by Christin Brown | January 31, 2020 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – January 31, 2020 – In coordination with Governor Tom Wolf’s Reach Out PA: Your Mental Health Matters initiative announced earlier this month, Pennsylvania Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine joined Sen. Tina Tartaglione to lead a roundtable discussion on the mental health challenges and needed supports for those with substance use disorder.
The Reach Out PA initiative is a multi-agency effort and anti-stigma campaign aimed at expanding resources and the state’s comprehensive support of mental health and related health care priorities in Pennsylvania. Reach Out PA will address many recommendations for improving mental-health services laid out by the Council on Reform, created last year by the governor’s executive order to protect vulnerable populations.
“As part of the Governor’s Reach Out PA: Your Mental Health Matters campaign, we want everyone to feel comfortable speaking about their mental health,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Talking about mental health issues and the resources individuals need is essential to making sure every resident has access to the care they need. Understanding that it is okay to not feel okay is essential as we work to establish a healthy Pennsylvania for all.”
“At the same time, as advocates and leaders, we must acknowledge the weaknesses in the mental-health system and find ways to ensure that every Pennsylvanian has access to the care they need regardless of location, income and the type of care – including that to support substance use disorder – they need.”
According to a 2017 study from the University of Southern California, approximately 1 million adult Pennsylvanians struggled with serious psychological distress at least once in 2015. Of those adults, more than 27 percent had an unmet need for mental health care. That population includes 42 percent who did not receive mental health care because they could not afford it.
At Friday’s roundtable, mental health providers and advocates, along with community members joined Dr. Levine and Sen. Tartaglione to focus discussion on the mental-health needs and barriers to treatment for Pennsylvanians.
“I’d like to thank the Wolf administration, the medical community, the recovery community, and insurers for convening this roundtable to reinforce and expand our efforts to address Pennsylvania’s opioid emergency.” Sen. Tartaglione said. “As we strive to heal people who suffer from opioid use disorder, it is crucial that we identify and treat the mental health conditions that often contribute to and perpetuate their illness. We must develop and employ an integrated approach that treats the entire person, an approach that prepares patients for a healthy and productive life.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or is considering suicide, help is available. Reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact Crisis Text Line by texting PA to 741-741.
Find more information on the Wolf Administration’s fight against the opioid crisis here.
MEDIA CONTACT: Nate Wardle- 717-787-1783 or [email protected]
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by Christin Brown | January 30, 2020 | News Releases
Asbestos and lead paint detection and remediation will be two focus areas for statewide targeted investments at schools, day care centers, homes, and public water systems.
Harrisburg, PA, January 30, 2020 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) yesterday joined Governor Tom Wolf and many of her legislative colleagues to announce a $1.1 billion combined state and federal funding proposal for the remediation of toxic materials including asbestos and lead from Pennsylvania’s schools, day care centers, homes, and public water systems.
The major portion of the proposal is an investment of up to $1 billion in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant opportunities for aging schools throughout the state where toxins threaten the health of students, teachers, staff, and the community members who visit the facilities.
“This is a timely and meaningful commitment to Pennsylvania’s students and educators, a far-reaching and comprehensive investment in our aging school buildings,” Senator Tartaglione said. “There is an urgent need for these resources because with every week, every day, and every hour that passes, countless individuals may be exposed to undetected toxic substances.”
The governor also proposed leveraging $4 million in state funding to obtain $10 million in additional federal funding through the Health Services Initiative (HSI), a collaboration involving the Department of Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to remediate lead in places where children have been exposed to high levels of the harmful substance.
Further, the governor proposed employing recently adopted federal legislation that allows states to transfer dollars from their clean water state revolving fund allocations into their drinking water state revolving funds. Doing so could free up to $90 million in Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) grants for lead water service line replacements.
To address housing-related lead-based paint hazards, Pennsylvania and several local communities within the state have been awarded $22.5 million in grants through the federal Lead Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program since last September. The governor has proposed to convene a roundtable of these recipients coordinated by the state’s Department of Health to ensure collaboration in the implementation of their hazard reduction projects.
Finally, the Wolf administration has applied to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for a $1.7 million Lead Testing in School and Child Care Program Drinking Water Grant. The EPA has not announced the award recipients for the program. Funding would support environmental testing at 3,000 Pennsylvania schools and childcare facilities.
In recent months, Senator Tartaglione has worked closely with public school stakeholders from Philadelphia and from throughout the Commonwealth to develop solutions to the pervasive toxic schools problem.
Six public schools in Philadelphia, including several in Senator Tartaglione’s district, have been shut down for emergency repairs this academic year after environmental tests revealed the presence of hazardous asbestos. One elementary school was closed for more than three weeks, declared safe to reopen, then closed again just two days later when additional asbestos was detected.
“We know that until the late 1970s, asbestos was commonly used in school construction. In Philadelphia and communities of all sizes throughout the state, most schools fall into that category,” Senator Tartaglione said. “We know the threat. The fear is what we don’t know about. Experts tell us it can take years, even decades, after someone is exposed to asbestos for harmful and often fatal illnesses to surface.”
Earlier this month, Senator Tartaglione convened a summit of local, state, and federal elected officials, organized labor leaders, and public-school officials where participants shared knowledge and ideas on the issue.
“Our conversations then and those I have had with various stakeholders since then reaffirm that this is not just a Philadelphia issue, a Democratic or Republican issue, or an urban or rural issue,” Senator Tartaglione said. “It’s an issue for all Pennsylvanians. Protecting the health of our school children, teachers, staff, and administrators must be our highest priority as we fulfill our Constitutional obligation to provide all kids with access to equal and safe public education. We have inherited a heavy burden, and we all have a role in carrying the load.”
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | January 17, 2020 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA – January 17, 2020 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) issued the following statement regarding the School District of Philadelphia’s response to asbestos contamination at Alexander McClure Elementary School and at Francis Hopkinson Elementary School:
“I am extremely frustrated and deeply concerned that the School District of Philadelphia was forced to close Alexander McClure Elementary School for a second time today after new environmental testing revealed that the district failed to properly contain hazardous airborne asbestos in the building. The district spent more than three weeks on this emergency project before declaring McClure safe to reopen just two days ago.”
