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Madsen sworn in for second term as state representative for 104th District

(Jan 09, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Dave Madsen, D-Dauphin, was sworn in to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today, beginning his second term serving the 104th Legislative District. “I’m honored that my constituents here in Dauphin County once again chose me as their advocate in the Capitol,” Madsen said. “As in my first term, my guiding principle as their legislator will be introducing, supporting and passing legislation that will create jobs that pay, schools that teach, and government that works, to borrow a phrase. “In my work last term as a member of Appropriations Committee, I helped craft and pass a budget supporting these key pillars,” Madsen said. “As state representative for my communities, I’ve collaborated with my fellow legislators and local and state stakeholders to advance initiatives that helped to improve the quality of life here in our communities in Dauphin County through strategic investments in our local schools, small businesses and municipalities. “I am looking forward this term to continuing this critical work on behalf of the people of the 104th District.” In his second term, Madsen said he will be focused on the following issues to improve life in his home communities and throughout Pennsylvania: Bringing in more good paying union jobs, which is the surest route to the middle class. Increasing investments in quality education for all Pennsylvania’s Read more

 

Guzman: I am laser-focused on Reading and Berks County transportation needs

(Jan 08, 2025) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 8 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, announced today that one of his top priorities for the 2025-26 legislative session is to help address transportation issues impacting Berks County. In alignment with this goal, he has been appointed to the PA House Transportation committee. “I am glad and proud to share that I am now a member of the Transportation Committee,” said Guzman. “I am excited about the opportunity to bring solutions to critical concerns in our community regarding transportation and infrastructure,” he added. Guzman, who has been vocal and diligent about the proposed Schuylkill River Train to re-establish passenger rail service between Reading and Philadelphia, highlighted that he is looking forward to diving deeper into the current efforts to restore passenger rail service for the first time in more than 40 years with the support of the committee, chaired by state Rep. Ed Neilson. “Berks County will have in me a committed advocate in this committee; I will be bold in my efforts. I want Reading and Berks County to boost its economic growth across all sectors and scales, and transportation and infrastructure are certainly crucial indicators of economic development of a region” he explained. Guzman has also been appointed to four other PA House standing committees. He remains a member of the Appropriations, Gaming Oversight, Liquor Control Read more

 

Conklin takes oath of office to begin 10th term representing Pennsylvania’s 77th Legislative District

(Jan 07, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Scott Conklin took the oath of office today at the state Capitol to begin his 10 th term representing Pennsylvania’s 77 th Legislative District. Conklin said he is looking forward to starting work in the 2025-26 legislative session and will continue to focus on strengthening the district’s public schools, keeping resources flowing to first responders, bringing new dollars home to fund district projects, and passing measures to address domestic violence. “The new term gives us a new chance to advocate for our communities, to ensure residents’ voices are heard in Harrisburg and to make progress on bills that can improve life in the district,” said Conklin, D-Centre. “In the months ahead, I will be working to ensure that our public schools receive every dollar to which they’re entitled – for education and mental health resources as well as facility improvements that make our schools safer and healthier.” Conklin said he hopes to see more public schools in the district embrace the recently enacted Solar for PA Schools Program. “The program is a great deal for our schools,” Conklin said. “By tapping into state and federal funding, they can implement the technology with minimal to no project costs and reap substantial energy savings.” Conklin said he will also continue his legislative efforts to reduce domestic violence in the state. Read more

 

Matzie takes oath of office to begin ninth term representing Beaver County

(Jan 07, 2025) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Rob Matzie took the oath of office today at the state Capitol to begin his ninth term representing Pennsylvania’s 16 th Legislative District. As he joins his colleagues to begin the 2025-26 legislative term, Matzie said he is looking forward to his new leadership role as chairman of the House Majority Caucus. “I’m ready to start the new term and my new leadership role with the caucus,” Matzie said. “We have important work ahead and real issues that need addressed for everyday folks. “We’ll be focusing on jobs, schools, health care – the priorities that matter to the people of Beaver County. As caucus chair, I will be working to ensure that those issues remain front and center in our legislative efforts. “Most importantly, I will continue to bring state dollars back home to Beaver County, making sure we get our fair share and more.” Last term, Matzie brought tens of millions of dollars in funding back to Beaver County and introduced more than 35 bills and resolutions. Under his leadership as majority chairman of the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee, the committee advanced – and the governor signed – multiple consumer protection laws, including a motorcycle Lemon Law, the Solar for PA Schools Act, the Max Manufacturing Act to boost industry, and Matzie’s bill Read more

