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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by Christin Brown | January 18, 2017 | News Releases
Harrisburg – January 18, 2017 – A new website administered by the Pennsylvania Treasury will provide access to information about savings accounts designed to aid individuals with disabilities and their families, state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said today.
The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) website can be accessed at www.paable.gov.
“I am pleased that the state treasury has developed a website that will make it easier for individuals and their families to understand the benefits of the ABLE Act,” Tartaglione said. “Finding new ways to save for housing, medical expenses, education and transportation helps families better manage costs and improve the quality of life.”
PA ABLE accounts provide a way for individuals with qualifying disabilities to save using tax-free savings and investment options.
Tartaglione, along with her colleague Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne), help shepherd the legislation that established the program through the legislative process.
“The new website will give interested individuals details about program eligibility and how to establish the accounts,” Tartaglione said. “This is an excellent resource that has important information.”
Treasury will update the website regularly and interested individuals can sign up for e-mails about the program from the treasury. Tartaglione said that a call center has also been created where questions can be answered. The call center can be reached at 855-529-2253.
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by Christin Brown | December 22, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – December 22, 2016 – A $6.3 million contract to improve traffic flow on a section of Allegheny Avenue between Ridge Avenue and Tulip Street in Philadelphia has been awarded by the state Department of Transportation, state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said.
“There is an extensive scope of work associated with the contract,” Tartaglione said. “New street lighting plus the installation of sidewalks and stormwater drainage are included in the project.”
Tartaglione said that the project involves a four-and-a-half-mile section of Allegheny Avenue. Construction is expected to start in early 2017. During the course of construction, Allegheny Avenue will remain open but there will be periodic lane restrictions. The work is scheduled to be completed in 2018.
“Once completed, this will be a significant upgrade and traffic flow in this corridor will improve,” Tartaglione said.
The project is fully paid for by federal funding.
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by Christin Brown | December 14, 2016 | News Releases
Op-ed by Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione
For transit workers, the news hasn’t changed much and it certainly hasn’t gotten better. It’s the same story, year after year: “SEPTA bus driver taken to hospital after men throw liquid on her,” “Man charged with assault in punching, beating of SEPTA bus driver,” “Bus driver shooting sparks calls for safety.”
These are just a few of the attacks on transit workers that made the headlines. The sobering truth is that attacks on public transportation workers are not uncommon. They are numerous, vicious and terrifying. As troubling, the General Assembly continues to dawdle and do nothing about the problem.
It’s not as if there isn’t a proposed solution just waiting for action. I’ve introduced a proposal to deal with this issue for many years. Last session, it was Senate Bill 269. The session before, Senate Bill 282. The one before that Senate Bill 236.
In 2012, I took to the Senate floor in Harrisburg and gave a speech imploring my colleagues to act to protect transit workers. I commented then that during the time my proposal was sitting in committee there were more than 100 assaults committed. A bus driver had been shot, another hit by flying glass and another had three teeth knocked from his mouth by a punch in the face.
To deter these kinds of attacks, my proposed legislation would toughen penalties against those who commit offenses against public transportation workers. The idea is to reduce or eliminate assaults and make our public transportation systems safe for both the transit rider and the transit worker. I will reintroduce legislation protecting workers again in January.
My legislation is not new; the arguments made years ago in support of upgrading offenses remain valid and the focus on protecting workers is sincere.
These attacks were unnecessary and most of them were preventable. Had the legislature passed any of my bills over the years, there is a strong likelihood that we could have halted many of these assaults against transit workers.
Let’s roll back the clock and think of what protections may have been in place by now. If the General Assembly had acted and passed my proposal, our public transit agencies could have embarked on an aggressive public education program that outlined the ramifications of assaulting a transit worker. The higher fine and longer prison sentence — the central feature of my bill — would serve notice that transit workers are protected. The increased prison time and fine would make potential assailants think twice.
Maybe the worker hit with a hot liquid would have gone home after work instead of the hospital. Conceivably, the bus driver punched, pummeled and bitten could have finishing the night shift without incident. Perhaps, the mace used in assaulting another bus driver would have remained in the purse of the attacker.
