by Christin Brown | September 9, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, September 9, 2026 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D–2, Philadelphia) applauds the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s (PCCD) approval of more than $10.6 million in federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding for organizations serving victims of crime throughout Philadelphia.
The grants will support a broad network of nonprofits, healthcare providers, legal service organizations, and victim advocacy agencies that provide counseling, emergency assistance, legal representation, crisis intervention, and other critical services for survivors of violence, abuse, and crime.
“Behind every one of these grants is a person or family trying to rebuild after experiencing trauma,” said Senator Tartaglione. “These organizations provide lifesaving support to victims when they need it most, and this funding ensures they can continue that work. Whether it’s helping survivors of domestic violence, supporting children impacted by abuse, or assisting families affected by homicide, these investments will make a real difference for people across Philadelphia, including many residents of the 2nd district.”
Among the organizations receiving funding are Anti-Violence Partnership of Philadelphia, Congreso de Latinos Unidos, Concillio de Organizaciones Hispanas, Lutheran Settlement House, Northeast Philadelphia Victim/Witness Services, Philadelphia Children’s Alliance, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, WOAR – Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence, Women Against Abuse, and several other organizations serving victims throughout the city.
The awards include funding for specialized services supporting immigrant victims of crime, older adults, child victims, homicide survivors, sexual assault survivors, and community-based victim advocacy programs.
Senator Tartaglione noted that while many of the funded organizations are located throughout Philadelphia, their services extend across the city and regularly assist residents of the 2nd Senatorial District.
“Every victim deserves to know they are not alone,” Tartaglione said. “I’m grateful that Pennsylvania continues to invest in organizations that provide compassion, advocacy, and hope during some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life. I look forward to continuing to support efforts that strengthen victim services and make our communities safer for everyone.”
In addition to approving these critical victim services grants, the Commission also approved the funding framework for Pennsylvania’s new Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods (VICTIM) Act Grant Program. Established through the 2026-27 state budget, the program will provide competitive grants to local law enforcement agencies for investigative technology, equipment, and resources designed to improve homicide and violent crime clearance rates. The initiative will also help departments strengthen crime reporting through the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), improving the quality of crime data and supporting more effective public safety strategies across the Commonwealth.
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by Christin Brown | July 16, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, July 16, 2026 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D–2, Philadelphia) today announced that more than $4 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) funding has been awarded to transformative projects throughout the 2nd Senatorial District that will expand educational opportunities, improve access to healthcare and affordable housing, and create vibrant community spaces for residents.
“These projects are investments in the future of our communities,” said Senator Tartaglione. “They will create new opportunities for young people, expand access to healthcare and affordable housing, and strengthen the neighborhoods that make the 2nd Senatorial District such a special place to call home. I’m proud to help bring these resources back to the people I represent.”
The funded projects include:
- Liguori Academy Capital Improvements – $500,000
- Funding will support renovations to create a building trades learning center featuring hands-on training opportunities and pre-apprenticeship certification programs for students, while improving accessibility through the installation of an elevator.
- Forman Arts Initiative Phase I – $250,000
- Funding will help renovate and modernize existing buildings to create a hub for arts and cultural programming that supports local creative economies and provides educational opportunities for residents.
- Rock Youth Factory II – $1,250,000
- Funding will support the renovation of a vacant warehouse into a youth recreation center offering programming and activities for young people in the community.
- 139 E. Clearfield PHA Development – $500,000
- Funding will support the construction of affordable housing, community space, green infrastructure, and homeownership opportunities for Philadelphia families.
- Frankford Transportation Center Transit-Oriented Development – Frankford CDC – $1,000,000
- Funding will support a mixed-use development featuring affordable housing, a fresh food market, and a full-service health center, bringing critical services and economic activity to the Frankford community.
- Children’s Crisis Treatment Center II – HACE – $1,000,000
- Funding will support the development of a new 38,000-square-foot behavioral health facility to expand access to mental and behavioral healthcare services for children and families.
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program provides state funding for regionally significant projects that generate economic activity, support community development, and create lasting benefits for Pennsylvanians.
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by Christin Brown | July 12, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA, July 12, 2026 – Following final passage of Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 state budget, State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D–2, Philadelphia) released the following statement:
“Every budget is about priorities, and this budget contains meaningful investments that will benefit Pennsylvanians. This budget continues to strengthen healthcare and human services, provides tax relief for working families and seniors, supports public safety, and invests in workforce development and economic growth.
This budget also delivers significant funding to continue addressing Pennsylvania’s unconstitutional school funding system, expands support for student teachers, apprenticeships, and childcare workers, provides long overdue cost-of-living adjustments for retired teachers, police officers, and firefighters, and invests in mental health services, violence prevention, infrastructure, and higher education. These are meaningful investments that will improve lives across the Commonwealth. Those are accomplishments worth recognizing.
We made substantial progress on our priorities without compromising on our principles, but I cannot ignore what this budget failed to do.
For the twentieth consecutive year, Pennsylvania’s minimum wage remains frozen at $7.25 an hour. At a time when families continue to struggle with the rising costs of housing, groceries, childcare, healthcare, and utilities, passing another state budget without raising the minimum wage is a missed opportunity and a profound disappointment.
I have spent two decades fighting to ensure that anyone who works full-time can earn a wage that reflects today’s economy. Instead, Pennsylvania continues to lag behind every one of our neighboring states, leaving hundreds of thousands of workers further behind with each passing year.
This budget also relies heavily on one-time revenues and fund transfers while failing to adopt long-term revenue solutions that were already on the table. Regulating and taxing skill games, closing the Delaware loophole, and raising the minimum wage would have generated sustainable revenue, strengthened our economy, and reduced future budget pressures. Instead, those opportunities were left behind.
A strong budget should also position Pennsylvania for long-term success. We had the chance to make our tax structure fairer, modernize outdated laws, and invest in the Commonwealth’s future without relying so heavily on temporary fixes. We should have taken it.
While I supported many of the investments included in this budget, our work is far from finished. The affordability crisis facing working families is still very real, and the unfinished business left on the table today must become tomorrow’s priority.
I will continue fighting until Pennsylvania finally raises the minimum wage, modernizes its revenue system, and delivers the kind of economic opportunity that every hardworking Pennsylvanian deserves.”
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by Christin Brown | July 7, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Philadelphia, PA − July 7, 2026 − Senator Christine Tartaglione, Representative Anthony Bellmon, and Councilmember Anthony Phillips released the following joint statement on Apparent Arson Attack at Northeast Philadelphia Islamic Center:
“We are deeply saddened and outraged by the apparent arson attack targeting the Northeast Philadelphia Islamic Center. A house of worship should always be a place of peace, reflection, and community, never the target of hatred or violence.
The Northeast Philadelphia Islamic Center is a vital part of our community that has welcomed families, served neighbors, and brought people together for many years. An attack on this mosque is an attack on the fundamental right of every Pennsylvanian to practice their faith freely and safely. We stand united in rejecting hatred and reaffirming that our community is stronger because of its diversity.
We are grateful that no one was injured, and we urge law enforcement to conduct a thorough investigation and hold those responsible fully accountable. If you have any information, please reach out to Northeast Detectives.
We will continue standing with our Muslim neighbors and working to ensure that every resident can worship freely and without fear.”
