Up program that prioritizes funding for schools with historically inadequate funding, including school districts in Philadelphia, Scranton, Reading, and Northampton County.
The budget provides $200 million in additional funding for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education in four annual installments of $50 million. A portion of these dollars will support the Diversity, Education & Inclusion program proposed by PA Senate Democrats.
“Access to quality public education is the key to improving the lives of Pennsylvania’s working class families,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This budget addresses that need from expanded Headstart and Pre-K programs, all the way through our state-owned universities.”
Community-based gun violence prevention programs managed by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency are due to receive $30 million in new funding in the budget. The State Food Purchase Program would receive an additional $3 million, while the Department of Human Services’ ID Community Waiver program would receive $15 million.
A $145 million allocation to the Workers’ Compensation Fund will replenish most of the $165 million that the state borrowed from the fund in the 2016-2017 Fiscal Year.
Of the $7.1 billion in federal funds that were allocated to Pennsylvania in the American Rescue Plan, the General Appropriations bill calls for the transfer of $2.8 billion into the state’s Rainy Day Fund.
Senator Tartaglione opposed the School Code legislation, which includes a $40 million expansion of school vouchers and fails to increase funding for public libraries. The Senator also voted against the Administrative Code that repeals enhanced overtime protections awarded to almost 400,000 Pennsylvania workers through the regulatory process last year.
“Last year, the Wolf administration used the regulatory process to update our overtime rules for the first time in four decades so that workers who log extra hours on the job – beyond the standard 40-hour work week – can count of fair compensation for their labor. But the new Administrative Code restores exploitative exemptions and the low-salary threshold that employers have long-used to avoid paying overtime to deserving workers,” Senator Tartaglione said.
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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 | Mayo 27, 2021 | News Releases
El proyecto de ley bipartidista 617 pasa al pleno del Senado para su estudio. Aumentaría la protección laboral de los trabajadores que se tomen una excedencia para cuidar a un familiar con una enfermedad terminal.
Filadelfia, PA - 27 de mayo 2021 - El Senado de Pensilvania Comité de Trabajo e Industria votó ayer por unanimidad para avanzar en la legislación patrocinada por el senador Christine Tartaglione para ampliar la familia y los beneficios de licencia médica para los empleados que toman tiempo fuera del trabajo para cuidar a un familiar enfermo.
El proyecto de ley 617 del Senado, conocido como Ley de Baja Familiar y Médica de Pensilvania, recibió el copatrocinio bipartidista y se inspiró en la historia de una mujer del municipio de West Goshen, en el condado de Chester, que se vio obligada a dejar su trabajo para cuidar a tiempo completo de su hermana enferma terminal. La legislación del senador Tartaglione, si se aprueba y se convierte en ley, obligaría a las empresas a conceder hasta seis semanas de permiso no retribuido a un empleado para cuidar de un hermano, abuelo o nieto con una enfermedad terminal certificada si el familiar enfermo no tiene cónyuge vivo, ni hijo o hija mayor de 17 años, ni padre o madre menor de 65 años.
La legislación federal vigente sólo ofrece la misma protección laboral si el familiar enfermo es cónyuge, hijo, hija o padre del trabajador.
"En algún momento de nuestras vidas, todos necesitamos tiempo para cuidar de nuestros seres queridos. Y nadie debería tener que sacrificar su carrera cuando las prioridades familiares deben tener prioridad", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Mi legislación proporcionaría a todos los trabajadores, independientemente de su trabajo o su nivel de ingresos, la libertad de cumplir con sus deberes familiares sin sufrir repercusiones profesionales perjudiciales."
El proyecto de ley 617 pasa al pleno del Senado para su examen. Para más información sobre el proyecto de ley, visite www.legis.state.pa.us
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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 | Abril 30, 2021 | News Releases
Harrisburg – Abril 30, 2021 – At the request of Pennsylvania State Senators Judy Schwank (D- Berks), Tina Tartaglione (D- Philadelphia), and Sharif Street (D- Philadelphia), the Senate Democratic Policy Committee held a virtual policy hearing to discuss the issue of food insecurity in Pennsylvania.
