Abney: $400,000+ for law enforcement and water recreation in Pittsburgh

(Mar 13, 2024)

PITTSBURGH, March 13 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced that a total of $415,000 in grants has been awarded to Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Carnegie Science Center . Pittsburgh Bureau of Police received a $315,000 Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency Law Enforcement Recruitment grant to fill their share of the 412 vacant policing positions across the Commonwealth. Carnegie Science Center was awarded a $100,000 Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Boating Facility grant to complete a feasibility study and produce design/engineering plans for a new boating facility and related infrastructure along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail . “Keeping Steel City streets safe starts with adequate staffing, so these dollars are a vital investment in the protection and well-being of neighbors young and old,” Abney said. “I also am proud to support the Carnegie Science Center’s initiative for residents and visitors alike to experience and explore the natural beauty of the Three Rivers by boat.” Since the PCCD started accepting applications for recruitment funding in October of last year, just over $2 million has been allocated to 51 law enforcement agencies statewide. Read more

 

Powell and Abney to host landlord and tenant rights panel

(Feb 29, 2024)

PITTSBURGH, Feb. 29 – State Reps. Lindsay Powell and Aerion Abney, both D-Allegheny, will hold a landlord and tenant legal rights panel on Thursday, March 7 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Tripoli Street Community Center . “Fair and equitable housing is a right every neighbor should be able to acquire,” Powell said. “I’m looking forward to having a productive conversation with renters and property managers about their rights under the law.” “Fostering strong professional relationships between landlords and tenants is an important aspect when it comes to limiting displacement,” Abney added. “Laying out the legal rights of both parties with the citizens I represent will help accomplish that goal.” Local magistrates will also be present to provide additional information. Tripoli Street Community Center is located at 816 Tripoli St. , Pittsburgh 15212. Read more

 

Allegheny House Dems secure $325K boost for social programs

(Feb 22, 2024)

State grants fund digital literacy, transportation resources Read more

 

Allegheny House Dems announce $500K to build career pathways

(Feb 16, 2024)

L&I grants fund pre-apprenticeships, workforce diversity programs Read more

 

Abney: $32 million+ secured to remove lead in Pittsburgh’s drinking water, enhance water conservation

(Jan 25, 2024)

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 25 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced that a total of $32,058,100 was secured by the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority for lead remediation and water conservation measures across multiple Pittsburgh neighborhoods. The state funds, facilitated by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority , will be used to replace approximately 1,375 public and 1,260 private lead service lines in the areas of Millvale Borough, Mount Washington, South Side Slopes, Garfield, Upper Lawrenceville, Central Northside, Manchester, Perry North, Perry South and Spring Hill. Many of these communities are at a disproportionately higher risk for lead contamination. Consumers will also be able to save water, as they are currently required to flush their systems each morning prior to use. Abney, whose legislative district includes four of the localities in the service area, said, “Ensuring the health of the neighbors I represent and preserving the local environment are paramount. These efforts will also help keep more dollars in the pockets of individuals and families who need them the most.” “Safe drinking water is a basic necessity that must be available to everyone,” state Rep. Lindsay Powell, D-Allegheny, said. “Investing monies in these critical infrastructural improvements is an investment in the health and safety of citizens and the environment.” Powell represents the citizens of Millvale, Upper Read more

 

Abney hails grants totaling $873,000+ for community projects

(Jan 17, 2024)

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 17 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced that a total of $873,125 in grants has been awarded to multiple community projects throughout the 19th Legislative District. Accounting for $498,125 are grants made possible by the Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund under the Commonwealth Financing Authority . Grant recipients are: Center of Life: $35,000 for Community Hub project on Hazelwood Green. Charles Street Area Corporation: $105,000 for parklet construction and acquisition of land for affordable housing development. Greenwood Plan: $35,000 for purchasing and redeveloping the Pitt Building into business space. Humane Animal Rescue League: $100,000 for expanding the community veterinary clinic. Jubilee Association: $50,000 for renovating the 2nd floor of the organization’s facility. The Citizen Science Lab: $63,000 for constructing the MLK Center for Scientific Excellence. The Education Partnership: $50,125 for constructing a warehouse to store school supplies. TMCAqua, LLC.: $60,000 for the Cordia Energy project. The remaining $375,000 in grants come courtesy of the CFA’s Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program . Grant recipients are: National Aviary: $125,000 for rose garden and pathway improvements project. Riverlife: $250,000 for reconstruction of Allegheny Landing. “I’m thrilled to help secure these funds and support Read more

