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HERMITAGE, April 1 – On Census Day, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, urges all residents to compete the U.S. Census form and be counted, saying that their participation is vital to securing federal funding for essential programs and services. “The U.S. Census only happens once every 10 years, and it’s our community’s once-in-a-decade chance to stand up and be counted,” Longietti said. “That count is critical because it determines who gets access to billions of dollars in federal funding. If our residents don’t respond in full force, those dollars – for health care, roads, education, transportation and other essential services – end up going elsewhere. “In addition to funding, the count also determines the extent of our representation in Congress, so participating and being counted directly affects how much of a say we have in Washington. I’m urging everyone to do their part and get counted – so much is at stake for our county and our community.” Longietti said based on the last census count, Pennsylvania receives $27 billion annually for federally funded programs. He said residents should not have safety or security concerns because census answers can’t be used against someone responding, and data security is managed by experts in the field. Moreover, the U.S. Census Bureau is prohibited by law from releasing any information Read more
In Pennsylvania, everyone counts and April 1 is National Census Day! If you haven’t already, don't forget to fill out your census form. Our population count determines our voice in government and how much federal funding we’ll receive for education, health care, transportation and more. Whether you respond online, mail or by phone , participate and help shape PA’s future. Your responses are anonymous and protected by law. To learn more, visit pa.gov/census #PAcounts #2020Census Read more
HARRISBURG, March 25 -- The House today passed several bills to provide relief and flexibility to citizens experiencing the effects of the COVID-19 epidemic, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced. Longietti supported S.B. 751 which will relieve schools of the 180-day education requirement for this year, while keeping state funding flowing to school districts so that staff may deliver education to students through online learning and lesson distributions. Also, funding will allow for meal preparation and pick-up to continue for needy students. “As we navigate these difficult days, it is important that we provide for ongoing learning support for our students,” Longietti said. It’s important from a learning perspective, and it also brings a sense of normalcy to our children’s lives, by reassuring them that even though their daily routine looks different, their teachers and parents are there for them with the resources they need.” He added that PSSA testing and Keystone Exams will be suspended for this year. Longietti also said that the House unanimously passed S.B. 422 , which will postpone the state primary election to June 2, giving counties extra time to make adjustments and allowing for polling places to be consolidated and moved out of high-risk areas. The House also unanimously passed: H.B. 68 , eliminating the one-week waiting period for unemployment Read more
In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic affecting Pennsylvania, we wanted to provide you with the following resources and information to help you and your family in the days ahead. Please note that this webpage will be updated as needed with additional information and resources. State Services and Resources The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has created a COVID-19 guide to assist everyone. It includes information on social distancing, mental health resources, unemployment, food assistance, changes from PennDOT and resources for small business: https://www.pa.gov/guides/responding-to-covid-19/ For individuals : https://www.pa.gov/guides/responding-to-covid-19/#ForIndividuals For families : https://www.pa.gov/guides/responding-to-covid-19/#ForFamilies For businesses : https://dced.pa.gov/resources COVID Support for PA Businesses : The following provides information and and links to federal, state, local and private resources. https://www.pahouse.com/News/?id=113388 https://www.pa.gov/guides/responding-to-covid-19/#ForBusinessesUtilities The following link provides you with information on what steps Pennsylvania utilities have taken to assist customers, including a moratorium on shutoffs for all regulated utilities: https://pahouse.com/News/?id=113134 Sign Up for PA Alerts Sign up for emergency and weather alerts, health notifications, building alerts and other Read more
HERMITAGE, March 13 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today that Lori Schaller has been named a 2020 Pennsylvania STEM ambassador – one of 28 experts tapped to positively shape the state’s education policy. Longietti, who sponsored Schaller for the position, said he is looking forward to the progress she and the other experts will make in advancing education policy statewide in areas such as computer science, workforce development and STEM ecosystems – enriched learning environments that allow students to learn in diverse settings such as schools, museums and science centers. “Pennsylvania has a progressive record when it comes to policies promoting education in the ever-important science, technology, engineering and math fields,” Longietti said. “Advocates like Lori, who bring expertise and innovative ideas to the table, will keep the commonwealth moving forward in this area by developing policies to ensure STEM education remains a priority of our state education system. “Those policies help ensure that new generations of students continue developing the skill sets they need for today’s high-tech jobs, and employers have access to a talented pool of workers they need to remain competitive.” Laura Saccente, director of the Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development Network, agreed that Pennsylvania is considered a leader in STEM policy and said that experts like Read more