“The pandemic has exposed many issues over the last year, but perhaps most striking of all is the issue of food insecurity,” Schwank said. “I know few of us will forget seeing the long lines of families waiting for food assistance. Today we learned how our local food banks met the extraordinary challenge of feeding our communities and what we need to consider moving forward as the issue of food insecurity is far from solved.”
Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding said that reports compiled by the organization Feeding America show that the number of Pennsylvanians facing food insecurity in 2020 grew substantially to 1.77 million individuals, an increase of 30 percent. The number of children in Pennsylvania facing food insecurity rose to 537,080, an increase of nearly 40 percent in just one year.
“Food Insecurity is defined as the lack of access to enough food for a healthy and active life and at its core equals hunger. Across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, it is estimated that 11% of the population is food insecure with the highest percentage right here in Philadelphia county,” Dixie James, President and COO of Einstein Healthcare Network, said.
Second Lady of Pennsylvania, Gisele Fetterman, also testified at the hearing about her work to address food insecurity through Free Store 15104 and 412 Food Rescue.
“My work exists because of failures in policy,” Fetterman said.
She said that making a state law to prevent perfectly good food from going to waste, as numerous other states have done, would help to address food insecurity by redirecting resources, and also addressing the environmental impact of discarding perfectly good food that could otherwise feed populations.
“We know it is not a lack of food, it is how food gets distributed,” Dr. Kathy Reeves, Senior Associate Dean of Health Equity, Diversity & Inclusion and Director at the Center for Urban Bioethics and Professor of Pediatrics Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, said.
Dr. Reeves also advocated in her testimony to treat food as a prescription to address the overall health of Pennsylvanians.
“Food insecurity is intertwined with so many of Pennsylvania’s chronic ills, problems like poverty and health disparities that have been exacerbated by the lingering coronavirus pandemic,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This thorough conversation is imperative as we seek to make nutrition universally accessible in the Commonwealth.”
Loree Jones, CEO of Philabundance which serves five counties in Pennsylvania, said that 40 percent of the 60 percent increase Philabundance has seen in need this past year were people using the emergency food system for the first time. She said that Feeding America is projecting that nationally more than 42 million people, including 13 million children, may experience food insecurity due to COVID-19.
Secretary Redding said that additional funding to provide food in the pandemic has come from both federal and state resources, providing additional funding for United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) foods purchases through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). As of Abril 17, 2021, food banks in Pennsylvania report having distributed in excess of 2.4 million of these food boxes, weighing more than 51.5 million pounds.
“The lessons learned over this past year have provided us a fresh lens to look at our grant programs to ensure they are equitable and meeting the needs of those we serve. The gaps in the system have been highlighted such as meat processing delays and lack of access to fresh foods. We will continue to enhance our current programs and investigate additional ways to address these needs,” Sec. Redding said. “Additionally, expanding broadband access throughout the commonwealth will assist in providing equal access to resources and e-commerce platforms.”
Scott Cawthern, Acting Deputy Secretary for the Office of Income Maintenance at the PA Dept. of Human Services, also testified about the work that the Dept. of Human Services did in expanding services during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how increased and continued investment in these programs will address food insecurity and improve long-term health outcomes for Pennsylvanians.
“On the state level, we would like to see more coordination between all the food 9 systems in the state including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), SNAP, NSLP, and others to ensure that eligible families are receiving all the food assistance for which they qualify and to ensure that children and families receive the nutrition supports as they grow,” Cawthern said.
Jay Worrall, President of Helping Harvest Food Bank, testified to the importance of community partners in the distribution of food and resources to families and how increasing funding for its signature food insecurity programs, the State Food Purchase Program (SFPP), and the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System (PASS), and increase the flexibility for how those funds can be expended would assist even more Pennsylvanians in need.
“Unfortunately, many Pennsylvanians have been and still are struggling to meet their basic needs. Working families across our state face countless situations, such as jobs paying only poverty wages due to wealth inequality and corporate greed, food deserts, unexpected bills for car maintenance or medical treatment, layoffs, and now a global pandemic, all of which cause temporary or permanent financial instability, food insecurity and hunger. Pennsylvania food insecurity rates have increased from 11.1% in 2018 to over 33% as of Marzo 2020. According to the PA Department of Agriculture, before the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 1.53 million Pennsylvanians endured chronic hunger every day, including 478,500 older Pennsylvanians and about 437,000 children,” Sen. Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee, said. “Food insecurity makes it impossible to survive let alone thrive. Every human should have guaranteed access to reliable and nutritious meals. We need to act urgently to end food insecurity in Pennsylvania and across our nation.”
