April 6, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – April 6, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that he will be introducing legislation to make voting easier for Pennsylvanians. The legislation, called the Safe Drop Act, requires counties provide a minimum of one drop box for every 20,000 residents. Moreover, the drop boxes would have to be available to voters 24 hours a day, seven days a week from the beginning of mail in balloting until the polls close at 8:00 pm on Election Day.
“When we make it easier to vote, more people participate in the process, strengthening our democracy,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The Safe Drop Act will help ensure all voters are able to return their ballot in a convenient and secure manner, and that ballots will arrive to the Board of Elections in a timely fashion to be counted.”
In 2019, the General Assembly passed Act 77 updating Pennsylvania’s election code to allow for no-fault absentee voting by mail. During the 2020 elections, counties established secure drop box locations to allow voters to return their ballots in-person, though the numbers and hours of operation differed county to county.
“During both the primary and general elections last year we saw huge interest in voting by mail,” continued Sen. Santarsiero. “With concerns about the capacity of the U.S. Postal Service to make sure ballots arrived in time to be counted, ballot drop boxes provided voters with peace of mind that their vote would be counted.”
Sen. Santarsiero was recently appointed to the Senate’s Special Committee on Election Integrity and Reform, which has been hearing testimony from election administrators across the country about how they safely and efficiently oversee elections.
“In the last several weeks I have heard compelling testimony about the effectiveness of ballot drop box locations across the country in increasing participation in our elections. I will continue to advocate for measures, like the Safe Drop Act, that will increase engagement and make it easier for people to vote, ensuring the voices of all Pennsylvanians are heard through our election process,” concluded Sen. Santarsiero.
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March 29, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – March 29, 2021 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) held a virtual press conference last week to announce the Democratic Senators’ motion to intervene in Yaw v. Delaware River Basin Commission was granted by the judge on Friday, March 19, 2021.
“My colleagues and I are participating in this lawsuit to preserve the authority of the Delaware River Basin Commission to protect the drinking water of more than 13 million people,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Exercising its lawful jurisdiction, the DRBC has banned fracking in the Delaware watershed for over 10 years now. In doing so, it has protected that water from the harmful effects of fracking.”
The next step, according to Sen. Santarsiero, will be to file a motion to dismiss the initial lawsuit, which is planned for April.
“The motion will seek to dismiss the case on the grounds that the plaintiffs lack standing and their claims are not supported by the law, ” Santarsiero said. “I believe that our position is strong. As I mentioned a few weeks ago when we first moved to intervene, the plaintiffs are trying to turn the state constitution’s environmental rights amendment on its head, arguing it requires that we monetize our natural resources. That’s not at all what the environmental rights amendment stands for, and not what the people of Pennsylvania agreed to when they ratified it at the ballot box.”
Senator Santarsiero previously held a press conference, along with Senators Kearney and Cappelletti, on Friday, March 12, 2021 in New Hope to announce the filing of a motion to intervene in the lawsuit filed by Republican State Senators, in which they sought to overturn the Delaware River Basin Commission’s ban on fracking. The video of the press conference is available here. The motion to intervene can be found here.
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March 23, 2021
HARRISBURG, PA − March 23, 2021 − New legislation introduced by Senators Katie Muth (D–Montgomery/Chester/Berks), Steve Santarsiero (D–Bucks), and Nikil Saval (D–Philadelphia) will ensure Pennsylvanians are able to stay safely housed for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis and economically secure throughout the recovery period that follows. The Housing Security Act (Senate Bill 466) creates a framework for mortgage deferment and rent forgiveness, benefitting property owners and renters alike.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed so many significant gaps in our social safety net, and one of the most significant has been housing insecurity,” said Senator Muth. “Even before the pandemic, so many in our Commonwealth were forced to make impossible decisions between food, medicine, and paying the rent or the mortgage. This is unacceptable, and we must take action now to ensure that every Pennsylvanian has safe, affordable, and secure housing no matter where they live.”