“I am equally disappointed that the district has also detected hazardous asbestos inside Francis Hopkinson Elementary School. Yet – in this case – it has chosen to keep the building open for regularly scheduled classes and activities. It is my understanding that the district notified students’ parents in a letter, but it did not promptly share its new knowledge of this threat with the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers.”
“These two cases, within the context of the citywide toxic schools crisis, raise serious questions about the district’s ability or will to systematically identify and promptly remediate materials that threaten the health of students, faculty, and staff. They also demonstrate a troubling lack of consistent and effective communication by the district with its many stakeholders including students and their families, teachers, staff, and the communities served by the schools.”
“In light of these two cases, and the unresolved complaints of environmental hazards at many other public schools, I call upon the district to complete comprehensive and fully transparent environmental inspections immediately at every public school throughout Philadelphia.”
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
William Kenny
Communications Director for
State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione
Office: 215-533-0440
[email protected]
by Christin Brown | January 14, 2020 | News Releases
The Frankford CDC will use the Local Share Account funding to stabilize the blighted Paul Street property and prepare it for commercial and residential redevelopment.
Philadelphia, PA − January 14, 2020 − State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) visited the headquarters of the Frankford Community Development Corporation (CDC) today to deliver a $54,610 state grant that will help the CDC to stabilize and rehabilitate a fire-damaged mixed-use property in the heart of the local commercial district.
“The CDC has made great strides in recent years to revitalize the Frankford Avenue corridor, remove blight, and promote the growth of new businesses. This public investment will enable the CDC to continue its work, which has had a tremendous positive impact throughout the community,” Senator Tartaglione said.
The grant was awarded through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account program, which reallocates a portion of the funds generated by casinos that operate slot machines within Philadelphia.
“The Local Share Account grant will allow the Frankford CDC to stabilize what is now a hazardous and blighted site at 4663 Paul Street,” said Kimberly Washington, Esq., executive director of the Frankford CDC. “This vacant property is the last remaining site on the block in need of improvements, making it vital to the Frankford CDC’s goals to revitalize Frankford Avenue as set out in its Reimagining Margaret-Orthodox initiative.”
On October 26, 2018, flames ravaged the three-story storefront, which is just two doors from the Frankford CDC office and less than a block from SEPTA’s bustling Market-Frankford El. The multi-alarm blaze largely gutted the property, which was being used as an unlicensed boarding house. It burned for several hours and spread to a neighboring building, causing severe damage to the second and third floors of both structures.
Frankford CDC bought the property last fall and will use the new grant funding for the first phase of its rehabilitation, including cleanout, demolition, framing, roof replacement, and floor stabilization. These measures will address any immediate safety issues and prevent structural damage to neighboring buildings.
The non-profit CDC will seek to raise additional funding to complete final renovations that will include commercial space on the ground floor, as well as four affordable housing units on the second and third floors.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | January 7, 2020 | News Releases
$50,000 in combined funding will enable teachers to visit local employers to learn the skills and industry trends that will improve their students’ career readiness.
Philadelphia, PA, January 6, 2020 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) today announced that two schools in the 2nd Senate District are among 92 Local Education Agencies (LEA) across Pennsylvania that have been awarded Teacher in the Workplace grants through the state’s Department of Education.
Antonia Pantoja Community Charter School at 4101 N. American Street and John B. Stetson Charter School at 3200 B Street will each receive a $25,000 targeted grant to enable teachers to visit local employers and learn the skills and industry trends to enhance their classroom instruction, improve student learning, and improve students’ career readiness.
“The greatest professional challenge facing young people today is not finding a job. It’s finding a career that will support them and their families for many years to come,” Senator Tartaglione said. “To meet this challenge, it is vital for educators to understand the changing labor market and to learn what careers provide students with the best opportunities.”
The Department of Education awarded $2.2 million in targeted grants to schools statewide. Grants are also available through the Department of Labor for other LEAs including businesses, chambers of commerce, labor organizations, postsecondary institutions, community organizations, public libraries, trade associations, and economic development entities. Teacher in the Workplace grants consist of federal funding allocated through the Every Student Succeeds Act and state funding through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | December 20, 2019 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, December 20, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) issued the following statement regarding the School District of Philadelphia’s closures of Laura H. Carnell Elementary School and Alexander K. McClure Elementary School due to the detection of hazardous asbestos in the schools:
“I was disheartened and disturbed, but not surprised, to learn that hazardous asbestos has been detected at Carnell and McClure, both of which serve families of the 2nd Senate District. As a member of the Fund Our Facilities Coalition and through the diligent advocacy of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, I have become keenly aware of the pervasiveness of hazardous materials in public schools throughout the city and I remain committed to identifying resources that will enable the School District to eliminate the threats and protect the health of the people who occupy these aging facilities every day.”
“In addition, I will continue to fight for state legislation that will extend OSHA safety protections for state and local public employees, as well as all people who use our public buildings. It’s tragic that our schoolchildren and our dedicated educators cannot focus on the important work they do without fearing long-term and potentially fatal health complications. I commend the School District for taking swift action to close Carnell and McClure until the hazards are remediated. Yet, formulating, adopting, and funding a comprehensive plan to remediate ALL schools must be our top priority.”
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | December 18, 2019 | Minimum Wage, News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, December 18, 2019 – Democratic legislators from both chambers of the Pennsylvania General Assembly evoked The Grinch and Scrooge to denounce the inaction by House Republican leadership on Senate Bill 79, legislation that would raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $9.50 an hour by January 2022.
State Senators Christine M. Tartaglione and Art Haywood, and State Reps. Patty Kim and Christopher M. Rabb hosted the news conference with the support of their Democratic caucus colleagues and Secretary of Labor & Industry W. Gerard Oleksiak. All four lawmakers have introduced legislation aimed at modernizing Pennsylvania’s Minimum Wage Act to reflect the rising costs of living and raising families in the Commonwealth.