HERMITAGE, March 12 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, is hosting three free workshops in March and April to help eligible residents apply for rebates under the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. “The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program has been around for nearly 50 years and has helped bring back nearly $7 billion in rebates,” Longietti said. “Given the large bite housing expenses take out of a household budget, the program continues to be an excellent way for residents meeting the age, income and other requirements to recoup some of those expenses. “I’m encouraging anyone interested to stop by one of my free sessions to learn whether they qualify and get help applying.” The sessions – all held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and open to the public – are scheduled for the following dates and locations: Thursday, March 19 at the Pymatuning Township Building, 256 Edgewood Drive Ext., Transfer, PA 16154. Monday, March 30 at the Greenville Senior Center, 45 Alan Ave., Greenville, PA 16125. Thursday, April 16 at the Pymatuning Township Building, 256 Edgewood Drive Ext., Transfer, PA 16154. Longietti noted that the program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians 65 or older, widows and widowers 50 or older and people with disabilities 18 or older. The annual income limit is $35,000 for homeowners and $15,000 for renters, and half of Social Security is excluded. He Read more
HERMITAGE, March 5 – Students and young adults in Mercer and Lawrence counties will have new opportunities for paid internships, thanks to a $140,000 grant from the state Department of Labor and Industry, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, and state Rep. Chris Sainato, D-Lawrence, announced today. The lawmakers said the funding awarded to the West Central Workforce Development Board under the State/Local Internship Program will provide area summer internships paying a minimum of $10.35 an hour for students and young adults between 16 and 24. “Internships are incredibly valuable career-training tools because they provide the kind of real-world experience not available in the classroom,” Longietti said. “That’s especially important in today’s high-tech career market, where new innovations and technology mean a constantly changing job landscape.” Sainato agreed, noting, “In addition to providing hands-on opportunities that help equip students and young adults for the modern workplace, these internships help build a stronger talent pool for area employers by producing applicants who understand more and are better prepared to hit the ground running. It all works to build a stronger workforce.” The funding is part of a $4.7 million package of grants to 21 Local Workforce Development Boards statewide to create nearly 1,500 summer internships. The SLIP program is fully funded through federal money available under the Read more
HERMITAGE, Feb. 26 – Seven Mercer County school districts have been awarded more than $1.4 million in school safety grants, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti said the grants awarded under the School Safety and Security Grant Program will fund a mix of equipment-, personnel- and program-based resources. “While our school officials do everything possible to keep kids safe, school security is an area that demands ongoing review,” Longietti said. “Safety needs are constantly changing and are unique to each district, often demanding a combination of resources. Securing this funding is going to help ensure that our kids are benefiting from the safest, most secure learning environments possible.” Longietti said the funding includes the following: $468,998 to Greenville Area School District for a prevention/intervention specialist and security resource officer, additional locks and lighting, window film and upgrades to the video server. $421,890 to Sharon City School District for a counselor, security teller window, front office access control hardware, door controls, lock boxes and additional equipment. $222,461 to Sharpsville Area School District for fencing, a card access system, security cameras and an emotional support teacher. $30,000 to Reynolds School District for security planning and the Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 24 – Mercer Driver License Center has expanded its hours, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti said the center’s new operating hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday will be especially helpful because the center is likely to see increased traffic in the coming months. “The center’s new schedule will be a great help for residents, as the expanded hours should significantly reduce congestion and wait times,” Longietti said. “We have been pushing for this