by Christin Brown | February 6, 2018 | Minimum Wage, News Releases
HARRISBURG, PA, February 6, 2018 – Sen. Christine Tartaglione applauded Gov. Tom Wolf’s commitment of $100 million toward workforce development programs as well as his support for raising Pennsylvania’s minimum wage in the Fiscal 2019 budget proposal that the governor delivered today to a joint session of the General Assembly.
Tartaglione is further encouraged by the governor’s intention to close the Delaware corporate tax loophole; his plan to expand access to substance abuse treatment and prevention; his renewed effort to require municipalities that rely exclusively on Pennsylvania State Police to pay for those services; as well as his call for more state investment in home- and community-based services for people with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders.
“I’m glad that Governor Wolf shares my conviction that Pennsylvania must improve its economic competitiveness by developing our workforce with programs like education and training, apprenticeships and industry partnerships, as well as mandating that employers pay workers fair, living wages.
“Just yesterday, I announced my sponsorship of Senate Bill 1044 to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage from $7.25 an hour to $15 over the next six years. We haven’t raised our minimum wage since 2006. All of Pennsylvania’s neighboring states and 28 states across the country have a higher minimum wage than we do. Raising the minimum wage will make Pennsylvania a more attractive place for workers to raise their families and will improve the economy by putting more money in the hands of consumers.”
During his budget address and in a more-detailed overview of his plan distributed through the Office of the Budget, Wolf proposed raising the minimum wage from $7.25 an hour to $12 this year.
Wolf also outlined a $50 million investment to improve access for Pennsylvania students and workers to education, training and career readiness programs; and $25 million to grow STEM and computer science-related education in K-12 and postsecondary programs. The budget plan further invests $7 million in apprenticeship and work-based training, along with $3 million for partnerships between employers and public workforce providers.
“These are issues that I’ve been attempting to advance for quite some time,” Sen. Tartaglione said.
Similarly, Sen. Tartaglione supports the governor’s renewed effort to close the “Delaware loophole.” That’s the law allowing Pennsylvania-based corporations to establish holding companies in neighboring Delaware, where their profits are not subject to a corporate income tax.
“For all intents and purposes, these corporations are Pennsylvania-based. They occupy land here and do business here. They should be paying their fair share of corporate taxes to support the infrastructure and services that enable them to succeed here.”
Requiring municipalities to pay for local State Police coverage is another Wolf proposal that would have a positive impact on Pennsylvania’s fiscal outlook, according to Sen. Tartaglione. The senator further supports the governor’s plan to allocate an additional $74 million to services for people with intellectual disabilities and autism, including $16 million to provide 965 people with supports and services enabling them to keep living in their homes and communities after they reach age 21 and no longer qualify for the special education system.
In the ongoing fight against substance abuse, specifically opioid use disorder, the governor plans to leverage $26.5 million in federal funding to supplement the state’s existing efforts to expand and sustain access to treatment services. Wolf also proposes a $4.5 million state allocation for training home-treatment providers and another $2 million to expand accredited drug treatment courts.
“Opioid addiction and opioid-related deaths have risen to catastrophic levels and are a public health crisis,” Sen. Tartaglione said. “We must commit significant resources strategically and thoughtfully in response to this emergency.”
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | February 5, 2018 | Minimum Wage, News Releases
Lawmakers and workers’ advocates renewed the call for fair, family-sustaining wages
HARRISBURG, PA, February 5, 2018 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione today announced recently introduced legislation that proposes to raise Pennsylvania’s long-stagnant minimum wage. Surrounded by colleagues in the General Assembly, other workers’ advocates and members of Raise the Wage PA, Tartaglione announced the details of Senate Bill 1044 that would impact millions of low-wage Pennsylvanians.
“For far too long, many Pennsylvanians have had to manage with far too little,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Regrettably, Pennsylvania hasn’t raised its minimum wage since 2006 and the federal government hasn’t raised the minimum wage since 2009. That is why we are here today, to advocate again for raising the minimum wage.”
Senator Tartaglione has been at the forefront of the minimum wage issue throughout her 24 years in the Senate. She negotiated Pennsylvania’s last minimum wage increase in 2006. But since then, Pennsylvania has fallen behind the times. All six of its neighbor states have minimum wages above the $7.25 federal level, as do 28 states across the country. But Pennsylvania does not.
Similarly, tipped workers in Pennsylvania have gone without a raise in the minimum wage since 1998. They are entitled to just $2.83 an hour under the law.
“Under the current minimum wage, a worker who logs 40 hours a week makes just about $15,000 a year,” Senator Tartaglione said. “That’s below the federal poverty level for a two-person household. And in Pennsylvania, it qualifies the worker to collect Food Stamps. And that is unacceptable.”
Tartaglione’s Senate bill is a companion bill to similar legislation introduced in the Pennsylvania House by Rep. Patty Kim. Under the bill, the minimum wage would rise to $12 an hour immediately ($9 for tipped workers), then increase incrementally to $15 in 2024 ($12 for tipped workers). After 2024, the minimum wage would increase automatically each year based on a cost-of-living adjustment.
The senator noted that the cost of living has risen dramatically since the last time Pennsylvania raised its minimum wage. The cost of a loaf of bread has risen from 97 cents to about $2.50. A gallon of milk has risen from about $3.25 to over $4. A dozen eggs have risen from about one dollar to $2.65.
“The minimum wage isn’t about giving a handout. It’s about giving a hand up,” Senator Tartaglione said.
Sen. Art Haywood, a co-sponsor of SB 1044, joined Senator Tartaglione at today’s news conference in the Capitol. Haywood is the primary sponsor of SB 1045, which would add onto Tartaglione’s legislation by gradually increasing the tipped minimum wage to match the non-tipped minimum wage over three years starting in 2025. Haywood’s bill, which was co-sponsored by Tartaglione, would also eliminate a provision in state law that prevents municipalities from raising their local minimum wages above the state minimum.
Senate Majority Leader Jay Costa, John Meyerson of Raise the Wage PA, The Rev. Sandra L. Strauss of the Pennsylvania Council of Churches, Mark Price of Keystone Research Center and John Traynor, owner of the Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center, also joined Senator Tartaglione for today’s announcement.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | February 1, 2018 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, February 1, 2018 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione today delivered substantial support in the fight against cancer as she visited Fox Chase Cancer Center in Northeast Philadelphia to present officials there with a $500,000 Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant to advance the expansion of FCCC’s Infusion Center.
The Infusion Center is where Fox Chase patients receive chemotherapy, non-chemotherapy infusions, hydration and blood product transfusions. As part of an $8.2 million expansion, Fox Chase will double the Infusion Center’s floor space to 21,500 square feet and increase its patient capacity from 36 infusion chairs to 60. The larger, less crowded footprint will improve the overall patient experience by delivering it in an aesthetically pleasing setting that promotes privacy, safety and efficiency.