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by Christin Brown | June 18, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, Pa. − June 18, 2026 − To put more money back in working families’ pockets, Pennsylvania State Senators Maria Collett (D-12), Lindsey Williams (D-38), Christine Tartaglione (D-2) and Katie Muth (D-44) have introduced legislation to increase Pennsylvania’s Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit, aligning the state credit with changes to the federal credit.
Beginning with the 2026 tax year, the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit will increase to 50% (from 35%) of child and dependent care expenses paid. The maximum credit will be $1,500 (for one child/dependent), an increase of $450, or $3,000 (for two or more children/dependents), an increase of $900.
Under current state law, Pennsylvania does not automatically conform to changes made to the federal program. This legislation would ensure the state credit families receive will match the enhanced federal credit.
“Far too many families are struggling to make ends meet as the cost of everything from groceries to childcare continues to rise,” Collett said. “Our legislation will provide real relief for real Pennsylvanians, ensuring parents and caregivers get hundreds of dollars more in tax credits each year.”
In 2025, the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit delivered $139 million in tax relief to nearly 222,000 Pennsylvanians.
“Aligning state childcare tax relief with the federal program means that working families get more money back into their pockets while making taxes a little simpler,” said Williams. “Our working families, especially our working moms, already have a full to do list. I’m glad we can make this rebate a little more straightforward and accessible for those who need it most.”
“Families across Pennsylvania are going to work, raising children, and caring for loved ones, all while the cost of care continues to rise faster than their paychecks,” said Tartaglione. “Aligning Pennsylvania’s Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit with the expanded federal credit is a common-sense way to put more money back into the pockets of working families and help make childcare and dependent care more affordable. At a time when so many Pennsylvanians are struggling to keep up with rising costs, we should be doing everything we can to support them.”
“As inflation and the cost of living continue to outpace the earnings of so many families across our Commonwealth, it is imperative that we enhance state programs and benefits like the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement,” Muth said. “As budget negotiations take place in Harrisburg, the General Assembly must prioritize initiatives to put money back into the pockets of Pennsylvania families.”
Learn more about the Senate Democratic Caucus’ legislation to bring down costs and expand economic opportunities for Pennsylvania families.
by Christin Brown | June 10, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA, June 10, 2026 – Legislation authored by State Senators Christine Tartaglione (D–2, Philadelphia) and Frank Farry (R–6, Bucks) to strengthen Pennsylvania’s Prevailing Wage Act passed the Senate today with bipartisan support.
Senate Bill 908 would close a long-standing gap in the law by extending prevailing wage protections to off-site custom fabrication work for public construction projects. The bill reflects modern construction practices, where critical components such as plumbing, HVAC, welding, iron work, boiler systems, and electrical systems are often fabricated safely and efficiently off-site before installation.
“Pennsylvania’s prevailing wage law was created to ensure fairness for workers and contractors on public projects, but the current law leaves too many skilled workers without fair compensation simply because their work happens off-site,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This bill restores the spirit of the law by recognizing that custom fabrication is essential to modern construction and deserves the same prevailing wage standards as on-site work.”
The Prevailing Wage Act, enacted in 1961, was intended to level the playing field for contractors bidding on public works projects. However, the law’s focus on on-site labor created a loophole that excluded many Pennsylvania workers performing specialized fabrication and assembly work in local shops and facilities.
Senate Bill 908 would help protect those skilled jobs, support fair competition among contractors, and keep more tax revenue and economic activity in Pennsylvania communities.
“A lot of labor and craftsmanship goes into a public construction project before materials ever arrive on-site,” Tartaglione said. “Whether it’s fabricated in a workshop or installed in the field, it is still essential construction work, and the workers doing it deserve fair wages.”
This legislation faced three amendments offered by Senator Martin (R–13, Lancaster) and Senator Keefer (R–31, Cumberland & York) on the floor that would have raised the floor requiring prevailing wage from $25,000 to $2,500,000, eliminated provisions in the bill extending the prevailing wage to custom fabrication, and restricting the bill’s scope to only the City of Philadelphia, but a Democratic majority of Senators voted to table the amendments allowing the bill to pass cleanly. Senator Tartaglione applauds her colleagues for standing with Pennsylvania’s tradesmen and tradeswomen in helping this important legislation move forward.
Tartaglione also credited former Senator Tommy Tomlinson with helping bring attention to the issue with her several years ago and thanked labor organizations for their partnership in advancing the bill.
The legislation now moves to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for consideration.
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by Christin Brown | June 10, 2026 | feature, Minimum Wage, News Releases
HARRISBURG, PA − June 10, 2026 − Today, members of the Senate Democratic Caucus rallied in support of a bill to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage from $7.25/hour, where it has stayed since 2009.
“Senate Republicans have no excuse for continuing to deny hardworking people the pay and dignity they deserve,” said Senator Art Haywood. “It is time for them to stand with working families and cast a vote for a fair, livable wage. Small businesses can even get a tax credit to help cover the cost if leadership will stop blocking the bill. We have the votes. We demand a vote.”
In a bipartisan vote in March 2026, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed House Bill 2189 which would increase the minimum wage to $15 over the course of three years. The bill currently awaits action in the Pennsylvania Senate.
Senate Democrats have also introduced numerous bills that would raise the wage for Pennsylvania’s workers, including the following:
- SB 19, introduced by Senator Tina Tartaglione
- SB 852, introduced by Senators Art Haywood and Patty Kim
- SB 889, introduced by Senators Steve Santarsiero and Maria Collett
Raising the minimum wage is a key pillar of the Senate Democrats’ Affordability Action Plan, a series of bills and legislative initiatives to improve wages and reduce costs as Pennsylvanians face an unprecedented affordability crisis. Governor Josh Shapiro has also repeatedly called for a raise in the minimum wage and has included a minimum wage increase in his budget proposal for 2026-2027.
Statement from Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa:
“Raising the minimum wage is the popular thing to do, the smart thing to do, and the right thing to do. As Pennsylvania’s families face an enormous affordability crisis, it’s up to the legislature to make sure that those who work for a living can earn a living. I urge Senate Republicans to join us as we fight to raise the wage.”
Statement from Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair Vincent Hughes:
“It has been 17 years since Pennsylvania raised the minimum wage,” said Senator Hughes. “To put this issue into perspective, every surrounding state has a higher minimum wage, with many already at $15 an hour. Don’t Pennsylvania workers deserve the same respect and value for their work?”
Statement from Senator Tina Tartaglione
“For nearly 20 years, Pennsylvania workers have watched the cost of everything go up while the minimum wage has stayed stuck at $7.25 an hour. The House has acted, Senate Democrats are ready to act, and working families cannot afford any more delays. As the budget deadline approaches, it’s time to stop talking about helping workers and finally raise the wage.”
Statement from Senator Patty Kim:
“The legislature has dragged its feet for far too long while the cost of living has skyrocketed far past what the federal minimum wage supports, wreaking havoc on hardworking families across the Commonwealth who are struggling to make ends meet. It is way past time for Pennsylvania to join the 34 other U.S. states, territories, and districts that have raised their minimum wage and given their workers the boost they so desperately need.”
