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House passes Salisbury bill to help communities fight blight

(Apr 23, 2025) Rep. Abigail Salisbury

HARRISBURG, April 23 – Pennsylvania communities are one step closer to having a powerful new tool to fight blight after the state House today passed Rep. Abigail Salisbury’s bill that would make it easier for land banks to acquire abandoned properties. Salisbury, D-Allegheny, said she introduced H.B. 743 – which would allow a municipality to designate a blighted or abandoned property for acquisition by a land bank – to address a longstanding issue that frustrates residents and small businesses and poses economic problems for municipalities. “When a property owner abandons or severely neglects their property over the years, the entire community pays the price – in higher crime, health and safety hazards, lower property values and the exodus of small businesses and residents,” Salisbury said. “It’s an issue that has frustrated residents, business owners and local officials for decades, but municipalities have had their hands tied. “One way we can attack the problem is by giving communities new tools to deal with properties that have a long history of safety or code violations. By allowing local governments to designate these properties for acquisition by land banks, we can free up these blighted lots for productive use – for parks and green spaces, for construction of affordable housing, for small businesses – for all the beneficial uses that make communities Read more

 

House adopts Matzie ‘Safe Digging Month’ resolution

(Apr 23, 2025) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 23 – The Pennsylvania House today adopted state Rep. Rob Matzie’s resolution designating April 2025 as “Pennsylvania 8-1-1 Safe Digging Month.” Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said he introduced H.R.34 to remind Pennsylvanians that they have a legal responsibility to call the 8-1-1 “Call before You Dig” hotline before doing any kind of digging. “Most of us rarely think about the extensive network of utilities, pipes and cables buried beneath our feet, but we do need to remember them any time we are planning a project involving digging – from the smallest backyard projects to major excavations,” Matzie said. “State law requires everyone – homeowners and contractors alike – to dial 8-1-1 at least three days before doing any digging so that utilities can mark underground structures beforehand. “It’s a free call that keeps workers safe, protects underground structures from costly damage and prevents service interruptions.” Matzie said calling 8-1-1 is required even for shallow digging projects and those located directly on a homeowner’s private property. More information is available here: https://www.puc.pa.gov/pipeline-safety/pa-one-call/#:~:text=Homeowners%20and%20contractors%20must%20call,begins%20to%20disturb%20the%20earth . Before being appointed to House Read more

 

House adopts Matzie resolution recognizing April 2025 as ‘Limb Loss Awareness Month’ in Pennsylvania

(Apr 23, 2025) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 23 – The Pennsylvania House has adopted state Rep. Rob Matzie’s resolution designating April 2025 as “Limb Loss Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said he introduced H.R. 33 to recognize the challenges and accomplishments of Pennsylvanians living without a limb and to raise awareness about preventable causes of limb loss. “There are more than 2 million Americans of all ages, races and genders who navigate the world courageously and successfully without a limb,” Matzie said. “We see many of them working, playing, providing for their families and giving back to their community. What we don’t always see are the many physical, psychological and logistical challenges they face and overcome every day. “I introduced this resolution to celebrate them and the example of courage and strength they provide for all of us.” Matzie said he also introduced H.R. 33 to raise awareness about the preventable causes of limb loss. “The main cause of surgical amputations is not trauma, but vascular diseases like diabetes and peripheral artery disease,” Matzie said. “But limb loss doesn’t have to be an unavoidable consequence of these conditions. With lifestyle changes to control risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, excess weight and inactivity, it’s Read more

 

Ciresi measure to replace state song adopted by PA House

(Apr 23, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, April 23 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi’s resolution to study replacing the state song was adopted with bipartisan support Tuesday by the PA House of Representatives. “A compelling state song drives tourism,” Ciresi said. “Our state song should extoll all the things that make Pennsylvania great in a catchy, memorable way. “Think about it: Ray Charles singing Georgia is always on his mind, John Denver about West Virgina’s country roads and the millions of songs extolling New York. These songs have lodged themselves in the public’s mind about these states. And Pennsylvania? We have an utterly forgettable song that does not represent the dynamic state we are living in. With the 250th anniversary of the United States coming up in 2026, the Keystone State of our country should have a song worth singing, that represents who we are as a people.” In 1990, the state legislature adopted the current state song, “Pennsylvania” by Eddie Khoury and Ronnie Bonner. State law established this as Pennsylvania’s official song for all public purposes, and the song is often performed at public events, such as gubernatorial inaugurations. “State symbols bring us together,” Ciresi said. “When we see our state flag and hear our state song, we should be able to share our commonality and celebrate our heritage as fellow Pennsylvanians. Unfortunately, our current state song is known by few and does Read more