“The war on cancer is one of the most daunting scientific, financial and public policy challenges of our time,” Sen. Tartaglione said. “Last year, more than 600,000 Americans died from cancer, which is the nation’s second-leading cause of death. In Pennsylvania, there were 28,000 deaths, the fifth-most among U.S. states. But there is great hope. The national mortality rate has declined by at least 25 percent since the early 1990s, which is why we must keep the momentum going. Or, as Vice President Joe Biden said one year ago when he launched The Cancer Moonshot, ‘Now is the time to double-down in our fight against cancer.’”
Fox Chase Cancer Center, part of the Temple University Health System, with its commitment to clinical excellence, research expertise and community health, was one of the first facilities in the country to earn a full comprehensive cancer center designation from the National Cancer Institute, which is the federal government’s principal agency for cancer research and training. The center diagnoses and treats every kind of cancer (except pediatrics) and offers patients state-of-the-art and best practice treatments as well as clinical trials.
“Today marks an exciting development in our institution as we prepare to expand our infusion center, and we welcome State Senator Christine Tartaglione as a representative of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” said Richard I. Fisher, MD, president & CEO of Fox Chase Cancer Center. “This support will allow us to continue to expand what we do for the benefit of our patients and our community.”
In its existing configuration, the Infusion Center serves about 2,200 patients per month. Administration of chemotherapy is by far the largest service line and revenue generator for the Center, comprising more than half of total outpatient revenues. The current infusion space frequently reaches capacity during peak times.
The expansion plan will extend its footprint from 10,460 square feet to 21,500 while expanding capacity from 36 chairs to 60. It will improve patient experience while preserving and growing Fox Chase’s market share in the delivery of chemotherapy. As a leading employer and healthcare provider in the Greater Philadelphia region, Fox Chase Cancer Center generates significant revenue, opportunity and services for local citizens.
Fox Chase expects to implement the Infusion Center expansion in three phases with design plans to be approved in June 2018 and construction to begin in September 2018.
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects. RACP projects are authorized in the Redevelopment Assistance section of a Capital Budget Itemization Act, have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact, and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | January 18, 2018 | News Releases
Frankford Pause will offer flexible open space for social gatherings, public performances, art displays and casual reflection
PHILADELPHIA, PA, January 18, 2018 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-2nd dist.) today presented a $100,000 Pennsylvania Commonwealth Financing Authority grant that will enable the Frankford Community Development Corporation to convert a formerly vacant lot into a permanent “pause” park in the heart of the Frankford Avenue business district.
State Rep. Jason Dawkins, Frankford CDC Commercial Corridor Manager Ileana Garcia, Frankford CDC Executive Director Kimberly Washington, Esq., and state Sen. Christine Tartaglione
Frankford Pause is an innovative land reuse project conceived in 2014 by the FCDC in collaboration with the Philadelphia City Planning Commission’s Destination Frankford arts-based initiative. The vision is to create a unique outdoor venue as a hub of community activity with flexible space for social gatherings, public performances, art displays and casual reflection. The pause park is next to FCDC’s headquarters in the recently renovated Daral Building at 4667 Paul St.
“Frankford is a threatened neighborhood in many ways due to socio-economic factors such as the decline of traditional manufacturing industries and loss of family-sustaining jobs,” Senator Tartaglione said. “But the neighborhood is filled with opportunities for investment and growth thanks to the commitment of the people who live and work there. I’m thrilled to contribute to its renaissance. The pause park will beautify Frankford Avenue, bring people together for community events and attract new businesses to the area.”
Tartaglione and state Rep. Jason Dawkins visited the park site today and delivered a $100,000 check to FCDC Executive Director Kimberly Washington, Esq.
“The real hope is that we get people to reinvest around Frankford Avenue and bring people back to the avenue,” Washington said. “Over the years, Frankford’s been neglected. Right now I’d call it an emerging neighborhood. It sits on the cusp of gentrifying neighborhoods just to the south of us. Frankford has a real opportunity to stabilize the neighborhood by bringing in small businesses and creating jobs so people from the neighborhood can really take advantage and stay in the neighborhood.”
The park project is part of FCDC’s broader revitalization effort known as Reimagining Margaret & Orthodox, which includes business façade improvements, streetscaping and reducing blight. Frankford Pause is the former site of a diner that caught fire and was demolished years ago, Washington said. People then began using it as an illegal dumping ground.
The City of Philadelphia took ownership of the site. FCDC leases it from the Department of Public Property.
Washington and Tartaglione chat about the new Frankford Pause park
Late last year, FCDC completed a preliminary construction phase including the installation of planter beds, planter decks and a performance stage, as well as distinctive pink strips on the walls of adjoining buildings. The final build will include overhead lighting that will synchronize with environmental sounds such as passing Elevated trains.
FCDC co-hosted two community planting days last October with the Frankford Garden Club, Frankford Friends School, Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership and Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.
“Kids were really engaged and the ladies from the garden club were really glad to teach kids about gardening,” Washington said. “The kids were very excited about that.”
Next spring, FCDC will launch a pilot program of events to study how people from the community want to use and interact with the space.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | January 10, 2018 | News Releases
Globe Dye Works in Frankford offers office, studio, manufacturing and residential space to artists, artisans and fabricators.
PHILADELPHIA, PA, January 10, 2018 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-2nd dist.) today presented a $1 million Pennsylvania capital grant that will enable a former yarn winding and dyeing factory in Philadelphia’s Frankford section to continue its revitalization as a versatile workspace for artists, artisans and fabricators. Globe Dye Works was awarded the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant late last month.
“Globe Dye Works is a prime example of the great, often hidden commercial potential that exists in many of Philadelphia’s older, underused industrial properties,” Senator Tartaglione said. “In 2007, a group of investors purchased this largely forgotten relic of Frankford’s great manufacturing past. In a decade’s time, the site has been reborn as a thriving community of modern, creative and revenue-generating businesses.”
Globe Dye Works occupies 11 interconnected buildings on a 1.7-acre campus at 4500 Worth St. Constructed in the middle and late 19th century, the former textile plant offers 145,000 square feet of leasable office and studio space. Current tenants include painters, photographers, floral designers, a cabinet maker, a potter, boat builders, a metal sculptor, a classic automobile broker, a tattoo artist, a creamery, a guacamole maker, a coffee roaster and a caterer, among many other users. There are more than 30 commercial tenants, including 19 who also live in the property. The city’s 2012 zoning code permits the mixed use.
Seven partners own the site. Co-owners Peter Kelly, Charlie Abdo, Mark Gallini and Matt Pappajohn joined Senator Tartaglione and state Rep. Jason Dawkins (D-179th dist.) for today’s check presentation.
“This grant is exactly what the community needs,” Dawkins said. “It allows Globe Dye Works to create a community hub for residents and business owners alike. We are always excited to invest in projects that put small businesses and the community first. In addition, this economic power will allow community members to have the seat at the table they deserve. Especially when it comes to issues pertaining to development.”