Senator Tartaglione, the primary sponsor of SB 79, read a passage from the Dr. Seuss classic, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” while comparing House Speaker Mike Turzai to the poem’s infamous title character.
“There are literally millions of ‘Whos’ living in every city, every small town, and every ‘Whoville’ across this great Commonwealth,” Senator Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said. “Unlike the loveable creatures in the Dr. Seuss classic, their plight is nothing to delight us every holiday season.”
“Raising the minimum wage has been a priority this year, and we have failed hardworking Pennsylvanians to pass this bill into law,” Senator Haywood (D-Montgomery/Philadelphia) said. “I stand here with my colleagues to continue to offer support for raising the minimum wage in Pennsylvania and pull hardworking families out of poverty.”
Representative Rabb (D-Philadelphia) extended the holiday theme by quoting Charles Dickens’ novel, “A Christmas Carol,” equating Speaker Turzai to Ebenezer Scrooge, and warning that the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come may soon be paying him a visit.
“These working people aren’t asking for charity,” Representative Rabb said. “These people are working – working hard – for 40, 50 hours a week or more. These people are serving your Christmas dinners, cleaning the hotels your visiting relatives are staying at, and making sure you’ve got a place to get gas and batteries and milk when everything else is closed. They’re asking for the fair day’s pay for a hard day’s work they’ve earned and they’re owed.”
“The modest raise in Senate Bill 79 would make a major difference for so many families, especially families and households led by women,” Representative Kim (D-Dauphin) said. “I’m sad, I’m disappointed, but I’m also ready to fight until these people get the raise they’ve earned.”
Pennsylvania’s base minimum wage stands at the national minimum of $7.25 an hour and has not increased since 2009, when the federal rate took effect. Pennsylvania last enacted an increase to its minimum wage on July 9, 2006. That’s 4,910 days ago.
With strong bipartisan support, the Senate overwhelmingly adopted SB 79 on November 20. The legislation then moved to the House for consideration and was referred to its Labor & Industry Committee. House leaders have not advanced the bill or scheduled it for consideration by the committee.
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by Christin Brown | December 16, 2019 | News Releases
The investment will help to provide more than 900 public school students with new learning and active play opportunities in a safe and secure outdoor environment.
Philadelphia, PA, December 13, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) was joined by State Rep. Jared Solomon at Carnell Elementary School today for the presentation of a $200,388 Pennsylvania grant in support of a new Green Playscape and Community Design project at the school.
Coordinated by the non-profit Oxford Circle Christian Community Development Association, the project will transform a barren, asphalt-covered yard adjoining Carnell’s two instructional buildings into a vibrant recreational and educational space with a climbing wall, play surface and mounds, language path, basketball and soccer goals, and other interactive playground equipment.
“This Green Playscape project is a great example of the power of strong public-private partnerships to create positive change in our communities,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The investment we are making here today will help to create an attractive and useful recreational and learning space that will benefit thousands of children for many years to come.”
The grant was administered through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account, which distributes a portion of slot machine license fees paid by casinos operating in Philadelphia. OCCCDA Executive Director Pearl Wang-Herrera, Carnell Principal Hilderbrand Pelzer III, and Community Design Collaborative Director of Design Heidi Segall Levy took part in the check presentation ceremony.
“We are so thankful for the DCED LSA funding and are excited to transform the current empty asphalt lot to provide a playground to engage the 900 students at Carnell with creative activities and a safe environment,” Wang-Herrera said.
The conceptual plans include a centrally located mural on the ground and a walking path with images that celebrate the cultural diversity of the student population. Two basketball goals and two soccer goals will be installed with a 15-foot fence bordering the court. Recycled rubber surfaces and mounds will help to demarcate play areas dedicated to younger and older pupils.
In addition, a “rock” wall for climbing and surrounding play surface will enable students to strengthen their body coordination, while ADA-approved ramps and pathways will provide full accessibility to the facility. The total cost of the project will be about $1 million.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | December 3, 2019 | News Releases
The investment will help New Kensington CDC to create affordable, neighborhood-oriented commercial and residential units that will revitalize the business corridor.
Philadelphia, PA, December 3, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) delivered a $150,000 Pennsylvania grant today to the New Kensington Community Development Corporation (NKCDC) to help the non-profit organization redevelop two formerly vacant storefronts at 2513-15 Frankford Ave. The adjoining properties will be converted into affordable, neighborhood-oriented commercial and residential space that will revitalize the surrounding business corridor.
The grant was awarded through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Local Share Account program, a fund that distributes a portion of slot machine license fees paid by casinos operating within the City of Philadelphia. Senator Tartaglione visited New Kensington’s new Ruth Street offices to present the funding to CEO Felix Torres-Colon and other New Kensington officials.
“For more than 30 years, New Kensington CDC has done a tremendous job facilitating and overseeing the revitalization of the Frankford Avenue corridor. This is an area that fell on hard times due to the decline of local manufacturing, but it is now growing once again thanks to their efforts,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This state funding will assist the local renaissance by bringing affordable retail and residential space to the avenue, along with jobs and commerce.”
“NKCDC is very excited to receive this Local Share grant from Pennsylvania DCED,” Torres-Colon said. “When we moved our offices to Orinoka Civic House on Somerset Street this year, we saw an opportunity to make another investment in our old office space on Frankford Avenue. In their neighborhood plan, East Kensington residents asked for development that promotes local businesses and maintains affordability. We look forward to creating commercial space and rental apartments that will add to the lively, walkable neighborhood along Frankford Avenue.”
NKCDC acquired the Frankford Avenue properties from the City of Philadelphia in the late 1980s. They were vacant at the time. The non-profit organization established its offices there as it grew to employ 25 people. Earlier this year, NKCDC completed its conversion of a former mill building at Ruth and Somerset streets into Orinoka Civic House. The CDC offices are now located there along with 51 affordable apartment units.