According to the Amalgamated Transit Union, 30 states have enacted laws with tougher penalties for assaulting transit workers. If we would just act, Pennsylvania would be joining with other states in demonstrating its support for transit workers.
Moving assertively to protect transit workers is the right thing to do. Transit workers are men and women who have constant contact with the public often in difficult, frustrating situations. They work hard and do their jobs well and deserve to be free from assaults.
There is no cost associated with the legislation, it is a responsible, meaningful and strong step that would protect workers. It’s time for the General Assembly act.
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by Christin Brown | November 18, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – November 18th, 2016 – Senators Vincent Hughes and Christine Tartaglione issued the following statements on the failure of the Pennsylvania Senate to extend funding for Labor & Industry service call centers:
Senator Hughes: “I am outraged by the failure of the Pennsylvania Senate Republican leadership to hold a vote to extend funding for unemployment compensation service call centers. Because of this inaction, nearly 600 working people will lose their jobs just one week before Christmas. It also means that thousands of unemployed Pennsylvanians will experience longer wait times when seeking assistance while applying for benefits.
“We must be clear that was a choice made by Senate Republicans for political reasons. They control the Senate calendar and Governor Wolf and Senate Democrats made it clear throughout the fall session that this bill was a priority. The bill should have been voted on October 26 but it was delayed when the Republican pension plan fell apart. Then, on our final session day Wednesday, the bill was marked for a vote but was pulled again after their plan to further limit a women’s right to make her own health decisions failed. Because they twice didn’t get what they wanted, Senator Scott Wagner decided to play Scrooge to 600 workers who will lose their jobs just one week before Christmas.
“The inconsistency in public statements by Senate Republicans is clear proof that this failure to act is pure politics. First, the Senate Republicans tried to blame Governor Wolf even though they control what bills we consider in the Senate. Then, Senator Wagner openly admits that he wanted to cut funding to these call centers and see them shut down. They can’t have it both ways.
“Republicans also cannot simultaneously claim to be the champions of the working class and force the closure of facilities that help people who are unemployed. I call on the Senate Republicans to immediately reconvene the Senate to pass an extension of funding to unemployment compensation service calls centers.”
State Senator Christine Tartaglione, Democratic Chairwoman of Senate Labor & Industry Committee, offered the following statement:
“I join my colleague in calling for Senate Republicans to move on this important issue. I have been calling for the funding to be restored to these calls centers as one of my top priorities for the entire legislative session and offered my own bill, Senate Bill 1335 that would have reauthorized this funding for an additional four years. It is important to realize that this money is available, it simply needs to authorized. There is no reason that the Senate should not have acted to prevent these layoffs. Now, nearly 600 workers will lose their jobs and thousands of unemployed Pennsylvanians will see diminished services.”
State Senator Vincent Hughes represents the 7th Senatorial District and is the Democratic Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Senator Christine Tartaglione represents the 2nd Senatorial District and is the Democratic Chair of the Senate Labor & Industry Committee.
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by Christin Brown | November 16, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – November 16, 2016 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione has been selected by her peers to lead the Philadelphia delegation in the Senate.
“As delegation chair, I will have an incredible opportunity to influence statewide policy and ensure that Philadelphia’s needs are addressed,” Tartaglione said. “There are a great many policy challenges and issues that are important to the city and its citizens that can be resolved if our delegation is united.”
Seven Senate Democrats represent Philadelphia in the 50-member body. Tartaglione is succeeding Sen. Shirley Kitchen who is retiring at the end of this term.
“I have proudly served the City of Philadelphia for many years,” Tartaglione said. “I am well aware of the problems and issues it faces, but I am also confident of its future.
“Leading the delegation is a great honor, but it also carries with it tremendous responsibilities.”
Tartaglione was elected to the state Senate in 1994. She is the long-time Democratic chair of the Senate Labor and Industry Committee. Previously, she worked as an executive in the state treasurer’s office and was business representative of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union.
Tartaglione credited Kitchen for her strong delegation leadership over the last several sessions.