 

Takac sworn in to second term representing state’s 82nd Legislative District

(Jan 07, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, proudly took the oath of office today, officially beginning his second term representing the 82nd Legislative District. The ceremony took place at the state Capitol, where Takac was joined by family, friends and colleagues. “I am deeply honored to continue serving the people of the 82nd District,” said Takac. “Our community has once again placed their trust in me, and I am committed to continue working tirelessly on their behalf. Together, we will address the many challenges we face and seize the opportunities ahead to continue delivering real results for the people and communities of Centre County and the commonwealth.” During his first term, Takac focused on key issues such as education, health care, economic development and sustainability. He successfully advocated for historic funding increases for our local public schools, expanded access to affordable health care and supported initiatives that create jobs and economic opportunity while continuing to guarantee Pennsylvanians’ constitutional right to clean air and water. Looking ahead, Takac intends to build on these accomplishments and tackle new priorities, including renewable energy and natural resources, innovative economic and infrastructure investments and ensuring liberty and justice for every Pennsylvanian. “We have made significant progress, but there is still much work to be done,” Read more

 

Guzman: Reading is prepared to maximize its full potential, a more vibrant and better city is now within our reach

(Dec 30, 2024) Central PA Delegation

READING, Dec. 30 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, said today that Reading has stepped into a defining new phase of economic growth following the announcement made by the Shapiro administration on Monday that the city has been granted the City Revitalization and Improvement Zone program designation. Guzman, who has been key in the efforts that led to the city’s victory, indicated that this win comes a result of years-long work at the city and state level. Earlier this year, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed the 2024-25 bipartisan budget into law, which opened the program to allow qualified communities to participate in CRIZ for the first time since 2013. “I am overjoyed. We are going to welcome 2025 with renewed hopes in our beloved city. This state-sponsored program is a resource that would help us advance the city and transform neglected areas into vibrant hubs,” said Guzman. “This is a massive triumph for me as legislator, but mostly as a resident who is committed to turning around the city and make it brighter and better. What seemed for years a hard-to-attain goal is now within our reach; this is a tangible reality.” Mayor Eddie Moran indicated that securing the CRIZ designation for Reading is a transformative step for the city. “This achievement reflects our shared commitment to revitalizing our downtown, attracting new Read more

 

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Dec 30, 2024) Central PA Delegation

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Recovery Housing for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and Other Drugs Who May Apply: Community-based organizations, community action agencies, or public health programs that focus on assisting individuals in accessing recovery housing. Use: Personnel services, consulting services, subcontract services, patient services, equipment, supplies, travel, and other costs associated with assisting individuals access recovery housing. Funds: DDAP expects to award five grants totaling $500,000 each. Application Deadline: January 10, 2025 More information: DDAP Website Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Integrated Health Solutions Who May Apply: Community-based organizations, community action agencies, or public health programs that focus on assisting individuals in accessing recovery housing. Use: Personnel services, consulting services, subcontract services, patient services, equipment, supplies, travel, and other costs associated with assisting individuals access recovery housing. Funds: DDAP expects to award five grants totaling $500,000 each. Application Deadline: January 10, 2025 More information: DDAP Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Community and Economic Development: PA SITES Who May Apply: Municipalities, economic development organizations, redevelopment authorities, municipal authorities, industrial development agencies, and for-profit Read more

 

Conklin: Nearly $900,000 secured to boost Centre County resources for crime survivors and at-risk youth

(Dec 18, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 18 – More than $892,000 is coming back to Centre County to bolster programs and resources for crime survivors and at-risk youth, reduce recidivism and fund probation and parole services, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin, D-Centre, said five grants awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will support essential programs for those served by the criminal justice system. “A lot of hard work and vigilance goes into protecting the rights of crime victims, supporting at-risk youth, and providing effective probation and parole services,” Conklin said. “The new funding will help keep essential programs in place so that our county’s dedicated judicial, law enforcement, medical and social service professionals can continue delivering the best possible services.” Conklin said the funding by source includes: JJDCP – State Violence and Delinquency Prevention Program Funds $391,764 to the Pennsylvania State University for implementation of the Standardized Program Evaluation Protocol, which helps determine effectiveness of juvenile delinquency prevention methods. CACAC- State Endowment Act – Prevention Funds $200,000 to Centre County Youth Service Bureau for Project Safe and Smart, which educates youth and parents about child sexual abuse and body safety. VSAC – Centre County $147,757 to Centre County Commissioners Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Dec 17, 2024) Central PA Delegation

