News Center

Matzie: Center at the Mall to benefit from $42,700 grant

(May 06, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, May 6 – A $42,700 grant will enhance resources for seniors at The Center at the Mall, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. The Beaver County community wellness center provides fitness and nutrition classes, programs, trips, and other activities for adults over 50. “I’m extremely pleased to see that our efforts to secure this funding were successful,” Matzie said. “Our seniors have invested so much of their lives enriching our community and making it what it is today. Providing resources that can help keep them healthy, active and engaged during their retirement years is a great way to give something back.” Matzie noted that the funding is part of a statewide package from the Pennsylvania Department of Aging’s 2018-19 Senior Community Center Grants that will allow senior centers to refurbish facilities, expand programming and attract a new generation of participants. The grants are funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery. The grant announcement coincides with national Older Americans Month – a time to pay tribute to older adults and their contributions to the country and their communities. Read more

 

Spring 2019 Newsletter

(May 06, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

Click here to read my latest newsletter, including information on my May 18 shred event! Read more

 

Matzie announces nearly $187,000 in fire, EMS grants

(May 03, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, May 3 – Fourteen fire and EMS companies in the 16 th Legislative District will receive $186,951 in grants, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. “Our firefighters and EMS professionals work tirelessly on the front lines to keep us safe, often while contending with tight budgets that stretch resources,” Matzie said. “These grants will help ensure they have the training, equipment and other essential resources they need to carry on their life-saving work.” Matzie said the funding is as follows: Allegheny County Leetsdale Fire Department – $12,172 Beaver County Aliquippa Bureau of Fire – $13,326 Ambridge Borough Fire Department – $12,007 Ambridge Volunteer Fire Department – $12,832 Baden Volunteer Fire Department – $14,646 Conway Volunteer Fire Department – $13,656 Economy Vol Ambulance Service – $7,155 Economy Volunteer Firemen’s Association – $14,151 Freedom Volunteer Fire Department – $11,512 Harmony Township Volunteer Firemen Inc. – $13,162 Hopewell Township Volunteer Fire Department – $12,007 Monaca #4 Volunteer Fire Department – $12,172 Monaca No. 1 Volunteer Fire Department – $11,842 Rochester Fire Department – $26,311 The grants are provided by the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program, which is administered by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. In addition to Read more

 

Matzie: Beaver, Allegheny County schools to benefit from nearly $500,000 in safety grants

(May 01, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, May 1 – Three state grants totaling $489,027 will boost safety in Beaver County schools and fund a community violence prevention program, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie said the funding – administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency -- is part of a package of competitive grants that will fund program, equipment and personnel-based resources for schools and other entities statewide. “It’s hard to imagine a more important investment than the safety of our children,” Matzie said. “Our school districts have worked hard to assess needs and identify resources that will best ensure security. The funding announced today will allow our schools to put those plans into effect and create the kind of environment in which students and educators feel safe and secure so they can focus on learning and teaching. I was pleased to support this funding.” Matzie said the funding includes: $160,154 to Quaker Valley School District for training and compensating school resource officers and school police officers. 132,681 to Hopewell Area School District for conflict resolution and restorative justice programs, a peer helper program, security planning and purchase of security-related technology, and increased student and school employee access to quality trauma-support services and behavior health care. $196,192 to the Women’s Center of Beaver County to fund the Read more

 

House unanimously adopts Matzie’s ‘World Asthma Day’ resolution

(Apr 30, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 30 – Increasing awareness and support for the more than 1 million Pennsylvanians living with asthma is the goal of a resolution the House adopted unanimously today, according to the author, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny. Matzie said he introduced H.R. 256 – recognizing May 7, 2019, as “World Asthma Day” in Pennsylvania – both to raise awareness on behalf of those living with asthma and to encourage others to help them in controlling their symptoms. “In Pennsylvania alone, nearly 1 million adults and nearly 400,000 children suffer from asthma,” Matzie said. “As they work to manage their conditions, there’s a lot the rest of us can do to help – particularly because asthma attacks are frequently provoked by environmental triggers. By taking the time to learn the warning signs and the factors that can cause an attack, friends, family members and co-workers can all play a meaningful role in supporting those with asthma.” Matzie noted that an asthma attack happens when the sides of the airways in the lungs swell, causing the airways to shrink and restricting the amount of air that can get in and out of the lungs. The problem is compounded when mucus clogs the airways even further. Attacks may result in coughing, chest tightness, wheezing and difficulty breathing. Matzie’s resolution parallels “World Asthma Day,” an international event that encourages people to Read more