The RACP grant will support the final phase of Globe Dye’s restoration, including the expansion of special events space and the remodeling of office and manufacturing spaces. About 80 percent of the floorspace has already been redeveloped, according to Kelly.
“We have a very strong mix of tenants now,” Kelly said. “We’ve held two weddings here where all of the services were provided by Globe tenants.”
Founded in 1865, Globe Dye Works wound, dyed and bleached yarn for 140 years until its longtime proprietors, the Greenwood family, closed its doors in 2005. Two years later, Globe Development Group LP bought the property for $675,000 and began converting it into a new configuration with individual rental units ranging in size from 500 to 15,000 square feet. The City of Philadelphia has assessed the property’s market value at almost $2 million for 2018.
The Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership is a non-profit environmental advocacy organization that moved into Globe in May 2013. The agency supports preservation and restoration of a watershed that extends from Northeast Philadelphia into suburban Montgomery County.
“(Globe Dye) has really changed our relationship with the (Tacony Creek) Park and the neighborhood,” said TTF Executive Director Julie Slavet. “We consider ourselves a part of Frankford.”
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget under Gov. Wolf for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects. RACP projects are authorized in the Redevelopment Assistance section of a Capital Budget Itemization Act, have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues or other measures of economic activity.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | December 21, 2017 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, December 21, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione partnered with state Rep. Angel Cruz and Santa Claus to animate the holiday season for dozens of Philadelphia children yesterday at the senator’s district office in the new Plaza Allegheny shopping center at 400 W. Allegheny Ave.
(From left) Capt. Krista Dahl-Campbell of the Philadelphia Police, state Rep. Angel Cruz, Santa Claus, Cindy Lou Who, The Grinch (reformed version), state Sen. Christine Tartaglione
The second annual Photos with Santa event gave more than 60 wishful youngsters a rare chance to meet Saint Nick in person and get their pictures taken with him, the Grinch Who Stole Christmas and Cindy Lou Who. The Grinch wore his own custom Santa suit in celebration of the festive occasion. Santa’s elves passed out free candy canes and photo prints to all the smiling visitors.
“Seeing so many children get excited to meet Santa, some for the very first time, personifies the joy of the holiday season,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Their eyes light up when they walk into the room and Santa greets them with open arms. It’s a special treat to behold.”
Senator Tartaglione opened her new district office in the Plaza Allegheny on Nov. 30. The shopping center also features a Save-a-Lot supermarket, along with restaurants, an auto parts retailer, shops and medical offices. The senator’s office is in Suite E-11 and is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. excluding holidays.
The senator’s friendly staff can assist constituents with many state-related services such as driver’s license renewals, auto registration, handicapped parking placards, unemployment applications, home heating assistance and property tax/rent rebates. The multi-lingual staff can also help with Spanish-English translations.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | December 18, 2017 | News Releases
Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, coloring books and Transformers were among the gifts donated through the senator’s office this year
PHILADELPHIA, PA, December 18, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione hosted U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Marc Zayas today to present the coordinator of the 2017 Philadelphia Toys for Tots program with a treasure trove of gifts donated through the senator’s Bridge Street office as part of the annual toy drive.
The senator’s generous constituents gave a variety of fun, creative and educational items including Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh plush dolls, astronaut-theme coloring books, alphabet magnets, superhero sticker books, a Play-Doh set and schoolbook backpacks. The Marines will distribute the donated items to families in need throughout the Philadelphia area.
“Each year the toy drive keeps getting better and better,” Sen. Tartaglione said. “The Marines hit a pinnacle one year, then they exceed it the next year. I want to thank them for taking the initiative and making sure that millions of children get toys for Christmas.”
U.S. Marine Corps Reserves Major Bill Hendricks created the Toys for Tots program in 1947 when he led a group of Los Angeles-based reservists who collected and distributed 5,000 toys to children in need. The idea originated with Major Hendricks’ wife Diane when she handcrafted a Raggedy Ann doll and asked her husband to find an organization that would give it to a needy child. Finding no such organization, Diane urged Major Hendricks to start one.
Major Hendricks was so successful that year, the Marine Corps adopted the project in 1948 and expanded it into an annual nationwide campaign. Within the past year, the program has delivered 18 million toys to 7 million children representing all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Visit ToysForTots.org for more information and to donate to the Toys for Tots program.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | December 14, 2017 | News Releases
The Senate voted to provide $115.2 million for technology upgrades and customer service staffing to help jobless workers claim benefits.
HARRISBURG, PA, December 14, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-2nd dist.) applauded the Pennsylvania Senate’s passage yesterday of bipartisan legislation to provide $115.2 million over four years for the state’s Unemployment Compensation system, funding that would help to prevent a recurrence of the lengthy delays experienced earlier this year by countless unemployed workers as they sought to claim their benefits.
Senators voted 43-5 in support of House Bill 1915, a measure amending the Unemployment Compensation Law to direct funding into the Department of Labor and Industry’s Service and Infrastructure Improvement Fund. The bill dedicates $30.3 million for technological upgrades to the UC delivery system, while the remainder of the funding is meant to ensure adequate customer service staffing through 2021.
“I am pleased that the overwhelming majority of my colleagues recognized the importance and urgency of funding our Unemployment Compensation system appropriately to ensure that workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own can rely on this vital safety net,” Sen. Tartaglione said.
The legislation draws upon the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund, money used to pay for jobless benefits and supported by contributions from employers and active workers.
Sen. Tartaglione played a central role in the passage of the bill through the Senate’s Labor and Industry Committee, on which she is the ranking Democrat, as well as the Appropriations Committee earlier this week. Previously, the measure passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, 183-4. The legislation will be forwarded to Gov. Tom Wolf for his consideration.
Despite her support of the bill, Sen. Tartaglione will be watching carefully to ensure that the funding will provide unemployed workers with the level of service they deserve and that service doesn’t diminish when the new funding expires in 2021. Without adequate UC funding in place last December, the state laid off nearly 500 Department of Labor and Industry employees and shut down three of its customer service centers.
The cuts caused long delays for unemployed workers as they tried to apply for and collect benefits. In April, the legislature and Gov. Wolf agreed to provide $15 million in funding that allowed the department to recall 187 workers who had been laid off.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | December 13, 2017 | News Releases
Officer Gary Skerski would be memorialized on a Frankford bridge near the site of the 2006 shooting that claimed his life.
Officer Gary Skerski
HARRISBURG, PA, December 13, 2017 – At the urging of state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-2nd dist.), the Pennsylvania Senate today unanimously passed legislation to dedicate a roadway bridge in Philadelphia’s Frankford neighborhood in honor of slain Police Officer Gary Skerski.
House Bill 1778 would designate a portion of Castor Avenue (also known as State Route 1005) spanning the Frankford Creek as the Officer Gary Frank Skerski Memorial Bridge. Officer Skerski was shot and killed in the line of duty on May 8, 2006, while responding to an armed robbery of Pat’s Café, a popular local tavern near the bridge site.