 

Reps. Bizzarro, Madden introduce bill to end nursing homes’ crisis

(Apr 23, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“We have a crisis in Pennsylvania. More than 30 nursing homes and long-term care facilities have closed since the pandemic,” said Bizzarro, who serves on the House Democratic Leadership team and works as the chairman of the House Majority Policy Committee. “Pennsylvania has a lower reimbursement rate than all its neighboring states, but we can fix this problem, protect our seniors and preserve the care they need.” Read more

 

Rivera’s bill protecting PACE/PACENET eligibility for seniors passes the House

(Apr 22, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, April 22 - State Rep. Nikki Rivera’s bill to make sure older Pennsylvanians do not lose their eligibility for the state’s prescription drug programs (H.B. 923) unanimously passed the House today with overwhelming bipartisan support. Co-sponsored with state Rep. Shelby Labs, R-Bucks, the legislation would extend the moratorium on Social Security cost-of-living adjustments for PACE and PACENET eligibility to Dec. 31, 2027. The current moratorium on COLA adjustments is Dec. 31 of this year. According to Rivera, the Social Security COLA for 2025 is currently 2.5%. Without extending the moratorium, 10,039 PACENET enrollees would lose their coverage. Additionally, 12,594 PACE enrollees would move to PACENET, losing their lower copayment and their PACE-paid Part D premium. “These programs—PACE and PACENET—provide lifesaving services at a greatly reduced cost to a population that lives on fixed incomes,” Rivera said. “They make it possible so that a quarter of a million seniors, many of whom require multiple medications to treat different chronic conditions, can purchase life-saving medications without having to go into medical debt, or, even worse, decide they must forgo treatment. “Unfortunately, there’s a problem maintaining eligibility when Social Security cost-of-living increases go up, with over 20,000 seniors then no longer qualifying for their prescription plans. “I was proud to Read more

 

PA House passes Waxman Holocaust restitution tax exemption bill

(Apr 22, 2025) Rep. Ben Waxman

“While no amount of restitution can make up for the damage done during the Holocaust, these payments help victims and their families recover financial losses, offer supplemental support to survivors who may be living on limited incomes, and can provide a sense of justice,” Waxman said. Read more

 

House passes Benham bill to support surviving spouses of firefighters

(Apr 22, 2025) Rep. Jessica Benham

Legislation providing pension parity for Pittsburgh firefighters heads to state Senate Read more

 

Venkat, Flick’s bipartisan legislation to raise awareness on opioid overdoses and save lives passes House with a near unanimous vote

(Apr 22, 2025) Rep. Arvind Venkat

HARRISBURG, April 22 – State Reps. Arvind Venkat and Jamie Flick’s bipartisan bill that would create and disseminate materials integral to recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose and inform Pennsylvanians how to save the lives of their fellow citizens passed the Pennsylvania House 195-8 today. House Bill 269 would require PA’s Department of Health to develop a poster explaining: the signs of an opioid-related overdose. what to do in the event of an opioid-related overdose. where to find an opioid antagonist such as Naloxone. where to find additional resources and information. The poster would be made available online to download for private use and displayed in public places to increase awareness of how to recognize and respond to opioid-related overdoses. “The adage that ‘a little knowledge goes a long way’ may not be put into practice more profoundly than when it comes to saving someone’s life,” Venkat, D-Allegheny, said. “Our legislation does exactly that and seeks to limit the future harm of a deadly and still ongoing opioid epidemic. “Rep. Flick has been a great partner on this legislation, and I want to thank him and my House colleagues for their support. I also want to thank the Stop the Judgment Project , led by neighbors of mine in Franklin Park. I remain committed to doing everything in my power to honor the memory of those who have lost their lives in the opioid epidemic Read more

 

PA House OKs Williams bill to help municipalities fight blight by tightening LLC permit rules

(Apr 22, 2025) Rep. Dan Williams

Legislation introduced by state Rep. Dan Williams to give local governments the tools they need to fight blight in their communities passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today. Read more

 

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

(Apr 22, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Learn more about the multiple grant programs that are currently open for applications. Read more

 

