Tartaglione Announces $1.5 Million in Local Transit Grants

Tartaglione Announces $1.5 Million in Local Transit Grants

Philadelphia, PAMarch 26, 2024 – Today, Senator Christine Tartaglione announced that $1,550,000 in Multimodal Transportation Fund grants have been awarded to two projects in the 2nd Senatorial District to help create safer streetscapes and pedestrian infrastructure.

“Bringing these funds to the 2nd District will help fund two transformative projects to enhance urban mobility and community vibrancy,” said Senator Tartaglione. “These initiatives continue to show our prioritization and dedication to pedestrian safety and connectivity, reflecting our commitment to accessible and sustainable transportation infrastructure.”

The Multimodal Transportation Fund provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable transportation system is available in our Commonwealth. Funds may be used to develop, rehabilitate, and enhance transportation assets to existing communities, as well as streetscape, lighting, sidewalk enhancement, pedestrian safety, connectivity of transportation assets, and transit-oriented development.

The two projects in the 2nd District receiving funding are:

  • Castor Avenue Streetscape Project – $1,300,000
  • Frankford Creek Greenway Project – $250,000

More information on the Multimodal Transportation Fund and all other funding opportunities available through the Commonwealth Financing Authority and the Department of Community and Economic Development can be found online.

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Senator Tartaglione’s Response to Governor Shapiro’s Budget Address

Senator Tartaglione’s Response to Governor Shapiro’s Budget Address

Harrisburg, PAFebruary 6, 2024 − Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Whip Christine Tartaglione released the following statement following Governor Shapiro’s budget address:

“The Governor’s address today lays out a roadmap that moves our Commonwealth from being a follower to a leader in our nation. The historic funding proposals for education, transportation, and economic development will boost Pennsylvania to the forefront of the issues facing our Commonwealth. Coupled with calls to raise our minimum wage and increase funding and pay for crucial areas like home healthcare and childcare, we have the opportunity to make dramatic investments in our collective future.”

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Tartaglione Announces $135,000 In Coastal Zone Grants Coming To Projects In The 2nd District

Tartaglione Announces $135,000 In Coastal Zone Grants Coming To Projects In The 2nd District

Philadelphia, PA, January 24th – Today, Senator Christine Tartaglione announced $135,000 in Coastal Zone Grants have been awarded to projects that will benefit the 2nd Senatorial District.

The Pennsylvania Coastal Zone Grants are funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Coastal Resources Management (CRM) Program, which receives grant money from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to fund eligible projects.

“Making sure we are good stewards of the environment is such a paramount part of our responsibility as humans,” said Senator Tartaglione. “By allocating these grants to protect the environment and coastal zones, we actively contribute to the crucial goal of securing future generation’s ability to use the same natural resources we find so vital to everyday life.”

Projects receiving funding include:

• Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission – $50,000 to provide support to PADEP’s Coastal Resources Management Program in implementing the Delaware Estuary component of the Coastal Zone Management program.
• PA CleanWays DBA Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful – $35,000.00 to work with local affiliates/partners to facilitate cleanups as a tool to reduce marine debris.
• Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission – $50,000 to work with municipalities to determine their stormwater regulation needs and produce a report on their findings.

Additional information on grants available through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection can be found on their website.

Tartaglione Announces $5.6 Million in Zero Emission Vehicle Grants Coming to Philadelphia

Tartaglione Announces $5.6 Million in Zero Emission Vehicle Grants Coming to Philadelphia

Philadelphia – January 10, 2024 – Today, Senator Christine Tartaglione, Senate Democratic Whip, announced that $5,659,462 has been awarded to two projects in Philadelphia to aid in acquiring zero-emission vehicles and the infrastructure to support them.

The grants are made available through the Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant Program was established under Act 166 of 1992 to help create new markets for alternative fuels in Pennsylvania.

“Helping expand the zero-emission vehicle stock and infrastructure across Philadelphia and Pennsylvania demonstrates our Commonwealth’s commitment to driving innovation and sustainability,” said Senator Tartaglione. “The funding of these projects not only aligns with the goals of a cleaner and more secure energy future but also shows our commitment to the economic and environmental well-being of our communities.”

The following programs in Philadelphia received funding:

  • Sysco Leasing, LLC – $3,975,000 – to replace 10 eligible Class 8, short-haul, semi-tractors with BEVs.  Install 10 DC fast charging plugs.
  • Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority – $1,684,462 – Replace 6 eligible freight and delivery trucks with BEV trucks and install supporting EV charging infrastructure.

About the AFIG Program:

The Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant Program (AFIG) was established under Act 166 of 1992 to create new markets for alternative fuels in Pennsylvania. By investing in alternative fuel vehicles, fleets, refueling infrastructure, and technologies, AFIG aims to enhance energy security, improve air quality, and stimulate opportunities for managing Pennsylvania’s fuel resources in an environmentally friendly manner. For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s website.

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Tartaglione Announces $350,000 in Growing Greener Grants

Tartaglione Announces $350,000 in Growing Greener Grants

Philadelphia − January 5, 2024 – Today, Senator Christine Tartaglione, Senate Democratic Whip, announced $350,000 has been awarded to the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) for the Tacony Reaches Green Infrastructure Stormwater Mitigation Project.

The project will use the funds to design and create a green stormwater infrastructure along Tacony Creek. This project is a part of the PWD’s Strategic Watershed Improvement Plan for stabilizing and improving stream corridors and this work will directly support the city’s 25-year green stormwater management program, Green City, Clean Waters.

“Investing in green infrastructure projects, like the Tacony Reaches Project, displays our commitment to a sustainable, resilient, and greener future,” said Senator Tartaglione.  “When government invests in green infrastructure, it not only benefits our environment but also sets the stage for new economic opportunities, cleaner communities, and increased and more equitable public health.”

As part of this work, the Philadelphia Water Department is planning to stabilize several portions of stream bank along the Tacony Creek, just south of E Roosevelt Blvd.

The funds are made available through the Growing Greener grant program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Projects are awarded funding to help address Pennsylvania’s critical environmental concerns of the 21st century.

For more information about the Tacony Creek project visit the city’s website. For more information regarding Growing Greener Grant funding visit the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection website.

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Tartaglione Announces $135,000 In Coastal Zone Grants Coming To Projects In The 2nd District

Tartaglione Announces $1 Million in Arts And Culture Grants for Philadelphia

Today, Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-2) announced that $1,073,969 in Arts & Culture grants will be awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Agency for projects both in the 2nd District as well as to programs that will benefit all of Philadelphia.

“These grants are a testament to the Commonwealth’s commitment to the cultural richness of our city and our state,” said Senator Tartaglione. “These funds are going to be a game-changer for the arts community in Philadelphia, providing the means to amplify their impact and ensure the arts continue to be a force for positive change by creating a more vibrant and enriched Philadelphia.”

The grants are funded through the COVID-19 ARPA PA Arts and Culture Recovery Program which was created to support nonprofit arts and culture organizations, local arts and culture districts as well as arts and culture professionals located in the Commonwealth to ensure the stability of the Commonwealth’s arts and culture sector.

Programs receiving funding include:

  • Artistas y Musicos Latino Americanos – $10,000
  • ARTZ Philadelphia – $13,928
  • COSACOSA art at large, Inc. – $10,558
  • Enchantment Theatre Company – $11,294
  • Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance – $558,387
  • JUNK – $10,636
  • Philadelphia Chamber Music Society – $56,123
  • Philadelphia Orchestra Association – $95,000
  • Philadelphia Scenic Works – $18,848
  • Philadelphia Youth Orchestra – $47,786
  • Taller Puertorriqueño – $38,375
  • Theatre Philadelphia – $13,034
  • Walnut Street Theatre Corp – $95,000
  • Zoological Society of Philadelphia DBA Philadelphia Zoo – $95,000

Programs eligible for the grants include Arts Organizations, Culture Organizations, Arts or Culture Organizations that manage a Local Arts or Culture District, Museums, and more. More information on the Arts and Culture grant can be found on the DCED website. Other grant and funding opportunities can also be found online.