“Officer Skerski showed us every day the many great things that police officers do within communities,” Sen. Tartaglione said from the Senate floor. “He embodied the mission ‘to protect and serve.’ In the aftermath of the fatal shooting, patrons who were inside Pat’s Café that night credited Officer Skerski for protecting them – for literally saving their lives. Likewise, Officer Skerski’s efforts on community relations set a shining example that remains as relevant today as it was then.”
More than a dozen patrons and employees were inside Pat’s that evening when a robber armed with a sawed-off shotgun and semiautomatic handgun invaded the business, announced a robbery and threatened to shoot anyone who disobeyed his commands. One of the victims managed to call 911 from a cell phone. Officer Skerski and his partner were on duty nearby and responded to the emergency call for help.
As Officer Skerski approached a rear entrance of the business, the gunman lay in wait just inside the doorway. He left the door ajar. When Officer Skerski opened the door, the gunman shot, wounding the officer fatally. Skerski’s police comrades rushed him to a nearby hospital, but the officer passed away that night. He was 46.
Officer Skerski was a 16-year veteran of the police force assigned to the 15th district. He was survived by his wife Anne, son Robert, daughter Nicole, parents Chester and Mary, sister Jacqueline and brother Robert. Although he served primarily as the designated Community Relations Officer for the 15th district, Skerski was working overtime that night to assist his colleagues in their patrol duties.
“He was a beloved son, brother, husband and father,” Sen. Tartaglione said. “And he was an equally beloved member of his community. He served a vital role as the face of the Philadelphia Police Department in neighborhoods like Frankford, Mayfair, Tacony, Wissinoming and Bridesburg. He cultivated relationships with local schools, churches and civic associations while helping to ensure that the community recognized and honored police officers who were doing great work in those neighborhoods.”
State Rep. Jason Dawkins (D-179th dist.) was the primary sponsor of the bill that passed the Pennsylvania House, 187-0, in October. The Senate voted, 49-0, in favor of the bill today. The legislation will be forwarded to Gov. Tom Wolf for his consideration.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | December 7, 2017 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, December 7, 2017 – Please add the following information to your community events listings. The news media is also encouraged to attend this event as part of your holiday coverage.
What: Free Photos with Santa Claus/Fotos Gratis con Santa hosted by state Sen. Christine Tartaglione and state Rep. Angel Cruz.
When: Wednesday, December 20, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
where: 400 W. Allegheny Ave., Suite E-11, Phila., PA 19133
Details: Santa Claus and his elves have been hard at work making toys at the North Pole. But state Sen. Tina Tartaglione and state Rep. Angel Cruz have asked Santa to make a special visit to the senator’s new Allegheny Avenue office to collect Christmas lists from all the children. Families are invited to come and get their pictures taken with Santa for free. And while you’re here, you can obtain information about state-sponsored programs and services including home heating assistance and rent rebates.
Santa Claus y sus elfos han estado trabajando duro haciendo juguetes en el Polo Norte. Pero la senadora estatal Tina Tartaglione y el Representante Estatal Angel Cruz le han pedido a Santa que haga una visita especial a la nueva oficina de la Senador en la oficina de la avenida Allegheny para recolectar listas de Navidad de todos los niños. Las familias están invitadas a venir y tomarse fotos gratis con Santa. Y mientras esté aquí, puede obtener información sobre los programas y servicios patrocinados por el estado, incluida la asistencia de calefacción en el hogar y descuentos en el alquiler.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | November 27, 2017 | News Releases
Pennsylvania Senate Democrats organized the ACA enrollment tour to help people get covered and raise awareness about the new Dec. 15 deadline.
PHILADELPHIA, PA, November 27, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione helped more than 20 people obtain health insurance coverage for 2018 as she hosted the Pennsylvania Senate Democrats’ Affordable Care Act enrollment tour at her district office in Northwood on Nov. 21.
About two dozen healthcare consumers visited Tartaglione’s office at 1061 Bridge St. during the four-hour session, where they consulted with certified enrollment specialists, representatives from the state’s Insurance Department and the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, along with private insurers. Visitors received expert help signing up for ACA coverage – commonly known as Obamacare – as well as Medicare.
Pennsylvania Senate Democrats organized the seven-stop statewide tour in response to severe budget cuts instituted by the federal government this year on the ACA enrollment program. The Trump administration cut the enrollment period in half from three months to just six weeks. The new deadline is Dec. 15. Also, the administration slashed the ACA marketing budget by 90 percent and the funding for enrollment specialists, also known as navigators, by almost half.
“Access to healthcare is a vital need for all people. Yet because of the federal government’s latest Obamacare cutbacks, many Americans won’t get the help they need to sign up for insurance,” Tartaglione said. “The holidays are a busy time of year and many folks may not hear about the shorter enrollment period until it’s too late. Through our ACA tour, we are enrolling people for coverage and raising awareness about the new ACA deadline.”
“With open enrollment being shorter this year, there was a real concern that people would miss it,” said Dave Buono, consumer liaison for the Pennsylvania Insurance Department. “We want to make sure folks know they can still get affordable health insurance. If people are waiting until the last minute this year and they think the deadline is Jan. 31, they’re going to miss it.”
Following stops in Cheltenham and East Falls on Nov. 16, then Tartaglione’s office on Nov. 21, the tour is scheduled to visit Bethlehem on Nov. 28, Scranton and Carbondale on Nov. 30 and finally Pittsburgh on Dec. 7. Visitors to Tartaglione’s office were relieved to get the help they needed.
“They made it real easy,” said Toni Gallelli, a nurse from Philadelphia’s Castor Gardens section. “I never had to do this before. Thank God I don’t have any health problems but I’ll be 60 in a few weeks and I have to go to my doctor for check-ups. It’s a preventative comfort.”
“Being a recent retiree, healthcare is probably the most expensive component I have to worry about going into the future,” said Carol Voutsinos, also from Castor Gardens. “You want to get a plan that’s the most cost-effective for you number one, and one that offers all you need. You have to maintain a healthy lifestyle as you age.”
“I got a better understanding of health insurance talking with the navigators,” said Magdeline Tyler of Olney. “I went through a time with no health insurance. I got pneumonia and had to go to the hospital and ended up with a $30,000 bill.”
Consumers can enroll with the Affordable Care Act by visiting healthcare.gov. Pennsylvania Senate Democrats have established their own site to provide consumers with information about their health insurance options. Visit HealthcareForPA.com.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at william.kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | November 27, 2017 | News Releases
The funding will allow the club to complete major renovations to its century-old stone building, including the creation of a new recreation room.
PHILADELPHIA, PA, November 27, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione and state Rep. Jason Dawkins kicked off the Thanksgiving holiday weekend in the spirit of giving as they presented a $200,000 grant to the Northeast Frankford Boys & Girls Club on Nov. 22 that will enable the club to complete major renovations to its century-old building on Kinsey Street.