“Housing is a basic human right that too many Pennsylvanians are at risk of losing due to economic hardship at the hands of the pandemic,” said Senator Santarsiero. “We must take steps to protect the families and individuals at risk of losing their homes to foreclosure or eviction. No one deserves to face homeless due to unforeseen financial adversity, especially during a global health crisis, and the Housing Security Act will alleviate that threat for hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians.”
The Housing Security Act would function on two fronts: first, creating a means to protect homeowners and property owners, and then building a path for the extension of these important protections to renters.
This bill would mandate that mortgage servicers develop deferment programs to suspend property owners’ obligations to pay their mortgages for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency declaration and for the six months that immediately follow it. Rather than forcing a participant to make a huge lump sum payment at the end of the deferment period, the term of the borrower’s mortgage would be extended for the same number of months that they participated in the deferment program. All late fees, processing fees, and services fees would be waived.
Landlords participating in the deferment program would be required to reduce their tenants’ rent during the time that they participate in the program, in an amount proportional to the amount of mortgage payment deferred.
“The magnitude of the housing emergency in our Commonwealth cannot be overstated. As elected officials, we know that evictions and foreclosures damage the health and vitality of families for generations,” said Senator Saval. “As eviction and foreclosure moratoria expire, a tsunami of houselessness, utility shutoffs, and debt is predicted to crash upon the backs of those who are most vulnerable. This future harm is often spoken of as a forgone conclusion, but legislators can take real action, right now, to prevent this from becoming our reality.”
The full text of the Housing Security Act is available on request.
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March 22, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – March 22, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) today applauded Governor Wolf for the Commonwealth’s commitment to solar energy and called on the General Assembly to take up legislation to modernize the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act (AEPS).
“The Governor’s commitment to have 50% of state government powered by solar energy is exactly the type of forward progress we need in the fight against climate change,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I have long supported setting more aggressive, long-term targets to realize the economic and environmental potential of solar and wind energy in the Commonwealth. We must act now if we are going to prevent the worst of the effects of climate change.”
Sen. Santarsiero introduced legislation in the 2018-2020 session to modernize the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act to expand Tier I requirement from 8% to 30% by 2030. Sen. Santarsiero plans to reintroduce the legislation this session, with Senators Carolyn Comitta (D-19) and Art Haywood (D-4).
“It is long overdue that we implement stronger renewable energy goals to create good jobs, cut pollution and ensure a sustainable and prosperous Pennsylvania for future generations,” continued Sen. Santarsiero. “It is time we tap into the enormous benefits from increasing our renewable energy goals and re-establish Pennsylvania as a clean energy leader.”
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March 19, 2021
Chester, PA – March 19, 2021 – Yesterday, a bipartisan group of Senators representing Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties sent a letter to Governor Wolf, Acting Health Secretary Alison Beam, and the members of the COVID-19 Vaccine Joint Task Force, supporting requests by county officials that the state distribute coronavirus vaccine doses to county-run clinics rather than sending them to a single mass vaccination site for the entire region.
Senators Kane (D, Delaware/Chester), Comitta (D, Chester), Cappelletti (D, Delaware/Montgomery), Collett (D, Bucks/Montgomery), Kearney (D, Delaware/Chester), Muth (D, Berks/Chester/Montgomery), Santarsiero (D, Bucks), Tomlinson (R, Bucks), and Williams (D, Delaware/Philadelphia) signed onto the letter in support of county officials. In their letter, the Senators highlighted both the continued concerns with distribution equity posed by establishing a single site for 2.5 million resident and the superfluousness of creating a new mass site on top of existing county infrastructure.
“We’ve been facing issues with equitable vaccine distribution here in Southeast PA for weeks. Our vaccine allotment has been severely limited, and residents are already being forced to travel for their appointments, meaning access for working people, folks without reliable transportation, and caretakers of children is often all but non-existent,” said Senator Kane. “Creating a single mass vaccination site for the entire southeast, a single mass vaccination site for 2.5 million people, will only serve to exacerbate these disparities. I’m standing in support of our county health officials and asking for the additional vaccine doses to be distributed between the four counties for allocation through their existing infrastructure. I’m tired of vulnerable communities being sent to the back of the line when times are hardest, and I won’t stop fighting for my constituents.”