“In the next session, Senate Democrats will face a great many tough and controversial issues where strong leadership is needed,” Tartaglione said. “I hope to keep our delegation together and strong as it works to solve problems and improve lives.”
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by Christin Brown | November 4, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – November 4, 2016 – Gov. Tom Wolf signed legislation into law that will help 44,000 seasonal and cyclical workers gain eligibility for unemployment compensation insurance, state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said.
Tartaglione, who is the Democratic chair of the Senate Labor and Industry Committee, helped develop and shepherd the measure through the legislative process. The bill (House Bill 319) was signed into law on Nov. 3.
The legislation reduces the percentage of income earned outside an employee’s high quarter in order to be eligible for unemployment compensation benefits.
The formula was changed four years ago by Act 60. Under that law, a worker earning less than 49.5 percent of income in the three quarters outside the high quarter was ineligible for UC benefits. The legislation reduces the percentage to 37 percent and restores it to the previous rate.
The change is estimated to benefit 44,000 workers.
Tartaglione said she was very pleased that Gov. Tom Wolf signed the measure into law. She released the following statement in support of the governor’s action:
“I am pleased that the governor signed the unemployment compensation measure into law. Seasonal and cyclical workers should not be ineligible for benefits because they earn a large portion of their wages in a single quarter. This measure is about fairness for our construction workers, and other seasonal workers, who experience periods of intense work following by lulls in employment.”
The lowering of the earning percentage removes an eligibility hurdle that proved far too high for too many workers and their families, Tartaglione said.
The legislation also includes other measures to ensure that the U.C. Trust Fund remains fiscally sound.
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by Christin Brown | October 26, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – October 26, 2016 – Legislation designed to fix a problem created four years ago by a change in the unemployment compensation law that has impacted seasonal/cyclical workers cleared the Senate and will now go back to the state House of Representatives for concurrence, state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said.
House Bill 319 changes how unemployment benefits are calculated as it relates to seasonal and cyclical workers. Under current law, a worker earning less than 49.5 percent of income in the three quarters outside the high quarter was ineligible for UC benefits. The legislation reduces the percentage to 37 percent and restores it to the previous rate. The change is expected to make an estimated 44,000 seasonal workers eligible for benefits.
Tartaglione serves as Democratic chair of the Senate Labor and Industry Committee. She was involved in helping craft the change and issued the following comments about the legislation:
“For several years, seasonal and cyclical workers and their families have had to deal the inadvertent consequences of the previous change in the unemployment compensation law. If approved by the House, this legislation makes those workers who were affected eligible for benefits.
“We cannot wait another year to repair this flaw in the statute. I am hopeful that the House will adopt this measure and the governor will sign it into law.”
House Bill 319 passed the Senate on a 39-8 vote.
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by Christin Brown | October 25, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – October 25, 2016 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said that an amendment was approved by the Senate today that would aid seasonal/cyclical workers who were negatively impacted by a change in the unemployment compensation (UC) law adopted four years ago.
The amended legislation (House Bill 319) is expected to be considered for final passage in the Senate tomorrow.
“It is imperative that we restore unemployment compensation eligibility for seasonal and cyclical workers who were disadvantaged by the law,” Tartaglione said. “Far too many workers were negatively impacted and this needs to be rectified as soon as possible.”
Tartaglione said the legislation was amended to reduce the percentage of income earned outside an employee’s high quarter in order to be eligible for unemployment compensation benefits.
The formula was changed four years ago by Act 60. Under that law, a worker earning less than 49.5 percent of income in the three quarters outside the high quarter was ineligible for UC benefits. The legislation reduces the percentage to 37 percent and restores it to the previous rate.
Tartaglione said the change is estimated to benefit 44,000 workers. She said many of the workers are in the building trades who became victims of the unintended consequences of the change.
“Families were needlessly impacted and lives disturbed,” Tartaglione said. “Seasonal and cyclical workers were being penalized through no fault of their own.”
Tartaglione, who serves as Democratic chair of the Senate Labor and Industry Committee, was involved in negotiating the legislative language to help the workers, in addition to other provisions in the legislation.