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Tartaglione Announces More Than $900,000 In PCCD Grants Awarded To Philadelphia

Tartaglione Announces More Than $900,000 In PCCD Grants Awarded To Philadelphia

Harrisburg – December 13, 2023 – Today, Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-2) announced the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has awarded $902,000 to non-profits, governmental, and community organizations across Philadelphia.

Grants were awarded from the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program, Local Law Enforcement Support Grant Program, Federal STOP Violence Against Women Act Funds, State Children’s Advocacy Center Funds, Federal Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Funds, and State Violence and Delinquency Prevention Program Funds. All awards from these programs are approved pending fiscal or programmatic concerns.

“Our Commonwealth making investments in the safety and security of our community buildings, religious sites and neighborhoods needs to remain one of our highest priorities,” said Senator Tartaglione. “I am delighted to announce the resources are flowing into the 2nd Senatorial District and the entire City of Philadelphia, so we can ensure our neighbors are safe whether they be in a house of worship, riding public transit, or just using our public spaces.”

The grant recipients and totals are listed below:

Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program:

St. John’s Lutheran Church – $5,000

Al-Hidaya Islamic Center – $50,000

Local Law Enforcement Support Grant Program:

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) – $200,000

State Children’s Advocacy Center Fund:

Philadelphia Children’s Assistance – $47,000

Federal STOP Violence Against Women Act Funds:

Friends of Farmworkers – $125,000

Nationalities Services Center of Philadelphia – $125,000

Federal Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Funds:

The Pennsylvania DMC Corporation – $250,000

State Violence and Delinquency Prevention Program Funds:

Philadelphia Treasurer – $95,000

Support Center for Child Advocate – $5,000

More information on PCCD grant opportunities can be found online.

 

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Senate Democrats Share Joint Statement on PA Supreme Court Wage Theft Decision

Senate Democrats Share Joint Statement on PA Supreme Court Wage Theft Decision

November 30, 2023 – Members of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus, including Senator Vincent Hughes, Senator John Kane, Senator Christine Tartaglione, and Senator Lindsey Williams, issued a joint statement in response to the PA Supreme Court’s opinion that supports PennDOT’s jurisdiction to enforce the Prevailing Wage Act and their authority to disqualify G.O. Hawbaker Inc. from state roadwork contracts.  

The four Senators are sponsors of Senate Bill 987, legislation that would require employers to notify workers about the illegal practice of wage theft, while also helping to protect workers who report it from retaliation.

“When our commonwealth goes into business with private organizations, Pennsylvanians deserve to know companies we contract with are the best of the best and operate themselves completely above board. We applaud the Pennsylvania Supreme Court for holding G. O. Hawbaker accountable for stealing money from employees. And we support PennDOT’s efforts to disqualify G. O. Hawbaker from future state projects.

Wage theft is a morally and financially abhorrent practice. Any employer found misappropriating employee pay and benefits should be forced to make their employees whole, as G.O. Hawbreaker was, and held to a different standard moving forward. These companies should not simply be allowed to resume business as usual after they exhibit such malicious intent and lack of respect for employees’ time and work. 

Workers deserve the support and protections that have been affirmed by both the PA Supreme Court and PennDOT. Moving Senate Bill 987 and other Senate Democratic proposals to combat wage theft (like Senate Bill 46, Senate Bill 47, and Senate Bill 577), would be another tremendous step forward for workers in Pennsylvania.

We hope all companies take note of our fierce commitment to workers and the wages they are justly owed.”

Statement form Senator Tartaglione on Last Night’s Mass Shooting

Statement form Senator Tartaglione on Last Night’s Mass Shooting

PHILADELPHIA, November 22, 2023 – Senator Christine Tartaglione released the following statement regarding the mass shooting in Fairhill.

“Yesterday evening, just a few hundred feet from my Allegheny Avenue office, a heart-wrenching incident of violence unfolded, casting a chilling shadow over our community just days before Thanksgiving. A tragic mass shooting resulted in the loss of two lives and left five others injured.

The pervasive issue of gun violence has become an affliction upon our nation, commonwealth, and city, tearing at the very fabric of our communities.

It is crucial that we unite in solidarity to advocate for the enactment of sensible and comprehensive gun control measures. Additionally, we must actively support and elect politicians and leaders who share the belief that we can take meaningful action to curb this senseless violence.

We must act and act swiftly to safeguard our neighborhoods and work collectively to prevent the pervasive cycle of these gut-wrenching events in our city.”

Tartaglione, Kane, & Dillon Announce Legislative Package to Aid Addiction Recovery

Tartaglione, Kane, & Dillon Announce Legislative Package to Aid Addiction Recovery

Harrisburg, PA November 14, 2023 – Today, State Senators Christine Tartaglione (D-2), John Kane (D-9), and Jimmy Dillon (D-5) announced a package of legislation aimed at overhauling Pennsylvania’s addiction recovery system.

States across the nation, including Pennsylvania, face an alarming addiction crisis. With the 9th-highest drug overdose mortality rate in 2021, it is clear more must be done to combat this devastating issue.

“Our Commonwealth is facing an unprecedented addiction and overdose crisis that is ravaging communities and families,” said Senator Tartaglione. “The legislation we highlighted is in part born out of my 20-year-long experience with recovery and sobriety from an alcohol addiction along with countless conversations with people from all sides of the addiction treatment system and will help our neighbors get access to the lifesaving care they so desperately need.”

The legislative package announced today includes six bills aimed at bolstering addiction recovery efforts across Pennsylvania:

SB 874: Encourages SUD counselors to join the fight by offering student loan forgiveness for a 2-year commitment. Mental Health and Intellectual Disability professionals committing to 4 years also qualify. We must retain and inspire our dedicated workforce.

SB 875: Addresses the recovery workforce shortage by ensuring clear and achievable certification practices for recovery workers and considers marginalized communities’ access to these positions.

SB 876: Improves care quality by mandating continuing education on addiction for healthcare professionals and strengthens the referral link between hospitals and addiction treatment organizations.

SB 877: Enhances transparency and disclosure of addiction treatment coverage by requiring insurers to provide clear, semi-annual notifications to policyholders.

SB 878: Introduces standardized reporting by insurers regarding addiction treatment to identify gaps in coverage and access.

SB 879: Requires insurers to testify that they are in compliance with the federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act which requires insurance companies to treat mental health and substance use on an equal basis with physical ailments.

“These bills provide desperately needed support for those on the path to recovery by tackling workforce challenges, boosting professional development, enhancing transparency in insurance coverage, and implementing reporting measures to guide strategic improvements in addiction services,” added Senator Dillon.

The legislative package announced today joins a large group of other, bipartisan addiction recovery-related bills introduced both in both chambers of the Pennsylvania legislature and was drafted in consultation with the Drug and Alcohol Service Providers Organization of Pennsylvania (DASPOP).

“Forty years ago, I began my own recovery journey. Today, I’m proud to be part of this initiative that will simplify the process for others following the same path,” Senator Kane stated. “Through our partnership with DASPOP, we aim to ensure that no Pennsylvanian is denied the life-saving treatment they need due to confusing insurance coverage rules. We are committed to tearing down the barriers between people who need help and the treatment they deserve.”