The proposed single mass vaccination clinic is only the latest in a serious of hurdles residents of the collar counties have been facing in attempting to schedule vaccine appointments. Three weeks ago, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported that the four collar counties had received many fewer vaccine doses by population than other counties. Since then, legislators have faced continued hurdles in advocating for increased doses, including responses by the Department of Health that it is irrelevant where constituents are receiving their vaccines so long as they are getting vaccinated.
However, residents of the collar counties continue to face difficulties in scheduling appointments and finding accurate information. “My constituents are beyond frustrated at the confusion and lack of coordination on how to obtain a vaccine,” said Senator Muth. “I cannot understand the purpose of the $11.6 million dollar contract with a consulting firm for vaccine distribution and yet, here we are, many questions unanswered, incomplete data, and inconsistent information day-to-day. Only providing one vaccination site for the entire Southeast region will simply disproportionately harm seniors who do not drive, single parents struggling to balance child care while working multiple frontline jobs, and so many who are just unable to travel an hour or more to a single vaccination site. We can and must do better. I urge the administration to listen to our local elected county leaders on this issue and ensure the true equitable distribution by showing all data and numbers.”
The letter follows a joint statement issued Wednesday, in which county officials from the four collar counties asked the Department of Health to reconsider their plans for a single mass vaccination clinic and to instead allocate the doses among the four counties.
Senator Kearney highlighted the added hurdle in creating a mass vaccination clinic when counties are already prepared to distribute additional doses. “We don’t need to reinvent the wheel by creating a single mass vaccination site that will somehow serve 2.5 million residents across Southeastern Pennsylvania. Our counties have the infrastructure in place to get shots in arms – all they need is the supply. If our counties get the doses, our counties can get it done,” said Senator Kearney.
A full copy of the Senators’ letter can be found here.
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SEPA Delegation Letter March 18 2021
March 17, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – March 17, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) introduced Senate Resolution 44, seeking to recognize March 2021 as Endometriosis Awareness Month.
“Endometriosis is a painful condition that only affects women, and can cause long-term health issues, including infertility,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I hope that by designating March 2021 as “Endometriosis Awareness Month” we are able to raise awareness of this condition and empower women to take control of their health.”
A common health problem in women, endometriosis occurs when the lining of the uterus grows out and onto other areas of the body where it doesn’t belong. This disorder can have detrimental effects on a woman’s quality of life due to its very painful symptoms, and is most common among women in their 30s and 40s. Endometriosis can cause fertility issues for women of child bearing age and is a leading cause of infertility.
“As we draw attention to endometriosis, I encourage women to seek diagnosis and treatment from their doctor of this, and any other health concerns,” continued Sen. Santarsiero. “Bringing awareness to medical conditions like endometriosis allows us all to become better informed and to support those who have the condition.”
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March 16, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – March 16, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced Solebury Township will receive $16,155 through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) Federal Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program Funds. These funds will go toward the purchase of body worn camera systems for the use of Solebury Township Police.
“Keeping our communities safe requires ensuring our local police have adequate resources, including body worn cameras that increase accountability,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “These funds for Solebury Township will help the police purchase equipment to help them do their job, while improving transparency and public safety.”
Currently, Solebury Township Police have in-car cameras and plan to make the switch to body-worn cameras.
“The Board was eager to include body-worn cameras into the township budget for 2021 and this grant will help make that a reality,” said Mark Baum Baicker, Board Chair for Solebury Township Board of Supervisors. “Our township police have been relying on cameras in police vehicles, so the switch to body-worn cameras will be a great asset for the police department and for the safety of our community.”
The mission of the Criminal Justice Advisory Committee (CJAC) is to support a comprehensive strategy to reduce crime that prioritizes evidence-based policy and practice at every stage of the Commonwealth’s justice system. For more information, visit the PCCD website.