Re-establishing the Frankford Avenue properties as mixed-use, commercial/residential buildings will restore their original, intended use and will be consistent with the city’s Philadelphia2035 Comprehensive Plan for the River Wards. The project will make the properties fully ADA compliant, provide much-needed affordable housing, and expand neighborhood commerce while creating new jobs.
NKCDC, which manages the corridor and maintains it under contract with the city, will market the new commercial properties to potential tenants and support the new businesses as they grow with the community. For information about NKCDC, visit nkcdc.org.Frankford Avenue Storefronts, Senator Christine Tartaglione, Grants
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | November 27, 2019 | News Releases
After delivering the Local Share Account grant to Impact Services Corp., the senator and State Rep. Angel Cruz served Thanksgiving meals to formerly homeless local veterans.
Philadelphia, PA − November 27, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) and State Rep. Angel Cruz delivered a $427,479 grant from Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development to Impact Services Corp. today in support of the nonprofit organization’s renovation of a former Kensington textile mill into a community gymnasium and multi-use campus.
The 12,000-square-foot gymnasium project is part of a $30 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Downs Carpet Mill on the corner of ‘A’ and Indiana streets. Impact Services’ longterm plans for the site – which is part of its “Hope Park Focus Zone” – also include 48 affordable housing units, 60,000 square feet of commercial space, a community center, a health center, and a business incubator. Impact Services already provides housing and supportive services for formerly homeless veterans on-site.
“This project has the potential to completely transform this block and the surrounding neighborhood into a social, cultural, and economic destination. So I was thrilled to help Impact Services secure this major state funding,” Senator Tartaglione said.
“I am pleased that DCED awarded a grant for this project because it is much-needed for the community,” Representative Cruz said. “And I hope to continue supporting the redevelopment of this site.”
“This development is an example of what becomes possible when neighbors and government come together to strengthen a neighborhood,” Impact Services CEO Casey O’Donnell said. “We are grateful that state officials share in the vision and are making the needed investment.”
The grant presented by Senator Tartaglione and Representative Cruz will specifically be used for site preparation, utility separation, demolition of non-historic buildings, heating, air conditioning, and bathroom upgrades. The overall redevelopment project is detailed in Impact Services’ “Heart of Kensington” neighborhood plan and involves the entire 140,000-square-foot former mill. Information about the plan is available at www.impactservices.org/neighborhoodplan/.
The Hope Park Focus Zone contains some of Philadelphia’s most-active blocks for drug activity and crimes. The presence of vacant buildings and lots throughout the area contribute to the drug and crime problems. Yet, the vacancies also provide “clean slate” opportunities for redevelopment.
Impact Services has been working in the Kensington neighborhood since 1974 to help residents get job training, reenter the workforce, find housing, and build the community. In the last two decades, the agency has developed a specific focus on building a continuum of services including housing for homeless veterans. The agency offers transitional and permanent housing for about 200 veterans in two large facilities and several scattered sites.
The grant presented by Senator Tartaglione and Representative Cruz today was administered through DCED’s Local Share Account program, which distributes a portion of slot machine license fees paid by casinos operating within the City of Philadelphia.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-5330440 or mailto:[email protected].v
by Christin Brown | November 20, 2019 | Minimum Wage, News Releases
Harrisburg – November 20, 2019 – Today, State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia), joined State Senator Art Haywood (D-Montgomery/Philadelphia), State Representative Patty Kim (D-103), State Representative Chris Rabb (D-200), and advocacy organization State Innovation Exchange (SiX) for a news conference. This media event was in response to the Senate passage of legislation to increase the minimum wage rate to $9.50 by January 2022.
“Any increase in the minimum wage is a step in the right direction, but the bill adopted by the Senate today falls far short of what Pennsylvania workers need and deserve. This is not the bill that I have been fighting for. It’s not the bill that my colleagues in the Senate and House have been fighting for,” said Senator Tartaglione. “And it’s not the bill that workers have been fighting for. Pennsylvania workers deserve more. We must keep fighting for more and we will not stop until we get it.”
“Today, I voted yes to increase the minimum wage rate to $9.50 over a period of 24 months. There is still no change in the tipped wage for restaurant workers, no annual cost of living adjustment with inflation, and it keeps the ban on cities from increasing their own minimum wage,” said Senator Haywood. “The change from $7.25 to $9.50 gives minimum wage workers a $4,680 raise. I will continue efforts in my district to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour business by business and block by block until there is a fair wage.”
“After nearly a decade of Pennsylvania lagging behind neighboring states, Republicans are finally acknowledging that our current minimum wage is nothing short of a poverty wage. Yet, their response to H.B. 1215 and S.B. 79 is an inadequate counter-proposal to the substance of one fair wage. It is akin to keeping the economic knife in the side of the working poor, yet seeking praise for pulling it out an inch,” said state Rep. Chris Rabb. “More than 40% of the Pennsylvania workforce is working minimum wage jobs. We must ensure workers can adequately provide for their families by fighting for a living wage while breaking the scourge of poverty.”
“According to a poll commissioned by the State Innovation Exchange (SiX) and conducted by TargetSmart, Pennsylvania voters support a wide range of policies in the state to raise wages, strengthen our democracy, reform the criminal justice system, and protect the environment,” said Pennsylvania Director for State Innovation Exchange (SiX), Nikkilia Lu. “62% of voters support raising Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to fifteen dollars an hour over the next five years.”
This legislation is currently awaiting a vote by the Pennsylvania House.
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by Kyrie George | November 20, 2019 | Minimum Wage, News Releases, Videos
by Christin Brown | November 20, 2019 | Minimum Wage, News Releases
Senate Bill 79 proposes to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $9.50/hour by 2022.
Philadelphia, PA, November 20, 2019 – As the Pennsylvania Senate adopted her legislation to raise the state’s minimum wage for the first time in 13 years, State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) today urged her colleagues to continue working toward a higher rate that will enable workers to support themselves and their families.