More information on the bills in this package and other legislative packages can be found online.

State Senate Democratic Caucus Members Announce Build Better PA

State Senate Democratic Caucus Members Announce Build Better PA

PHILADELPHIA – October 10, 2023 – State Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10), Tina Tartaglione (D-2), Jimmy Dillon (D-5) and John Kane (D-9), and representatives from the building trades announced Build Better PA, a package of bills to promote fairness, quality, and skilled craftsmanship within the tax incentive programs designed to stimulate economic growth.

“Union labor means quality work done right the first time,” said Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10).  “As businesses enjoy the benefits of tax incentive development zones, it is in the best interest of taxpayers and workers to make sound investments in how the work is done. While these programs have been instrumental in driving economic development, they also provide a unique opportunity to raise the bar in terms of labor standards and workforce quality.  Building trades and apprenticeships invest in workers, ensuring fair, family-sustaining wages and high-quality final products.”  

Build Better PA introduces two essential benchmarks for businesses making capital investments exceeding $25,000 in construction, reconstruction, demolition, alteration, or repair of facilities within designated tax zones:

  1. Prevailing Wage Requirement: This provision ensures that businesses within the tax program pay their workers fair wages in line with regional standards. It aims to prevent the exploitation of labor and maintain equitable compensation for workers contributing to these projects.
  2. Skilled Craft Labor Mandate: To further enhance the quality of workmanship, the bill mandates that at least 70% of the workforce on prevailing wage-eligible projects are “skilled craft laborers.” This criterion ensures that projects funded through tax incentives maintain high standards of craftsmanship and expertise, promoting both worker skill development and the overall quality of construction.

“For decades our Commonwealth has supported business development and created special tax incentives to drive growth,” said Senator Tina Tartaglione (D-2). “These bills will make sure while we keep driving Pennsylvania forward, we don’t leave the working class behind. Unions, skilled trades and apprentice programs are the key to continuing to grow the middle class, which is imperative for our continued success.”

“I have witnessed the challenges that workers in the construction industry face, both as a plumber and as the Business Manager for the largest Plumbers Union in Pennsylvania. This legislation will benefit our labor force by giving them a stronger voice, ensuring fair wages for their hard work, and emphasizing apprenticeships that will properly train our next generation of skilled laborers,” said Senator John Kane (D-9). “As Minority Chair of the Labor and Industry Committee, I am committed to doing everything I can to create a more equitable future and improve Pennsylvania’s position in the construction industry, and this legislation does exactly that.”

The “zone” programs the legislation would apply to are: City Revitalization and Improvement Zones, Neighborhood Improvement Zones, Keystone Opportunity Zones, Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones, Keystone Opportunity Improvement Zones, Keystone Special Development Zone Program, Keystone Innovation Zones and Airport Land Development Zones.

“These tax incentive programs have fueled economic development across the Commonwealth, but we owe it to ourselves to make sure they also uplift our workers,” said Senator Jimmy Dillon (D-5). “I’m honored to partner with Senators Santarsiero, Tartaglione, and Kane to make sure that businesses investing in our communities benefit both themselves and the hardworking men and women who make it all possible.”

“Thank you, Senators Santarsiero, Tartaglione, Kane and Dillon for recognizing the value of union labor to ensure quality construction projects, and fair wages with good benefits for workers,” said Fran McLaughlin, Business Manager for District Council 21.   “Apprenticeship programs offer a path for individuals looking not just for a job, but a career that offers family-sustaining wages.  Quality work and fair wages will enable us to build a better Pennsylvania and protect investments for taxpayers.”

Senator Nikil Saval (D-1), a co-sponsor of the legislation, voiced his support saying, “Any form of state investment, whether direct or through tax incentives, that drives our Commonwealth’s economic growth should primarily center the creation of jobs with family sustaining wages. This legislation will ensure that Pennsylvania carefully balances our responsibility to attract capital investments and do so in a manner that lifts working class families.”

Any business found in violation of the law would have to refund the full amount of the tax exemption, deduction, abatement or credit awarded for the year that they violated the provisions, as determined by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.

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Tartaglione Announces More Than $900,000 In PCCD Grants Awarded To Philadelphia

Senator Tartaglione Announces Over $16 Million in PCCD Funding for Philadelphia County

Harrisburg PA – September 20, 2023 – Today Sen. Tartaglione announces over $16 million in funding for Philadelphia County-based agencies and organizations from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). This funding will deliver support and resources to keep Philadelphia County residents safe in the places they call home.

“Our city and commonwealth for too long have experienced the pains that come with the epidemic of crime we have been seeing,” said Senator Tartaglione. “The investments we are making through PCCD will help organizations across the city serve and support the victims of crime. As we continue the work to prevent violent crime, it is crucial we don’t forget the victims of crime and the ramifications of victimization.”

The recipients are listed below:

Continuing County Adult Probation and Parole Grant Funds  

  • Philadelphia County – $4,018,618 for CCAPPG Funds

Federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Funds 

  • Central Division Victim Services – $446,337 for CDVS VOCA Grant
  • Anti-Violence Partnership of Philadelphia – $945,033 for AVP VOCA 2023-2025 (non-Competitive)
  • Center for Advocacy for the Rights & Interests of the Elderly – $486,415 for Providing Advocacy for Victimized Elders (PAVE)
  • Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia – $141,048 for Addressing Psychosocial & Concrete Needs of Young
  • Congreso De Latinos Unidos, Inc. – $843,082 for LDVP and East Division Crime Victim Advocacy
  • Council of Spanish Speaking Organizations – $175,966 for Concilio’s East Division Victim/Witness Services
  • Drexel University – $157,343 for Healing Hurt People: Providing Trauma Services
  • E.M.I.R. – Every Murder Is Real – $267,999 for 2023-2025 VOCA
  • HIAS & Council Migration Services Inc. DBA HIAS PA – $574,317 for Immigrant Victim Access Collaborative (IVAC)
  • Lutheran Social Mission Society DBA Lutheran Settlement House – $500,646 for LSH Bilingual Domestic Violence Program
  • Mothers In Charge – $254,278 for Trauma-Informed Support of Homicide Survivors
  • Nationalities Service Center of Philadelphia – $521,703 Services for Immigrant Victims of Crime
  • Northeast Philadelphia Victim/Witness Service – $227,220 for Victim Assistance and Advocacy
  • Northwest Victim Services – $215,742 for Serving Victims of Crime in Northwest Philadelphia
  • Philadelphia Children’s Alliance – $447,358 for Philadelphia Children’s Alliance Direct Services
  • Philadelphia City Treasurer – $403,671 for Philadelphia DAO Cares 3
  • Philadelphia Corporation for Aging – $388,424 for PCA Victim Support Program
  • Support Center For Child Advocate – $708,419 for Child Victim Assistance Project
  • Temple University of The Commonwealth System of High Education – $421,500 for Support for Victims from Marginalized Communities
  • Uplift Center for Grieving Children – $100,139 for Uplift’s VOCA Continuation 2023
  • Victim/Witness Services of South Philadelphia, Inc. – $306,428 for Neighborhood Based Program for South Philadelphia
  • WOAR-Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence – $324,372 for Sexual Assault Sexual Violence
  • Women Against Abuse, Inc. – $1,271,658 for Sustaining Legal Services for Survivors
  • Women In Transition, Inc. – $327,057 for Core Domestic Violence Services
  • SeniorLAW Center – $1,531,487 for Keeping Elder Victims S.A.F.E.
  • Children’s Crisis Treatment Center – $103,817 for Clinical Care Coordination for Child Victims

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Seventeen Years and Counting – Senate Democrats Continue to Fight to Raise PA’s Minimum Wage

Seventeen Years and Counting – Senate Democrats Continue to Fight to Raise PA’s Minimum Wage

Harrisburg, PAJuly 7, 2023 − Sunday, July 9th, marks seventeen years since Pennsylvania lawmakers last raised the minimum wage.