Munroe, Mako introduce bipartisan PFAS bill

(Apr 16, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

WARMINSTER, April 15 – State Rep. Brian Munroe, D-Bucks, today introduced bipartisan legislation that would prohibit the manufacture, sale, distribution and use of firefighting foam containing toxic PFAS chemicals beginning in 2026. The legislation includes provisions to help fire companies responsibly dispose of existing PFAS-laden foam. Under the proposal, fire departments would be permitted to use state grant funding to cover disposal costs. Additionally, the bill directs the Office of the State Fire Commissioner to work closely with the Department of Environmental Protection to ensure the safe handling and disposal of banned materials. Violations of the prohibition would result in fines, with proceeds going directly to firefighter training programs. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals linked to a range of serious health risks, including cancer and environmental contamination. These chemicals are often found in Class B firefighting foams, which have historically been used to combat flammable liquid fires – particularly on military bases and at airports. A two-time cancer survivor, Munroe has been a vocal advocate for PFAS reform. In September, he co-hosted a joint policy hearing at the Warminster Township Building to examine the impact of PFAS and discuss legislative solutions. The region, including Warminster, Warrington, Ivyland and New Britain, is among the most heavily Read more

 

Abney introduces bills for cyber charter school reform, reproductive health care

(Apr 16, 2025) Rep. Aerion Andrew Abney

HARRISBURG, April 16 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, introduced bills today that would keep Pennsylvania cyber charter schools uniform from a staffing qualification standpoint and get Commonwealth fathers more involved in the birth of their children. House Bill 1209 would mandate that 100% of cyber charter school instructors are certified to teach by the state. Currently, only 75% of educators are required to be certified. “H.B. 1209 is a simple requirement that has the success of cyber charter school students squarely in its focus,” Abney said. “Having certified teachers across the board means every single pupil receives the same quality level of instruction they deserve.” House Bill 1212 , the PA Dads Matter Act, would direct the Pennsylvania Department of Health to conduct a public awareness campaign about the importance of including fathers to improve outcomes during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. The legislation, co-authored by Rep. Morgan Cephas, would also encourage health care providers to engage fathers during prenatal care and the birthing process. “Bringing a baby into the world is a team effort between a mother and father, so it makes perfect sense to get dads up to speed on the care and needs of their child and partner alike,” Abney said. “I want to thank Rep. Cephas for partnering with me on H.B. 1212 and look forward to helping families across the Commonwealth.” A Read more

 

Beverly’s PGH illustrates need for help in PA communities

(Apr 16, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“We included this event during the Black Maternal Health Week Summit because we have introduced Momnibus 2.0, which includes a variety of bills and legislation connected to the work of Beverly’s PGH,” said state Rep. La’Tasha D. Mayes, who co-chairs the Black Maternal Health Caucus and co-hosted the event. Read more

 

Advocating for Black maternal health remains focus of lawmakers

(Apr 15, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“Maternal health care deserts are creating a cascade of consequences for expecting mothers,” said Rep. Morgan Cephas, who represents portions of Philadelphia and co-chairs the Black Maternal Health Caucus. “Expecting mothers are being asked to drive up to 45 minutes to deliver babies, and – while in ideal situations that might not always pose an issue – deliveries cannot always be scheduled and do not always occur when expected.” Read more

 

Burns proposing standardized testing of voting machines in PA

(Apr 15, 2025) Rep. Frank Burns

“Current state law gives county election officials too much discretion on how and when testing is performed on voting machines. We need to bring greater standardization to pre-election preparations to ensure machines will function on Election Day,” Burns said. Read more

 

McAndrew, committee examine importance of life sciences

(Apr 14, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“The ability to support and retain trained and skilled workers in the highest growing industries is only possible because of the strength of life sciences,” said McAndrew, who represents portions of Allegheny County. “From cutting-edge medical innovations in devices to our innovative hospital systems, our region is doing the type of work that will power Pennsylvania’s economy for years to come.” Read more

 

Powell’s bill to prohibit remote stalking passes PA House with a near unanimous vote

(Apr 14, 2025) Rep. Lindsay Powell

HARRISBURG, April 14 – State Rep. Lindsay Powell’s bill that would ban the unauthorized tracking of victims using AirTags and similar programs passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives 201-2. House Bill 407 would forbid the misuse of this technology for purposes like stalking. There have been cases where individuals placed AirTags on vehicles to pinpoint the location of victims, but Pennsylvania still hasn’t outlined penalties for abusing this technology. “My bill not only gives neighbors their peace of mind and privacy back, but it would protect them from those seeking to do them harm. It's crucial that the legislature stays proactive when it comes to preventing bad actors from misusing this technology,” Powell said. “Thank you to my House colleagues for voting to keep Pennsylvanians safe.” Multiple plaintiffs filed a class-action lawsuit against Apple in December 2022 for remote stalking and despite the company’s attempt to dismiss the case, it is moving forward. AirTags, launched more than three years ago, are intended to help individuals find items that are often misplaced, such as keys, wallets or bookbags. House Bill 407, previously H.B. 416, passed with a near unanimous vote in last year’s session as well. The bill now moves to the state Senate for consideration. Read more