Below are multiple grant programs that are currently open for applications. NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Community and Economic Development: Historically Disadvantaged Business Assistance Program Who May Apply: Community-based non-profit organizations with a history of at least 3 years operating experience, educational institutions, and non-profit economic development organizations with a history of at least 3 years operating experience. Use: Creation or support of a Business Assistance Service Center for the purpose of serving small, historically disadvantaged businesses. Funds: $20 million in funding was appropriated in the 2024/25 state budget. Application Deadline: January 22, 2025 More information: DCED Website Council on the Arts: Entry to Arts Organizations and Arts Programs (EAOAP) Who May Apply: Non-profit agencies with a history of at least two years of consistent arts programming in Pennsylvania and an annual average arts revenue over $200,000. Use: Entry track is the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts’ (PCA) point of entry for organizations or programs to the AOAP. Applicants must apply in Entry track until recommended for AOAP, which is based on panel review and assessment totals Funds: Grants totaling $5,000 will be awarded. Application Deadline: February 15, 2025 More information: Arts Website Council on the Arts: Arts Read more

 

Hill-Evans announces funding for local Chesapeake Bay cleanup efforts; reappointment to Chesapeake Bay Commission

(Dec 17, 2024) Rep. Carol Hill-Evans

The York County Planning Commission was awarded $404,219 in funding directed by the Department of Environmental Protection through 2025 Countywide Action Plan (CAP) Implementation Grants, awarded to county teams across Pennsylvania’s share of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed to reduce pollution and restore local streams, rivers, and lakes. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El lauds grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed

(Dec 11, 2024) Central PA Delegation

HARRISBURG, Dec. 11 – State Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El said he is pleased to report a state and federal investment in keeping the Chesapeake Bay Watershed clean from its tributaries in Lancaster County. The Lancaster County Conservation District was awarded more than $5.92 million in funding directed by the Department of Environmental Protection. "This significant investment is a promise to our natural environment and represents a commitment to protecting a vital ecosystem, supporting our economy, and preserving a new legacy of investments for our part of the watershed," said Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster. The DEP awarded grants through the 2025 Countywide Action Plan Implementation Grants to county teams across Pennsylvania’s share of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Pennsylvania has made historic progress in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Earlier this year, the Shapiro Administration announced that for the first time in history, the Chesapeake Bay showed steady overall improvement, earning a C+ grade from the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and Watershed Report Card – the highest grade ever awarded to the overall health of the bay since the report was created. The 2025 CAP Implementation Grants include $9.6 million from the state Environmental Stewardship Fund and $14.4 million in federal EPA funding, including $7.1 million in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds to support counties’ Read more

 

Conklin: Advanced Powder Products secures nearly $3 million to rebuild Rush Township facility damaged in fire

(Dec 05, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 5 – Two low-interest loans totaling $2.9 million will allow major area employer Advanced Powder Products to rebuild its Rush Township production facility that was severely damaged by fire last year, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the funding to the metal injection molding and 3D metal printing manufacturer includes a 15-year, $2.25 million loan at a 3.75% reset interest rate and a 7-year, $700,928 loan at a 4.75% fixed interest rate – both awarded through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority. “The new funding is terrific news for APP and our entire region,” Conklin said. “The 2023 fire to the Rush Township facility caused extensive damage, interrupted production, affected jobs and resulted in heavy losses. The new funding will allow them to build a new 29,000-square-foot production facility at their Enterprise Drive location and purchase new precision machinery, robotics and other automated equipment. “It’s going to be exciting seeing this dynamic manufacturer rebuild to former capacity – and seeing those jobs and economic benefits flowing back to our region.” Conklin said the project will result in the creation of 15 new jobs and the retention of 165 full-time jobs. Administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development, PIDA provides low-interest loans and lines of credit for eligible businesses Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Dec 04, 2024) Central PA Delegation