Senator Christine Tartaglione, Gov. Ed Rendell, Senator Vincent HughesOn July 9th, 2006, Governor Ed Rendell was joined by Senator Christine Tartaglione, Senator Vincent Hughes, and Senator Jay Costa, to sign Senate Bill 1090, Senator Tartaglione’s legislation that raised PA’s minimum wage to $7.15.

“When Senate Bill 1090 was signed into law in 2006, it was a promise to continue to fight for our Commonwealth’s lowest earners and ensure that the needs of Pennsylvanian’s lowest earners are never forgotten or cast aside,” said Senator Tartaglione. “I reintroduced Senate Bill 12 because I, like so many of my colleagues refuse to sit idly by as the Pennsylvanians that earn our poverty level minimum wage continue to struggle to make ends meet. Pennsylvania needs its government to act swiftly and decisively on behalf of our Commonwealth’s workers that need it most.”

Senate Democrats continue to support a higher minimum wage. In June, House Democrats passed a bill that would raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2026. Senator Christine Tartaglione (D- Philadelphia) introduced Senate Bill 12, a similar bill.

“Pennsylvania is failing our workers,” said Senator Vincent Hughes (D-Phila./Montgomery). “For seventeen years now, Republican state lawmakers have done nothing to guarantee hard working people get paid fairly and adequately for contributions to our economy. I was proud to join Governor Rendell in 2006 to support pay that benefited workers and families. I hope to join Governor Shapiro one day to end seventeen years of inaction for minimum wage workers in Pennsylvania.”

Pennsylvania’s current minimum wage sits at the federal requirement of $7.25. According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Pennsylvania’s minimum wage is far from a livable wage in the state. The cost of housing and other living expenses has continued to rise while Pennsylvania’s minimum wage has remained stagnant for over a decade.   

A minimum wage increase to $15 an hour would impact one million workers who are currently making less than $15 an hour in Pennsylvania.

“Everyone who works for a living deserves to earn a living wage, and the current minimum wage in PA is not one. It is long past time to do right by our working families and make sure we can raise our children on one good job,” said Senator Jay Costa (D-Allegheny). “I have been proud to champion a living wage for every Pennsylvanian, and I look forward to working alongside fellow legislators, workers, and activists to deliver on this crucial value.”

Senate Democrats stand ready to vote on the House bill, but Senate Republicans, who are in the majority, must bring it to the floor for a vote. Meanwhile, every state surrounding Pennsylvania has raised the minimum wage. New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, and Ohio, all pay a higher minimum wage. Pennsylvania is in last place when it comes to delivering for workers.

“Raising the minimum wage is critical to respecting the dignity of hardworking people so that they can afford housing and food, and so that they don’t have to choose between food, heat, clothing, and other basic needs,” said Senator Art Haywood (D-Phila./Montgomery), who has also been a fierce advocate for raising PA’s minimum wage.

He continued, “This is about helping parents and allowing them to be parents, no longer having to work two or three jobs and having greater freedom to provide their children with a better education, enrich their young ones with opportunities like recreational activities, be more active in their communities, and spend time with their families.”

Senator Tartaglione’s Budget Reaction

Senator Tartaglione’s Budget Reaction

Senate Democratic Whip Christine Tartaglione released the following statement regarding her no vote on the Commonwealth’s budget today:

“The budget is supposed to reflect our Commonwealth’s moral priorities and aspirations for the future. The bill we voted on today does nothing to move Pennsylvania forward. From failing to act to raise the minimum wage for our Commonwealth’s lowest earners, to failing to fund mass transit, and continuing the systemic underfunding of public education, this bill, and this budget fall far short of the needs of our Commonwealth.

I am hopeful the leadership in the Pennsylvania House will see the failures and shortcomings of this proposed budget, and make the necessary changes to ensure ALL Pennsylvanians are heard and represented in our Commonwealth’s budget.”

Tartaglione Announces $1.5 Million in Local Transit Grants

Senator Tartaglione’s Safe Injection Site Ban Passes Full Senate Vote

May 1st, 2023, Harrisburg Pa – Today, The Pennsylvania Senate passed Senate Bill 165, Senator Tartaglione’s Safe Injection Site Ban by a vote of 41-9. Senate Bill 165 will now be sent to the House for their concurrence.

“Across this Commonwealth, Pennsylvanians are struggling with addiction,” said Senator Tartaglione. “When my community came to me asking me to introduce Senate Bill 165, I knew it was imperative to build a bipartisan coalition of senators from across Pennsylvania to support the bill. The vote today shows it doesn’t matter how rural or urban, liberal or conservative, or far east or far west your district is, addictions affect every square inch of Pennsylvania, and we need to prioritize recovery and sobriety.”

Senate Bill 165 will bring Pennsylvania in line with 21 U.S.C. Section 856, which already prohibits the act of maintaining drug-involved premises anywhere in the United States. The legislation will not impact other harm reduction efforts including clean needle exchanges and medication-assisted treatment.

Senator Tartaglione, who is in long-term recovery from an alcohol addiction reintroduced Senate Bill 165 this session after no action was taken on the legislation last session. Senator Tartaglione, who has been sober for more than 20 years, uses her experience with addiction and recovery as well as her connections in the drug and alcohol treatment and recovery space to help drive her legislative priorities.

Senate Bill 165 will now go to the Pennsylvania House for their concurrence.

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Senator Tartaglione’s Safe Injection Site Ban Passes Out of Senate Judiciary Committee

Senator Tartaglione’s Safe Injection Site Ban Passes Out of Senate Judiciary Committee

April 25, 2023, Harrisburg Pa – Today, The Senate Judiciary Committee voted to move Senate Bill 165, Senator Tartaglione’s Safe Injection Site Ban out of committee and to the full Senate by a bipartisan vote of 11-3.

“Day in and day out I hear from my constituents about their opposition to safe injection sites,” said Senator Tartaglione. “I introduced Senate Bill 165 because I see the pain and suffering addiction causes every day in my district, and I believe it is imperative Pennsylvania be in the business of helping people access recovery, not empower addiction.”

Senate Bill 165 will prohibit the establishment of safe injection sites and supervised consumption sites across Pennsylvania. The legislation will not impact other harm reduction efforts including clean needle exchanges and medication assisted treatment.

“As legislators we are tasked with making our constituents voices heard in the halls of power in Harrisburg. When 40 community organizations from across Philadelphia filed amicus briefs in US vs Safehouse, they made their voices loud and clear in saying ‘Philadelphia does not want supervised consumption facilities in our city.’ We must listen to the groups doing the work in our neighborhoods and communities and take them at their word,” added Senator Tartaglione.

Senator Tartaglione, who is in long-term recovery from an alcohol addiction reintroduced Senate Bill 165 this session after no action was taken on the legislation last session. Senator Tartaglione, who has been sober for more than 20 years, uses her experience with addiction and recovery as well as her connections in the drug and alcohol treatment and recovery space to help her drive legislative priorities.

Senate Bill 165 is now in the full Senate where a vote is expected to be held as early as next week.