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March 12, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY − March 12, 2021 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) was joined by Democratic colleagues today in New Hope to announce their action to protect clean drinking water for millions of Pennsylvanians from the environmental hazards of fracking. Their action is in response to a lawsuit filed by Republican senators against the Delaware River Basin Commission to allow natural gas drilling in the Delaware River Basin in Pennsylvania.
Arguing for the constitutional right of millions of Pennsylvanians to clean water, the motion to intervene was filed earlier in the day in United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania in the case of Yaw v. The Delaware River Basin Commission. Republican caucus members had filed suit against the DRBC in January 2021, and in late February the Delaware River Keeper Network successfully intervened in the case.
“Clean water and air is a constitutional right for all Pennsylvanians, and it’s the duty of the General Assembly to ensure those rights are not infringed upon,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The people of Bucks County – and the rest of the Delaware River Basin – have a constitutional right to clean, safe drinking water. We are not going to allow the oil and gas industry to contaminate that water. Working within its authority, the DRBC has been a steadfast champion for protecting the assets of the Delaware River Basin since its inception. Thanks to the DRBC and the work of environmental advocates, an incredible amount of progress has been made over the years to clean our waterways and create a reliable source of drinking water for millions of people. We have come too far to cede that progress to the damaging effects of fracking on our environment and land.”
“The DRBC was created 60 years ago to manage the river system and protect our water resources, including protecting the watershed from the harmful impacts of fracking,” said Sen. Carolyn Comitta (D-19), Minority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “The DRBC exercised its authority, with all four basin states voting to ban fracking. Individual Pennsylvania legislators don’t get to pick and choose when it comes to the compact’s decisions. We support the DRBC in its decision to ban fracking – one that upholds Pennsylvania’s Environmental Rights Amendment and protects our right to clean water.”
More than a decade ago, DRBC unanimously voted in favor of a moratorium on fracking pending the adoption of new regulations. Since then, the Commission has received almost 80,000 public comments which have been considered in updated draft rules.
“There is mounting evidence from throughout our Commonwealth that fracking cannot be conducted safely and, in many cases, permanently and completely contaminates our shared drinking water resources,” said Sen. Katie Muth. “I applaud the Delaware River Basin Commission for preventing this dangerous and harmful industrial activity from rendering the drinking water for 8.3 million Pennsylvanians unsafe and unusable. Moreover, I am appalled that my Senate colleagues from the Majority Party are willing to sacrifice the health of their constituents in the name of industry profit. Without water, our homes are rendered valueless, our public health severely deteriorates due to toxic and radioactive fracking waste, and our environment is polluted for generations to come. I stand in defense of the public health and environmental quality for all Pennsylvanians and strongly oppose any effort to harm our drinking water resources in the name of corporate greed.”
“Clean drinking water is a constitutional right in Pennsylvania, and an imperative to our health and survival as a species,” said Sen. Amanda Cappelletti (D-17). “The Delaware River Basin delivers drinking water to 13.3 million people. We joined the DCRB to maintain the safety of that water. Legislators who are threatening that mission should be ashamed of their thinly veiled attempt at a power grab. The citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvanian and the citizens of New York, New Jersey and Delaware have an inviolable right to keeping this water, their drinking water, clean.”
Five million Pennsylvanians across 17 counties reside in the Basin, which includes Bucks, Delaware, Montgomery, Chester and Philadelphia counties. The Delaware River Basin spans 6,471 square miles in the Commonwealth, across 522 municipalities.
“I chose to sign on as an intervenor in this case because I know my constituents and all Pennsylvanians take seriously their constitutional right to clean air and water,” said Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11). “It is my solemn and sworn duty to protect that right. This may be our last stand in attempting to protect the waters of the Delaware River Basin from the environmental hazards created by fracking. These waters are a drinking, agricultural and industrial water resource for more than 13 million Pennsylvania, Delaware, New York and New Jersey residents.”