Below are all who participated in today’s hearing:
- Dixie James, President & COO, Einstein Healthcare Network
- Gisele Fetterman, Second Lady of Pennsylvania
- Secretary Russell Redding, PA Department of Agriculture
- Scott Cawthern, Acting Deputy Secretary for the Office of Income Maintenance at the PA Dept. of Human Services
- Dr. Kathy Reeves, MD. FAAP, Senior Associate Dean, Health Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Director, Center for Urban Bioethics – Professor, Pediatrics Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University
- Andy Toy, Development and Communications Director, SEAMAAC
- Tyler Ray, Neighborhood Community Organizer, Urban Creators
- Maddy Booth, COO, Vetri Community Partnership
- Mark Edwards, President & CEO, Food Trust
- Loree Jones, CEO, Philabundance
- Jay Worrall, President, Helping Harvest Food Bank
The full recording of this roundtable, as well as the written testimony from participants, can be found at senatormuth.com/policy. A full recording of this hearing can also be found on the PA Senate Democratic Facebook page.
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by Christin Brown | Abril 23, 2021 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – Abril 23, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) welcomed hundreds of constituents to The Baptist Worship Center in Northeast Philadelphia’s Frankford neighborhood today for a free pop-up COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic. The senator partnered with the Center and Lehigh Pharmacy to organize and manage the one-day event in the city’s Frankford neighborhood.
“Americans continue to get vaccinated in record numbers, but many folks and many communities remain underserved due to a variety of factors. Our goal today was to make it easy and convenient for residents of areas that have been hardest-hit by the pandemic to receive the medical care they deserve,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I thank Lehigh Pharmacy and The Baptist Worship Center for making this event possible.”
Senator Tartaglione’s 2nd District spans portions of Northeast Philadelphia, Juniata, Kensington, and North Philadelphia. The city’s Department of Public Health has classified many communities in the district as high-risk for COVID exposure and has sought to increase vaccination rates in those communities.
“Many people in the 2nd District and throughout Philadelphia may have difficulty traveling to a vaccine clinic due to mobility or transportation challenges,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Others may have trouble identifying a vaccination location due to the digital divide. And some folks are reluctant to get a vaccine because they are concerned about side effects. I want to assure everyone that vaccines are safe, and I will do everything I can to help people get vaccinated.”
Lehigh Pharmacy, an independent pharmacy at 1006 W. Lehigh Ave. in North Philadelphia, administered all vaccinations by appointment in accordance with the latest city and state eligibility policies, as well as COVID mitigation guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control. Vaccines are now available to anyone 16 or older. Contact Lehigh Pharmacy at 215-225-7522 for information about getting vaccinated.
Contact Senator Tartaglione’s office at 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 for help finding a vaccination location or securing transportation to your vaccine appointment.
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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 | Abril 21, 2021 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – Abril 21, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is pleased to announce that 1320 Pine Street BJ Venture 1 LP, developer of the Frankford Works project, has been awarded a $50,000 Watershed Restoration and Protection Program grant from the Commonwealth for stormwater management in a newly restored mixed-use campus.
Frankford Works is a project aimed at the rehabilitation of seven former warehouse buildings originally built circa 1922 in an industrial section of Philadelphia’s Frankford neighborhood. The project will recreate the space to transform it from an old warehouse and factory complex into bright, open units serving the community as live/work opportunities for small businesses and organizations.
“Projects like Frankford Works are forward-thinking and vital as many of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods continue the difficult transition from the city’s industrial past into the economy of the future,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I am thrilled to deliver this funding from the Commonwealth that will bring commerce and jobs to the community while helping to protect our water supply.”
The state funding will be used to mitigate stormwater flows leaving the site. Work will include the installation of a 1,060-square-foot rain garden/ponding area for stormwater storage. The potential capture area for the rain garden is 14,850 square feet of impervious surface. In addition, an existing semi-impervious courtyard will be converted into green space to filter runoff, cool air temperatures, reduce energy consumption, and improve air quality. The total project cost is $120,000.