The two-story stone landmark was built as a school shortly after the turn of the 20th century. Boys and Girls Clubs of Philadelphia acquired the property in 1938 and has been serving Frankford youths there ever since. Tartaglione and Dawkins secured the $200,000 Greenways, Trails and Recreation Grant from Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Financing Authority – an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development – earlier this month.
“We’re very pleased to be able to come here today with check in hand,” Tartaglione said to an assembly of club officials, benefactors and youth members. “This Boys & Girls Club has been around forever. It’s our responsibility to make sure kids have a future and have a place to go. I’m really excited this is happening. Everything is getting nicer and nicer.”
Dawkins echoed the senator’s sentiments and reflected on the vital influence the Frankford club had on his own life when he was young. Dawkins grew up mere blocks from the club and still lives nearby.
“I was raised in this Boys & Girls Club. I do not think I would be here in this capacity today if not for this club,” Dawkins said. “When we talk about igniting possibilities in young people, this club ignited something in me. This is what kept me out of the streets, kept me alive and kept me on the right path. I had very good mentors who were very stern and stayed on top of me for very good reasons. I am so pleased that we can do something real and give back.”
The $200,000 grant will enable the club to complete renovations to the first floor including the creation of a new social recreation room and grand gallery. In the past two years, the club has also created a new literacy center, renovated its gymnasium and transformed its dilapidated basement into a teen center, art studio, learning lounge and tech lounge. Further, the club has created a STEM lab, kids café and tech center. The forthcoming work on the first floor will finalize the much-needed renovations to the building.
“What we’re going to be able to do, as you’ve seen with the upstairs, we going to bring it back to its luster,” said Joseph Marziello, chief executive officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia. So many different folks have helped us with this. We’ve done it a room at a time and it’s been very stressful. When we got the call (about the $200,000 grant), it was pretty exciting. So thank you.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia serves youths in 22 units throughout the city. The Northeast Frankford unit has about 150 members and will be able to grow to more than 400 members with the facility improvements. The club is vital to a neighborhood where 65 percent of young people live in poverty. Its programs support their long-term academic, social and personal achievement.
“The support of Senator Tartaglione and Representative Dawkins was critical in making this project a reality,” Marziello said. “They are truly champions for our kids and have worked alongside us as we’ve fought to give youth in Frankford and across the city access to the resources they need to succeed.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at william.kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | November 14, 2017 | News Releases
New funding will support traffic safety, schools, a Boys and Girls club and a community park in the 2nd District.
PHILADELPHIA, PA, November 14, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione today secured more than $1.5 million in grants for community and transportation projects in the 2nd Senatorial District, including funding for a Boys and Girls Club, school safety, traffic safety and a community park.
Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Financing Authority approved five grant requests during its board meeting in Harrisburg. The allocations will support major renovations of the Northeast Frankford Boys and Girls Club, the Frankford Community Development Corporation’s conversion of a vacant lot into a community park and the implementation of a safe streets program around local schools. Additional allocations will support the Olde Richmond Civic Association’s effort to improve lighting at five underpasses along the Lehigh Avenue railroad viaduct and will fund pedestrian safety improvements to a major Roosevelt Boulevard intersection.
“I’d like to thank the seven members of the CFA board for recognizing the value of investing in projects like these, which will benefit countless children and families in Philadelphia,” Senator Tartaglione said. “These projects satisfy many important safety needs and strengthen the fabric of our community.”
One $500,000 grant will support the Philadelphia Streets Department’s plan for pedestrian improvements along Roosevelt Boulevard (U.S. Route 1) at Adams and Summerdale avenues. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, about 78,000 vehicles a day travel that stretch of the Boulevard, a highway often cited as one of the most dangerous in the nation.
A second $500,000 grant was awarded to the Philadelphia Streets Department for implementing its Vision Zero safe streets program around schools in the district. Vision Zero is the city’s strategy to eliminate all traffic related deaths and severe injuries while increasing safety, health and mobility for all people.
A $215,290 grant was awarded to the Olde Richmond Civic Association to replace and enhance lighting in five roadway and pedestrian underpasses beneath the Lehigh Avenue viaduct, an elevated railroad that runs between Lehigh Avenue and Somerset Street from Kensington Avenue to Richmond Street.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Philadelphia was awarded a $200,000 grant to fund Bold For Change, a major renovation project at the Northeast Frankford Boys and Girls Club, 1709 Kinsey St., which offers tutoring, daycare, arts and crafts, torch and keystone clubs, a drill team, basketball, mentoring and many other activities for youths and their families.
The Frankford Community Development Corporation was awarded a $100,000 grant to convert a former vacant lot into a pop-up “pause park” at 4671-73 Paul St. The new park is under construction and will become a hub of community activity with flexible space for public performances, art activities, gardening and social events.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority was established in 2004 as an independent agency of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to administer the state’s economic stimulus packages. CFA holds fiduciary responsibility over the funding of programs and investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | November 11, 2017 | News Releases
New capital budget allocation will fund building improvements at Lloyd C. Wilson Jr. Memorial American Legion Post 224
PHILADELPHIA, PA, November 11, 2017 – Omelets, waffles and an extraordinary funding announcement were all on the menu when state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione and state Rep. Jason Dawkins cooked breakfast for the members of Lloyd C. Wilson Jr. Memorial American Legion Post 224 on Veterans Day. The lawmakers revealed that they had successfully obtained a $1 million allocation for physical improvements to the post as part of Pennsylvania’s recently enacted capital budget for fiscal year 2017-18.
“I’ve been coming here for a long, long time. This is like home,” Tartaglione told the veterans and their guests. “There are other posts in my district, but this is the one I’ve been coming to the longest. This is the one I know the best. And I really want to thank you for your service.”
“We’re here to say, ‘Thank you. We really appreciate your service,’” Dawkins said. “But we want to take it a step farther. Together, we put in for a million-dollar allocation so we can start renovating and we can start acquiring other pieces to make this into the place we know it should be.”
The allocation will be tied to $1 million in matching funds that must be obtained from other sources. Tartaglione and Dawkins are confident that one or more private-sector organizations will contribute to the worthy cause.
“The first step has already passed the legislature. The governor has signed it. It’s allocated for Post 224,” Dawkins said.
Founded in 1987, the post is home to about 50 American Legion members representing all five U.S. military branches, along with about 40 members of its sons division and about 20 members of its ladies’ auxiliary. Located at 2006 Orthodox St., the post has had veterans of all major military conflicts dating back to World War I on its membership rolls.
But the building is in need of significant improvements, according to Commander Guy D. Lewis. Members have been growing their own building fund in recent months. The state allocation will provide their ongoing efforts with a major boost.
“We have needs from bottom to top, inside and outside, interior and exterior,” Lewis said. “This was a total surprise. It’s like a dream come true.”