Statement from Representative Matt Bradford:
“It’s disgraceful and immoral that we are stuck at $7.25 an hour, especially as the cost of groceries, gas, utilities and other necessities keep going up. House Democrats are proud that we have passed multiple bills to raise the minimum wage and that Governor Shapiro has prioritized this issue. I’m grateful Senate Democrats share our commitment to give our workers a much-needed raise, and I call on the Senate Republicans to pass this legislation now.”
Statement from Adam Goldman, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Unemployment Project:
“With the cost of living continuing to increase, workers should have a job market that provides wages you can actually get by on. It’s way past time to raise the minimum wage.”
Still photography and downloadable footage of today’s press conference are available upon request.
Learn more about the Senate Democrats’ Affordability Action Plan here.
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by Christin Brown | June 10, 2026 | feature, News Releases
HARRISBURG, PA – June 10, 2026 − Today, Senate Democrats provided critical and necessary support for the successful passage of Senate Bill 908, which ensures that work done on public projects is included in the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act.
This bill, long championed by Senator Tina Tartaglione, ensures that off-site fabrication, including HVAC, sheet metal, and plumbing, among other work, must still meet Pennsylvania’s prevailing wage standards, ending a practice that allowed workers to be paid less for projects that would pay more if they were done onsite. The bill further ends the practice of split rates, where a worker is paid two different rates for the same job on the same day.
Senate Democrats united to defeat three amendments on the floor that would have rendered the bill unpassable. These amendments would have prevented workers from receiving proper and lawful wages.
In response to the passage of SB 908, Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa offers the following statement:
“As steadfast supporters of Pennsylvania’s workers, Senate Democrats were pleased to get Senator Tartaglione’s legislation out of the Senate and to the House for consideration. This bill reflects our longstanding commitment to ensure that the hard-working men and women who contribute their labor to public projects are appropriately compensated for their skills and time. Our caucus is proud to stand with skilled Pennsylvania craftspeople, and we look forward to continuing to fight alongside our unions for prevailing wages.”
Further on the passage of SB 908, Senator Tina Targalione added the following:
“For too long, skilled Pennsylvania workers have been denied prevailing wage protections simply because critical parts of a public construction project were completed off-site. Senate Bill 908 modernizes our prevailing wage law to reflect the realities of today’s construction industry and ensures that workers performing custom fabrication work receive the fair wages they have earned. I am grateful to Leader Costa and my Senate Democratic colleagues for standing with Pennsylvania’s tradesmen and tradeswomen and helping move this important legislation one step closer to becoming law.”
Learn more about the PA Senate Democrats’ commitment to affordability for every Pennsylvanian here.
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by Christin Brown | June 10, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, June 10, 2026 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D–2, Philadelphia) today announced that organizations serving Philadelphia will receive grant funding through multiple programs administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to support violence prevention, youth development, victim services, mental health programs, substance abuse prevention, and public safety initiatives.
The funding is expected to benefit organizations including:
- Public Health Management Corporation ($250,000)
- Building Our Lives Together, Inc. ($250,000)
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia ($250,000)
- Philadelphia Youth Network, Inc. ($250,000)
- Support Center for Child Advocate ($250,000)
- The Lighthouse, Inc. ($249,992)
- Philadelphia Children’s Alliance ($100,000)
- Support Center for Child Advocate ($100,000)
- Rising Hope for Change ($200,000)
“These investments strengthen the organizations that work every day to keep our communities safe, support children and families, prevent violence, address substance abuse, and provide critical services to those in need,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The work being done by these organizations changes lives, and I’m proud to help bring resources back to Philadelphia to support their missions.”
The grants are being awarded through several PCCD-administered funding streams, including programs focused on violence and delinquency prevention, mental health services, substance abuse education and prevention, victim assistance, crisis intervention, and community-based public safety initiatives.
Senator Tartaglione noted that while some of the funded organizations may not be physically located within the 2nd Senatorial District, many provide services throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding region.
“Every dollar invested in prevention, intervention, treatment, and victim services helps build stronger and healthier communities,” Tartaglione said. “These grants will help local organizations continue delivering the resources and support that Philadelphia residents depend on.”
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by Christin Brown | June 2, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA, June 2, 2026 – State Senator Tina Tartaglione (D-2, Philadelphia) joined fellow lawmakers and advocates at the Pennsylvania Capitol to announce the introduction of the “So Every Body Can Move” Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at expanding access to medically necessary prosthetic and orthotic care for Pennsylvanians living with limb loss, limb difference, and mobility impairments.
The legislation has been introduced as Senate Bill 1360 alongside Senator Frank Farry and Senator Judy Ward in the Senate, and Representatives Bridget Kosierowski, Tarik Khan, Valerie Gaydos, and Kyle Donahue are taking lead in the House.
More than 276,000 Pennsylvanians live with limb loss or limb difference, yet many continue to face barriers accessing prosthetic and orthotic devices deemed medically necessary by their physicians. The legislation seeks to ensure individuals can obtain devices needed not only for work and daily living, but also for exercise, recreation, bathing, and overall quality of life.
“Movement is medicine, and everybody deserves the chance to move and live with dignity,” Senator Tartaglione said. “As someone who uses a wheelchair, I know firsthand how important mobility and accessibility are to every aspect of daily life. Too many Pennsylvanians are being denied devices that could completely change their future simply because insurance companies decide they are not ‘necessary enough.’ If a doctor determines a device is medically necessary, then it should be covered.”
The So Every Body Can Move Act would:
- Require coverage for prosthetic and orthotic devices needed for physical activity and daily living when prescribed by a physician.
- Ensure coverage for additional devices necessary for bathing and showering to promote safety and hygiene.
- Establish reimbursement standards comparable to Medicare rates.
- Prohibit discriminatory coverage denials for individuals with disabilities.
- Prohibit restrictive cost-sharing standards for prosthetic and orthotic devices relative to inpatient physician and surgical services.
- Require the insurers maintains access to in-network providers.
Advocates noted that access to proper prosthetic and orthotic care improves health outcomes, increases independence, supports workforce participation, and can reduce long-term healthcare costs associated with inactivity and secondary medical complications.
The legislation would align Pennsylvania with 12 other states that have already enacted similar laws.
“I’m proud to co-sponsor this bipartisan legislation to allow Pennsylvanians with limb loss, limb difference, and mobility impairments have access to the orthotic and prosthetic devices they need,” said Senator Farry. “Access to physical activity is vital to a person’s overall health and well-being, and these devices play a critical role in restoring function, to promoting independence, and helping individuals live active, healthy lives.”
“The So Every Body Can Move Act will provide Pennsylvanians living with mobility impairments the opportunity to access the proper orthotic or prosthetic devices necessary to fully participate in everyday life,” said Ward. “This legislation guarantees coverage for orthotic and prosthetic services and devices so individuals with limb loss or mobility challenges can return to work, take part in physical activities and accomplish the simple daily tasks many of us take for granted.”
“Access to orthotic and prosthetic care is essential for Pennsylvanians with limb loss and mobility impairments to live safely, independently, and actively,” said Rep. Kosierowski. “The So Every Body Can Move Act will help ensure patients can access the medically necessary devices they need to work, participate in their communities, and live with dignity. We applaud Senators Tartaglione, Ward, and Farry for advancing this important legislation.”
During the press conference, advocates and families shared personal stories highlighting how access to proper prosthetic and orthotic devices transformed their ability to work, participate in sports, attend school, care for loved ones, and regain independence.