 

Matzie urges ongoing scrutiny as committee considers nuclear subsidy bill

(Apr 29, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 29 – State Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, counseled fellow members of the House Consumer Affairs Committee to continue careful deliberations as hearings resumed today on a House bill that would provide ratepayer-subsidized alternative energy credits to Pennsylvania’s nuclear energy providers. In the third hearing to consider the potential impacts of H.B. 11, the House Consumer Affairs Committee heard testimony from representatives of industrial energy customers, the Retail Energy Supply Association and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Matzie, who is Democratic chairman of the committee and co-chairman of the bipartisan, bicameral Nuclear Energy Caucus, explained that the issues posed by the bill are multi-faceted. “The issue of energy subsidies is a highly complex one, with much at stake,” Matzie said. “Today’s hearing focused on the possible impact of HB 11 on large-scale industrial customers and suppliers, as well as getting the point of view from organized labor as to worker implications. Because of the many issues impacting jobs, families, and consumer rates, I’m committed to proceeding deliberately by examining all potential repercussions before we reach a final decision.” Currently, nuclear energy providers are excluded from the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act, which requires that 18 percent of power sold in Pennsylvania be derived from alternative energy Read more

 

Matzie: $400,000 grant to fund freight rail storage track in Allegheny County

(Apr 29, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 29 – A $400,000 state grant will fund the construction of additional freight rail storage track in Allegheny County, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie said the grant to Leetsdale Industrial Corp. will boost commerce while generating area jobs. “Construction of additional storage track will allow for increased rail car capacity and more efficient storage and transportation of goods and materials,” Matzie said. “That adds up to greater productivity for our area businesses and industries. At the same time, the project will create jobs that sustain area families. It’s an investment that benefits everyone.” Matzie said the grant will fund the construction of one-half mile of storage track. Read more

 

Matzie calls for full, thorough vetting of nuclear plant energy bill to support solution that works for all

(Apr 15, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 15 – State Rep. Rob Matzie today joined colleagues on the House Consumer Affairs Committee in ongoing public hearings to consider a bill that would add nuclear energy to the list of alternative energy sources benefiting from ratepayer-subsidized credits. Matzie, who is Democratic chairman of the committee and co-chairman of the bi-partisan, bi-cameral Nuclear Energy Caucus, heard testimony from industry representatives on the potential impacts of H.B. 11, which would require that utilities purchase an additional 50 percent of energy credits from nuclear power plants. As the committee weighs the bill, Matzie cited the importance of a thorough vetting process that includes open dialog and transparency. “House Bill 11 is the most impactful and complex public policy legislation we’ve had before us in decades,” Matzie said. “As Democratic chairman of the House Consumer Affairs Committee, it is my view that nothing less than a full vetting and public conversation is merited. This is the second of four scheduled hearings. We are putting in the work. Only then will legislators, and the public at large, be able to make an informed decision. “I am supportive of a solution that keeps a diverse energy portfolio, like we currently have, alive and well in Pennsylvania. I’m supportive of a solution that will help lower carbon emissions. I’m supportive of a solution that protects workers and communities. And I’m Read more

 

‘Teacher in the Workplace’ grant of more than $44,000 to bring job-based learning to Beaver County schools

(Apr 11, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 11 – A $44,044 grant will give Beaver County educators the knowledge and experience to integrate real-world, job-based learning into the curriculum, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. The grant, awarded under the state Teacher in the Workplace Program, will allow 15 teachers to explore six area businesses and meet with employers to develop an in-depth understanding about local business opportunities, job skill sets and workforce trends. “This funding will allow our Beaver County educators to take real-world information they learn from employers, carry it back to the classroom, and enhance the learning experience for students in an incredibly valuable way,” Matzie said. “Bolstering the curriculum with real-work applications in mathematics and other subjects helps students become versed in the skills they’ll need in the modern workforce and makes it easier for them to step into real-world positions. Beyond that, it gives our local employers a better-qualified, better-prepared pool of new employees, which in the end strengthens the entire workforce.” In addition to the Beaver County grant, Matzie noted that multiple schools in Allegheny County will benefit from additional grants totaling nearly $250,000. Those grants will fund efforts to increase educators and students' awareness of high-priority occupations and to introduce work-readiness subjects into the curriculum. Read more

 