Senate Bill 79 proposes to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage from $7.25 an hour to $9.50 in four increments concluding on January 1, 2022. The raises would directly benefit approximately 385,000 low-wage workers. The legislation now moves to the Pennsylvania House for consideration.
“The General Assembly hasn’t raised Pennsylvania’s minimum wage in over 13 years, so any increase is a step in the right direction,” Senator Tartaglione said. “While this is not the bill that I have been fighting for, or the bill that Pennsylvania’s low-wage workers have been fighting for, it is important that we do everything we can right now to help people put food on their tables, put a roof over their heads, and educate their children.”
In March, Senator Tartaglione introduced Senate Bill 12 that proposes to raise the minimum wage to $12 this year and to $15 by 2025. SB 12 is awaiting action in the Senate Labor & Industry Committee.
The General Assembly last voted to raise the minimum wage in 2006, when legislation introduced by Senator Tartaglione raised the rate $5.15 to $7.15. The wage floor rose to $7.25 in 2009 in accordance with federal law.
Since then all six of Pennsylvania’s bordering states and 29 states across the nation have adopted wage floors that exceed the federal minimum.
“By adopting SB 79, we have made a statement that we are capable of working together to advance legislation that provides Pennsylvania’s low-wage workers with much-needed and long-awaited relief,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I encourage our counterparts in the House to support this bill and I look forward to working on additional legislation that will continue the progress we have made here today.”
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | November 19, 2019 | Minimum Wage, News Releases
As a $9.50/hour minimum wage plan advanced in the Senate, the amended bill also included a moratorium on changes to PA’s outdated overtime pay rules.
Philadelphia, PA, November 19, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) voted yesterday in favor of raising Pennsylvania’s minimum wage from $7.25 an hour to $9.50 while renewing her call for a much larger increase in the statewide minimum.
During a meeting of the Senate Labor & Industry Committee, members voted unanimously to report a largely amended version of Tartaglione’s SB 79 to the full Senate for consideration. Today, the Senate Appropriations Committee also approved the bill with two no votes from the 24-member panel. The full Senate may vote on the bill as soon as tomorrow.
The legislation proposes to raise the minimum wage to $8.00 next July 1, and by 50 cents every six months until the rate reaches $9.50 on January 1, 2022. Also, under a Republican-driven amendment, the bill would prevent the Department of Labor & Industry from updating the state’s overtime pay rules until January 1, 2023. Under the current rules, employers can refuse to pay overtime wages to any employee making more than $23,660 a year in regular wages.
“With one in eight Pennsylvanians living in poverty, and one in four living in near-poverty – despite our historically low unemployment rate – I simply cannot walk away from legislation that could provide our working poor with at least some relief … even the bare minimum level of relief,” Senator Tartaglione said.
In a separate bill, SB 12, Senator Tartaglione has proposed to raise the minimum wage to $12 this year and to $15 by 2025. Introduced in March, that legislation awaits action in the Labor & Industry Committee.
“I would like nothing better than to vote in favor of legislation that provides a fair raise to Pennsylvania’s minimum wage workers,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I would like nothing better than to give them the raise that they have been waiting 13 years for, a raise that they desperately need and deserve.”
“Likewise, I’d like to see the Commonwealth adopt overtime regulations that guarantee all Pennsylvanians an honest day’s pay for an honest day’s work. Sadly, the drastically-amended bill that was voted on in the Labor Committee has fallen far short of these worthy objectives.”
In June 2018, the Department of Labor & Industry proposed new overtime rules that would raise the overtime pay threshold. After a lengthy public comment period, a modified rulemaking proposal now sits before a state regulatory panel. Under the plan, workers who make less than $45,500 a year in regular wages would be entitled to overtime pay.
Yet in a party-line vote, Labor Committee Republicans amended SB 79 to block the rules changes until 2023. Under new federal regulations, the threshold will increase to $35,568 as of January 1, 2020. But that will exclude more than 80,000 Pennsylvania workers who would gain overtime pay protection under the state’s proposed rules.
Meanwhile, about 385,000 low-wage workers in Pennsylvania stand to benefit directly from a $9.50 minimum wage. That figure pales in comparison to the more than 1 million who would benefit from a $12 minimum or the 2 million who would benefit from a $15 minimum.
Currently, Pennsylvania has a lower minimum wage than all six of its bordering states and is among just 21 mostly Southern and rural states where the federal $7.25 rate is still in effect. SB 12 would bring Pennsylvania back in line with Maryland, New Jersey, and New York, which have already adopted laws leading to $15 minimum wages.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | November 15, 2019 | News Releases
Funding from Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program will support the construction of a new welding lab and expansion of an academic excellence center.
Philadelphia, PA − November 15, 2019 – State Senators Christine Tartaglione and John Sabatina visited Father Judge High School today to present the school’s leadership, supporters, and students with a $1.5 million state redevelopment grant to assist in the construction of a state-of-the-art welding lab and the expansion of an academic excellence center at the Northeast Philadelphia school.
Dozens of enrollees in Father Judge’s welding program enthusiastically joined a ceremonial check presentation. The funding was awarded to the Friends of Father Judge High School, Inc., through the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, which supports organizations in their acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civc, recreational, and historical improvement projects.
“I was honored to advocate for this funding on behalf of Father Judge because of the high-quality education that the school offers to residents of the 2nd Senate District and the entire Philadelphia region,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The welding program and the academic excellence center are perfect examples of the school’s innovative approach to preparing students for academic success and for prosperous careers.”
“It’s an honor to be able to assist Father Judge High School as it continues to expand its educational opportunities to students from our community,” Senator Sabatina said. “As a graduate of Father Judge, I take great pleasure in seeing the school grow into one of the premier high schools in Philadelphia.”
“As the Chairman of the Friends of Father Judge, I am excited about the possibilities the $1.5 million RACP Grant will provide for current and future Crusaders,” said William St. Clair, IV. “We are extremely grateful to Senator Christine Tartaglione and Senator John Sabatina for supporting our application and believing in our vision to provide expanded academic enrichment as well as career and technical pathways for students.”