Jarrod Clark spoke on behalf of his ten-year-old son, John. “One of the things we’ve learned through John’s journey is that one prosthetic cannot do everything,” said Jarrod. “A walking leg is designed for everyday movement. A running blade is designed for sports and physical activity. A swim leg is designed for water and wet environments. Each one serves a different purpose, and each one creates different opportunities,” he continued. “Without the right prosthetic, a child may watch from the sidelines instead of participating alongside their friends.”
Anna Zimmerman spoke on behalf of her son, Joseph. “When Joseph received his running blade, it completely changed his life,” said Anna. “For the first time, he could run, jump, play on the beach, participate in gym class, and keep up with his siblings and friends without fear of damaging his walking leg,” she continued. “I will never forget the joy on his face when he realized he could move freely and simply be an active child. Every child deserves that opportunity, and families should not have to rely on nonprofits or charity to access something so life changing.”
Brittany Blythe discussed her unique perspective as both an amputee and mental health professional. “As both an amputee and a mental health professional, I know movement is directly tied to emotional wellbeing,” she said. When mobility decreases, isolation increases, and when isolation increases, mental health declines. For amputees, movement is not recreation; it is rehabilitation, pain management, mental health care, and independence.”
Brittany applied for a running prosthesis through insurance, and it was denied as “nonessential”. “The ability to exercise, manage chronic pain, and protect my mental health was dismissed,” said Brittany. “I should not have to rely on charity for medically meaningful movement. Access to mobility should be based on medical need and equity, not luck, funding availability, or an insurance company deciding whether someone deserves the ability to move safely and live fully.”
Supporters are urging lawmakers from both parties to join the effort and help ensure Pennsylvanians with limb loss, limb difference, and mobility impairments have equitable access to the prosthetic and orthotic care they need to live independently, stay healthy, and fully participate in everyday life.
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by Christin Brown | May 30, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, May 30, 2026 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione joined Mayor Cherelle Parker, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, community leaders, family, and residents today for the official renaming of Wissinoming Park in honor of the late Margaret “Marge” Tartaglione, the longtime Philadelphia City Commissioner and trailblazing public servant whose legacy shaped generations.
The park will now officially be known as Margaret Tartaglione Park.
The ceremony celebrated the life and legacy of Marge Tartaglione, the first woman ever elected citywide in Philadelphia history, who served almost 40 years as City Commissioner and became known throughout the city for her toughness, integrity, and unwavering commitment to her community.
“Today is one of the most emotional and meaningful moments of my life,” Senator Tartaglione said. “My mother loved this neighborhood with her whole heart. Long before public service became about headlines or social media, she believed leadership meant showing up, rolling up your sleeves, and doing the work. Whether it was protecting voting rights, helping a constituent, or cleaning up this very park alongside her committee people, she led by example every single day.”
Senator Tartaglione reflected on her mother’s lasting influence both personally and professionally, noting that Marge Tartaglione paved the way for women in government during a time when politics was overwhelmingly dominated by men.
“She taught me that strength and compassion can exist side by side,” said Senator Tartaglione. “People often say they were lucky to have a mother who told them they could do anything. I was lucky enough to have a mother who showed me.”
Councilmember Lozada, who introduced the legislation authorizing the renaming, praised Marge Tartaglione’s enduring impact on Philadelphia and generations of public servants.
“Miss Marge came up in a political world where there were not many women, and she was a trailblazer and determined enough to open doors for others,” said Councilmember Lozada. “She was a straight shooter who ensured that elections were fair and that people had access to polling locations that met their needs. Operating out of her Oxford Circle home’s basement, she knew what was happening on the ground, and she made it easier for people in every neighborhood to exercise their civic responsibility and participate.”
Mayor Parker also joined the celebration and recognized Marge Tartaglione’s historic contributions to Philadelphia public life and civic engagement.
The renaming ensures that future generations visiting Margaret Tartaglione Park will remember a woman who dedicated her life to Philadelphia, believed deeply in community, and never stopped fighting for working families and neighborhoods across the city.
“On behalf of my entire family, I want to thank everyone who helped make this possible,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This honor means more to us than words can express.”
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by Christin Brown | May 6, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA, May 6, 2026 – Today, Senators Tina Tartaglione (D-2, Philadelphia), John Kane (D-9, Chester/Delaware), and Devlin Robinson (R-37, Allegheny) announced that Senate Bill 867 has been signed into law by the Governor, becoming Act No. 16 of 2026. The bipartisan legislation restores and modernizes Pennsylvania’s process for adopting updated accessibility standards in building codes.
“For people with disabilities, accessibility is absolutely essential,” said Senator Tartaglione. “With this bill now signed into law, Pennsylvania can move forward with modern, practical standards that allow everyone to fully participate in their communities. This is about fairness, dignity, and making sure no one is left behind.”
Accessibility provisions, such as requirements for ramps, elevators, door widths, and restroom accommodations, are updated every three years by the International Code Council (ICC), the most widely used standard-setting body in the country. Until 2022, Pennsylvania automatically adopted these updates through the Department of Labor and Industry.
However, a Commonwealth Court decision struck down that process as an unconstitutional delegation of legislative authority, leaving Pennsylvania reliant on outdated 2018 standards with no clear mechanism to adopt future updates.
Act 16 of 2026 addresses this gap by establishing a clear, transparent framework for reviewing and adopting updated accessibility codes. The law empowers the Pennsylvania Accessibility Advisory Board (AAB) to lead the process, ensuring decisions are informed by individuals with lived experience and subject matter expertise.
“The Accessibility Advisory Board is uniquely qualified to take on this responsibility,” Tartaglione added. “This law ensures that the voices of people with disabilities are centered in decisions that directly impact their daily lives.”
Under the new law, proposed updates will include a public comment period, at least one public hearing, and a thorough evaluation of their impact on public health, safety, and welfare, as well as economic considerations and technical feasibility.
“I’m proud to see this legislation signed into law and honored to have worked alongside Senators Tartaglione and Robinson to get it across the finish line,” said Senator John I. Kane. “This bill is about doing what’s right for our community; making sure Pennsylvania continues to move forward when it comes to accessibility and inclusion. Everyone deserves to live, work, and move through their community without unnecessary barriers, and this law helps make that a reality.”
“I’m proud to partner with my colleagues, Senators Tartaglione and Kane, on this bipartisan legislation to allow Pennsylvania’s accessibility codes to be regularly updated,” said Robinson. “These codes are essential so that persons with disabilities can live healthy, productive lives and access public facilities without unnecessary barriers.”
The legislation reflects months of collaboration among lawmakers, the Department of Labor and Industry, and key stakeholders, and passed both chambers with near-unanimous bipartisan support.
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by Christin Brown | April 27, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA, April 27, 2026 – Senator Tina Tartaglione (D-2, Philadelphia) today announced that the Pennsylvania House of Representatives has passed her legislation, Senate Bill 867, with overwhelming bipartisan support, marking a major step forward in restoring and modernizing the Commonwealth’s process for adopting updated accessibility standards in building codes.
“For people with disabilities, accessibility is absolutely essential,” said Senator Tartaglione. “With the House’s strong support, we are one step closer to ensuring Pennsylvania no longer falls behind and instead moves forward with modern, practical standards that allow everyone to fully participate in their communities.”