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Tartaglione Hosts Legislative Roundtable Discussion with ONDCP Director, Acting Secretary of DDAP

Tartaglione Hosts Legislative Roundtable Discussion with ONDCP Director, Acting Secretary of DDAP

Philadelphia, PA – April 19, 2023 –Today, Senator Christine M. Tartaglione, Senate Democratic Whip, hosted the Biden Administration’s Drug Czar along with state policymakers to talk about the addiction and opioid crisis.

Dr. Rahul Gupta, Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), joined Sen. Tartaglione, Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, Acting Secretary of the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), and a bipartisan and bicameral group of 12 legislators at Temple University to discuss the partnership between state and federal efforts to combat the growing drug and opioid crisis affecting Pennsylvania.

“Philadelphia has been the epicenter of the drug and addiction crisis that faces too many communities both across Pennsylvania as well as America,” said Sen. Tartaglione. “Bringing together a coalition of bipartisan legislators from both the State House and Senate to have these important conversations is crucial in moving forward and helping Pennsylvania and Pennsylvanians recover from the damaging effects of drug addiction.”

The roundtable conversation which was held on Temple University’s campus highlighted the importance of ensuring a seamless partnership between local, state, and federal programs.

“This epidemic is unweaving the very fabric of our Nation, and that’s unacceptable to me and it’s unacceptable to President Biden,” said Dr. Gupta. “That’s why the Administration’s Strategy is focused on addressing two key drivers of the epidemic—untreated addiction and the drug trafficking profits that fuel it. Local and state officials are vital to making sure our collective response matches this historic threat, so I’m glad I had the opportunity to discuss the response to fentanyl, xylazine, and other drug threats with such engaged state legislators. This crisis isn’t a red state or blue state issue—it’s America’s issue. And working together, we can beat this.”

Legislators from across the Commonwealth came together to share their community’s unique perspectives on the opioid and addiction crisis, and how Pennsylvania can use both state and federal resources to help drive recovery and treatment efforts for people suffering from addiction.

The following legislators participated in the roundtable discussion:

  • Sen. Tartaglione
  • Sen. Sharif Street
  • Sen. Jimmy Dillon
  • Sen. John Kane
  • Sen. Dan Laughlin
  • Sen. Camera Bartolotta
  • Senator Michelle Brooks
  • Senator Anthony Williams
  • Rep. Joe Hohenstein
  • Rep. Jose Giral
  • Rep. Anthony Bellmon
  • Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta

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Tartaglione And Other Senate Democrats File Amicus Brief in US Vs. Safehouse

Tartaglione And Other Senate Democrats File Amicus Brief in US Vs. Safehouse

Philadelphia, PA- April 13, 2023Today Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Whip Christine Tartaglione announced she, along with Pennsylvania Senators Sharif Street, Anthony Williams, and Jimmy Dillon filed an amicus brief in the US vs. Safehouse case, in hopes to prevent Safehouse from opening a safe injection site in Philadelphia.

“My constituents and people from across Philadelphia have made their voices clear, they do not want Safehouse or any other organizations opening any safe injection sites in their neighborhoods,” said Senator Tartaglione. “When community and recovery organizations from all over the city approached me and asked me to be a part of this lawsuit seeking to block Safehouse I knew I had to offer my voice and my platform.”

The filing introduced by the Senate Democrats argues even if the United States Department of Justice and Safehouse reach an agreement, it may still violate state law that gives community organizations the ability to sue to prevent “drug-related nuisances” in their communities.

While Senator Tartaglione is participating in the ongoing legal process to block safe injection sites in Philadelphia, she has also introduced Senate Bill 165 that would outlaw supervised consumption and safe injection sites across the Commonwealth.

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Senate, House Dems Discuss Bills to Extend Workplace Protections to Public Employees

Senate, House Dems Discuss Bills to Extend Workplace Protections to Public Employees

Harrisburg, PA- March 20, 2023 – State Senator Katie Muth (D-Chester/Montgomery/Berks), Chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee, and House Democratic Policy Committee Chair Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie) joined join Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) and Rep. Patrick Harkins (D-Erie) to co-host a joint public hearing on legislation that would extend Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) protections to public employees in Pennsylvania.

The hearing, held earlier today at the State Capitol in Harrisburg, featured two panels of testimony on both sides of the issue of extending OSHA protections to public employees in Pennsylvania.

“All Pennsylvanians deserve a safe workplace – and we need to make sure that we extend the critical workplace safety protections under OSHA to public employees across the Commonwealth,” Muth said. “There are so many public employees that put their lives on the line each and every day to protect our communities, to improve our roads, and to respond to emergencies – these individuals deserve better and they deserve workplace safety protections.”

OSHA was created in 1970 by the United States Congress to assure safe conditions for working men and women. OSHA covers most private sector employers and workers in all 50 states either directly through Federal OSHA or through an OSHA-approved state plan. Workplace health and safety protections under OSHA do not automatically cover public sector employees in state and municipal government.

“As we heard today, a workers right to know they are safe and protected at their jobs shouldn’t depend on who they work for,” said Senator Tartaglione. “We need to pass Senate Bill 93 to ensure Pennsylvanians all have OSHA protections regardless of their employer.”

States have to choose to extend these protections — and over half have already done so through OSHA-approved “state plans” that allow states to operate their own workplace health and safety programs covering public and/or private sector workers – Pennsylvania is not one of those states. Senator Tartaglione’s Senate Bill 93 would establish the Pennsylvania Occupational Safety and Health Review Board within the Department of Labor and Industry and extend OSHA safety rules to public employers.

“We have heard the outcry that municipalities can’t afford this, and my response has always been, what price are we placing on human life?” Rep. Pat Harkins said. “It’s truly a shame if we can’t afford to protect our workers. Where is the justice and where is the opportunity for justice? That’s why I’m pushing House Bill 299.”

Rep. Harkins has introduced House Bill 299 – the Jake Schwab Worker Safety Bill – which would also extend OSHA protections to public sector employees in Pennsylvania. Rep. Harkins’ bill was named in memory of Erie resident Jake Schwab who was fatally injured at work in 2014 working as a mechanic with the Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority, a public sector employer exempt from OSHA regulations.

“Today’s hearing shined a light on the need to ensure safety conditions for almost 600,000 public sector workers in Pennsylvania,” House Majority Policy Committee chairman Ryan Bizzarro said. “Public sector workers cannot and should not continue to be treated as second-class employees. The time has come to extend OSHA protections for all public sector workers.”

Participants in the hearing included Keith Wentz, Risk Management Director, County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania; Angela Ferritto, President, Pennsylvania AFL-CIO; Arthur Steinberg, President, Pennsylvania American Federation of Teachers; and J. David Henderson, Executive Director, AFSCME Council 13.

“Hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvania’s public sector workers don’t have the same safety protections that their private sector counterparts do for one simple reason: Federal OSHA standards don’t apply to the public sector. But in addition to not having the protection of OSHA safety standards and regular inspections, these workers don’t have the whistleblower protections that they need to protect them from retaliation if they report unsafe working conditions,” Senator Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny) added. “That means an employee can be fired, have their hours reduced, or suffer other adverse consequences simply for using the only resource they have to stay safe on the job—their voice. We must do more to protect Pennsylvania’s public sector workers. That means extending OSHA standards to public sector workers and strengthening whistleblower protections for ALL employees, public and private sector.”

All submitted testimony from the policy hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy

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Tartaglione Announces $135,000 In Coastal Zone Grants Coming To Projects In The 2nd District

Tartaglione Announces $3.8 million in Grants for 2nd District

Philadelphia, PA – Today, Senator Christine Tartaglione announced that more than $3.8 million in grants would be coming to projects and programs across the 2nd District. The funds being awarded are from the Commonwealth’s Local Share Account and Multimodal Transportation Fund.