She said that she was pleased with the bipartisan work that went into developing the amendment and thanked the chair of the committee, Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne) for her assistance.
The amendment includes a number of other UC provisions including an increase in the reserve, a modification of the benefit rate, amnesty and anti-fraud provisions and solvency trigger changes that are intended to preserve the integrity of the UC Trust Fund.
The amendment was approved on a 39-9 vote.
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by Christin Brown | October 14, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – October 14, 2016 – A $2 million state grant was approved for Nueva Esperanza, Inc. to renovate and build on its campus in North Philadelphia, state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said today.
“This grant is excellent news,” Tartaglione said. “The funding will allow renovations to occur and new construction to take place at the campus.”
Tartaglione said that the state grant will address various needs on Esperanza’s 7-acre campus. The project includes the addition of a middle school gym, theatre and removal of a blighted building.
“The grant will address immediate needs and bolster the quality of the physical plant at Esperanza,” Tartaglione said. “The facility’s footprint will change as a result of the removal of the blighted building which will open up more parking and landscaping at the site.”
Tartaglione said the grant was approved through the state’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP). RACP grants can be used for acquisition and construction of economic development projects in a number of categories including cultural, civic, recreation and historical.
“I am very pleased that the governor has released funding for this important project” Tartaglione said. “The ability to access state funds for critical local projects is essential to transforming communities and expanding services.”
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by Christin Brown | October 12, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – Oct. 12, 2016 – State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) today reminded seniors that she is hosting two Senior Expos in Philadelphia in October.
“The Senior Expos provide very valuable information,” Tartaglione said. “There will be free health screenings and representatives of various agencies will be on hand to answer questions and help seniors navigate government programs.”
The first expo is being held on Thursday, Oct. 13 at the Mayfair Recreation Center, 2900 St. Vincent Street in Philadelphia. The Senior Expo begins at 10 a.m. and concludes at 1 p.m.
Tartaglione’s second Senior Expo in October is scheduled for Oct. 27 at Community Academy of Philadelphia Charter School, 1100 East Erie Avenue beginning at 10 a.m..
“It is important for seniors and their caregivers to have access to crucial programs and services that aid seniors,” Tartaglione said. “Senior expos are an excellent way to open lines of communication and gain insight into how various programs can be helpful.”
Tartaglione said that all seniors and primary caregivers are invited to attend.
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by Christin Brown | September 28, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg − Sept. 28, 2016 − State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) today presented a copy of a Senate resolution declaring Sept. 10, 2016 as “World Suicide Prevention Day” to a group of advocates and families in the Capitol Rotunda.
Sen. Tartaglione at the “World Suicide Prevention Day” event in the Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg.
“The goal in declaring ‘World Suicide Prevention Day’ and presenting a copy of the resolution to advocates and families is to raise awareness about how suicides are a major health concern,” Tartaglione said. “The hope is that we can save lives by calling attention to this very difficult issue.”
Tartaglione said that each year on Sept. 10 the International Association for Suicide Prevention and World Health Organization (WHO) observe “World Suicide Prevention Day.”
Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States. There are about 800,000 people who die from suicide every year, according to WHO. Suicide survivors are 25 times more likely to commit suicide in the future.
“Heightened awareness about suicides may result in a friend in distress going to see a mental health professional for treatment,” Tartaglione said.
On behalf of Gov. Tom Wolf, Tartaglione also presented a gubernatorial proclamation to the advocates and families.
Tartaglione’s legislation, Senate Resolution 425, was approved by the full Senate on Sept. 26.
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by Christin Brown | September 26, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg − Sept. 26, 2016 − Legislation designed to preserve a fund that aids in the processing, administration and adjudication of unemployment claims has cleared the Senate Labor and Industry Committee, according to the bill’s sponsor state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia).
“The Service and Infrastructure Fund was created to help process unemployment compensation claims, remove backlogs and make the system more efficient,” Tartaglione said. “Unemployed workers should be assured that their claims are handled quickly and that the benefits they are due will be promptly disbursed.”