The Watershed Restoration and Protection Program was created under Act 13 of 2012, through which the Commonwealth Financing Authority distributes a portion of the Marcellus Legacy Fund. The overall goal of the Program is to restore and maintain streams impaired by the uncontrolled discharge of polluted runoff, and ultimately to remove these streams from the state’s Impaired Waters list. For information, visit https://dced.pa.gov/programs/watershed-restoration-protection-program-wrpp/
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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 | Abril 21, 2021 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – Abril 21, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is pleased to announce that the International WeLoveU Foundation East Coast Region, Inc. has been awarded a $50,000 Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program grant from the Commonwealth for the revitalization of a vacant lot in Philadelphia’s Castor Gardens neighborhood.
The triangular lot is at the intersection of Gilham Street, Cranford Avenue, and Loretto Avenue and has become overgrown with trees that have become a safety hazard to the community. The lot has also been the site of illegal dumping. It is an undefined property in city records and has no listed address or owner. The Foundation plans to construct a nature sensory path, gardens, and tree benches on the site, which will complement the nearby Tarken Recreation Center and provide a natural playscape for the community.
“The WeLoveU Foundation has developed a sensible solution for a site that has been an eyesore and a nuisance to the community for many years,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I am thrilled to deliver Commonwealth funding for this worthy cause.”
The total project is expected to cost $61,250.
The Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program was created under Act 13 of 2012, through which the Commonwealth Financing Authority distributes a portion of the Marcellus Legacy Fund. The Program supports planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation, and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks, and beautification projects. For more information, visit https://dced.pa.gov/programs/greenways-trails-and-recreation-program-gtrp/
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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 | Abril 21, 2021 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – Abril 21, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is pleased to announce that the Hispanic Association of Contractors and Enterprises (HACE) has been awarded a $250,000 Greenways, Trails and Recreation grant from the Commonwealth in support of The Trail Park, a planned community gathering space in the heart of Philadelphia’s Latinx community.
The 1.18 Trail Park will feature an amphitheater, concessions, and playground while serving as a trailhead to the future Richmond Industrial Trail, which is poised to become a key link in Philadelphia’s trail network connecting neighborhoods to the Delaware River and East Coast Greenway.
“I am thrilled to help HACE achieve its vision of a functional and aesthetically pleasing community space where families and neighbors can gather to enjoy each other’s company and the outdoors,” Senator Tartaglione said.
The planned park will strengthen community access to safe and equitable open space for residents and will help to restore the natural environment. The total project cost is $684,750 and will be funded with additional support from Conrail, the William Penn Foundation, and HACE’s own contributions.
The Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program was created under Act 13 of 2012, through which the Commonwealth Financing Authority distributes a portion of the Marcellus Legacy Fund. The Program supports planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation, and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks, and beautification projects. For more information, visit https://dced.pa.gov/programs/greenways-trails-and-recreation-program-gtrp/
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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 | Abril 19, 2021 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – Abril 19, 2021 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is pleased to announce that the Frankford Community Development Corporation (FCDC) is among 43 community organizations statewide that have been awarded grant funding under the COVID-19 Relief – Supporting Elm and Main (SEAM) program.
FCDC, of 4667 Paul St., Philadelphia, will receive $50,000 to help it replenish income it lost due to the pandemic and support its Elm Street initiative. In all, $2 million in SEAM grants were awarded through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
“The Frankford CDC, under the leadership of Executive Director Kimberly Washington, has demonstrated a tremendous ability to foster economic growth and job creation in Lower Northeast Philadelphia while improving access to affordable housing and enhancing community spaces. Frankford needs the CDC. This funding will help sustain it through this very difficult period for us all,” Senator Tartaglione said.
“Frankford CDC is extremely grateful for an administration that recognizes the need to extend funding to small nonprofits who deliver services to vulnerable populations,” Executive Director Washington said. “This SEAM funding will ensure that Frankford CDC is able to continue to provide outreach and technical support to help sustain Frankford’s small businesses.
SEAM provides financial assistance to community revitalization organizations dedicated to community and economic development in older and historic downtowns, commercial districts, and neighborhoods. The Elm Street Program is a component of DCED’s Keystone Communities Program (KCP) focused on the revitalization of older residential areas bordering central business districts. Visit the DCED website for information about the SEAM program.
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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.