Welding is the first of several career pathway programs at Father Judge that will provide enhanced career training and prepare students for in-demand, family-sustaining jobs of the present and future. Together, these programs comprise Father Judge’s Career Technical Education Academy, which is dedicated to a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) curriculum.
“Due to the nation’s tight labor market, there is a high demand for all skilled trades. And welding is at the top of the list,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The welding program at Father Judge is giving local students a big advantage that they will use in the coming years to secure lucrative, family-supporting jobs.”
The Father Brisson Center for Academic Excellence at Father Judge was founded in 2003 to assist students with vital reading and math skills and to prepare them for state and national performance series testing. The RACP grant will allow the school to reconfigure and expand the center to serve a growing demand for academic support.
Collectively, the renovations are expected to create dozens of new construction jobs and 10 permanent full-time positions at Father Judge, which serves about 1,200 students representing 29 different ZIP codes in Philadelphia, Bucks, Montgomery, and Delaware counties.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | November 15, 2019 | News Releases
The community improvement, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization awards will support projects in communities throughout the 2nd Senate District.
Philadelphia, PA, November 15, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is pleased to announce that five community organizations in the 2nd Senate District have been awarded grants totaling $882,477 through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account program.
The recipients include Oxford Circle Christian Community Development Association ($200,388), Impact Services Corporation ($427,479), New Kensington Community Development Corporation ($150,000), Frankford Community Development Corporation ($54,610), and Mayfair Community Development Corporation ($50,000).
“I am thrilled that I was able to help each of these beneficial community organizations to secure the crucial funding they need to make neighborhood improvements that will improve the lives of the people of the 2nd District,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I have developed strong relationships with each organization and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of their efforts.”
Oxford Circle CCDA will use its funding to support the Green Playscape and Community Design project at Laura H. Carnell Elementary School. The project will upgrade an entrance gateway, walkways, and fencing, while building out a quiet recreation area within the schoolyard with benches and pave markings. Another play area will be created in front of the school with a new play surface, equipment, and recreational mounds, along with a retaining wall and decorative fencing.
Impact Services will apply its new funding to redevelop a portion of a former textile mill at ‘A’ and Indiana Streets in Kensington into a 13,000-square-foot community gym. Renovations will cover site preparation, utility separation, demolition of non-historic buildings, heating, air conditioning, and bathroom upgrades. This project is part of a 140,000-square-foot redevelopment of the former mill site.
New Kensington CDC will apply its grant to develop two commercial storefronts and three apartments in vacant properties at 2513-15 Frankford Avenue. The project is projected to create six new jobs and to provide affordable rental properties for local businesses and residents.
Frankford CDC plans to use its grant funding to renovate a blighted home at 4633 Paul Street, which is the only blighted property on the block as a result of a fire there several years ago. The renovations will be focused on the third floor and will relieve community safety issues.
Mayfair CDC will apply its grant funding to the purchase and clearing of a vacant, overgrown, and debris-strewn lot at 7315-33 Crispin Street (rear). The work will include removal of overgrown trees and foundation stabilization. Potential future uses of the site include a community park with storage units for local businesses and non-profits that conduct public events nearby, as well as a community garden to benefit Feast of Justice, the local food pantry. Income from storage units will provide maintenance funds and revenue for Mayfair CDC.
All five grants were administered through DCED’s Local Share Account program, which distributes a portion of slot machine license fees paid by casinos operating with the City of Philadelphia.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | October 10, 2019 | News Releases
The Mayfair Community Center was packed with older residents and their caregivers, who collected meaningful information about a multitude of products and services.
Philadelphia, PA, October 10, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione provided Northeast Philadelphia seniors and their caregivers with resources to address a multitude of vital topics as she concluded her 2019 Senior Expo series today.
Older residents eagerly packed the Mayfair Community Center gymnasium to meet dozens of vendors and to collect important information about healthcare, insurance, personal finance, housing, retirement planning, consumer protection, veterans’ services, and many other relevant issues. The event was Senator Tartaglione’s third and final Senior Expo of 2019, following successful sessions at the St. Anne’s/26th District PAL Center on September 19 and at Lawncrest Recreation Center on October 3.
“I always expect to see big crowds in Mayfair and they did not disappoint this time,” Senator Tartaglione said. “There are a lot of great things happening in this community. Older residents play a major part in all of it. I’m thankful that seniors continue to hold such enthusiasm for the Expo and that my vendor partners continue to offer highly valued products and services.”
Senator Tartaglione greeted guests at the front door with handshakes, hugs, and free tote bags. Inside, visitors mingled with professionals from private companies, non-profit organizations, and public agencies while filling their bags with business cards, pamphlets, pens, sweets, and some unique door prizes.
One vendor handed out back scratchers while another gave out squishy stress-relievers shaped like a foot. Guests were also treated to boxed lunches.
“My goal is to make each Senior Expo both informative and fun,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The most important thing is that older folks can meet many different providers face-to-face under one roof, free of charge.”
Although the 2019 Senior Expo series has concluded, the public can stay informed about all of Senator Tartaglione’s future events by visiting www.senatortartaglione.com regularly and following her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For constituent services, contact the senator’s district offices at 215-533-0440 (1061 Bridge Street) or 215-291-4653 (400 West Allegheny Avenue).
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | October 9, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 9, 2019 – Tomorrow will be the last opportunity for older Philadelphians and their caregivers to take part in State Senator Christine Tartaglione’s 2019 Senior Expo series as the senator will host her final expo of the year at Mayfair Community Center. The event is the third in Senator Tartaglione’s popular annual series and will present information about senior-oriented programs and services offered by public agencies and private providers. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. News media coverage is invited and encouraged. Great photo and video opportunities will be available.
Date/Time: Thursday, October 10, 2019; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street.
For Information (public): Call 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 (Spanish).
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | October 3, 2019 | News Releases
Hundreds of seniors and their caregivers joined more than 50 vendors at the Lawncrest Recreation Center to exchange information about vital programs and services.