Sen. Maria Collett (D-12) added, “My constituents and I know firsthand what it’s like to have to fight for “pure water” as guaranteed by the Environmental Rights Amendment of the Pennsylvania Constitution and the terror felt when that bond has been broken. The argument made by my Republican colleagues that, as trustees of Pennsylvania’s national resources under this Amendment, they must protect the pecuniary value of such resources over the health and survival of the people and ecosystems dependent on them is not just unconstitutional, it’s inhuman.”
Sen. Vince Hughes (D-7) said, “Protecting the quality of ground and surface water and the future of the Delaware River Basin has broad support from the public in Pennsylvania and the other three states impacted by the Delaware River Basin Commission. Simply put, the commission is acting to protect those interests and the right to pure water. We join in this suit to protect those rights and to prevent adverse impacts from affecting our region.”
In a February 2021 DRBC meeting the 4 member states unanimously voted to ban fracking in the Delaware River Basin. During the special meeting, the United States abstained from the vote, but indicated support for the result.
“My colleagues and I are intervening to fight for the 13 million people who get their water from the Delaware River Basin and protect the Constitutional right of all Pennsylvanians to clean air and clean water,” said Sen. John Kane (D-9). “The DRBC voted unanimously to ban fracking after hearing tens of thousands of comments over several years — that’s what our communities want, and that’s how to keep Pennsylvanians safe. I’m proud to stand alongside my colleagues in intervening in support of the DRBC.”
Sen. Sharif Street (D-3) said, “The Delaware River Basin Commission’s decision is not only within their authority as custodians of the waters of the Delaware River Basin but is also constitutionally sound. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to protect our environment and the people of Pennsylvania. ”
“I’m proud to stand side by side with my colleagues in the Senate’s Democratic Caucus in support of the Delaware River Basin Commission’s decision to permanently ban fracking. This hard-fought, hard-won decision was years in the making. It is a victory for advocates, organizers, the millions of people who live within the river basin, and for the river itself. My entire district is not only within the basin, but runs along the Delaware River. I’m grateful to DRBC for protecting the lives and livelihoods of my constituents, and I’m grateful to my fellow Democratic Senators for setting their stakes in the ground with mine.” Senator Nikil Saval (D–Philadelphia)
Environmental groups have long advocated for protecting the Delaware River Basin and for the constitutional right of all Pennsylvanians to clean air and water. They shared their overwhelming support for the Democratic Senators’ intervention in the lawsuit in written statements.
In a statement read during the press conference, Conservation Voters of Pennsylvania said, “We would like to thank Senator Santarsiero and his colleagues in the Pennsylvania Senate for filing a motion to intervene in Yaw v. DRBC. Thousands of residents and countless elected officials and experts have spoken out in support of banning fracking in the Delaware River Basin.”
Maya van Rossum, leader of the Delaware Riverkeeper Network said, “The Delaware River is irreplaceably important to our entire region. To allow it to be sacrificed to the fracking industry, to be used to advance the climate crisis, and to be used to help advance an industry that is devastating the health, safety, lives, property values, quality of life and local economies of entire communities is indefensible. It is even worse that the republican legislative caucus, Senators Yaw and Baker would be seeking to misuse Pennsylvania’s constitutional environmental rights amendment and to deny Pennsylvania’s support for the Delaware River Basin Commission is an abuse of power and trust. I would like to thank Senator Steve Santarsiero and the legislators of the Democratic Caucus for seeking to join the ongoing lawsuit so they can rise up and defend our river, our environment and the environmental rights of the people of Pennsylvania.”
“PennEnvironment applauds the state senators who’ve come together today from across the Delaware River watershed to stand up and defend this great river,” said PennEnvironment Executive Director David Masur in a written statement. “Fracking shouldn’t be allowed anywhere, much less near an iconic natural waterway like the Delaware River, which provides drinking water for millions of Americans. Given that local Pennsylvanians voiced their overwhelming support for protecting the Delaware River from fracking during the public input processes, it’s unfortunate that the elected officials who are the plaintiffs in the ‘Yaw v. DRBC’ case are using the courts to undo the will of local residents.