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.Kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | November 2, 2017 | News Releases
Newly enacted legislation provides local, state authorities with tighter control over nuisance shops that sell alcohol
Senator Tartaglione shakes hands with Gov. Tom Wolf
PHILADELPHIA, PA – November 2, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione, Gov. Tom Wolf, Mayor Jim Kenney and legislators from throughout Philadelphia yesterday celebrated the enactment of new legislation that will help local and state authorities curb nuisance shops that sell alcohol. The governor hosted a ceremonial bill signing at Devereaux United Methodist Church in the city’s Allegheny West neighborhood, a community where residents have long complained about the negative impact of so-called “stop-and-go” stores.
“Stop and go shops that disregard the obligations of their state-issued liquor licenses have become a scourge in many areas of my district and throughout Philadelphia,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Children should not be confronted with these nuisances while walking to and from school every day. Parents should be able to send their kids to the corner store for a carton of milk or a bag of candy without having to worry about people loitering and drinking in the doorway.”
Stop-and-gos are small convenience stores, delis or gas stations that hold liquor licenses and sell alcoholic beverages by the bottle or can. Many also sell hard liquor by the shot. Their licenses require that they offer prepared food, seating and restrooms for patrons, but many do not. Many of the businesses attract or provoke loitering, public drinking, underage drinking and more serious crimes. Typically, their liquor licenses are subject to biannual renewal. Often, a business will appear compliant during the renewal process but deteriorate into non-compliance shortly thereafter.
The new provisions added to Pennsylvania’s Fiscal Code will allow state liquor enforcers to act immediately on complaints from local authorities, such as police. Those complaints would trigger prompt inspections that could result in the administrative suspension of a non-compliant business’ liquor license by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. The license would remain suspended until the business complies with the liquor code. The new administrative process also includes provisions for follow-up inspections to ensure that the business remains compliant.
“This new set of regulations will be a valuable enforcement tool allowing local authorities and the LCB to respond promptly to valid community complaints,” Tartaglione said.
Cities and towns in other parts of Pennsylvania experience similar problems, the governor explained.
“I am proud to sign this legislation that will help neighborhoods in Philadelphia and throughout the state deal with nuisance bars that can disrupt communities,” Governor Wolf said. “This increased inspection authority will help us to separate good and responsible owners from the bad actors, and will greatly improve our ability to crack down on the bad actors to protect our neighborhoods, making them better places to live and safer places for children and families.”
During her public comments, Senator Tartaglione noted that many state lawmakers have been trying for decades to forward legislation that would rein in stop-and-gos. A recent bill in the Senate was on the verge of being referred into committee where additional language related to liquor privatization may have been tacked onto the anti-nuisance measure, Senator Tartaglione said.
Instead, the bill’s supporters were able to include the anti-nuisance language within the broader Fiscal Code legislation. The new code takes effect immediately.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at william.kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | October 30, 2017 | News Releases
Families will celebrate Halloween while learning how to prepare for the winter months
PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 30, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione and state Rep. Jason Dawkins invite families to celebrate Halloween at the Harvest Resource Festival and Children’s Fright Night on Oct. 31, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Wissinoming Park in Philadelphia.
Children are encouraged to attend in costume while enjoying lively games and candy giveaways. Meanwhile, parents will be offered valuable information about seasonal programs to help them prepare for the cold-weather months, including Pennsylvania’s LIHEAP energy assistance program, home weatherization and other state-related services.
WHO: State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione and state Rep. Jason Dawkins
WHAT: Harvest Resource Festival and Children’s Fright Night
WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 31, 5 to 8 p.m.
WHERE: Wissinoming Park, 5801 Frankford Ave. (Entrance on Cheltenham Avenue)
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at william.kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | October 28, 2017 | News Releases
These valuable tips can prevent the sweetest holiday of the year from turning sour
PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 28, 2017 – Halloween is one of the sweetest times of the year. It’s the first big holiday of the autumn. It’s a rare opportunity for kids, young and old, to dress up like their favorite ghoul, goblin, witch or superhero. And topping it all off, people give away free candy – mountains of it in fact.
Yet despite the sheer joy of the occasion, safety must be an essential consideration. That’s why state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione has partnered with Philadelphia Police Capt. Thomas McLean to offer these valuable safety tips for the holiday.
“While children are thinking about what costume they’ll choose and what neighbors will be giving out the best treats, parents can do a lot of things to make sure that nothing spoils the fun,” the senator said.
“We just encourage parents to be involved on Halloween night,” Capt. McLean said. “Make sure kids are closely supervised, candy is inspected and kids aren’t all alone out on the streets.”
On Halloween evening, Sen. Tartaglione plans to attend a community gathering in her district at Wissinoming Park along with state Rep. Jason Dawkins. Meanwhile, McLean’s 2nd Police District will send out a specially decorated patrol car to bring candy to neighborhood children and reinforce the partnership between the community and his officers.
Leading up to the holiday, Sen. Tartaglione is sharing a list of specific tips that families can use to enjoy a safe Halloween. A copy of this tip sheet is accessible via SenatorTartaglione.com.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at william.kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | October 27, 2017 | News Releases
Public and private providers shared valuable information on topics ranging from healthcare and financial services to housing and consumer protection
PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 27, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione is a firm believer in preventative medicine. On Thursday morning, she let her arm do her talking on the subject.
Sen. Tartaglione chose her own Senior Expo at Fox Chase Recreation Center to receive her annual flu shot courtesy of Rite Aid. The Pennsylvania-headquartered pharmacy chain was among 60 public and private agencies and service providers who participated in the senator’s third Senior Expo of the year and her first ever at the Northeast Philadelphia venue.
Hundreds of attendees benefitted from presenters representing a variety of sectors including government, healthcare, banking and investment, housing and law enforcement, to name a few. Representatives from the state’s PACE program were there helping low income folks apply for prescription coverage. An investigator from Attorney General Josh Shapiro’s office instructed visitors how to protect themselves from consumer fraud and scams. Temple University Health System and its neighborhood affiliate, Jeanes Hospital, offered a multitude of information about preventative, acute and emergency care.
For Senator Tartaglione, the event was more than just business however. She reveled in renewing many longtime personal acquaintances who reside in district. Handshakes and hugs were the order of the day.
“This is really the fun part of my job, getting to see everyone’s smiling faces,” the senator said. “They bring a lot of joy to me. I only hope they benefit from the resources we’ve tried to share with them.”
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at william.kenny@pasenate.com.
by Christin Brown | October 24, 2017 | News Releases
Harrisburg, PA – October 24, 2017 – This morning, elected officials stood with advocates to push for an expansion of Pennsylvania’s hate crime definition.
As state law currently stands race, color, religion or national origin are protected classes under the hate crimes statute. Pending legislation in the Senate (SB 96) and House (HB 505) would reenact Act 143 of 2002 and again extend these protections to include ancestry, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.