 

2024 Capitol Calendar

(Jan 02, 2024)

Check out my free 2024 Capitol Calendar! Read more

 

Abney: Nearly $1.8 million awarded to help District 19 arts and cultural centers rebound from pandemic

(Dec 19, 2023)

“The pandemic dealt a crushing blow to our local artists, museums, orchestras and other arts and cultural centers, and these organizations are rebounding more slowly than other businesses and organizations,” Abney said. “The new funding will help speed recovery for these vital groups and for the talented performers, musicians, and other artists who uplift us and help stimulate local business activity.” Read more

 

Abney and Benham to host legislative town hall on Pittsburgh’s South Side

(Dec 11, 2023)

PITTSBURGH, Dec. 11 – State Reps. Aerion A. Abney and Jessica Benham, both D-Allegheny, will host a legislative town hall from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18 at South Side Market House , 49 S. 12th St. in Pittsburgh . The lawmakers will provide updates on legislation that has recently passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and residents will have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss the issues most important to them. There will also be information about state services. “My colleagues and I on both sides of the aisle have accomplished much positive change this past year, but much more of the people’s work still needs to be done,” Abney said. “Having a healthy dialogue with neighbors where they live shines a necessary spotlight on the issues most significant to them.” “Legislative and policy solutions often grow out of conversations constituents have with their elected officials,” Benham added. “Listening to and understanding the concerns of the people I represent is one of the most important aspects of my job. I encourage folks to come out to connect with me and my team, even those who don’t have a specific issue in mind.” Residents wanting more information should call Abney’s district office at 412-471-7760 or Benham’s district office at 412-881-4208 . A light meal will also be served. Read more

 

Abney and Mayes to host legislative town hall in Pittsburgh’s Hill District

(Nov 28, 2023)

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 28 – State Reps. Aerion A. Abney and La’Tasha D. Mayes, both D-Allegheny, will host a legislative town hall from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday , Dec. 5 at the Thelma Lovette YMCA , 2114 Centre Ave. in Pittsburgh . The lawmakers will provide updates on legislation that has recently passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and residents will have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss the issues most important to them. There will also be information about state services. “As the eyes and ears of the communities I represent, I’m excited to meet with my neighbors where they live for this important dialogue,” Abney said. “I’m eager to share the good work done in Harrisburg and receive essential feedback on the good work that still needs to be done.” “During this town hall, we’ll have the opportunity to connect with residents of the Hill District on issues affecting the community and on legislation including the CROWN Act ,” Mayes said. “I look forward to engaging constituents in a vibrant discussion about our work.” A light meal will be served. Residents wanting more information should call Abney’s district office at 412-471-7760 or Mayes’ district office at 412-665-5502 . Read more

 

Abney: more than $2.8 million in tax credits awarded for community support

(Nov 21, 2023)

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 21 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced today that $2.84 million in tax credits through the state’s Neighborhood Assistance Program has been awarded to several community organizations. “These tax credits are essential to the preservation and improvement of communities that need urgent assistance,” Abney said. “Whether putting more roofs over the heads of individuals, providing food resources, or helping local businesses expand, I applaud all the great work these tax credits will do by encouraging private investment.” Two organizations were approved for general NAP tax credits. They are: Amani Christian Community Development Corp.: $55,000 for the Centre Avenue project, which includes the eventual completion of a 700 square foot affordable commercial space builder. Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania: $55,000 for a project to replace the roof of their main building for safer program access. Six organizations were awarded Neighborhood Partnership Program tax credits. Those recipients are: Hilltop Alliance: $200,000 for a projects involving home repairs and food assistance. Hazelwood Initiative Inc.: $240,000 for a project to renovate rental units. Northside Leadership Conference Inc.: $400,000 for a project to support affordable housing development, commercial real estate, small business support, parks and greenspace planning, and restoration, Read more