Tartaglione said that her legislation (Senate Bill 1335) would extend the fund until 2020. The fund was created in 2013 to address system backlogs and make improvements in claim processing. Funds can be also be used for staff and employee training, information technology and other improvements.
“The fund was created to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the unemployment claims processing system,” Tartaglione said. “My legislation would ensure that resources will continue to be available.”
The legislation requires Labor and Industry to report yearly to the General Assembly on the status of the fund. The amount in the fund may not exceed $200 million.
Unemployment Compensation provides 26 weeks of benefits for those who lose a job through no fault of their own.
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by Christin Brown | September 14, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg, Sept. 14, 2016 − State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) announced today that her office will be hosting a Mobile District Office each Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at CORA, 8540 Verree Road in Philadelphia.
“My staff will be available every Thursday at CORA to process PennDOT forms, free senior SEPTA passes, Property Tax and Rent Rebate applications and help resolve problems and issues involving state government,” Tartaglione said.
The senator said that the staff can also address PECO and PGW questions, unemployment compensation problems and public assistance inquiries among other concerns.
“Finding ways to bring the services of my office into various communities throughout the district improves an individual’s access to important state and local programs and services,” Tartaglione said.
If local residents have questions about the Mobile District Office at CORA they can call Gizela Burnside at (215) 533-0400 or email at gburnside@pasenate.com.
Tartaglione said that if residents are unable to visit during mobile district office hours, they can call her permanent district offices in Philadelphia. She has a district office at 1061 Bridge Street that is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. that can be reached by phone at (215) 533-0440. Another office is located 2301 Front Street, which is also open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The telephone number for the Front Street office is (215) 291-4653.
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by Christin Brown | June 29, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – June 29, 2016 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said today that increased investments in basic and higher education were critical aspects of the state spending plan that was approved by the Senate today.
The legislation – Senate Bill 1073 – represents a $31.53 billion General Fund budget proposal. The measure passed the Senate 47 to 3. Tartaglione supported the proposal.
The revised budget proposal now returns to the state House for consideration.
Tartaglione’s comments about the passage of the state spending plan follow:
“There are significant fiscal challenges this year and revenues are scarce, so it is important to recognize the new investments in education. The state spending plan includes $250 million more for basic education, special education, Pre-K and Head Start and increases funding for higher education.
“The state budget plan that passed the Senate today stretched dollars to cover increased mandated expenses such as debt service payments, pension costs and corrections. The plan helps maintain human services initiatives and social safety net programs.
“I am pleased that this budget invests more in education and provides additional resources for schools.”
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by Christin Brown | June 22, 2016 | News Releases
June 22, 2016 – State Senate Democratic Whip Anthony H. Williams (D-Philadelphia/Delaware) today said that the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) has been devastated by recurring state budget cuts and that the state spending plan now under consideration needs to address agency funding shortfalls.
“The PHRC has an incredibly important job to do and it cannot function properly if its funding is slashed year in and year out,” Williams said today.
Williams was joined at a news conference at the Capitol by his Democratic colleague from Philadelphia Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia), Senate Democratic leader Sen. Jay Costa (D-Allegheny), Democratic Appropriations Chair Sen. Vincent J. Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) other Democratic senators and advocates.
“The agency’s ability to ensure that civil rights protections are upheld has been compromised by chronic underfunding,” Tartaglione said. “We are here to request that additional funds be included in the appropriation for the commission so it has the resources to do its important work.”
The state appropriation for the PHRC has fallen from $10.6 million in 2008 to $8.7 million last year. The total agency budget was reduced from $14.1 million to $10 million over the same time span.
“Incredibly, at a time when we should be doing more to protect civil rights, the agency dedicated to this purpose has had to dramatically cut staff and is under pressure to close cases without proper investigation,” Williams said.
The lawmakers are seeking an additional $2 million in state funding in this budget to bolster operations at the PHRC.
“I am pleased that my Senate Democratic colleagues and those representatives that have been touched by the work of the PHRC have come out today to support the call for more funding,” Williams said. “It is important that those of us who are committed to preserving this agency as a protector of civil rights stay united and put pressure on budget negotiators.”