The Democratic Caucus members who have signed onto the lawsuit are Senators Steve Santarsiero (D- Bucks), Carolyn Comitta (D- Chester), Amanda Cappelletti (D- Montgomery, Delaware), Maria Collett (D- Montgomery, Bucks), Wayne Fontana (D- Allegheny), Art Haywood (D- Montgomery, Philadelphia), Vince Hughes (D- Philadelphia), John Kane (D- Chester, Delaware), Tim Kearney (D- Delaware), Katie Muth (D- Berks, Chester, Montgomery), John Sabatina (D- Philadelphia), Nikil Saval (D- Philadelphia), Judy Schwank (D- Berks), Sharif Street (D- Philadelphia), Tina Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) , and Anthony Williams (D-Philadelphia).
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March 12, 2021
Harrisburg, Pa. – March 12, 2021 − Pennsylvania Senate Democrats held a press conference today to again call for immediate action to create a two-year window for adult survivors of sexual abuse currently barred from seeking justice due to statutory time limitations. Members also discussed the possibility of an emergency constitutional amendment and creating more protections from abuse for all Pennsylvanians through legislative action.
“Survivors have waited far too long for their rightful pathway to justice and healing,” said Senator Katie Muth (D-Chester). “In good conscience, we cannot wait another day, let alone force survivors to endure another two years of suffering, due to an administrative oversite or court challenges. I urge all my colleagues in the General Assembly to show the courage and fortitude to do what is right and act urgently to advance these common-sense legislative priorities without delay.”
Senate Democrats said that a legislative two-year window of justice for survivors would be the most expeditious way to ensure immediate justice for survivors of abuse as the previously approved constitutional amendment was unintentionally voided by the Pennsylvania Department of State. The constitutional amendment creating the window was not properly advertised and is now void.
To amend Pennsylvania’s constitution in the traditional way, a bill must pass in identical form in two consecutive legislative sessions. After each passage, the bill must be advertised. After the second passage of the bill, it goes to voters for their approval.
“Unfortunately, we cannot change the past for victims of sexual abuse, but we can change the future,” said Senator Wayne Fontana (D-Allegheny). “And we can do that now. I, once again, call for the General Assembly to pass legislation to open the 2-year window for civil action and eliminate the criminal and civil statute of limitations for sex abuse. It is time to give victims the justice they deserve.”
Senate Democrats stated they do not believe that survivors should have to wait any longer for justice. They were promised a chance at a two-year window to seek closure, and they deserve to have that promise fulfilled. The path to justice should be expeditiously and relentlessly pursued, whether through an immediate legislative solution, or through a bipartisan, emergency constitutional amendment process that would waive the two-session requirement of a standard constitutional amendment.
“Survivors of abuse have been denied justice for far too long,” said Senator Maria Collett (D-Montgomery/Bucks). “Through no fault of their own, victims have had to grapple with setback after setback – but justice delayed is justice denied. We have the authority to create a pathway to justice now through the legislation we’ve introduced today. I call on my colleagues in the General Assembly to pass these bills allowing survivors to finally seek the justice they deserve.”
Statutory windows to justice have been upheld constitutionally in several other states, and the Senate Democratic Caucus members said they believe that it is an acceptable and necessary step toward justice here in Pennsylvania.
“Refusing to consider this bill because what alleged abusers might do to further escape accountability isn’t just wrong, it’s revictimizing survivors,” said Senator Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny). “It’s time for the Senate, and the General Assembly, to be leaders in the fight for justice for these survivors.”
Members have also introduced an updated version of Senate Bill 540 from last session which would amend Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) to:
- Eliminate the criminal and civil statute of limitation for sexual abuse, assault and misconduct for all survivors, regardless of age,
- Provide a 2 year civil window to revive previously expired SOL claims with a 6-month delay, and
- Prohibit non disclosure agreements that would otherwise prevent an adult survivor to report.