Republicans, Democrats, Representatives, Senators, activists, and the Lieutenant Governor all expressed their disappointment that this bill is not yet law – and urged the General Assembly to move quickly to protect more Pennsylvania citizens from hate crimes.
“I think we’ve all watched the news lately and seen unspeakable acts of violence and discrimination being waged against targeted groups and individuals. We’ve seen people in the disability community targeted, we’ve seen LGBT people targeted, we’ve seen black, Jewish, Muslim, and Latino people and communities targeted across the country and right here at home,” said Senator Larry Farnese (D-Philadelphia), the prime sponsor of the Senate Bill, said. “We must not allow these discriminatory practices to continue, nor allow unprotected populations to remain unrepresented here in this building.”
“If you can’t find it in your heart to protect vulnerable citizens from bigotry fueled violence, maybe you can look at your wallet,” said Lieutenant Governor Mike Stack. “The job creators of the 21st century, like Amazon, want to do business in a state where their employees — all of their employees — are valued and protected. Holding up civil rights legislation in our legislature sends the wrong message about what kind of state we are.”
“Pennsylvania’s lack of protections against hate crimes for LGBT communities and persons with disabilities is a national embarrassment. We remain the only state in the northeast to not enshrine protections against hate crimes for these groups into law,” Representative Kevin Boyle (D-Philadelphia), the prime sponsor of the House bill, said. “I have introduced this bill for two consecutive sessions to add these protections but it has never been brought to a vote. Our legislature is failing its duty to protect the citizens of this commonwealth, and ignoring the constitutional rights of the physically and intellectually disabled, and the LGBT communities.”
“For those of us who revere the Constitution and appreciate the deep sense of liberty it enshrines, expanding hate crimes protections to include ancestry, disability, and gender identity is the right thing to do in Pennsylvania and around the country,” said Senator Anthony Williams (D-Philadelphia).
“By expanding the groups covered by hate crime laws, we are telling everyone that their human and constitutional rights are sacrosanct, and those who attempt to cripple those rights will face the full force of the law,” Representative Thomas Murt (R-Montgomery) said.
“Hate crimes are not committed to cause fear in one person; they are done to cause fear to an entire group – to send a message,” Representative Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny) said. “Well, the Pennsylvania General Assembly can send a message this year by passing House Bill 505 and Senate Bill 96. We can send a message that hate crimes based on a person’s ancestry, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity will not be tolerated in any corner of this state. As recent events around this country make clear, we must update our laws now to protect more people from heinous acts of violence and hatred.”
“The Philadelphia Bar Association supports and encourages enactment of an amendment to the Pennsylvania ethnic intimidation law to add protections for ancestry, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity,” said Philadelphia Bar Association Chancellor Deborah R. Gross.
For more information and action on the bill, please visit the Legislative Action Network of the Philadelphia Bar Association http://www.philadelphiabar.org/page/LACTakeAction3?appNum=3
by Christin Brown | October 20, 2017 | News Releases
Service dogs and disability simulation devices among the resources and services to be showcased for the public on Monday
HARRISBURG, PA, October 20, 2017– Pennsylvania Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione will welcome the community to the historic State Capitol Rotunda on Monday, Oct. 23, to learn about a multitude of resources available to persons with disabilities. Senator Tartaglione’s annual Disability Employment Awareness Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and feature dozens of organizations that offer a wide array of products and services ranging from accessibility tools and service dogs to simulation devices that will allow visitors to experience briefly the daily challenges faced by people with physical disabilities.
News media coverage is invited and encouraged.
Disability Employment Awareness Day coincides with National Disability Employment Awareness Month throughout October. Senator Tartaglione was the primary sponsor of a resolution adopted by the Senate recognizing the month-long national effort to raise awareness about disability employment issues and honor the many contributions of workers with disabilities. The observance further promotes positive employment outcomes for people with disabilities and endeavors to expand ideas about what youths with disabilities can achieve when they receive encouragement and support for their ambitions.
Senator Tartaglione has long been a leading advocate for people with disabilities and knows first-hand of the challenges that confront them every day. She has been overcoming many of the same challenges since she sustained severe spinal injuries in a 2003 boating accident.
Among the many presenters scheduled to participate in Disability Employment Awareness Day are the Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Susquehanna Service Dogs, Temple Accessibility Devices, the Center for Independent Living of Central PA, Unique Source Products & Services, the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services, Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation, AgrAbility, the Pennsylvania Initiative on Assistive Technology and Einstein Healthcare Network.
Senator Tartaglione represents the 2nd Senatorial District which serves the Philadelphia neighborhoods of Kensington, Juniata Park, Frankford, Northwood, Oxford Circle, Lawncrest, Wissinoming, Tacony, Mayfair, Holmesburg, Burholme and Fox Chase.
The Pennsylvania State Capitol is at 501 N. Third St., Harrisburg. It was completed in 1902, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is designated as a National Historic Landmark. For tour information, visit http://www.pacapitol.com/plan-a-visit/tours.cfm.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at william.kenny@pasenate.com
by Christin Brown | October 20, 2017 | News Releases
Philadelphia – October 20, 2017 – Pennsylvania Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione partnered with Rep. Jason Dawkins and the Philadelphia-based Women Organized Against Rape on Thursday evening to facilitate a vital and timely discussion about sexual violence prevention.
About 40 women and men, including numerous sexual violence survivors, joined the legislators at the Wissinoming Park recreation center for “Conversations That Matter,” an informative presentation by WOAR Education Specialist LaQuisha Anthony. Every two minutes in the United States, someone is sexually assaulted, Anthony said. In an effort to shed light on this disturbing trend, Tartaglione recently co-sponsored a Senate resolution designating October 2017 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.
“The first step in stopping sexual violence is recognizing and acknowledging the true prevalence of the problem,” Tartaglione said. “Then we must educate everyone – women, men, parents, children and young adults – about the resources available to them through victim advocacy organizations like Women Organized Against Rape.”
Dawkins urged attendees to continue their discussion of sexual violence prevention beyond the scope of Thursday night’s dialogue.
“October is awareness month but it has to be a topic 12 months, 365 days a year,” Dawkins said. “I think this is the start of a very powerful discussion and hope you all go out and share what you heard tonight.”
WOAR, a nonprofit organization serving all of Philadelphia, offers a crisis response hotline around the clock seven days a week that sexual violence victims can use to speak with a live WOAR staff member or specially trained volunteer. The phone number is 215-985-3333. WOAR offers crisis counseling and referrals, serving clients that have ranged in age from 2 to 84.
WOAR also offers in-school educational programs for pre-kindergarten classes through fifth grade, along with workshops and training sessions for
workplaces, parents groups, college and university settings and psychological support groups.
In addition, WOAR partners with the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape to operate a rape crisis center at 300 E. Hunting Park Ave. where victims can receive specialized medical treatment including a forensic examination in a private and caring setting.
More recently, WOAR has worked to establish and grow its Safe Bars Philly program which trains bar managers and staff to identify inappropriate behaviors in the bar, safely intervene when warranted and promote a culture of respect, safety and support for all.