change, and I’m especially glad that it is happening now, because the center is likely to see more visitors as we approach the October 1 Real ID enforcement deadline. “I want to remind residents that once enforcement of the Real ID Act begins on October 1, they will need either a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or photo identification – or some other federally accepted form of identification such as a military ID or U.S. passport – to board a domestic commercial flight or visit a secure federal facility such as a military base. For residents who are accustomed to using their driver’s license to fly, getting a Real ID will allow them to continue doing so. “PennDOT estimates that residents who successfully apply for a Real ID should receive it in the mail within 15 days. It’s best to apply soon, because there is no grace period once enforcement Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 4 - State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, released the following statement today in reaction to Gov. Tom Wolf’s 2020-21 budget address: “I’m encouraged by aspects of the budget plan Governor Tom Wolf unveiled today. “First, I am pleased that the proposal does not include any tax increases. “I’m also encouraged that the proposed budget includes increases in education for our children: a $100 million increase for K-12; a $25 million increase for special education; a $25 million increase for Pre-K Counts; and a $5 million increase for Head Start Supplemental. “The proposed budget would also commit resources to make higher education more affordable, with a $60 million increase in state grant funding through PHEAA to help students pay for college and post-secondary vocational education. “I am intrigued by the proposed $12 million competitive state grant program to address barriers to work such as transportation obstacles and childcare accessibility, and it is my hope that we will see a grant application from Mercer County. “I am encouraged by proposals to invest in innovation and entrepreneurship. One such proposal would invest $2.35 million in Invent Penn State, which previously helped the Mercer County-based nonprofit The Guardian Nest address the needs of veterans. Another proposal would invest an additional $5 million in Ben Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – The trip to the state Capitol was a repeat performance for the Farrell Steelers, as state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, hosted the team to celebrate their 2019 Class 1A state football championship. The win gave the Steelers – who also clinched the top spot last year during the team’s 100 th anniversary – back-to-back titles. “It was truly an honor today to give these young men – who excel both on the field and in the classroom – a tour of the state Capitol and a look into how government works,” Longietti said. “They have led and inspired our community in so many ways; it’s wonderful to be able to return that favor and inspire them to future leadership roles.” As Longietti presented the Steelers with a citation to mark their accomplishment, he recalled the nail-biting game that cemented the team’s title. “The 10-7 win against Bishop Guilfoyle that sealed the Steelers’ championship was a thriller. With just six minutes remaining in regulation, senior Brian Hilton Jr. laid out in the end zone to catch quarterback Raymond Raver Jr.’s 4 th -and-30 pass, tying the game at 7-all. In overtime, Hilton blocked Bishop Guilfoyle’s field goal attempt and then kicked a 22-yard field goal into a stiff wind to win the game. “It was an incredible way to end a season that, ironically, started off 0 and 2. Under the Read more
HERMITAGE, Jan. 28 – State Rep. Mark Longietti has been named one of two “2019 State Officials of the Year” by Life Sciences of Pennsylvania – the trade organization for the commonwealth’s life sciences industry. The award is given to state governmental officials who have distinguished themselves as leaders supporting the life sciences community. “I’m honored to be recognized by a group that provides such important work on behalf of our science-based industries,” said Longietti, who is co-chair of the House Life Sciences Caucus. “Discoveries by researchers in the biotech, biomedical, pharmaceutical and other fields lead to vaccines, breakthrough treatments and other tools that help us fight disease and live longer, healthier lives. “At the same time, innovations in botanic and environmental sciences and crop technologies lead to advances that produce heartier, more disease-resistant crops that bolster our farming industry. Across the board, our life sciences community contributes to a healthier population and a stronger economy, so it’s vital that we continue to support these industries.” Also receiving the award was state Rep. Tim Briggs, D-Montgomery, who is co-chair of the Life Sciences Caucus with Longietti. U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey was named “2019 Federal Official of the Year.” Read more