Accessibility provisions, such as requirements for ramps, elevators, door widths, and restroom accommodations, are updated every three years by the International Code Council (ICC), the most widely used standard-setting body in the country. Until 2022, Pennsylvania automatically adopted these updates through the Department of Labor and Industry.
However, a Commonwealth Court decision struck down that process as an unconstitutional delegation of legislative authority, leaving Pennsylvania reliant on outdated 2018 standards with no mechanism to adopt future updates.
Senate Bill 867 addresses this gap by establishing a clear, transparent framework for reviewing and adopting updated accessibility codes. The legislation empowers the Pennsylvania Accessibility Advisory Board (AAB) to lead the process, ensuring decisions are informed by individuals with lived experience and subject matter expertise.
“The Accessibility Advisory Board is uniquely qualified to take on this responsibility,” Tartaglione added. “This bill ensures that the voices of people with disabilities are centered in decisions that directly impact their daily lives.”
Under the bill, proposed updates will include a public comment period, at least one public hearing, and a thorough evaluation of their impact on public health, safety, and welfare, as well as economic considerations and technical feasibility.
Senate Bill 867 reflects months of collaboration among lawmakers, the Department of Labor and Industry, and key stakeholders, and passed both chambers with near-unanimous support.
“With this vote, the General Assembly is sending a clear message that accessibility matters,” Tartaglione said. “It’s common sense to solve this problem early so that every Pennsylvanian can navigate their community safely and independently in the future.”
Senator Tartaglione thanks Senators Robinson and Kane for their collaboration on this legislation. The bill now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature.
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by Christin Brown | April 21, 2026 | feature, News Releases
HARRISBURG, PA − April 21, 2026 − Today, members of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus were joined by Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis to hold a press conference in the Main Capitol Rotunda to kick off their Affordability Action Plan, which highlights legislation and budget items meant to support working families weathering President Trump’s affordability crisis.
Over the course of the press conference, Senate Democrats drew attention to elements of Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal, delivered on February 3, as well as a series of bills that would bring down costs and expand economic opportunities for Pennsylvanians. Members spoke on key areas impacting the wallets of families, including housing, wages, healthcare, food assistance, transit, and childcare.
“Our message today is clear: Senate Democrats are ready to enact commonsense, bipartisan legislation that will put money back in the pockets of Pennsylvania’s families,” said Senator Costa.“By kicking off our Affordability Action Plan, Senate Democrats are leading the way on delivering meaningful solutions to the affordability crisis facing working families. I look forward to continuing this fight to bring down costs and raise wages, and I urge everyone to join us.”
“Pennsylvania’s economy is growing, and we’re creating more jobs, but Governor Shapiro and I are doing it in spite of what’s happening in Washington,” said Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis. “And we see how working families, seniors and small businesses are struggling, under the weight of rising costs. That’s why the Shapiro-Davis Administration is putting more money back in your pockets. Last year we delivered more than $450 million in tax relief for seniors and working families, and there’s more on the way this year. We could not have gotten that done without the partnership and support of Senate Democrats. But there’s so much more we need to do – to help those Pennsylvanians who need it most.”
Senate Democrats highlighted the following legislation:
The entire Senate Democratic Caucus’s Affordability Action Plan, including today’s press conference and additional legislative initiatives, is available at PASenate.com/Affordability.
Statement from Senator James Andrew Malone:
“It’s time to reward hard work by making sure the people who do it can afford good lives. I’m proud to introduce new legislation to help reduce the cost of childcare by expanding the Employer Childcare Contribution Tax Credit alongside my colleagues’ initiatives that also focus on cutting costs for families.”
Statement from Senator Lindsey Williams:
“Universal School Meals not only helps students be prepared to learn – it also lowers grocery prices for everyone. When students eat breakfast and lunch at school – families save. And as families buy less at the store, prices drop for everyone. SB180 is a win for students and a win for anyone shopping for groceries. This is the kind of investments that the legislature should be making in this year’s budget to make the lives of all Pennsylvanians more affordable.”
Statement from Senator Nick Miller:
“We have heard clearly from Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth: the cost of daily life is too high. Families can no longer afford to wait. It is our responsibility to respond with solutions by implementing a comprehensive energy plan to lower utility costs, investing in housing to increase supply and lower costs, and making sure every family has a fair shot to live comfortably and build a future in their own community.”
Statement from Senator Tina Tartaglione:
“Wages are central to affordability. With costs going up and the minimum wage still stuck at $7.25, too many full-time workers are struggling to get by. The House has passed a bill to get us to a $15 minimum wage, and now the Senate must act. Pennsylvania’s workers can’t afford to wait any longer.”
Statement from Senator Art Haywood:
“Affordability is about dignity; food on the table, care within reach, and a stable home. In the face of devastating federal cuts, Senate Democrats stand with the Shapiro-Davis proposed budget to protect our neighbors and help communities thrive.”
Downloadable footage of today’s press conference and still photography is available upon request.
Learn more about the PA Senate Democrats’ commitment to every Pennsylvanian here.
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by Christin Brown | April 17, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Philadelphia, PA − April 17, 2026 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D–2, Philadelphia) this week announced that more than $2 million in state funding has been awarded to organizations across the 2nd Senatorial District through the Commonwealth’s Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) and Building Opportunities Through Out-of-School Time (BOOST) grant programs.
The funding will support critical, community-based efforts, led by the following organizations, all of which are working on the frontlines to prevent violence, provide opportunity, and support young people across North and Northeast Philadelphia.
- 12 Plus ($500,000)
- Hopeworks ($500,000)
- Oxford Circle Christian Community Development ($500,000)
- PB&J of CultureTrust Greater Philadelphia ($60,000)
- The Lighthouse ($500,000)
“These investments are about saving lives, strengthening communities, and creating real opportunities for our young people,” said Senator Tartaglione. “Violence prevention starts with meeting people where they are, providing mentorship, education, safe spaces, and pathways to success. I’m proud to help bring these resources back to the 2nd District and support organizations that are doing this work every single day.”
The VIP and BOOST programs, administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), provide funding to address community violence and support at-risk youth through out-of-school programming.
VIP funding supports targeted strategies to reduce gun violence and other forms of interpersonal violence in communities most impacted, while BOOST grants invest in programs that provide safe, structured environments for young people outside of school; helping to prevent violence before it begins.
“Public safety is about more than enforcement; it’s about prevention, opportunity, and investment,” Tartaglione added. “By supporting these organizations, we are building stronger, safer neighborhoods and giving our young people the tools they need to succeed.”
Senator Tartaglione remains committed to advocating for resources that uplift communities, reduce violence, and expand access to opportunity across her district.
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by Christin Brown | March 19, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA − March 19, 2026 – Senator Tina Tartaglione (D-2, Philadelphia) proudly announces the unanimous Senate passage of Senate Bill 867, her bipartisan legislation with Senator Devlin Robinson and Senator John Kane to restore and modernize Pennsylvania’s process for adopting updated accessibility standards in building codes.
“For people with disabilities, accessibility is not optional. It’s essential,” said Senator Tartaglione. “This bill ensures Pennsylvania does not fall behind and continues moving forward with modern, practical standards that allow everyone to fully participate in their communities.”