“We led the fight last session to reform Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations, and we will not let up now,” said Senator Tim Kearney (D-Delaware). “The process of a constitutional amendment was unnecessary in the first place. Survivors have waited long enough for justice, and they shouldn’t have to wait another two years because of an administrative mistake. We must pass this bill now, because justice delayed is justice denied.”
“There are few issues that are more emotionally charged than the decades-long denial of justice to childhood victims of sexual assault,” said Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-Bucks). “Their stories of abuse have been seared into the public consciousness. We can, and must, act today to ensure there is no further delay in bringing these victims closer to the justice they have been denied for too long. They must have their day in court.”
All Senators reiterated the importance of passing legislation that brings justice to the adult victims of sexual abuse who could not seek it as children, and that protects future generations of Pennsylvanians from such horrors. Democrats ask for a swift passage of these bills and the Governor’s commitment to signing them into law as soon as they get to his desk.
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March 10, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – March 10, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $98,000 in funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) that will help local houses of worship make security improvements through its Non-Profit Security Grant Program.
The breakdown of entities receiving funds and how much they have received is:
- St. Mark A.M.E. Zion in Newtown: $24,995
- Abrams Hebrew Academy in Yardley: $24,975
- Temple Judea of Bucks County in Furlong: $21,847
- St. Andrew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Perkasie: $13,346
- Jewish Center of Eastern Bucks/Chabad Lubavitch of Yardley: $12,838
“The Non-Profit Security Grant funds will allow these houses of worship to make security enhancements to protect the safety and security of a diverse cross-section of our community,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Freedom of religion means no one should fear for his or her safety while observing their faith. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, which is why these funds are so important to our community.”
The Non-Profit Security Grant Program administers funds to nonprofit organizations who principally serve individuals, groups or institutions that are included within a bias motivation category for single bias hate crime incidents. For more information, visit the PCCD website.
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March 8, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY — March 8, 2021 — State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) highlighted the historic Pennsbury Manor in Falls Township, hosting a Community Conversation video discussion about the site, the many educational offerings and how it has stayed active through the COVID-19 pandemic. Ahead of Charter Day on March 8th, Sen. Santarsiero sat down with Historic Site Director, Doug Miller, to talk about William Penn’s estate and its legacy in Bucks County and Pennsylvania.
“Pennsbury Manor is a historic gem in Bucks County, that continues to share the legacy of our founder William Penn through estate tours, school programming and events like Charter Day,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I am fortunate to represent a district with such rich history, dating back to the founding of our Commonwealth, and Pennsbury Manor respects the legacy of the property while making it accessible for the community and visitors.”
Speaking on the influence of William Penn on many of our core tenants of democracy, Miller notes, “What this historic site offers us is a springboard for people to learn about Penn’s life and his legacy. Many people don’t connect our daily lives to Penn’s contributions… but in some way Penn’s legacy touches us each and every day.”
The full video of the Community Conversation with Pennsbury Manor can be found here.
Initiated in 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sen. Santarsiero hosts Community Conversations to highlight many of unique businesses and organizations that keep our communities vibrant. The series includes opportunities for residents to support our local restaurants, shopping districts, cultural venues, breweries and wineries, as well as how to give back to those in need. The full series is available here.
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March 2, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY − March 2, 2021 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) today called for the Pennsylvania Department of Health to expand Phase 1A eligibility to include teachers and school staff. In a letter to Governor Wolf, Sen. Santarsiero urged him to prioritize vaccinations for teachers, in an effort to safely re-open schools for in-person instruction as quickly as possible.
“Earlier today I sent a letter to the Governor asking that teachers and school staff be prioritized in Phase 1A for the COVID-19 vaccine, and that the state embark on an aggressive campaign to get them vaccinated quickly, so that we can safely reopen schools in the coming weeks. Our teachers have done an amazing job of adapting to virtual and hybrid learning over the past year. The safety of teachers, students and other school staff is a critical component of what must be a priority for our state: a return to classroom learning as soon as possible.”
Sen. Santarsiero cited the approval of the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine, along with the announcement of an agreement for Merck to also produce the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, to show an anticipated increase in both the state’s vaccine supply and an expedited timeline for vaccinations to occur.