The Local Share Account and Multimodal Transportation Fund grants were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) which was established to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages and grant programs.

“It’s always great to see our Commonwealth invest in projects that will directly impact and improve our communities and neighborhoods,” said Senator Tartaglione. “The resources being announced today will help clean up our streets and make our community safer for its residents.”

Projects awarded grant dollars include:

Local Share Account:

  • Philadelphia City – Cohocksink Recreation Center – $1,000,000
  • PIDC Financing Corporation on behalf of Frankford Community Development Corporation – Frankford Transportation Center Transit Oriented Development – $1,000,000
  • PIDC Financing Corporation on behalf of New Kensington Community Development Corporation – Kensington Anchor Acquisition and Renovation: 2917-21 Kensington Avenue – $976,900

Multimodal Transportation Fund:

  • Kensington Castor Partners, LLC – Maken East sidewalk replacement – $241,235
  • Charles Jacquin Et Cie, Inc. – Trenton Avenue Streetscape Improvement – $615,165

More information on the CFA and the grants awarded can be found on their website.

Tartaglione Announces $3 Million PCCD Grants for Philadelphia

Tartaglione Announces $3 Million PCCD Grants for Philadelphia

Harrisburg, PA – March 8th, 2023 – Today, Senator Christine Tartaglione announced $2,993,346 in grants from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD).

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency allocates and awards grants to organizations that demonstrate commitment to the Commission’s strategic priorities and mission. The grants announced today include funds from the Federal JAG State Share Funds, Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds – Local Law Enforcement Support Grant Program, and the Federal/ State Opioid Response Funds.

“As we have seen far too often, we spend too much time dealing with the consequences of crime without addressing the root causes and its prevention,” said Senator Tartaglione. “The funds the PCCD are releasing to Philadelphia-based organizations like Temple University will provide critical resources and support to organizations across our city working to find solutions to the systemic issues behind crime and create a safer and more peaceful Philadelphia for everyone.”

The PCCD funding was awarded as followed:

Federal JAG State Share Funds

  • Temple University – $235,380 for addressing racial and ethnic disparities.

Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds – Local Law Enforcement Support Grant Program

  • Temple University – $1,767,049 for upgrading training and surveillance systems.

Federal/ State Opioid Response Funds

  • Courage Medicine Health Center – $500,000 for opioid and substance use disorder treatment programs.
  • Philadelphia Legal Assistance – $490,920 for Medical Legal Community Partnership for opioid and substance use disorder treatment programs.

More information on the PCCD can be found on the Commission’s website.

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Amid Rising Hate, Democratic Senators Reintroduce Safe Spaces Bill

Amid Rising Hate, Democratic Senators Reintroduce Safe Spaces Bill

HARRISBURG, PA – March 6, 2023 – On Friday, March 3rd Senators Street, Schwank, Tartaglione and Hughes, reintroduced Sacred Spaces legislation, amending Section 3307 of Title 18 (Institutional Vandalism) to enhance the existing statute to give District Attorneys expanded options for combating vandalism of sacred spaces such as faith institutions, cemeteries, or memorials.

Senator Sharif Street shared that “at minimum, it is our responsibility as a government to ensure Pennsylvanians are free to express themselves, including their religious beliefs, without fear or risk of retribution. The continued defacement of places of worship is meant to intimidate whole communities and an inadequate response to these acts of hate inevitably results in more violent acts of intolerance.”

In recent years there has been an increase in the deliberate vandalism of churches, synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship by those who wish to express hate. On February 25, 2023, a “National Day of Hate” garnered significant attention and warnings from law enforcement about rising antisemitism and possible attacks on religious institutions across the United States.

Senator Judy Schwank stated that “Faith-based hatred and vandalism is deeply disturbing and has no place in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, we’ve witnessed vandalism at religious and sacred spaces increase over the past few years. The protecting sacred spaces legislation we are introducing will send a clear message to those that wish to spread hate and intimidate other that they will be held accountable for their actions.”

In Philadelphia Jewish cemeteries have been targeted by vandals and on February 24th, 2023, the Philadelphia Masjidullah Mosque was defaced. On February 8th, 2023, in Reading, the Jesus is Alive World Center was severely damaged accruing more than $70,000 in repair costs. Religious intolerance, whether through rhetoric or acts of hate, have increasing consequences.

“In a state that was founded on the principle of religious liberty, it is abhorrent to see continued attacks and intimidation on and to our Commonwealth’s places of worship,” said Senator Tartaglione, “expanding the tools prosecutors across Pennsylvania can use to protect sacred spaces is a crucial step in combatting the hate we have seen grow out of the dark and dangerous fringes of society.”

Senator Vincent Hughes echoed that sentiment, stating “I’m proud to partner with my colleagues on this legislation, because acts of vandalism and hate against our sacred spaces have no place in Pennsylvania.”

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Sens. Haywood, Dillon, and Tartaglione Present $1.1 Million Check to Temple Health

Sens. Haywood, Dillon, and Tartaglione Present $1.1 Million Check to Temple Health

PHILADELPHIA – Feb. 2, 2023 – Today, Sen. Art Haywood (D-Montgomery/Philadelphia) joined Sens. Jimmy Dillon (D-Philadelphia) and Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) for a check presentation and press conference at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in the Northeast Philadelphia. The senators presented a $1.1 million grant to Temple Health to fund mobile health services at four sites in Philadelphia.

With the support of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus, Sen. Haywood secured $10 million for statewide mobile and community clinics, including over $1 million for Temple Health, as part of the COVID-19 Public Health Equity Initiative (PHEI), made possible by State Fiscal Recovery Funds from the American Rescue Plan.

In December 2022, Sen. Haywood announced this strategic investment, which helps medically underserved communities impacted by the pandemic to access to public health services. This PHEI funding benefits 45 awardees for services across the state, including $5 million for mobile health clinics to provide jobs, $3 million for health equity to improve accessibility, and $2 million for trauma-informed care to heal communities of color.

“Health equity is health access,” said Haywood. “Funding and expanding mobile health clinics and community health centers will help communities to obtain access to health care across the Commonwealth.”

The five grants for Temple Health include:

  • Begin the Turn Mobile Suboxone Unit – Suboxone prescriptions – $250,000
  • Begin the Turn Mobile Suboxone Unit – Trauma-informed counseling – $100,000
  • Fox Chase Cancer Center Mobile Screening Van – Mammography and preventative care – $250,000
  • Healthy Together Mobile Unit of the Temple Center for Population Health – Community engagement, screenings, vaccination, and education – $250,000
  • Miriam Medical/Zion Baptist Church/Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine (MZT) Collaborative Mobile Clinic – COVID-19 testing, COVID-19 vaccination, and chronic disease monitoring – $250,000

Sens. Haywood, Dillon, and Tartaglione displayed the check in front of the four mobile units facing the Fox Chase Cancer Center. Leadership from the health system, including Michael A. Young, MHA, FACHE, president and CEO of Temple Health, Amy J. Goldberg, MD, FACS, dean of the Lewis Katz School of Medicine, and Robert Uzzo, MD, MBA, FACS, president and CEO, Fox Chase Cancer Center, gladly accepted the funding. President Young welcomed guests to the event and thanked Senate delegation, including Sen. Sharif Street (D-Philadelphia), for their partnership.

“Temple Health would like to thank Senators Dillon, Haywood, Street and Tartaglione for their dependable partnership over the past few years – including this support of our mobile screening units,” said Young. “Temple is the Commonwealth’s largest safety net provider servicing Pennsylvania’s most challenged communities and the ongoing support of Senators Dillon, Haywood, Street and Tartaglione has been critical to us achieving a stronger financial foundation that enables us to invest in our clinical programs, our facilities, technologies, employees – and most importantly, our patients.”