Accessibility provisions, such as requirements for ramps, elevators, door widths, and restroom accommodations, are updated every three years by the International Code Council (ICC), the most widely used standard setting body in the country. Until 2022, Pennsylvania automatically adopted these updates through the Department of Labor and Industry.
However, a Commonwealth Court decision struck down that process, ruling it an unconstitutional delegation of legislative authority. As a result, the Commonwealth has been forced to rely on outdated 2018 standards, with no clear mechanism to adopt future updates.
SB 867 addresses this gap by establishing a clear, transparent framework for reviewing and adopting updated accessibility codes. The legislation empowers Pennsylvania’s Accessibility Advisory Board (AAB) to lead this process, ensuring decisions are guided by individuals with lived experience and subject matter expertise.
“The Accessibility Advisory Board is uniquely qualified to take on this responsibility,” Tartaglione added. “It ensures that the voices of people with disabilities are not just heard, but centered in decisions that directly affect their daily lives.”
“This bill comes down to the everyday experiences folks have in their own communities,” said Senator Kane. “Whether it’s being able to get into a building, use a restroom, or move through a space safely, those are things most of us take for granted, but they make all the difference for someone with a disability. This legislation makes sure we’re not stuck in the past and that we’re continuing to improve access, safety, and independence for all of our neighbors.”
Under the bill, proposed updates will include public comment, at least one public hearing, and careful evaluation of their impact on public health, safety, welfare, economic considerations, and technical feasibility.
The legislation reflects months of collaboration among lawmakers, the Department of Labor and Industry, and key stakeholders.
“I was proud to partner with my colleague, Senator Tartaglione, and my co-chair of the Labor & Industry Committee, Senator Kane, to advance this important legislation to direct how Pennsylvania approves new accessibility code measures,” said Senator Robinson. “This commonsense bill will help ensure our fellow Pennsylvanians with disabilities aren’t subject to unnecessary challenges in their everyday lives due to delays in adoption of new accessibility code provisions, and I’m glad to see it approved unanimously by the full Senate today.”
Senate Bill 867 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
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by Christin Brown | January 25, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, January 25, 2026 – Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-2, Philadelphia) released the following statement in response to the recent killings involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), condemning the agency’s actions and calling for immediate accountability and federal action to protect our communities.
“Another person has been killed on American streets by ICE, and we cannot stay quiet.
In Minneapolis, ICU nurse Alex Pretti, a caregiver to veterans, a neighbor, a compassionate figure in his community, was fatally shot by ICE agents. This heartbreaking loss follows the murder of Renee Nicole Good, a mother who was shot multiple times by an ICE agent earlier this month.
What is happening in our communities is a betrayal of our values, our laws, and our basic humanity. Families are being terrorized, rights are being ignored, and ordinary people are being killed without clear accountability. When federal action results in death instead of safety, when it tears apart families instead of protecting them, we must demand answers and change.
The people of Pennsylvania and communities across this country deserve leaders who will call for responsible, humane policy and demand that federal actions never again result in avoidable tragedy. Congress and federal leaders must act to stop this unchecked violence.”
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by Christin Brown | January 20, 2026 | feature, News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, January 20, 2026 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D–2, Philadelphia) announced today that $858,289 in state funding has been awarded to support pedestrian infrastructure and streetscape improvements at the Frankford Transportation Center, a critical transit hub in Northeast Philadelphia. The funding was awarded through Pennsylvania’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, which invests in projects that strengthen economic development and ensure safe, reliable transportation across the Commonwealth.
The grant will support the Frankford Transportation Center’s Transit Oriented Development project and will fund enhancements including pedestrian safety improvements, upgraded streetscape features, and better connectivity to surrounding transportation assets. These investments will improve access for commuters, residents, and small businesses while supporting long-term, transit-oriented growth in the neighborhood.
“The Frankford Transportation Center is a lifeline for so many people in my district who rely on public transit to get to work, school, and essential services,” said Senator Tartaglione. “This investment makes our streets safer, improves walkability, and helps ensure that development around this hub works for the people who use it every day.”
The Multimodal Transportation Fund supports projects that develop, rehabilitate, and enhance transportation assets in existing communities, including sidewalks, lighting, pedestrian safety improvements, and transit-oriented development. Grants are available for projects with total costs of $100,000 or more, with awards of up to $3 million per project.
Senator Tartaglione emphasized that investments like this are essential for her district. “When we invest in infrastructure around transit hubs, we’re investing in workers, families, and economic opportunity,” she said. “This funding will help strengthen the Frankford community and keep our transportation system safe, accessible, and reliable.”
Applications for the Multimodal Transportation Fund are accepted annually between March 1 and July 31, with awards approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority later in the year.
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by Christin Brown | November 12, 2025 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA – November 12, 2025 – Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D, Philadelphia) released the following statement after final passage of the 2025–26 Pennsylvania state budget:
“While this budget was long overdue, I’m proud that we have delivered a responsible and balanced plan that truly reflects the needs and priorities of working Pennsylvanians. This budget supports affordability, job growth, public safety, and education, without raising taxes, and even provides tax relief for nearly one million residents.
We’ve worked tirelessly to craft a budget that invests in people, not politics. It funds our public schools fairly and constitutionally, strengthens childcare and direct care workforces, and expands food access and human services for families feeling the strain of rising costs and federal uncertainty.
That includes a desperately needed paycheck of at least $450 to childcare workers who are critical to supporting the children and families I represent and an additional $21M in state funding that will go directly into the pockets of participant-directed homecare workers. This is their first meaningful raise in years and cannot be watered down to add to the profits of businesses. Literally until the day of signing, in Philadelphia and in Harrisburg, I fought alongside union workers and my Democratic colleagues to make this happen and I’m ecstatic that the Governor is following through on our commitment to supporting children, parents, patients, and workers in my district and Pennsylvania.
Importantly, we’ve also included language to increase student enrollment at The Bridgeway School, Pennsylvania’s only recovery high school, from 20 to 35 students, along with a $234,000 increase in funding. As someone who has spent much of my career fighting for recovery resources and addiction support services, this is deeply personal to me. Every young person who chooses recovery deserves a chance at education, dignity, and a second chance, and I believe that Bridgeway can act as a model for more recovery high schools throughout the state. This funding will expand access to that opportunity and help more families rebuild their futures.
This year’s budget also creates a new Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit to provide direct relief to families who are struggling to make ends meet. My district ranks number one in eligible constituents for this new credit. That means real money back in the pockets of hardworking families right here in the 2nd district.
But while this budget is a step forward, there is more work to do. We know the federal government will continue to undermine progress made in Harrisburg and too many Pennsylvanians are working full-time and still living in poverty. Until we raise the minimum wage, a fight I have led for too many years, our Commonwealth will continue to fall short of its moral responsibility to working people.
This budget is progress. It delivers meaningful relief and targeted investments that will make a difference in people’s lives, but we can and must continue to do better to ensure every Pennsylvanian has the opportunity to live, work, and thrive with dignity.”
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by Christin Brown | November 10, 2025 | feature, News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA − November 10, 2025 −Today, Senate Democratic Policy Committee held a hearing to examine direct care employee wages, and the trends observed in the Commonwealth over the last decade.