Matzie introduces vote-by-mail bill

(Apr 03, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 3 – Voting that is easier, more efficient and more secure is the aim of a new vote-by-mail bill introduced today by state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny. House Bill 1059 would permit Pennsylvania voters to cast their ballots by mail. Voters would request a ballot once and then continue receiving ballots for every election until they opted out. “The right to vote is at the heart of our democracy, but the system we use to cast and count ballots can help or hinder the process,” Matzie said. “Voting by mail has numerous advantages over traditional voting: it increases voter participation, saves taxpayer dollars and reduces the already low chance of fraud. “There are many other advantages, as well. No concern about the weather. No issues with making it to work on time, or to the polls on time. No hassle for first responders or emergency workers. No worrying about a ride to the polls. Easier for seniors. Easier for those with disabilities. Easier for those who travel for work. Easier for students. Easier for everyone. “We already trust the postal service to handle sensitive personal documents, so we can feel confident in their ability to handle our ballots. A vote-by-mail system is already working in 22 other states, including three – Oregon, Washington and Colorado – that hold their elections entirely by mail. I’m encouraging my colleagues to support this bill, which will get more citizens Read more

 

Matzie joins governor for Restore Pennsylvania tour

(Mar 29, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

ALIQUIPPA , March 29 – State Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, joined Gov. Tom Wolf today as the governor stopped in Aliquippa to outline his “Restore Pennsylvania” initiative. Speaking at the Green Garden Plaza, Matzie said he endorses the plan, which is aimed at rebuilding communities and neighborhoods throughout the commonwealth. “I strongly support having the state play a larger role in addressing some of our region’s most pressing infrastructure needs, including flood prevention and blight remediation,” Matzie said. “The plaza has been rebuilt, but it will take a larger investment from the commonwealth to protect against and prevent future flooding. “State efforts are also needed if we’re going to effectively address the blight that mars our landscape, discourages investors and impedes economic progress. Our local governments simply don’t have the funds to demolish or redevelop blighted properties. Funding aimed at blight remediation would restore the brighter, more prosperous landscape our hardworking families deserve.” The Restore Pennsylvania plan would be driven by local input about local needs. Projects identified by local stakeholders would be evaluated through a competitive process to ensure that high-priority, high-impact projects are funded and needs across Pennsylvania are met. More on the plan is available at Read more

 

Monaca Gateway Project receives $1 million grant

(Mar 26, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

A major transportation project to expand and improve Pennsylvania Avenue in Monaca has been selected to receive a state grant, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Read more

 

House unanimously adopts Matzie’s ‘Limb Loss Awareness Month’ resolution

(Mar 25, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 25 – Honoring the many Americans living with limb loss – and raising awareness about the causes – are the dual aims of a resolution the House adopted unanimously today, according to the author, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny. House Resolution 159 designates April 2019 as “Limb Loss Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania, and Matzie said he hopes its passage will help shed light on a growing health risk. “Limb loss affects about 2 million Americans, including thousands of Pennsylvanians,” Matzie said. “It’s important to honor these strong individuals who continue leading productive lives while navigating the physical, emotional and financial challenges of living without a limb – challenges many of us can only imagine. “But beyond honoring the strength and resolve of amputees, it’s important that we raise awareness about the causes of limb loss, because those causes have potential implications for millions of Pennsylvanians. Statistics show that more than half of all surgical amputations – a total of 54 percent – are the result of vascular disease. Moreover, the number of amputees is growing because of diabetes-related limb amputations, particularly among older Americans. “But there’s also some good news: we know that there are ways Pennsylvanians can reduce their risk, through lifestyle changes and with the support of their families and physicians. Read more

 

Matzie ‘Sunshine Week’ resolution highlights importance of government transparency

(Mar 11, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 11 – The House of Representatives today unanimously adopted a resolution designating March 10-16 as “Sunshine Week” in Pennsylvania, according to the resolution’s author, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny. House Resolution 111 highlights the importance of government transparency and public access to official documents and agency meetings. “Democracy depends, first and foremost, on the active, informed participation of the people,” Matzie said. “Access to information guides citizens’ decisions and lets them know how their tax dollars are being spent. It helps them determine who they want to represent them, and it empowers them to decide when action or change is necessary. Most importantly, it ensures that people share in the power that comes with knowledge. “Pennsylvania’s Sunshine Act and Right to Know Law protect and promote public access to information by ensuring that government meetings remain open to the public and that key documents and reports be made available to citizens. The laws are also indispensable to the press’s work of uncovering information that brings transparency to government decision-making and keeps leaders accountable to the people,” Matzie said. Matzie noted that Sunshine Week is scheduled to coincide each year with the birthday of James Madison — father of the U.S. Constitution and author of the Bill of Rights, which established the Read more