Sen. Haywood delivered opening remarks and outlined the process to launch this initiative. As Democratic Chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Health and Human Services Committee and a former member of Governor Tom Wolf’s COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force, Haywood is a longtime advocate for health access. In 2021, he pushed for equity in the vaccine distribution in 66 counties across the state. He also increased access for Black and Brown Pennsylvanians, people with disabilities, non-English speakers, and residents in congregate care, jails, and long-term facilities.

Through his research on the task force, Sen. Haywood learned there was no formal registry for mobile and community clinics to show where services should be expanded. He successfully developed the first mobile clinic registry in the state.

In September 2022, Sen. Haywood co-hosted a virtual public hearing with Sen. Katie Muth (D-Berks/Chester/Montgomery) to discuss strategies to enhance statewide mobile health clinics and community health centers in Pennsylvania. During the hearing, he described the importance of securing mobile health funding. “The health system is broken,” said Haywood. “These grants make some repairs.”

Sen. Dillon proudly cohosted today’s event in his district. “Funding for mobile and community clinics can lower healthcare costs, improve access, and, hopefully, save lives,” said Dillon. “I am proud to stand with Senator Haywood and Temple Health to celebrate the good work the Mobile Screening Units will be able to do with this grant.”

The Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine Center for Urban Bioethics (CUB) received three of the grants, including the Begin the Turn Mobile Suboxone Unit and the MZT Collaborative Mobile Clinic. The school’s dean, Dr. Goldberg, expressed her gratitude to the senators.

“The Lewis Katz School of Medicine is incredibly thankful to Senators Dillon, Haywood, Street, and Tartaglione for their continued support of our programs, but more importantly, their dedication to improving the health of the community we serve, that provides the foundation for which we can continue to our work to address and eradicate the health disparities that plague our community,” said Goldberg.

Fox Chase Cancer Center’s president and CEO, Dr. Uzzo, was pleased to open the doors of the research facility and hospital for the event.

“Long before it became ‘best practice,’ Fox Chase Cancer Center recognized the need for cancer screening in the community and we have been providing this critical service for more than 38 years,” said Uzzo. “We are grateful to our partners in the Commonwealth whose support is helping us to advance our efforts with a next-generation Mobile Screening Unit and the ability to reach more people with screenings for more types of cancers, including breast, cervical, skin, and head & neck cancers; screening for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, a key risk factor for liver cancer; bilingual cancer education; and collection of biospecimens to help us learn more about cancer health disparities.”

Sen. Tartaglione expressed the significance of the mobile health grants. “Quality healthcare without boundaries and barriers is one of the surest ways to increase the quality of living for Pennsylvanians,” said Tartaglione. “It means nothing to build hospitals without ensuring everyone that needs access has access to the care provided.” Tartaglione continued: “These funds will allow the work of ensuring access to continue expanding into neighborhoods that are traditionally underserved and underinvested.”

A representative from Sen. Street’s office, Lateefah Shakir, stood at the event in support of the health equity funding. “In the beginning of the pandemic, it was critical to marshal resources to meet the medical needs of underserved communities,” said Street. “I’m thankful for the leadership and partnership of Senator Haywood to secure $10 million for health equity, mobile clinics, and trauma-informed care.”

Following the press conference, the group participated in a roundtable to discuss healthcare priorities of the Commonwealth in their collective efforts to increase access to equitable, high quality health care, including screenings and treatments for patients in southeastern Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus will announce additional recipients of public health equity funding this year. Video of event will be available at senatorhaywood.com/video.

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Tartaglione Announces $3 Million PCCD Grants for Philadelphia

Senator Tartaglione Announces $29 Million in Violence Prevention Grants For 2nd District and Philadelphia

Harrisburg, PennsylvaniaJanuary 11, 2023 – Today, Senator Christine M. Tartaglione, Democratic Whip, announced the Pennsylvania School Safety and Security Committee of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency awarded $29,170,225 in grants to 31 separate programs tasked with preventing and intervening in violence across the 2nd District and the City of Philadelphia.

The grants are funded via two separate grants:

  1. The Coordinated Community Violence Intervention (CCVI) – The purpose of this program is to increase local coordination and collaboration to more effectively prevent, intervene and respond to gun and group violence.
  2. Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP). The purpose of this program is to provide grants and technical assistance to address community violence throughout the Commonwealth.

“Philadelphia, just like cities across this commonwealth and nation are facing an unprecedented epidemic of violence,” said Senator Tartaglione. “The resources being announced today will allow programs from across our city and commonwealth to continue addressing the root causes of violence and in turn prevent the crime that plagues our streets.”  

Programs receiving the grants announced today that will provide services in the 2nd District and city-wide include:

Philadelphia City TreasurerPhiladelphia Cure Violence Coalition – $1,892,369 to develop a coalition of Cure Violence-based programs. The Cure Violence Model is an evidence-based prevention program that takes a public health approach to reduce community violence. The Philadelphia Department of Public Health has spent the last year laying the groundwork for a coalition with members from all programs in Philadelphia using the Cure Violence model of violence prevention. These programs/partners include Cure Violence Philadelphia, Philadelphia CeaseFire, Community Crisis Intervention Program (a city program under the Office of Criminal Justice and Public Safety), and Penn Community Violence Prevention Program.

AMANDLA, Inc. – $147,595 to support violence prevention activities through expanding its Safe-Hub EduSoccer Program. The EduSoccer program reaches 500 young people from Philadelphia’s Kensington and Harrowgate neighborhoods, providing a safe space for young people while supporting anti-violence and anti-crime behaviors through targeting an array of socio-emotional program outcomes.

Artwell Collaborative, Inc. – $275,000 to implement its transformative and therapeutic multidisciplinary arts programming in schools, community centers, faith-based organizations, and behavioral health organizations. These funds will be used for: therapeutic arts programming in 10 Philadelphia schools (We the Poets and The Art of Growing Leaders); therapeutic arts programming in partnership with three community partners; trauma-informed response training for our team of Teaching Artists; inclusivity training for ArtWell’s leadership team; expanding the knowledge base and expertise of the organization’s leadership team by adding a part-time clinician.

Beyond Literacy – $1,311,266 to support the continuation and expansion of its Keystone Energy Employment Pipeline (KEEP) program, a community-focused strategy that transitions Philadelphia’s young, emerging adults ages 18 to 25 at risk of incarceration and gun violence into long-term financial stability through high-impact education, GED attainment, and pre-apprenticeship training for in-demand green energy sector jobs.

Boys & Girls Club of Philadelphia, Inc. – $1,970,477 to expand teen programming at six Club locations by hiring dedicated teen staff, keeping Clubs open until 10 pm on Fridays, and opening the Clubs from 5 pm to 10 pm on Saturdays. All teens participating in programming will be engaged in formal or informal mentoring and evidence-based violence prevention activities.

Build Our Lives Together Inc. – $50,000 to create an intensive 8-month program for grassroots leaders – people who are the most proximate to the problems to learn critical skills, expand their network, and get access to funding so they can accelerate their impact, for a radical reduction in gun violence.

Center for Families and Relationships – $999,000 to expand it’s existing Together Through Trauma Program into Philadelphia recreation centers in the most vulnerable districts impacted by gun violence.

Central Division Victim Services – $371,663 to continue providing services to crime victims in the 6th, 9th, and 22nd Philadelphia Police Districts along with gun violence prevention in the 22nd and 25th Philadelphia Police Districts.