“Earlier this year, I walked a day in the life of a home care worker and heard directly about the urgent need to support home care workers and the individuals in their care,” said Senator Nick Miller. “Today’s hearing further underscores the urgency of investing in those who demonstrate unwavering dedication, compassion, and selflessness in these roles. I have witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made by home care workers, who often prioritize the well-being of their community members over their own. It is time for the legislature to move forward with investments to support these crucial members of our communities.”
“Our direct care workers need a living wage. They are indispensable to the patients they serve, yet we hear story after story about direct care workers struggling to pay their bills or needing to decide between their own healthcare or groceries. That is not right. We need to take care of the people who take care of our communities,” said Senator Vincent Hughes, Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair.
“Supporting our home care workforce is deeply personal to me,” said Senator Tartaglione. “As someone living with a disability, I know the difference that care and compassion can make in a person’s life. Direct care workers provide independence, dignity, and connection for seniors and people with disabilities across Pennsylvania. In my district alone, more than half the residents rely on Medicaid, so the need for strong home care services is tremendous. Investing in these workers is both a moral and practical necessity, and I’m proud to work with my colleagues and advocates to strengthen this vital profession.”
“The labor of hundreds of thousands of home care workers allows people across our commonwealth to receive the dignified, compassionate support they need to remain in their homes and communities, yet these workers are overburdened, overworked, and shamefully undercompensated,” said Senator Saval. “Right now, even as demand for these vital services grows, many skilled caregivers are forced to leave their profession for jobs that enable them to support their families. Creating a Direct Care Workers Wage Board would provide a mechanism for workers to have their needs addressed so that they can continue to provide expert care. The health of our communities depends on these workers and on our commonwealth’s ability to sustain them in this field.”
“How we support our direct care workforce reflects how we value our seniors and most vulnerable neighbors,” said Senator Kim. “This could one day be any of us or someone we love, and we have a responsibility to ensure the system works when families need it most. Through better data collection, stronger accountability measures, and competitive wages that help us recruit and retain good people – a recent independent and bipartisan study confirms what we’ve heard from families and workers alike: we can and must do better.
Stevi Sprenkle, Project Manager at PA Legislative Budget & Finance Committee (LBFC), a bipartisan, bicameral legislative service agency consisting of twelve members of the General Assembly, shared a study of HR 165: Home and Community-Based Services.
In their findings, LBFC found there is no government data that specifically tracks the home and community-based workforce in Pennsylvania, and the demand for home and community-based services are expected to continue to grow in Pennsylvania, further exacerbating the direct care worker shortage.
Matt Yarnell, President of SEIU Healthcare PA, which represents more than 25,000 healthcare workers, testified that Pennsylvania needs to invest in this workforce to achieve improvements in the long-term care system.
“We need more investment into direct care workers and home care services in order to make sure we’re able to provide care for the growing population of aging and physically disabled Pennsylvanians who need it,” said Yarnell. “That’s why we’re working to grow the participant-directed model of care, and why we’re supporting the legislature’s work towards bolstering this workforce to make these good, union, family-sustaining jobs.”
Monica McDuffie, a dedicated home care worker, highlighted the sacrifices she has made in her dual roles as both a caregiver and a nursing student. She faces the challenges of living with a rare organ condition that weakens her respiratory system and relies on Medicaid for essential, life-sustaining medication.
“Every day I take care of people whose lives depend on me,” said McDuffie. “One of my clients is a woman in a wheelchair. She needs me to help her eat, bathe, go to the bathroom, and stay clean and comfortable. For her, homecare means dignity. It means being able to live a full life and be treated as a whole person rather than merely survive.”
Tony Brooks, consumer, also explained his experience as his care attendant left the industry due to low wages.
“My disability is not going to be any better than it was 15 years ago,” Brooks said. “I am aging, and I am going to be needing services. I had personal care attendant who was helping me, but she had to leave the job because the pay wasn’t what she felt that would help her. So, I had to depend on my family.”
“Our association recently submitted our call for a 2026-27 rate increase to strengthen wages and benefits, protect access to care for Medicaid recipients and stabilize the network,” said Cody Jones, Senior Director of Government Affairs for Pennsylvania Homecare Association. “Pennsylvania must take immediate steps in the right direction if it hopes to retain its workforce and avoid further access crises.”
Rhiannon DiClemente, Employment Unit Attorney, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia shared stories of home health workers from her time meeting and working with them that includes wage theft.
“Wage theft is a very prevalent problem in the home health care industry,” said DiClemente. “In 2021, the U.S. Department of Labor launched a nationwide initiative focusing on home health agencies to enforce our wage and hour laws. The DOL completed 1600 investigations in the first year of this initiative and recovered $28.6 million in back wages for nearly 25,000 workers.”
Testimony
- SEIU
- Community Legal Services
- PA Legislative Budget & Finance Committee
- PA Homecare Association (PHA)
- Home Care Workers
- Home Care Recipients
Senator Nick Miller was elected Policy Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus in December 2024. Today’s hearing was his eleventh as Chair.
Footage of the hearing, as well as the written testimony of the panel, is available at PASenatorMiller.com/Policy. Photographs and downloadable video are available upon request.
Learn more about the PA Senate Democrats’ priorities visit www.pasenate.com.
Testimony
Panel 1: Methodology and Overview of Study (HR 165 of 2023)
Panel 2: State of the Care System
Panel 3: Impacts within the Industry
Panel 4: Workers’ Advocacy
- Rhiannon DiClemente, Employment Unit Attorney, Community Legal Services of Phila
Additional Information
by Christin Brown | November 7, 2025 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA, November 7, 2025 – A bipartisan school safety measure championed by Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D–2) and Senator Jarrett Coleman (R–16) is now law. Governor Josh Shapiro yesterday signed Senate Bill 246, now Act 44 of 2025, ensuring that parents, guardians, and school staff are promptly notified whenever a weapon is discovered on school property or during a school-related activity.
“Every parent deserves to know when there’s a safety threat at their child’s school, especially one involving a weapon,” said Senator Tartaglione. “This law closes a dangerous loophole and ensures transparency and accountability in every school district across Pennsylvania. Safety shouldn’t be a secret.”
Prior to Act 44, schools were only required to report weapon incidents to the Department of Education if they resulted in expulsions. The new law mandates timely notification to families and school personnel whenever a weapon is found, whether brought by a student, staff member, or visitor, creating a consistent statewide standard.
“This is a commonsense, bipartisan step forward for school safety,” Tartaglione said. “By strengthening communication between schools, parents, and educators, we’re helping restore trust and give families the peace of mind they deserve.”
Senator Tartaglione thanked Senator Coleman for his partnership and recognized the Pennsylvania School Boards Association and the Pennsylvania State Education Association for their collaboration in shaping the legislation.
“Most schools already communicate well with parents,” Tartaglione added. “Now, thanks to Act 44, all schools across the Commonwealth will meet the same clear, consistent standard to keep our children safe.”
The provisions of Act 44 will take effect on January 6, 2026, 60 days after its enactment.
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by Christin Brown | October 22, 2025 | feature
Harrisburg, PA − October 22, 2025 – Today, the Pennsylvania Senate gave final approval to Senate Bill 246, sponsored by Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D–2) and Senator Jarrett Coleman (R–16), concurring with House amendments and sending the bipartisan legislation to the Governor’s desk for signature.