Broadband Development Authority: Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program Who May Apply: Cooperative organizations, non-profit organizations, public-private partnerships, private companies, public or private utility companies, public utility districts, municipalities or units of local government, internet service providers registered through the FCC Use: Deploying and/or upgrading broadband network facilities, data collection, broadband mapping and broadband planning Funds: $1,161,778,242 in federal funding pursuant to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 is available. Application Deadline: January 21, 2025 More information: PBDA Website Department of Community and Economic Development: Local Share Account Philadelphia Who May Apply: Community Development Corporations, economic development organizations and redevelopment authorities, business improvement districts/neighborhood improvement districts, non-profit organizations with a 501(c) designation, the City of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia. Any eligible organization must be located in Philadelphia. Use: Economic development projects, neighborhood revitalization projects, community improvement projects, projects in the public interest. Any eligible project must be located in Philadelphia. Funds: Grant amounts will vary based on the specific project requirements but are limited to a minimum request/award of $10,000 and a maximum Read more

 

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security

(Dec 03, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 3 – Schools in the 77 th Legislative District will benefit from more than $900,000 in new funding for school security and mental health resources, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the grants – awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency from funding secured in the 2024-25 budget – include nearly $760,000 in noncompetitive grants to public schools and $148,000 in competitive grants to nonpublic schools. “A lot goes into maintaining a strong school security plan, from policies and protocols like reporting and safety drills to resources like personnel, equipment and building modifications, to programs and supports addressing mental health,” Conklin said. “Thanks to this new funding, our schools will have the resources needed to ensure students and staff have the safety, peace of mind and supportive environment they deserve.” Conklin said noncompetitive grants to public schools include: State College Area School District – $228,146. Tyrone Area School District – $131,554. Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District – $130,786. Bald Eagle Area School District – $128,948. Centre Learning Community Charter School – $70,000. Young Scholars of Central PA Charter School – $70,000. Competitive grants to nonpublic schools include: Soaring Heights School State Read more

 

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security

(Dec 03, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 3 – Schools in the 77 th Legislative District will benefit from more than $900,000 in new funding for school security and mental health resources, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the grants – awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency from funding secured in the 2024-25 budget – include nearly $760,000 in noncompetitive grants to public schools and $148,000 in competitive grants to nonpublic schools. “A lot goes into maintaining a strong school security plan, from policies and protocols like reporting and safety drills to resources like personnel, equipment and building modifications, to programs and supports addressing mental health,” Conklin said. “Thanks to this new funding, our schools will have the resources needed to ensure students and staff have the safety, peace of mind and supportive environment they deserve.” Conklin said noncompetitive grants to public schools include: State College Area School District – $228,146. Tyrone Area School District – $131,554. Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District – $130,786. Bald Eagle Area School District – $128,948. Centre Learning Community Charter School – $70,000. Young Scholars of Central PA Charter School – $70,000. Competitive grants to nonpublic schools include: Soaring Heights School State Read more

 

Guzman to host third annual Thanksgiving Resource Fair

(Nov 18, 2024) Central PA Delegation

READING, Nov. 18 – State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, announced today that he will host a third installment of his Thanksgiving Resource Fair to help families in need enjoy a festive meal and get access to state programs and services. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 at 206 S. Ninth St., Reading, 19602. Guzman explained that the event will feature a turkey giveaway, fresh produce and information about local programs and services. “ I am thrilled to celebrate the third edition of the fair; it’s just gotten bigger and better. I am proud to be able to support even more families this year,” Guzman said. “This time of the year can be challenging for the most vulnerable members of our community, and I want to make sure that families in need have a great meal. Another key aspect of this event is that we will be connecting individuals to state programs that are available to them,” Guzman said. “Whether a family is struggling to get affordable health insurance, pay for groceries or utility bills, this event will be a perfect opportunity to learn more about these benefits. My staff will be there ready to assist constituents.” “This fair is about making the holiday season brighter for our neighbors and bringing the spirit of giving and sense of community to life,” he said. Interested residents may contact Guzman’s Read more

 

Conklin: State College Borough secures $250k for transit station study

(Nov 18, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 18 – A $250,000 grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development will fund a comprehensive study of State College Borough’s 50-year-old transit station, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the funding will lay the groundwork for important upgrades and improvements to make the station more accessible and inclusive. “Easy access to transportation is essential for quality of life, but many of our older facilities, including State College Borough’s 50-year-old transit stop, are not as accessible and user friendly as they could be for seniors and residents with disabilities,” Conklin said. “The new funding will allow the borough to study the station’s current design and determine what upgrades and improvements can be made, with an eye toward making this essential transportation hub larger, more traffic-friendly and more inclusive for all riders.” Conklin said that after the study is completed, the borough will have the information it needs to move forward with project work. More information about DCED is available here: https://dced.pa.gov/ Read more