 

Matzie bill would implement paper ballots statewide

(Mar 07, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 7 – A bill introduced today by state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, would safeguard Pennsylvania’s elections by mandating the use of paper ballots in place of the current electronic systems that are vulnerable to hacking. Matzie said the move is essential to protect the integrity of the state’s elections. “Nothing is more fundamental to our democracy than the right to vote, but equally important is ensuring that those votes are counted, and counted accurately. Any interference with our election process undermines the most important principle of a free society – the people’s right to choose who represents them,” Matzie said. “Unfortunately, the results of an independent, bipartisan study recently showed that Pennsylvania’s elections are particularly at risk because a majority of our voting machines are susceptible to hacking and manipulation. Similarly concerning is the fact that there is no computer-based solution to hacking. Technology cannot protect the integrity of our elections. “We need to accept that sometimes, the solution lies in simplicity: We need to take a step back and implement a paper ballot system in Pennsylvania. It’s close to foolproof, it’s safe from hackers, and it’s working effectively in 21 other states.” Matzie said H.B. 765 would mandate that all Pennsylvania counties switch to all-paper ballots. He pointed out that any costs Read more

 

‘Charter Day’ resolution gains unanimous House support

(Feb 21, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Feb. 21 – A resolution naming March 10, 2019, as “Charter Day” in Pennsylvania won unanimous support in the House today, according to the resolution’s sponsor, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny. “Pennsylvania’s history is unique – not just because of its central role in our nation’s birth but because of the commonwealth’s enduring contributions,” said Matzie, who is a member of the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission. “First and foremost, Charter Day commemorates King Charles II’s historic grant to William Penn on March 4, 1681, bestowing the land that would become Pennsylvania.” “House Resolution 93 also honors Penn’s remarkable ‘Frame of Government’ – an early form of constitution that laid the groundwork for our democracy by introducing ideas such as freedom of religion, fair trials and a balancing of powers that would inspire the framers of the U.S. Constitution. “Finally, the resolution recognizes the essential work performed by volunteers and historical organizations such as the commission, the Pennsylvania State Archives, the State Historical Records Advisory Board and the many other groups and societies that keep history alive for Pennsylvanians today,” Matzie said. Matzie encouraged residents visiting Harrisburg to go see the original 323-year-old parchment charter hand-printed on animal skin, which is Read more

 

House unanimously adopts Matzie resolution on multiple sclerosis

(Feb 20, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Feb. 20 – Raising awareness about a central nervous system disease that affects an estimated 400,000 Americans and more than 24,000 Pennsylvanians is the goal of House Resolution 92 designating March 10 through March 16 as “Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week” in Pennsylvania, according to the sponsor, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny. “Although it isn’t fatal, MS can steal quality of life from people in a dozen different ways,” Matzie said. “While there is no cure, there are treatments that can help modify the disease process. That’s why it’s essential to expand awareness about the disease. The sooner MS is diagnosed, the sooner a patient can receive medication and make lifestyle changes – with help from their family – that can curb relapses and help manage the disease. “The issue is highly personal to me because my father has lived with MS for so long,” Matzie said. "The disease is difficult to diagnose, and a diagnosis can be delayed or missed altogether. For years, my father thought his vision problems were caused by optic nerve damage, but the problems were actually a symptom of MS, and they left him legally blind in one eye.” Matzie noted that although the cause of MS is unknown, scientists believe an as-yet-unidentified environmental factor triggers a response in people who are genetically predisposed to the disease. The body’s immune system Read more

 

Matzie: Nearly $1 million in state grants to enhance STEM, computer science learning for Beaver County students

(Feb 11, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Feb. 11 – Two grants totaling nearly $1 million will enhance STEM and computer science learning and expand career pathways for Beaver County students, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. The grants will benefit the Hopewell Area and Aliquippa school districts. “There was a time when traditional math and science classes were sufficient for students entering traditional engineering and technology-based fields,” Matzie said. “Today, all that is changed. Technology is so much a part of so many different fields that STEM and computer science learning are essential components of a complete education for kids of all ages. “The announced grants will place our students on the right educational and career tracks by enriching school STEM and computer science curricula and providing students opportunities for hands-on STEM learning and real-world job experiences.” The funding includes the following: A $500,000 grant to the Hopewell Area School District for the Beaver County Innovation and Learning Consortium to increase the skill set of teachers and enhance their ability to provide quality computer science and STEM instruction. In addition to shared professional learning and curriculum development, the program will include student internships, job shadowing and career exploration. A $443,078 grant to the Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette Inc. to allow the council and Aliquippa Read more