HERMITAGE, Jan. 22 – A longstanding Mercer County business will be expanding its operations thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Commonwealth Financing Authority, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti said the grant to Canon Dairy under the Pennsylvania Dairy Investment Program will allow the fifth-generation family business to perform processing operations on-site, rather than sending them to outside entities, and to launch a new business – Canon Creamery – to expand its product line. “Canon Dairy is a longtime, successful family business that has been a productive part of our community for generations,” Longietti said. “Until now, the dairy has sold its milk to an outside processing plant. The funding announced today will allow Canon to purchase the necessary equipment to process and bottle its own milk, allowing it to realize a greater profit. The dairy will also purchase equipment to operate a creamery, which will produce butter and cheeses. “Funding that allows this successful Mercer County business to keep more of its operations right here in our community while expanding its product line is a terrific investment and one that will yield returns, not just for this successful business, but for our local economy. I’m looking forward to seeing their progress in the months and years ahead.” Longietti said the grant will allow the dairy to purchase and install Read more
HERMITAGE, Jan. 21 – State Rep. Mark Longietti has announced the award of $179,476 in state grants to 14 fire companies in his district. “The costs associated with running fire and EMS services can put a huge burden on these companies, between keeping personnel trained to maintaining equipment and facilities in perfect working order,” Longietti said. “This funding will help alleviate that burden to departments and help keep our courageous first responders safe at the front lines.” Longietti said the following fire companies will receive grants in these amounts: Clark Volunteer Fire Department – $12,467 Farrell Volunteer Fire Department Inc. – $13,152 Greenville Fire Department – $13,426 Greenville Volunteer Fire Co. – $12,057 Hermitage Volunteer Fire Department Inc. – $14,248 Patagonia Vol Fire Department – $12,331 Sharon Fire Department – $14,248 Sharpsville Volunteer Fire Department – $13,289 Shenango Township Volunteer Fire Department – $12,194 Transfer Volunteer Fire Department – $13,563 South Pymatuning Township Volunteer Fire Association – $11,783 West Middlesex Volunteer Fire Department – $13,015 West Salem Fire Department – $12,057 Wheatland Volunteer Fire Department – $11,646 The grants are made possible by the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program, which is Read more
HERMITAGE, Jan. 20 – Mercer County students will see more computer science in the curriculum, thanks to a $35,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti said the $35,000 PAsmart targeted grant to Farrell Area School District will allow students to develop a range of skills that will help them now and in the future. “Computer science teaches skills that are useful far beyond the keyboard,” Longietti said. “Students learn to problem-solve and analyze data, developing confidence and self-reliance that empower them to succeed. They also become fluent in technology, which is critical for our next generation of workers – even those who don’t plan to work in the tech field – because nearly all modern businesses and industries rely on computers and information technology for their successful operation.” The grants – a component of Gov. Tom Wolf’s PAsmart Initiative – are part of a $5.7 million package providing $35,000 apiece to 163 school districts, charter schools and intermediate units statewide. The grants are designed to help schools introduce and expand computer science programming and to provide teacher training in computer science. The awardees have prioritized expanding access to computer science for underrepresented students, including students of color, girls, low-income students and those in Read more
HERMITAGE, Jan. 17 – Thiel College has received a $30,000 grant under the state’s “It’s On Us” program designed to raise awareness about and prevent campus sexual assault and violence, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced. “Fear has no place in an institution of learning,” Longietti said. “It’s essential for students to feel safe in order for them to thrive and succeed. By funding programs to raise awareness about and prevent sexual assault, this grant will help ensure that our local campus remains the kind of environment where students feel secure and can go about the business of preparing for life.” The funding to Thiel College is part of a $1 million package of grants to 36 postsecondary schools statewide. The schools use the funding for programs ranging from campus-wide training for students, educators and staff to campaigns to raise awareness about the reporting process and resources that are available to those victimized by sexual assault. It’s On Us started as a national campaign in 2014. Pennsylvania quickly took the initiative, becoming the first state to establish its own statewide program, “It’s On Us PA.” Pennsylvania’s public and private colleges and universities enroll nearly 250,000 students, including more than 62,000 who live on campus. Read more