 

Warren supports transit funding in light of proposed SEPTA service cuts

(Apr 11, 2025) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

LOWER MAKEFIELD, April 11 – State Rep. Perry Warren, D-Bucks today expressed his support for continued state funding for public transit. “Without restored state public transit funding, SEPTA’s budget would include significant fare increases and reductions in service -- cuts that would directly impact the West Trenton Regional Rail Line and the broader region,” Warren said. “Public transportation connects our communities, supports our economy, and helps reduce traffic and pollution,” Warren said. “When service is cut, it affects how people get to work, school, and vital appointments -- it impacts everyday lives.” Warren emphasized that the Pennsylvania House of Representatives has repeatedly taken steps to support transit funding, including SEPTA. “I voted for, and the House passed, legislation to fund SEPTA and other mass transit systems three times over the past year,” Warren said. “The House Democratic Caucus is ready to do the right thing again, and I’m hopeful the Senate will join us in delivering the support our communities need.” Without enhanced state funding, SEPTA service cuts would include reducing service on the West Trenton Line, which serves Yardley Station -- a station that received a $5 million renovation, completed in 2018. “I was there for the dedication and ribbon cutting,” Read more

 

Frankel, Costa reintroduce Hate Crimes and Victims’ Rights package of legislation

(Apr 10, 2025) Rep. Dan B. Frankel

PITTSBURGH, April 10 – State Rep. Dan Frankel joined state Sen. Jay Costa today to announce the reintroduction of a package of bills meant to strengthen law enforcement’s response to hate crimes, improve tracking, advocate for victims and prevent future hate-based crimes. This legislation is a direct response to the 2018 mass shooting at Pittsburgh's Tree of Life building, during which a white supremacist murdered eleven worshippers in three Jewish congregations. To this day, this was the single deadliest act of antisemitic violence in American history. However, since then, the instance of hate crimes has only risen against racial minorities, religious groups, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. As noted in the Senate co-sponsorship memorandum , “According to the Pennsylvania State Policy Uniform Crime Reporting System, between 2020 and 2021, hate crime incidents in Pennsylvania more than doubled statewide. Between 2021 and 2023, the Department of Justice reports hate crimes almost doubled again in Pennsylvania. Worse, hate crimes are often misreported because of a lack of training or tracking.” Already, Frankel and Costa have championed the creation and growth of the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Signed into law in 2019, Act 83 directs PCCD to administer grants to nonprofit organizations who principally serve individuals, groups or institutions that are included within a bias motivation category for single bias hate crime Read more

 

House passes Salisbury bill to help communities fight blight
Apr 23, 2025

House adopts Matzie ‘Safe Digging Month’ resolution
Apr 23, 2025

House adopts Matzie resolution recognizing April 2025 as ‘Limb Loss Awareness Month’ in Pennsylvania
Apr 23, 2025

Ciresi measure to replace state song adopted by PA House
Apr 23, 2025

Reps. Bizzarro, Madden introduce bill to end nursing homes’ crisis
Apr 23, 2025

Rivera’s bill protecting PACE/PACENET eligibility for seniors passes the House
Apr 22, 2025

PA House passes Waxman Holocaust restitution tax exemption bill
Apr 22, 2025

House passes Benham bill to support surviving spouses of firefighters
Apr 22, 2025

Venkat, Flick’s bipartisan legislation to raise awareness on opioid overdoses and save lives passes House with a near unanimous vote
Apr 22, 2025

PA House OKs Williams bill to help municipalities fight blight by tightening LLC permit rules
Apr 22, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Apr 22, 2025

Munroe, Mako introduce bipartisan PFAS bill
Apr 16, 2025

Abney introduces bills for cyber charter school reform, reproductive health care
Apr 16, 2025

Beverly’s PGH illustrates need for help in PA communities
Apr 16, 2025

Advocating for Black maternal health remains focus of lawmakers
Apr 15, 2025

Burns proposing standardized testing of voting machines in PA
Apr 15, 2025

McAndrew, committee examine importance of life sciences
Apr 14, 2025

Powell’s bill to prohibit remote stalking passes PA House with a near unanimous vote
Apr 14, 2025

Warren supports transit funding in light of proposed SEPTA service cuts
Apr 11, 2025

Frankel, Costa reintroduce Hate Crimes and Victims’ Rights package of legislation
Apr 10, 2025