Coalition of African Communities (AFRICOM) – $125,000 to provide an immigrant community engagement gun violence prevention initiative that will bring together faith-based leaders, individuals, families, groups, and business owners to build knowledge, establish strong networks, identify, and prevent risks and connect the community to support services.

Education-Plus, Inc. – $299,125 to provide universal mental health screening at five schools to provide evidence-based programs in concert with school-based health clinic staff in order to reduce/prevent violence in schools and communities.

Federation of Neighborhood Centers, Inc. – $1,250,000 to support nine diverse, unique, and collaborative projects addressing violence and related issues in Philadelphia. From street and community outreach, food distribution, non-traditional youth programming, career assistance to the previously incarcerated, and connecting community members with available resources, this funding will provide needed support for these groups to expand their work. Funding will support nine projects/organizations (Homies Helping Homies; The Apologues; City of Dreams Coalition; Double Trellis Food Initiative; Elevation Voice; Kensington Voice; Oronde McClain Foundation; Ones Up; Philadelphia Boom).

Girls Inc. of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey – $699,335 to expand the Bold Futures program, an intensive violence prevention mentoring program for high-risk girls who reside in Philadelphia with both individual and community risk factors between the ages of 9 to 14.

HIAS & Council Migration Services Inc. DBA HIAS PA – $2,124,484 to provide immigration legal services, some case management, and specialized victim services to low-income immigrant youth and their families who are eligible for legal status but have not yet obtained status and are therefore vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. Funds will support two attorneys, a Department of Justice Accredited Representative, a paralegal, and legal supervision to provide immigration legal services to at-risk youth referred to HIAS Pennsylvania by Philadelphia’s Department of Human Services, the Philadelphia School District, and through self-referral.

Oxford Circle Christian Community Development Association – $445,113 to support the establishment of a Success Center in the Samuel S. Fels High School of Philadelphia, PA. The Success Center will provide social-emotional learning (SEL) education to the students; non-academic, referral (case-management) support to students and their parents/ caregivers; an Oasis where students can safely retreat from and process stress or trauma they may be experiencing at school or at home; parent/ caregiver workshops; and field trips to enrich the lives of students and to give them new experiences and a new perspective on life. 

Philadelphia City TreasurerThe Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office “Data CoLab”- $1,772,966 to implement the “Data CoLab”, a data-informed community-based participatory initiative hosted by the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Transparency Analytics Lab (DATA Lab). This initiative fosters partnerships among the DAO and community-based organizations (CBOs) by hosting a series of participatory research workshops in the communities experiencing high levels of gun violence to provide data tools and engage in participatory research and interventions.

Philadelphia Mural Arts Advocates – $1,500,000 to expand its Restorative Justice Program into a cohesive pathway for justice-impacted people in Philadelphia neighborhoods with the highest rates of community violence.

Philadelphia Youth Network, Inc. – $2,000,000 to expand educational and employment pathway exploration for 12-24-year-olds through its portfolio of structured learning and skill-building opportunities. PYN is seeking to expand its provider network to create more opportunities for historically marginalized youth in Philadelphia to build stronger, safer communities through promoting summer employment opportunities.

Playworks Education Energized – $572,547 to advance the Community Coach Leadership Program (CCLP), a proactive, medium-to-long-term violence-prevention intervention strategy focused on serving kids most susceptible and impacted by violence. CCLP will engage School District of Philadelphia (SDP) high school students as program participants in leader-mentor positions with SDP elementary schools in violence-impacted neighborhoods.

Power of Paint Art Academy & Management – $86,981 to support a violence prevention and intervention program where trained staff will use art and therapeutic approaches, via outreach and referral services, to improve the quality of life for individuals who are victims and/or perpetrators of violence.

Rock to the Future, Inc. – $330,000 to support free music and mentoring programs in high-crime neighborhoods in North, West, and Northwest Philadelphia for teens that are at risk to be involved in violence, victims of violence, who have experienced trauma, and those from reentry and diversion programs. 

Sharing Excess – $55,880 for the identification, outreach, and engagement of individuals who are most likely to be involved in violence and provide tailored, holistic supports to meet a wide range of education, employment, mental and behavioral health, and other basic needs.

Students Run Philly Style – $1,368,926 to scale current violence interruption and prevention efforts through recreation in and around the neighborhood of West Kensington. The goal is to have programs and activities for all ages, and family events throughout the year.

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth – $2,500,000 to support the implementation of a hospital- and community-based violence intervention program where trained Violence Intervention Clinicians and Specialists will provide assertive outreach and crisis response to individuals and families exposed to violence in the community, conduct clinical crisis assessments, provide trauma-informed therapy and case management services, and refer individuals and families to social safety net providers in the community for long-term support.

The Urban League of Philadelphia – $950,000 to continue and expand their proven Violence Prevention Programs that support and target at-risk Black and Brown youth and young men and men who are justice-involved.

Unique Dreams, Inc. – $85,000 to fund several programs that offer an array of opportunities within the community. Those programs include a crisis line, skill building in carpentry, plumbing and electrical trades, resume workshops, interview training, empowerment groups, assistance with transportation needs, an afterschool and summer program for youth ages 8-18 focused on guided group discussions and conflict resolution, and youth skill-building workshops on topics such as music, cooking, basketball, boxing, and weightlifting.

University of Pennsylvania (Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety) – $1,517,546 to expand the scope and reach of the Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy Initiative, a program that supports the implementation of Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy for PTSD in community mental health centers in Philadelphia, by creating the Philadelphia Prolonged Exposure to Address Community Violence (PEACE) Project, which will be a coalition of 60 providers who are trained to respond to the mental health needs of individuals who experience community violence.

University of Pennsylvania (Penn Injury Science Center) – $2,332,070 to expand and enhance the School District of Philadelphia’s (SDP) Safe Path to School program. The program will expand to 6-8 schools and have enhanced features such as training (e.g. trauma-informed care, cure violence models of violence prevention), access to referral programs, and regular meetings with local violence intervention programs.

Uplift Center for Grieving Children – $399,994 to provide additional resources for training and data collection for quality grief counseling services to youth in the city of Philadelphia. Components of this project include clinical training and supervision to cultivate staff aptitude and maintain up-to-date and high-quality mental health supports, the expansion of the Resilient Parenting for Bereaved Families (RPBF) program, providing caregivers with regulation skills and parenting tools over 10-week sessions to support their families, and training coordination to expand its capacity to train frontline professionals in racial/trauma-informed professional development offerings.

Uplift Solutions Inc. – $607,840 to grow and enhance their Workforce Solutions program, which serves justice-involved individuals through increased outreach efforts, increased trauma-informed behavioral health services, and increased capacity to serve more participants. Program components include life-skills training, case management, wraparound services, job readiness training, employer technical training, employment placement, and follow-up support 3 years post-graduation.

More information on the grants can be found here.

Tartaglione Announces $1.5 Million in Local Transit Grants

Statement From Senator Tartaglione Regarding Consolidating Constitutional Amendments

Harrisburg, PAJanuary 10, 2023 – Democratic Whip, Senator Christine M. Tartaglione released the following statement regarding the consolidation of the statute of limitations constitutional amendment into a package with Voter ID and Regulatory Review constitutional amendments.

“Victims of sexual abuse don’t deserve to have their fate toyed with by politicians in Harrisburg,” said Senator Tartaglione. “The language of this constitutional amendment has passed this chamber three times now, but suddenly the majority party has decided playing politics with the rights of abuse victims is more important than providing a window to allow accountability. I cannot condemn these games strongly enough. This constitutional amendment should be run alone.