Williams said that staffing at the commission is at a crisis point. According to the senator, the historical complement of investigators and professional staff has been just under 200 employees. Today, there are only 76 investigators and professionals to handle the agency’s responsibilities.
“Values like equality, service, integrity, excellence and teamwork were once associated with the commission and its operations,” Williams said. “The PHRC was once recognized as a preeminent protector of civil rights.
“We can get the agency back to that position of being a nationally-recognized leader, but it has to be funded properly.”
The call for more funding and for making systemic repairs at the commission follows media reports about upheaval at the agency over the last several years. Allegations of long-time staff being forced out, hostile working conditions and discriminatory hiring practices have been cited in news reports.
The operations of the commission were recently examined at a Senate State Government Committee hearing requested by Williams earlier this month.
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by Christin Brown | June 17, 2016 | News Releases
Casey, Brady, Evans, Carrelli attend demonstration, discussion
Philadelphia – June 17, 2016 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) employed a demonstration of ReWalk — a motorized exoskeleton suit that allows patients with lower limb paralysis to stand and walk – to detail her vision for a clinic to address specific rehabilitation needs of veterans.
“There are so many veterans who might be helped by this technology and other robotic rehabilitative technologies offered by MossRehab and other facilities,” Tartaglione said. “By working together, we can put a new clinic together that will prove beneficial for veterans and change lives.”
Tartaglione demonstrated the suit for U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.), U.S. Rep. Bob Brady (D-Phila.), state Rep. Dwight Evans (D-Phila.) and Acting Adjutant Gen. Anthony Carrelli at MossRehab in Elkins Park. Following the demonstration, Tartaglione detailed her plan for the clinic.
“Our men and women in uniform have made tremendous sacrifices for their country, giving what President Lincoln called the ‘last full measure of devotion,'” Casey said. “This state-of-the-art technology will change lives, and help in the rehabilitation needs of our nation’s veterans. I am grateful for Senator Tartaglione’s hard work and determination in improving the lives of our veterans and all persons with disabilities.”
“I thank both Senator Tartaglione for her continuing advocacy and Moss Rehabilitation for its commitment to utilizing the newest technology on behalf of our wounded hero men and women veterans,” Brady said.
“Given the extraordinary sacrifice by those in the military and the need for exceptional rehabilitation facilities for veterans, I felt it was important to detail how a clinic featuring technologies like those at MossRehab can assist veterans,” Tartaglione said.
Tartaglione is seeking federal and state assistance in constructing the clinic. Tartaglione’s idea was supported by officials at MossRehab.
“MossRehab commends Senator Tartaglione’s vision and commitment to the rehabilitation needs of our veterans,” said Thomas Smith, Assistant Vice President of Rehabilitation. “The application of state-of-the-art technology by our clinical experts with a caring personal touch allows MossRehab to further our mission of enhancing the lives of persons with disabilities.”
The senator said she knows from first-hand experience that rehabilitation is incredibly difficult and frustrating, but through the efforts of specialists employing new technologies veterans can receive life-changing services.
“We at MossRehab are thrilled with Senator Tartaglione’s progress and the increasing walking ability, endurance and gains in joint motion she has made by using ReWalk,” said Dr. Alberto Esquenazi, John Otto Haas Chair of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at MossRehab. “Her efforts and determination, combined with staff expertise and advanced technology at MossRehab make this improvement possible.”
Tartaglione said that while it may be challenging to try and address the funding needs associated with the establishment of a clinic to aid veterans, it is worth the effort because of the benefits for veterans.
“Veterans made the sacrifice for us and we need to come through for them when they return with medical issues that requires intensive rehabilitation,” Tartaglione said.
The lawmaker said that it will take a significant effort to educate her colleagues at the state level about the necessity of the clinic and was hoping that the demonstration and discussion with Sen. Casey, Reps. Brady and Evans and Gen. Carrelli will spur federal action.
“I can’t thank Senator Casey, Representative Brady, state Representative Evans and General Carrelli enough for their interest in learning more about the technology and my vision for a clinic to aid veterans,” Tartaglione said.