For information about all WOAR programs, call 215-985-3315 or visit www.woar.org.
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by Christin Brown | April 25, 2017 | News Releases
Harrisburg – April 25, 2017 – A $15 million transfer to temporarily aid the processing of unemployment compensation claims, remove backlogs and result in the hiring of 200 workers laid off last year was signed into law as Act 1 yesterday afternoon by Gov. Tom Wolf, state Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said today.
Tartaglione, who serves as Democratic chair of the Senate Labor and Industry Committee, was cited by the governor along with other labor committee leaders for their work in moving the measure (Senate Bill 250) through the General Assembly.
The funding imbroglio that imperiled the claims system, created delays, closed call centers and prompted the furloughing of 500 call center workers in December emerged when Republican lawmakers questioned how prior funding transfers to Service and Infrastructure Improvement Fund (SIIF) were used.y
Tartaglione issued the following statement concerning the temporary funding fix that was approved by the governor:
“The $15 million in temporary funding will result in the rehiring of 200 workers, reduce call times and improve access to the claims system. However, all recognize that this is a short-term solution and that we all need to get back to work ensuring that resources are available to process claims and help those who are unemployed over the long haul.
“For too long, the system was in flux because of the funding issue and men and women who lost their jobs had to overcome even higher obstacles to access benefits. We cannot let this situation happen again. That’s why I am pleased that we are working on a long-term fix in a bipartisan way.”
State Auditor General Eugene DePasquale released his audit of SIIF today. He indicated that while improvements were made to the system, there was a failure to use proper accounting methods and oversight was lacking. His audit found that additional state funds are needed to keep the U.C. call centers operational and working at acceptable levels.
He said the state Department of Labor and Industry indicated it needed $159.5 million in funds over the next four years to maintain service and modernize. He noted that during the SIIF funding impasse, there were long delays and busy signals on 99.3 percent of the calls into call centers.
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by Christin Brown | February 8, 2017 | News Releases
Abortion restrictions adopted, equal pay effort weakened, worker free speech curbed
Harrisburg – February 8, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) issued the following statement harshly critical of the passage of legislation that assails the rights of women and working families.
Tartaglione said there were a number of anti-women and anti-worker measures adopted by the Senate. These include a bill (Senate Bill 3) to prohibit abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy instead of 24 weeks; a watered-down equal pay proposal (Senate Bill 241) that preempts local pay equity ordinances and fails to effectively deal with pay discrimination; and a prohibition (Senate Bill 166) from deducting political donations from the wages of employees.
Tartaglione’s comments follow:
“The new session kicked off with an ideologically driven agenda that assails women and working families. The Senate approved heavy-handed government involvement in women’s health care choices, a weakening of equal pay efforts and restrictions on free speech.
“The new abortion restrictions put government between a women and health choices – a place it should never be. The so-called “pay equity” bill would actually weaken equal pay efforts and reverse important gains made through local ordinances to ensure that women are treated fairly — such as the one adopted in Philadelphia that addresses pay discrimination. Finally, the prohibition of deductions of political contributions from workers’ paychecks would impact workers’ free speech rights.
“Women, workers and working families continue to be treated unfairly. Instead of creating jobs, enhancing education and building up health care, the Senate is being saddled with an extreme agenda that rips away rights.”
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by Christin Brown | February 7, 2017 | Minimum Wage, News Releases
Harrisburg – February 7, 2017 – Senate Democratic Labor and Industry chair Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) offered comments about the proposed $32.3 billion 2017-18 Fiscal Year budget that Gov. Tom Wolf unveiled today before a joint session of the General Assembly.
The plan increases spending slightly over last year, but cuts $2 billion in costs. It would close the $3 billion budget deficit with efficiencies and government reform, but without new broad-based taxes.
Tartaglione said she was particularly pleased with several aspects of the proposed budget including a new job training apprenticeship grant program; the call to increase the minimum wage to $12 per hour; and a renewed effort to close the so-called Delaware corporate tax loophole. Each of these initiatives have been a focus for Tartaglione over a number of sessions.
Tartaglione’s reaction to the spending plan follows:
“The governor has offered a responsible plan that not only deals with the looming budget deficit but makes key investments in job training, job creation, education and social service programs. The budget proposal includes a number of initiatives that I have been involved with including an expansion of apprenticeships to help create jobs, an increase the minimum wage and the closing of the Delaware Loophole.
“Lawmakers face a number of challenges to closing the budget deficit, but the governor has generated an alternative proposal that involves government reforms, efficiencies and structural changes. We have to be very mindful that our state budget invests in programs and services that help working men and women, children, students, seniors and those in need.
“This is a good starting point and one that can help jump-start dialogue leading to an on-time budget that meets the needs of Pennsylvania.”
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by Christin Brown | February 3, 2017 | Minimum Wage, News Releases
Harrisburg – February 3, 2017 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Phila.) today announced that she will introduce legislation to incrementally raise the minimum wage to $15 by 2021.
“An increase in the minimum wage is justified morally and makes sense economically,” Tartaglione said. “It is unconscionable that someone working full 40-hour week at the current minimum wage is in economic peril.”
Under the proposal (Senate Bill 12), the current $7.25 minimum wage would increase to $12 on July 1, 2017 and incrementally go up until it reaches $15 in 2021. An inflation index would then be applied to eliminate the need for any future legislative action on the issue.
Tartaglione has been a long-time advocate of raising the wage. She was instrumental in helping to pass the last increase in 2006. Arguing that workers deserve to be treated more fairly, she has introduced legislation over the last several legislative sessions to hike the rate.
“There are few things that lawmakers can do that directly impacts working families as much as raising the minimum wage,” Tartaglione said. “The General Assembly has failed to act — and working men and women have suffered.”
Pennsylvania last raised the minimum wage in 2006. The federal government raised it to the current $7.25 per hour in 2009. Thirty-one states, five of which surround Pennsylvania, have minimum wages above the federal rate. Nineteen states have passed laws tying minimum wage increases to inflation.
There are approximately 87,000 minimum wage workers in Pennsylvania. A minimum wage worker at 40-hours per week for 52 weeks earns only $15,090 per year. The poverty rate for a family of two is $14,570 per year.
“We need to make sure that the wage is raised to a rate that lifts workers and working families out of poverty,” Tartaglione said. “We need strong legislative support for a robust increase to account for its loss in value since the last time the minimum wage was raised.”
According to the Keystone Research Center, if the minimum wage has been raised with inflation it would be $11 per hour today. An increase in the minimum wage would lift 1. 2 million Pennsylvanians out of poverty.
Tartaglione said her legislation would give municipalities the option of setting a higher minimum wage. The measure would also strengthen requirements for employers to keep accurate records to ensure that they pay the correct wage to workers.
State Rep. Patty Kim (D-Dauphin) has introduced a similar minimum wage increase proposal in the state House of Representatives.
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