 

Matzie supports education, workforce development proposals in Wolf’s budget address

(Feb 05, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Feb. 5 – State Rep. Robert Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, released the following statement regarding Gov. Tom Wolf’s proposed 2019-20 budget address today: “The governor’s budget proposal is just that, a proposal. It highlights his priorities moving forward for the next fiscal year. The end product can sometimes look much different than what is presented today. There are several items the governor mentioned that I support, and some that will require further discussion. “I fully support the governor’s proposal for an increase in funding for our schools. America is about opportunity. The only way we ensure equal opportunity for all is by providing our students with a quality education. That starts with adequate funding. “The same is true for our workers. In Beaver County and Southwestern Pennsylvania, they are second to none. But they need the tools to succeed. We have an exciting future for labor taking shape right now in Beaver County. Funding for career and technical training is vital for our workers to meet that future. “I also fully support the governor’s efforts on continuing to fight the opioid crisis. “There’s obviously much work ahead, as this is the first step in a long process. I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in ultimately finding the compromise that best serves Beaver County and the residents of my district.” Read more

 

House unanimously adopts Matzie resolution on rheumatoid awareness

(Jan 30, 2019) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Jan. 30 – A resolution to raise awareness about rheumatoid arthritis and its effects on the heart won unanimous support in the House today, according to the resolution’s sponsor, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny. House Resolution 42, naming Feb. 2, 2019, as “Rheumatoid Awareness Day” in Pennsylvania, is aimed at raising awareness about RA’s effects, its connection with cardiovascular disease and the importance of early detection and treatment. The resolution also honors approximately 1.3 million Americans, including Matzie’s father, who are currently living with an RA diagnosis. “I think most people understand that RA can cause joint pain and stiffness, but fewer people are aware of its connection to heart disease,” Matzie said. “Rheumatoid arthritis can impact a person’s heart well before the disease is ever diagnosed. That’s why early detection and treatment are so critical.” Matzie noted that Rheumatoid Awareness Day is planned to coincide with the start of American Heart Month to emphasize the link to heart disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, patients with RA have a 50-percent higher risk of heart attacks, twice the risk of heart failure and an increase in peripheral vascular disease compared to people without the disease. Moreover, patients are twice as likely to experience silent heart attacks and sudden cardiac deaths. Matzie urged people to visit their doctor if Read more

 

Matzie: Center at the Mall to benefit from $42,700 grant
May 06, 2019

Spring 2019 Newsletter
May 06, 2019

Matzie announces nearly $187,000 in fire, EMS grants
May 03, 2019

Matzie: Beaver, Allegheny County schools to benefit from nearly $500,000 in safety grants
May 01, 2019

House unanimously adopts Matzie’s ‘World Asthma Day’ resolution
Apr 30, 2019

Matzie urges ongoing scrutiny as committee considers nuclear subsidy bill
Apr 29, 2019

Matzie: $400,000 grant to fund freight rail storage track in Allegheny County
Apr 29, 2019

Matzie calls for full, thorough vetting of nuclear plant energy bill to support solution that works for all
Apr 15, 2019

‘Teacher in the Workplace’ grant of more than $44,000 to bring job-based learning to Beaver County schools
Apr 11, 2019

Matzie introduces vote-by-mail bill
Apr 03, 2019

Matzie joins governor for Restore Pennsylvania tour
Mar 29, 2019

Monaca Gateway Project receives $1 million grant
Mar 26, 2019

House unanimously adopts Matzie’s ‘Limb Loss Awareness Month’ resolution
Mar 25, 2019

Matzie ‘Sunshine Week’ resolution highlights importance of government transparency
Mar 11, 2019

Matzie bill would implement paper ballots statewide
Mar 07, 2019

‘Charter Day’ resolution gains unanimous House support
Feb 21, 2019

House unanimously adopts Matzie resolution on multiple sclerosis
Feb 20, 2019

Matzie: Nearly $1 million in state grants to enhance STEM, computer science learning for Beaver County students
Feb 11, 2019

Matzie supports education, workforce development proposals in Wolf’s budget address
Feb 05, 2019

House unanimously adopts Matzie resolution on rheumatoid awareness
Jan 30, 2019