Tartaglione said she will seek state funding for the clinic in the state budget.
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by Christin Brown | June 14, 2016 | News Releases
Harrisburg – June 14, 2016 – A grant of $80,877 has been awarded to the Norris Square Senior Community Center, state Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) said today.
“Grants for senior centers help bolster activities and provide critical assistance to seniors in Philadelphia and the surrounding region,” Tartaglione said. “The funding approved today for the Norris Square Senior Community Center will help the center continue providing invaluable service to the area.”
According to the Department of Aging, 43 senior centers from around the state will share in $2 million in grant funding in this round.
The funding helps advance programming for seniors. It also enables senior centers to complete critical projects, improve technology, recruit new members and meet the needs of area seniors. Grants enhance social and recreational activities while providing a safe community meeting place, Tartaglione said.
“The grants are resources that can be used to help seniors stay involved in the community,” Tartaglione said.
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by Christin Brown | June 2, 2016 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, June 2, 2016 − State Sens. Christine M. Tartaglione and Shirley M. Kitchen today joined Gov. Tom Wolf for a tour of one of the nation’s leading research centers investigating the causes of drug addiction.
The Center for Substance Abuse Research (CSAR), at Temple University’s Lewis J. Katz School of Medicine, brings together dozens of experts from across Temple campuses to carry out interdisciplinary research to understand the biological basis of drug addiction and other effects of addictive drugs that result in altered states of biological function.
“As we face an opioid overdose epidemic in Pennsylvania, we are fortunate to have the substantial resources of Temple University to approach the problem at the most fundamental level,” Tartaglione said. “It’s inspiring to be in the midst of incredibly talented people doing incredibly important work.”
CSAR recently received a $1 million grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse to develop and implement an educational program called SEADAP (Science Education Against Drug Abuse Partnership) to teach students in grades 6 through 12 about how commonly abused drugs work in the brain to produce addiction.
“While we face this very serious challenge in our community, it’s encouraging to see that we have the tools here that can lead to success,” said Kitchen, who, for years, has worked closely with the recovery community. “We have the talent right here in North Philadelphia that can help transform lives across Pennsylvania.”
The senators joined the governor on a tour of Temple research facilities and took part in a roundtable discussion about the intersection of academic research and public policy.
After the tour, Wolf, who has made mitigating the opioid crisis a priority for his administration, said the facility is “bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and drug addiction.”
“The challenge is how we take the good research that’s going on here and turn it into good public policy,” he said.
Kitchen and Tartaglione recently announced support for a legislative package intended to address the opioid addiction crisis from prevention through recovery. To read details of that effort, click here.
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by Christin Brown | May 17, 2016 | News Releases
HARRISBURG, May 17, 2016 – Promising to “fight tooth and nail” to ensure the state funding of a special group that helps people with disabilities pay for technology that helps improve their quality of life, state Sen. Christine Tartaglione today rallied in support of the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation.
“I know the work the foundation does,” Sen. Tartaglione said during a Capitol press conference. “For me to get a shower? It’s important. For me to get in and out of my house? It’s important. To have independence and freedom and dignity is important to me.
“I know the loans that you make go a long way. I’m going to fight tooth and nail to make sure we can get every bit of funding that we can.”
About 13 years ago, Tartaglione was in a boating accident.
“My life changed in a heartbeat,” she said.
The Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation issued its 2015-’16 annual report today.
PATF officials said they are able to leverage a small amount of public funding into a large number of loans. The repayment of loans from past borrowers also provides funding for future borrowers.
The foundation is a non-profit organization, based in King of Prussia, whose mission is to provide education and financing opportunities for people with disabilities and older Pennsylvanians so they can buy assistive technology devices and services that improve the quality of their lives.
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by Christin Brown | May 10, 2016 | News Releases
HARRISBURG, May 10, 2016 – State Sens. Christine Tartaglione today won approval of a resolution marking May as “Older Americans Month” in Pennsylvania.
“When we think about our future, it is important to think about the past and the hard work of those that came before us,” Tartaglione said this afternoon on the floor of the Senate. “The efforts of those older Americans have made our lives and dreams possible.