Philadelphia, PA, October 3, 2019 – Hundreds of Northeast Philadelphia-area senior citizens and their caregivers joined State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione for her Senior Expo today as she brought the annual event series to the Lawncrest Recreation Center for the first time in its more than 20-year history. Eager attendees collected valuable information from more than 50 vendors about topics ranging from health care to financial services to crime prevention.
The event was the second of the senator’s three 2019 Senior Expos following a kickoff session at St. Anne’s/26th District PAL Center on September 19. The third and final session will be held on October 10 at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street. There is no charge to attend or participate. All visitors receive a free boxed lunch.
“This was the first time we’ve held a Senior Expo at Lawncrest, so I was very happy to see the enthusiastic community response,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I think seniors really appreciate being able to get information and sound advice about so many important topics, all under one roof.”
The varied lineup of vendors included agencies from the health care and insurance sectors, banking and financial services, adult day care, retirement communities, consumer advocates, assistive technology providers, veteran services providers, state and local police, public utilities, and elected officials from the federal, state, and local levels. Many attendees also took advantage of the opportunity to get a free flu shot. So did Senator Tartaglione.
“Flu shots are a great way to prevent seasonal illness and to promote public health,” Senator Tartaglione said.
The senator will host her third and final Senior Expo of 2019 on Thursday, October 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street. No appointments or reservations are needed to attend. For the latest news about Senator Tartaglione, visit www.senatortartaglione.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For constituent services, call the senator’s district offices at 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | October 2, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 2, 2019 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione invites older Philadelphians and their primary caregivers to take part in her next Senior Expo tomorrow at Lawncrest Recreation Center. This is the first time in the 15-year-history of her annual Senior Expo series that it will be held at Lawncrest. This is the second of three expos for 2019. The event will present information about senior-oriented programs and services offered by public agencies and private providers. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The final Senior Expo will be held on October 10 at Mayfair Community Center.
Thursday, Oct. 3: Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue.
Thursday, Oct. 10: Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street.
For Information (public): Call 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 (Spanish).
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | October 2, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 2, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is encouraging middle and high school students to share their ideas about how to support agriculture in Pennsylvania as part of the third annual “Talk to Your State Senator” statewide video competition.
This year’s competition challenges students to produce a video that includes ideas about how to ensure the agriculture industry will have a bright future in Pennsylvania. Agriculture is the state’s top industry and a major part of the state and local economies, but the industry faces a variety of challenges based on market conditions and the number of farmers who are expected to retire during the next decade, Senator Tartaglione said.
The contest, which is sponsored by the Senate of Pennsylvania and Rutter’s, is open to Pennsylvania students in grades 6 through 12, including all public school, private school, and home school students. Participants are encouraged to submit video entries of no longer than three minutes that promote the future of farming in Pennsylvania.
A total of $10,000 in prizes will be awarded through the PA 529 college savings program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Treasury. Prizes will be deposited into a college savings account in the winner(s) name. Videos will be judged based on creativity, content and effectiveness of message delivery.
The contest will remain open through January 31, 2020. Winners will be announced in May 2020. More information on the contest is available online at www.legis.state.pa.us/talk-to-your-state-senator/.
Previous “Talk to Your State Senator” video competitions have explored the impact of the heroin and opioid crisis, and generated ideas to help improve school safety.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at [email protected].
by Christin Brown | September 19, 2019 | News Releases
St. Anne’s/26th District PAL was the setting for the first of the senator’s three 2019 Senior Expos. Vendors delivered vital information to improve the lives of older adults.
Philadelphia, PA, September 19, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione’s annual Senior Expo was a huge hit among the older adults and caregivers of the Port Richmond area, who gathered at the St. Anne’s/26th District PAL Center and collected valuable information about topics ranging from health care to financial services to crime prevention.
Today’s event was the first of the senator’s three 2019 Senior Expos. Upcoming sessions are planned for Lawncrest Recreation Center on October 3 and Mayfair Community Center on October 10. There is no charge to attend or participate. All visitors receive a free boxed lunch. More than 60 public and private-sector agencies and organizations participated in today’s event, which attracted hundreds of seniors and their caregivers.
“This is the second consecutive year I have held a Senior Expo at St. Anne’s, and the public response continues to grow,” Senator Tartaglione said. “It just goes to show that senior citizens are very interested in learning about ways to improve their quality of life, and that we have many organizations that are committed to helping our older relatives and neighbors to navigate life’s challenges.”
Senator Tartaglione thanked all of the partners and vendors who made the event possible. The lineup featured agencies from the health care and insurance sectors, banking and financial services, adult day care, retirement communities, consumer advocates, assistive technology providers, veteran services providers, state and local police, public utilities, and elected officials from the federal, state, and local levels.
“My goal for every Senior Expo is to provide visitors with a full array of services and information under one roof,” Senator Tartaglione said. “We want to create a one-stop shop where folks can get answers to all of their questions, and where they can get plenty of sound advice about often-difficult topics. I’m certain that we accomplished that here today.”
Senator Tartaglione will host her second 2019 Senior Expo on Thursday, October 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue. The third 2019 Senior Expo will be on Thursday, October 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street. No appointments or reservations are required to attend. Contact the senator’s district office at 1061 Bridge Street, 215-533-0440, for information about participating as a vendor.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | September 3, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, September 3, 2019 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione invites older Philadelphians and their primary caregivers to her annual Senior Expo series in the coming weeks. The senator will host the Expos at three community venues in the 2nd Senate District, including the Lawncrest Recreation Center for the first time!
All three events will present information about many senior-oriented programs and services offered by public agencies and private providers. The Expos will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join Senator Tartaglione and dozens of presenters on the following dates at the corresponding locations:
Thursday, Sept. 19: St. Anne’s Parish-PAL Center, Memphis and Tucker streets.
Thursday, Oct. 3: Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue.
Thursday, Oct. 10: Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street.
For Information (public): Call 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 (Spanish).