 

Abney to host legislative town hall on Pittsburgh’s North Side

(Nov 15, 2023)

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 15 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, and his staff will hold a legislative town hall from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 20 at Pittsburgh Higher Ground Ministry, 3505 Perrysville Ave. in Pittsburgh . The town hall will include information about legislation that has recently passed the PA House and an opportunity for residents to discuss the issues most important to them. “Meeting with neighbors in a forum like this is integral to continuing the essential work that needs to be done in Harrisburg,” Abney said. “I look forward to having a lively dialogue with the people I’m privileged to represent.” Residents interested in attending are encouraged to call Abney’s district office at 412-471-7760 for more information. A light meal will be served. Read more

 

Abney introduces bill for PA to join Social Work Licensure Compact

(Nov 14, 2023)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 14 – Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, introduced a bill today that would add Pennsylvania to the list of states who are members of the Social Work Licensure Compact. The legislation ( H.B. 1841 ) would allow licensed commonwealth social workers or those eligible for a license to apply for the ability to provide their services across multiple states. A comprehensive data system would also be created, so the public could be kept safe and informed with regards to social worker license status and any adverse actions associated with them. “Often an underappreciated profession, an increased demand for social workers became evident through the pandemic and continues as people deal with ongoing traumas,” Abney said. “My bill would be a win-win for social workers seeking employment opportunities and individuals in need of personal and emotional assistance.” Abney holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh. The bill has been referred to the House Professional Licensure Committee. Read more

 

Abney to host legislative town hall in Pittsburgh’s West End

(Nov 06, 2023)

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 6 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, and his staff will hold a legislative town hall from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 at Sheraden Senior Center , 720 Sherwood Ave. in Pittsburgh . The town hall will include information about legislation that has recently passed the PA House and an opportunity for residents to discuss the issues most important to them. Interested individuals are encouraged to call Abney’s district office at 412-471-7760 for more information. A light meal will also be served. Read more

 

Bills to improve voting access for incarcerated individuals draw support from lawmakers, advocates

(Oct 19, 2023)

With the general election weeks away, lawmakers and advocates are calling for legislation to better inform incarcerated Pennsylvanians about their right to vote and permit them to vote via absentee ballot. Read more

 

Abney praises nearly $7.5 million in PHFA grants

(Oct 13, 2023)

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 13 – Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced today that five local projects have been awarded nearly $7.5 million in PA Housing Finance Agency grants. The grant recipients are: Allegheny YMCA Renovation ~ $2.2 million for the preservation of 88 affordable housing units. Hazelwood 2023 ~ $540,000 for the preservation of nine affordable housing units. Hazelwood Affordable Rental Preservation Program ~ $1.86 million for the preservation of 61 affordable housing units. The Residences at Wood Street/Wood Street Commons Investment Project ~ $2 million for the preservation of 250 affordable housing units. Widows Home ~ $825,000 for the preservation of 24 affordable housing units. “Ensuring that everyone has safe place to call home and decreasing displacement are two of my highest priorities as a state legislator,” Abney said. “The social worker in me knows that these dollars will provide immeasurable help to the people and communities I’m privileged to represent.” These PHFA monies are classified as Housing Options Program grants and can be utilized to repair existing housing units or to construct new housing units. Additionally, they are intended to fund housing that has not already received Low Income Housing Tax Credit funding or does not anticipate receiving LIHTC funding during the next four years. A list of all Commonwealth PHFA HOP-MF grants awarded this year can Read more

 

Rabb announces legislation to establish Incarcerated People’s Benefit Fund

(Sep 07, 2023)

“Advocating for incarcerated individuals is one of my biggest priorities as a state legislator,” said state Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, a co-sponsor on the legislation. “I will continue to champion any and all efforts that provide them with opportunities to start their lives anew and succeed upon their release.” Read more

 