“I feel that it is our duty to recognize all the individuals that have gone before us that have paved the way for our future. We, as a nation, owe all older Americans a few moments of our time, and pay them the respect that they deserve.
“We must focus on how older adults in our community are leading and inspiring others, how we can support and learn from them, and how we might follow their examples to blaze trails of our own.
“And, we must demonstrate our appreciation for them, so that they know how important their past contributions are and how much their wisdom and knowledge continues to inspire us,” the senator said.
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by czsmith | April 5, 2016 | News Releases
by Christin Brown | April 4, 2016 | News Releases
HARRISBURG, April 4, 2016 – State Sens. Christine Tartaglione and Rob Teplitz today won approval of a resolution marking April as “Sexual Assault Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania.
Sen. Tartaglione said increasing awareness is vital because 20 percent of women and one-in-33 men will experience sexual assault sometime during their lifetimes.
“The more we talk about sexual assault and the more educated people become about sexual assault, the better chance we have of preventing it,” Tartaglione said during floor remarks today. “And yet, the majority of sexual assaults are never reported to the police. We need to act to stop the violence now.”
Tartaglione said about 63 percent of sexual assault victims do not tell police about the crime committed against them.
“By teaching people how to recognize the signs of sexual abuse and what to do when someone is assaulted and abused. Every one of us can make a difference in someone’s life,” she said.
Sen. Tartaglione also applauded the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape, a Harrisburg-based advocacy group that works to stop sexual assault and defend the rights of victims, for its work. On its website, PCAR defines sexual violence as “any type of unwanted sexual contact, ranging from sexist attitudes and actions to rape and murder.”
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by Christin Brown | March 1, 2016 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, March 1, 2016 – With the promise of economic renewal and 140 new jobs in a North Philadelphia community that is part of her district, state Sen. Christine Tartaglione today helped to break ground for an 85,000-square-foot retail facility.
Tartaglione’s efforts secured a $2.5 million low-interest loan from the Commonwealth Finance Authority for the Plaza Allegheny project.
“Plaza Allegheny will help the residents of Fairhill in countless ways,” Tartaglione said. “People will find jobs; more people will come here to shop and spend their money, which benefits the local economy; and we are converting an underutilized property into productive use.
“My thanks to the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation, the City of Philadelphia, Mayor Jim Kenney, Legend Properties and others for their time and dedication in making this day a reality.”
Sen. Tartaglione said Plaza Allegheny has received the full support of area union members who have been involved in the project planning discussions and will serve an integral role during construction.
Plaza Allegheny is at 400 W. Allegheny Ave., across from the Maria De Los Santos Health Center.
In addition to the low-interest CFA loan, the Plaza Allegheny project secured $13.64 million in matching funds.
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Contact: Mark Shade
Phone: 717-787-9220
mshade@pasenate.com
by Christin Brown | February 10, 2016 | Minimum Wage, News Releases
HARRISBURG, Feb. 10, 2016 – As state budget negotiators struggle to find new sources of revenue, Sen. Christine Tartaglione told a Capitol rally today that a $10.10 minimum wage would generate millions in new state income and save the commonwealth millions more.
“Paying people a fair wage of not less than $10.10 per hour reaps huge benefits for this commonwealth and all of the families who live here,” Tartaglione, the state’s leading minimum wage advocate in the General Assembly, said. “It’s a very common-sense approach to a very large and expanding problem we face here in Harrisburg.
“There would be a $121.5 million increase in state income and sales taxes and a shift of $104 million in Medicaid payments from the state to the federal government
“These changes would go a long way in a budget environment like ours.”
The Philadelphia Democrat proposed Senate Bill 195 this session to increase Pennsylvania’s minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10. Her Senate Bill 196 would raise the tipped minimum wage to 70 percent of the regular rate.
“It’s long past time that Pennsylvania raises its minimum wage to compete with all of our surrounding states,” Sen. Tartaglione said during the Raise The Wage PA-organized rally. “The time is now to enact this common sense legislation.”
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