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | August 27, 2019 | News Releases
HARRISBURG, August 27, 2019 – After a months-long review of a sexual misconduct complaint against a former Pennsylvania House member, a Dauphin County grand jury has called for the Pennsylvania Legislature to create a new, independent Office of Legislative Responsibility to create a centralized reporting system for victims to report sexual harassment and sexual misconduct.
Among other things, the grand jury recommended the new independent office be led by a qualified investigator, have subpoena power in consultation with the district attorney in the relevant jurisdiction and have authority to investigate any alleged misconduct, not limited to sexual harassment or assault.
Members of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus have welcomed this idea and plan to move forward when the legislature returns in September.
“Women in the capitol deserve to be safe, to feel safe, to be heard, and to be respected,” said Sen. Larry Farnese (D-1). “We must act swiftly and stand together to enact these policy changes to create a better working environment for everyone in the Capitol.”
“To protect the safety of all individuals in and around the Capitol, as well as those who interact with the General Assembly anywhere throughout the Commonwealth, we must empower and encourage victims to report alleged incidents of harassment and misconduct as soon as possible,” said Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-2). “By creating an office dedicated to investigating these incidents independently, we will be sending a powerful message that the Pennsylvania Legislature takes all allegations seriously and that every voice will be heard.”
“This process has revealed the deficiencies in policy and reporting that has failed to keep women safe in and around the Capitol for years,” said Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11). “It is time that we take this conduct seriously and create a reporting process that affords victims the opportunity to come forward in safety and with dignity. It is time for today’s legislative leaders to lead the way in creating a path forward to ensure that the workplace is a safe place for all.”
“The findings of the Grand Jury Report reiterate what we already know and what the #MeToo Movement has made clear for years: there can be no tolerance for workplace harassment. Period,” said Sen. Maria Collett (D-12). “Our General Assembly needs to hold itself to the highest standards and lead by example by implementing and improving the procedures in which we address all claims of workplace harassment by adopting these recommendations. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature as we take up this issue when we return to session.”
“Having an independent office as a central reporting and investigation unit makes some sense,” said Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-18). “It will help ensure consistency and efficiency in all caucuses and both Chambers.”
“As a career public servant, I believe that members of the General Assembly should be held to the highest standards of ethics and behavior to uphold the public trust,” said Sen. Pam Iovino (D-37). “The establishment of the Office of Legislative Responsibility will serve to ensure that public trust. An independent office will secure credible due process for all victims, regardless of gender, as well as all accused.”
“Our current system of reporting and investigating claims of workplace harassment is woefully inadequate and, in many cases, damaging to the very people it is designed to serve,” said Sen. Lindsey Williams (D-38). “We need to take this opportunity to implement the Grand Jury’s recommendations and create a system that ensures all victims and witnesses alike are protected from retaliation and encouraged to report instances of workplace harassment.”
“The recommendations of not pursuing criminal charges in this incident is a direct example of how the “justice” system and old boys club enable rape culture and abuse of power in our government,” said Sen. Katie Muth (D-44). “How many more of us have to be harassed, bullied, assaulted, and raped before real accountability is enforced? The recommendations made by the grand jury should’ve been mandated decades ago. Until there is true, unbiased, outside oversight of the members of the General Assembly, the current system of internal regulation and self-policing will continue to cause more harm, corruption, and wasted taxpayer dollars on salaries for predators and those that enable them.”
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by Christin Brown | August 22, 2019 | News Releases
Children of the 2nd Senate District frolicked in the summer sun with music, face painting, and refreshments. They took home free backpacks and school supplies, too.
Philadelphia, PA, August 22, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione concluded her 2019 Community Picnics on a high note today as local school children flocked to Wissinoming Park for the third and final gathering of the annual summertime series.
Senator Tartaglione distributed close to 1,000 backpacks stuffed with school supplies during the series, which included picnics at Fairhill Square Park on August 8, Lawncrest Recreation Center on August 15, and today’s event in Wissinoming. Numerous sponsors and vendors teamed with the senator to make the picnics, supportive, informative, and fun for all the families who participated.
“We’ve been doing these Community Picnics for 15 years and they seem to grow bigger and bigger each year,” Senator Tartaglione said. “No matter what type of school your child attends, education can be a financial challenge. My goal each year is to make attending school a little easier for the kids and their families while giving them one more chance to enjoy the summer before classes begin.”
Wissinoming Park provided an ideal venue. With DJ Carlos Sanchez providing a danceable soundtrack, children beat the heat in the park’s new water spray area. The youngsters eagerly visited the face painting booth and the fingerprinting table staffed by the 15th Police District. Some of the kids and many of their parents also tested out one of the city’s new touch-screen voting machines, courtesy of the City Commissioner’s Office.
A host of sponsors, both longtime and new, made the picnics possible: Acme of Oxford Avenue, Aetna Better Health of PA, All American Home Care, Altrusa International of South Central PA c/o Bobbi Wertz-Hoy, America Health/Keystone First, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Dietz & Watson, West Kensington Ministry/DJ Rev. Adan Mairena, DJ Carlos Sanchez, Giant Supermarket, Hyperion Bank, La Fortaleza, Laundry Café, UFCW Local 1776, Ray Pastrana, Philadelphia Pharmacy, Plaza Allegheny, ShopRite-Harbison & Castor, ShopRite-Oxford & Levick, ShopRite-Zallies, Tom Walter on behalf of the late Jeanne M. Walter, and the 26th Police District.
This year’s vendors included Aetna Better Health of PA, All American Home Care, America Health/Keystone First, Brightside Academy, City Commissioner’s Office, West Kensington Ministry/DJ Rev. Adan Mairena, DJ Carlos Sanchez, Hyperion Bank, The 6th Man Project, 25th Police District, 26th Police District, 2nd Police District, and 15th Police District.
Senator Tartaglione will move indoors for her upcoming Senior Expo series in September and October. The events will be held at St. Anne’s Parish, Lawncrest Recreation Center, and Mayfair Community Center. Dates and times will be announced. For information, follow Senator Tartaglione on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at [email protected].