Allegheny County Democratic Delegation: $155,000 secured to expand building and construction apprenticeships for women, diverse job seekers

(Aug 17, 2023)

“For decades, female and Black workers – and Black women in particular – have been underrepresented in the building and construction trades, effectively shutting them out of good-paying, family-sustaining jobs while shortchanging employers and our labor force,” Abney said. “With help from this new funding, APRI Pittsburgh will work to knock down the barriers that have stood in the way for these workers and allow us to reach new, diverse talent.” Read more

 

Policy hearing highlights how diversity strengthens supply chain

(Aug 09, 2023)

“Expanding diversity within the supply chain not only improves economic possibilities, but it also has the ability to enhance the quality of life within our communities,” said Rep. Aerion Abney, who represents a portion of Allegheny County and hosted the hearing. “If we embrace diversity in the supply chain, what we are really embracing is a stronger supply chain less susceptible to disruptions and a more secure economic future.” Read more

 

Abney issues statement regarding U.S. Supreme Court LGBTQIA+ ruling

(Jun 30, 2023)

HARRISBURG, June 30 – Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, issued the following statement regarding today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision on 303 Creative Inc. v. Elenis: “In the face of the U.S. Supreme Court's recent ruling negatively impacting the LGBTQIA+ community, we find ourselves deeply disappointed for the second day in a row. It is disheartening to witness the erosion of civil rights and liberties for specific groups of people. Today, on the final day of Pride Month, our LGBTQIA+ friends must endure the reality of a country where businesses have legal protection to discriminate against them. “The Supreme Court, which once stood as a safeguard for existing rights, now appears to be driven by an agenda to strip them away. The court's attempt to conceal exclusivity under the guise of inclusivity only serves to expose the divisive nature of its ideology. This is undeniably a slippery slope that should concern us all, regardless of whether we identify as members of the LGBTQIA+ community or not. “The decision made today contributes to the growing uncertainty and chaos surrounding the direction our country is headed. Adversity, however, often presents us with an opportunity for unity and course correction. We now face the task of coming together, rectifying this situation, and ensuring that order prevails over chaos. It is our collective responsibility to foster a society where all individuals are protected, respected and Read more

 

Abney: $400,000+ for law enforcement and water recreation in Pittsburgh
Mar 13, 2024

Powell and Abney to host landlord and tenant rights panel
Feb 29, 2024

Allegheny House Dems secure $325K boost for social programs
Feb 22, 2024

Allegheny House Dems announce $500K to build career pathways
Feb 16, 2024

Abney: $32 million+ secured to remove lead in Pittsburgh’s drinking water, enhance water conservation
Jan 25, 2024

Abney hails grants totaling $873,000+ for community projects
Jan 17, 2024

2024 Capitol Calendar
Jan 02, 2024

Abney: Nearly $1.8 million awarded to help District 19 arts and cultural centers rebound from pandemic
Dec 19, 2023

Abney and Benham to host legislative town hall on Pittsburgh’s South Side
Dec 11, 2023

Abney and Mayes to host legislative town hall in Pittsburgh’s Hill District
Nov 28, 2023

Abney: more than $2.8 million in tax credits awarded for community support
Nov 21, 2023

Abney to host legislative town hall on Pittsburgh’s North Side
Nov 15, 2023

Abney introduces bill for PA to join Social Work Licensure Compact
Nov 14, 2023

Abney to host legislative town hall in Pittsburgh’s West End
Nov 06, 2023

Bills to improve voting access for incarcerated individuals draw support from lawmakers, advocates
Oct 19, 2023

Abney praises nearly $7.5 million in PHFA grants
Oct 13, 2023

Rabb announces legislation to establish Incarcerated People’s Benefit Fund
Sep 07, 2023

Allegheny County Democratic Delegation: $155,000 secured to expand building and construction apprenticeships for women, diverse job seekers
Aug 17, 2023

Policy hearing highlights how diversity strengthens supply chain
Aug 09, 2023

Abney issues statement regarding U.S. Supreme Court LGBTQIA+ ruling
Jun 30, 2023