The bill, which passed the Senate earlier this year 45–4 and the House 202–1, ensures that parents, guardians, and school staff are promptly notified whenever a weapon is discovered on school grounds or during school activities, regardless of whether the incident results in an expulsion.
“Every parent deserves to know when there’s a safety threat at their child’s school, especially one involving a weapon,” said Senator Tartaglione. “Right now, if a weapon is found but doesn’t lead to an expulsion, families may never be informed. That’s unacceptable. Safety shouldn’t be a secret.”
Under current law, school districts must only report incidents involving weapons to the Department of Education when they result in expulsions. Senate Bill 246 closes that gap, requiring timely notice to both families and school personnel whenever a weapon is found, whether brought by a student, staff member, or visitor.
“This bill doesn’t point fingers or create panic,” Tartaglione added. “It’s a commonsense, bipartisan solution that builds trust and transparency between schools, parents, and staff.”
Senator Tartaglione commended Senator Coleman for his partnership and praised stakeholders like the Pennsylvania School Boards Association and the PennsylvaniaState Education Association for their constructive input in shaping the legislation.
“Most schools already communicate effectively with families, but this ensures consistency statewide,” Tartaglione said. “Senate Bill 246 will strengthen confidence in our schools and give parents the peace of mind they deserve.”
The legislation now awaits the Governor’s signature.
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by Christin Brown | October 22, 2025 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA, October 22, 2025 – The Senate Labor and Industry Committee today voted unanimously to advance Senate Bill 867, legislation introduced by Senator Christine Tartaglione (D–Philadelphia) to modernize Pennsylvania’s process for reviewing and adopting accessibility building codes.
The bill comes in response to a 2022 Commonwealth Court ruling that struck down the Department of Labor and Industry’s automatic adoption of updated accessibility standards issued by the International Code Council (ICC). As a result of that decision, Pennsylvania has been forced to rely on outdated 2018 accessibility codes, leaving the Commonwealth behind as national standards continue to evolve.
“Without legislative action, Pennsylvania would remain stuck in the past,” said Senator Tartaglione. “People with disabilities deserve safe, accessible spaces that reflect today’s best practices. Senate Bill 867 ensures we have a fair, transparent, and inclusive process for updating these vital standards.”
Under Senate Bill 867, the Accessibility Advisory Board (AAB) will be responsible for reviewing future updates to the ICC accessibility codes. The review process will include opportunities for public comment and hearings and will evaluate factors such as public health and safety, economic impact, and technical feasibility. The AAB, which includes members with disabilities, was chosen for this responsibility because of its expertise and understanding of accessibility issues.
“This bill was built on collaboration and compromise,” Senator Tartaglione added. “It represents a balanced approach that strengthens accessibility standards while ensuring meaningful public input.”
Senator Tartaglione thanked Chairman Robinson, Chairman Kane, and the Department of Labor and Industry for their partnership in advancing the legislation.
Senate Bill 867 now awaits advancement to the Senate floor for consideration.
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by Christin Brown | October 15, 2025 | feature, News Releases
Harrisburg, PA, October 15, 2025 – State Senators Christine M. Tartaglione (D–Philadelphia) and Nikil Saval (D–Philadelphia) today announced the introduction of Senate Bill 1054, groundbreaking legislation that would require all high schools in Pennsylvania to maintain opioid antagonists, such as naloxone or Narcan, onsite and to follow procedures developed by the Department of Education in consultation with the Department of Health for responding to opioid overdoses.
Senators Tartaglione and Saval introduced this bill in partnership with student leaders from the University of Pennsylvania’s Forum for Legislative Action, who first brought the idea forward and have been key advocates in shaping the proposal. The students issued the following statement in response to the bill’s introduction:
“As young people who have grown up amid the rise of the fentanyl crisis and many of us having witnessed its impact firsthand, advocating for access to Naloxone in schools was deeply important to us because it ensures that schools are equipped with lifesaving tools. By doing so, the state can take a proactive stance in protecting its youth, preventing avoidable tragedies, and confronting this public health emergency with the urgency it demands.”
While various measures have been taken by the executive branch, including former Governor Tom Wolf’s 2015 standing order allowing schools to store naloxone, SB 1054 would mark the first statutory requirement to guarantee uniformity and preparedness in every high school across the Commonwealth.
“I’m extremely proud to partner with Senator Saval and our student advocates to enable our schools to fight back against this tragic epidemic that has taken too many young lives from my district and our Commonwealth,” said Senator Tartaglione. “This bill ensures that every Pennsylvania high school has the tools and training to save lives in the face of an overdose emergency.”
While the legislation ensures every high school is ready to respond, it also protects the rights of school employees who are uncomfortable or unwilling to participate in overdose response efforts. Under the bill, a school employee’s designation as an opioid emergency responder must be strictly voluntary, and no school may compel any employee to receive training or respond to an overdose emergency against their will. In addition, any employee who volunteers to complete training must do so during regular working hours or be compensated appropriately if the training occurs outside their normal schedule.
In drafting SB 1054, Senators Tartaglione and Saval worked closely with a broad coalition of stakeholders, including student advocates, school employees, and school board representatives, to ensure the legislation balances preparedness with respect for workers’ rights.
“When we join together to ensure everyone has the tools they need to be safe in the wake of addiction, we build more secure communities where anyone can recover and shape their futures,” said Senator Saval. “Opioid antagonists are a proven intervention to reverse overdose and avoid tragedy. I’m grateful for the advocacy of the brilliant student leaders who shaped this policy to prepare high schools to take life-saving action and to Senator Tartaglione for her partnership.”
Senator Tartaglione added, “This is what good legislation looks like. Students, educators, and policymakers coming together to address an urgent public health crisis. Naloxone saves lives, and by equipping our schools, we’re empowering our communities to act quickly and compassionately in the face of tragedy.”
Senate Bill 1054 now awaits referral to a standing committee, where it must be considered and approved before potential advancement to the Senate floor for a vote.
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by Christin Brown | September 8, 2025 | feature, News Releases
HARRISBURG, PA – September 8, 2025 − Today, State Senator James Andrew Malone (D-36, Lancaster) spoke on the Senate floor in support of Resolutions 138 and 144, which he introduced with Senator Tina Tartaglione (D-2, Philadelphia), to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month and September 10 as Suicide Prevention Day, respectively.
“Each year, suicide claims the lives of nearly 2,000 of our neighbors in Pennsylvania,” said Senator Malone. “According to the CDC, more than 49,000 people died by suicide nationally in 2023. Our hope is to lower deaths by suicide through raising awareness concerning the importance of having open conversations about mental health.”
Research shows that open and honest conversations about mental health can lower the risk of death by suicide. With 1 in 13 people across Pennsylvania reporting serious mental health challenges, Senators Malone and Tartaglione introduced Resolutions 138 and 144 to raise awareness and encourage people to have open conversations with friends and family about mental health.
“Whenever discuss suicide, we must always call out the elephant in the room,” Senator Malone continued. “Firearms are the most common method used in suicides across the U.S. They accounted for more than 50% of all suicides in 2023.”
As a gun owner and sportsman, Senator Malone encouraged everyone to protect their families and loved ones by safely storing firearms.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available. Call or text 988, or chat via 988lifeline.org to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