HERMITAGE, Jan. 16 – A $150,000 grant from the state Department of Labor and Industry will help students and educators in Mercer and Lawrence County learn about high-priority career paths, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, and state Rep. Chris Sainato, D-Lawrence, announced today. The lawmakers said the Business-Education Partnership grant will allow the West Central Workforce Development Board to raise awareness about high-demand jobs by establishing connections between school districts and area businesses. “This funding is going to help educators and students become familiar with high-priority, good-paying jobs in our area and the kinds of requirements demanded by those jobs,” Longietti said. “Providing a pipeline connecting the classroom to the workplace allows students and educators to develop an understanding of what kinds of skills are needed in today’s work force so teachers can tailor the curriculum accordingly and students can decide which career paths best suit their skills and talents.” Sainato agreed, noting, “School-business partnerships are incredibly productive because they provide students with hands-on learning opportunities such as internships and job shadowing, which help them make informed career choices. At the same time, area employers benefit from being able to provide input into the learning process and from getting the chance to attract qualified applicants. It’s truly a win-win Read more
HARRISBURG, Jan. 15 – Pennsylvania boroughs and municipalities of all sizes are one step closer to having an important planning tool after the House today passed a bill that would allow them to establish redevelopment authorities, according to the bill’s author, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer. Under current state law, cities of all sizes may establish redevelopment authorities, but boroughs and other municipalities must have a population of 10,000 or more to do so. Longietti’s H.B. 1860 would remove this size restriction. “Redevelopment authorities are true catalysts of change,” Longietti said. “Because they are vested with the power to acquire blighted properties, repurpose them for beneficial use, and plan for widescale revitalization efforts, they are the starting point for major projects that bring meaningful change to communities – from attacking blight and stimulating investments to bringing affordable housing and attracting businesses. “Unfortunately, the current law imposes an arbitrary restriction that has prevented many boroughs and municipalities from establishing redevelopment authorities. It’s an irrational rule that has stunted growth and stifled investment for these communities. My bill would level the playing field and put them on equal ground with cities, so they have the tools they need to flourish.” Longietti noted that there are at Read more
HARRISBURG, Jan. 14 – House Democrats signaled today that they will move to force action in the PA House on critical legislation to protect access to health care for Pennsylvanians in the face of efforts by President Trump and Washington extremists and special interests to destroy the Affordable Care law. “The affordable care law gave millions more Americans access to health insurance, saved countless families from bankruptcy resulting from exorbitant health care costs, kept rural and urban hospitals open in Pennsylvania, and created and preserved thousands of health care jobs,” Democratic Leader Frank Dermody said. “We’re standing up for people’s health care, not the agenda of political extremists and special interests. That’s why we want votes in the House on these bills to save lives and the financial well-being of Pennsylvania individuals and families.” The legislation House Democrats will attempt to force a vote on includes: Protect people with pre-existing conditions (H.B. 471 sponsored by state Rep. Peter Schweyer). Protects and preserves a person’s access to health insurance and the ability to see a doctor, even if they have a pre-existing condition such as diabetes, breast cancer, high blood pressure or even pregnancy. “When people can’t see the doctor or access health care, they skip checkups, get sicker and sometimes die. Many people without insurance face bankruptcy,” Read more
HERMITAGE, Jan. 8 – A mid-January workshop on the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program will help Mercer County residents learn whether they qualify for the program and offer help with the application process, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. “No resident should have to worry about whether they’re able to keep their family warm in the winter,” Longietti said. “Fortunately, LIHEAP is there to provide critical assistance for households having difficulty paying heating bills. I’m encouraging anyone who may be struggling this winter to visit my workshop, learn whether they qualify, and get help applying.” The workshop is open to the public and will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15 at the Shenango Valley Senior Community Center, 220 N. Buhl Farm Drive, Hermitage, PA 16148. Longietti noted that residents seeking help with the application process must bring a valid photo ID, recent heating bill, and names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and proof of income for all household members. Residents who want to learn more about the workshop should contact Longietti’s Hermitage office at 724-981-4655 or his satellite Greenville office (open Tuesday and Thursday) at 724-588-1005. Read more
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2213 Shenango Valley Freeway, Unit 2-EHermitage, PA 16148
P*: (724) 981-4655
F*: (724) 981-6528
Hours of Operation - Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
182 Main St. Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce BuildingGreenville, PA 16125
P*: (724) 588-1005
F*: (724) 588-1023
Hours of Operation - Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
127 K. Leroy Irvis Office Bldg.PO Box 202007Harrisburg, PA 17120-2007
P*: (717) 772-4035
F*: (717) 780-4785