 

Conklin urges area schools to apply for ‘Solar for Schools’ grant

(Nov 15, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 15 – Citing cost savings, cleaner energy and jobs, state Rep. Scott Conklin is encouraging school districts and other eligible public schools in Centre County to apply for the state’s recently opened Solar for PA Schools Grant Program. Conklin, who co-sponsored legislation to establish the program, said schools can obtain state grants covering up to 50% of project costs and that federal assistance under the Inflation Reduction Act can reduce those costs even further, resulting in a minimal investment that yields huge benefits. “Solar can be a great money-saver for our schools,” Conklin said. “Converting or partially converting school buildings to solar power helps the bottom line by lowering energy costs – which are among the largest expenses school districts face – and making those costs more predictable. Other schools that have installed solar technology are already saving money, which they’re able to invest back into the classroom. “Beyond cutting costs and saving energy, solar power increases our production of renewable energy and brings cleaner air and other environmental benefits by cutting carbon emissions. These projects also create family sustaining jobs and offer new learning opportunities for students. It’s a winning proposition all around. Now that the program is open and accepting applications, I strongly urge our school districts to apply.” Read more

 

‘Not just an urban issue:’ Lawmakers hear from experts, advocates on child homelessness in Pa.

(Nov 14, 2024) Pennsylvania Capital-Star

Pointing to a lack of data, resources and support services and the effect of stigmatization, advocates at Wednesday’s press conference urged lawmakers to take up bills that they say will help address youth homelessness and set students up on a path to success, such as HB 127, HB 729, HB 730, HB 1175. Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Nov 14, 2024) Central PA Delegation

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Aging: Senior Community Center Grant Program Who May Apply: Senior community centers with an existing, contractual relationship with an Area Agency on Aging. Use: Funding opportunities are intended for enhancements to increase participation and programming, attract a new generation of older adults, and enable Senior Community Centers to provide a safe and healthy environment for their participants. Funds: $2 million in competitive grant funding is available. Application Deadline: December 13, 2024 More information: PA Grants website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program Who May Apply: County governments and non-profit agencies. Use: To support communities in their efforts to develop and strengthen effective responses to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence through multidisciplinary collaboration. Funds: A total of $870,000 over the three-year project period in federal STOP Formula Grant funds is being announced to support this initiative. PCCD expects to fund two grants with budgets not to exceed $145,000 per 12-month project period. Application Deadline: December 2, 2024 More information: PCCD Website Military and Veterans Affairs: Veterans’ Trust Fund Who May Apply: Non-profits serving veterans, veterans’ service organizations, Read more

 

Madsen sworn in for second term as state representative for 104th District
Jan 09, 2025

Guzman: I am laser-focused on Reading and Berks County transportation needs
Jan 08, 2025

Conklin takes oath of office to begin 10th term representing Pennsylvania’s 77th Legislative District
Jan 07, 2025

Matzie takes oath of office to begin ninth term representing Beaver County
Jan 07, 2025

Takac sworn in to second term representing state’s 82nd Legislative District
Jan 07, 2025

Guzman: Reading is prepared to maximize its full potential, a more vibrant and better city is now within our reach
Dec 30, 2024

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Health, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 30, 2024

Conklin: Nearly $900,000 secured to boost Centre County resources for crime survivors and at-risk youth
Dec 18, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 17, 2024

Hill-Evans announces funding for local Chesapeake Bay cleanup efforts; reappointment to Chesapeake Bay Commission
Dec 17, 2024

Smith-Wade-El lauds grant funding to clean up rivers and streams in Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Dec 11, 2024

Conklin: Advanced Powder Products secures nearly $3 million to rebuild Rush Township facility damaged in fire
Dec 05, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 04, 2024

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security
Dec 03, 2024

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security
Dec 03, 2024

Guzman to host third annual Thanksgiving Resource Fair
Nov 18, 2024

Conklin: State College Borough secures $250k for transit station study
Nov 18, 2024

Conklin urges area schools to apply for ‘Solar for Schools’ grant
Nov 15, 2024

‘Not just an urban issue:’ Lawmakers hear from experts, advocates on child homelessness in Pa.
Nov 14, 2024

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Nov 14, 2024