Sen. Santarsiero wrote, “The benefits of in person instruction for students, both academically and from a mental health perspective, have been well documented. With increased access to vaccine doses and more readily available PPE, we are now at a point at which we can get students back into schools in a way that protects both them and teachers and staff.”
The full text of the letter to the Governor is available here.
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Letter to Governor Wolf on Teacher Vaccines
March 1, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY — March 1, 2021 — State Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Michele Brooks (R-50) will be reintroducing legislation that will allow children to stay on their parent’s health insurance until age 26. Under current Pennsylvania law, a child can stay on his or her parent’s insurance until he or she reaches age 19. Senate Bill 53 seeks to increase that age to 26 to bring the Commonwealth in line with federal law.
“Access to quality, affordable health insurance is a critical right for all individuals,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “SB 53 will improve access to healthcare by allowing young adults to stay on their parent’s insurance until age 26. We have seen during the pandemic that medical treatment can be the difference between life and death, and that insurance through an employer is not a guarantee. After years of attacks on the Affordable Care Act, we must act at the state level to ensure no young Pennsylvanian must choose between healthcare and financial hardship.”
“In this difficult economic climate, it is important that young adults in Pennsylvania can remain on their parents’ health insurance until the age of 26, as the current Affordable Care Act provides. There are a variety of reasons why a young adult would need to stay on a parent’s insurance, including continuing their education or working in an entry-level job that does not provide health insurance. Pennsylvania is taking a proactive approach to ensure coverage for young adults if the Affordable Care Act is repealed at the federal level,” Sen. Brooks said.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance, 89,000 young adults have insurance coverage because they are able to stay on their parent’s insurance.
Senators Santarsiero and Brooks are reintroducing this legislation, having initially introduced this legislation during the previous Senate session. With the start of the new session in January 2021, all bills that were not passed in the previous session must be re-introduced and begin the legislative process anew.
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February 25, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY − February 25, 2021 − The following statement is attributable to Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) in response to the Delaware River Basin Commission Special Meeting on February 25, 2021:
“I applaud the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) on its historic vote today to protect our environment and public health by banning high-volume hydraulic fracturing. I will work to ensure this resolution is implemented here in Pennsylvania and is upheld in the courts.”
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February 3, 2021
By Steve Santarsiero, State Senator (D-10, Bucks County)
Earlier this week it was revealed that the Pennsylvania Department of State failed to advertise the 2019 passage of a proposed amendment to the state constitution that would allow the victims of child sex abuse, whose claims had been barred by the statute of limitations, a two-year window in which to file suit against responsible individuals and institutions. The failure to do so means that any such amendment must now wait at least another two years before it can be enacted.
There are few issues that are more emotionally charged than the decades-long denial of justice to those victims. Their stories of abuse have been seared into the public consciousness. They must have their day in court. Despite the Department’s error, they still can, as early as this year in fact. Before addressing that point, however, it is worth considering the political fallout from this week’s news.
The duty to advertise the legislature’s passage of a proposed amendment to the constitution rests with the Secretary of State. Although, as a practical matter, such tasks fall to Department staff, whom the Secretary reasonably relies on to do their jobs, to paraphrase Harry Truman, the buck stops with those in charge. Accepting that responsibility, Secretary Kathy Boockvar offered her resignation to the Governor, and he accepted it. In the process, however, the Commonwealth is losing a true public servant.
Secretary Boockvar began her tenure by overseeing, in the face of considerable opposition by the Pennsylvania Republican Party, the state’s transition from its old voting machines to those that use verifiable, paper ballots, which can always be counted in the case of a dispute. She then administered the implementation of Pennsylvania’s new, no-fault absentee voter law. The passage of that law in 2019, combined with the public’s concerns about the pandemic, resulted in unprecedented numbers of people casting their votes by mail in 2020. She followed both of those accomplishments by working with county officials to ensure that everyone’s votes were counted in the November election, despite persistent attempts to disenfranchise the millions of Pennsylvanians who chose to vote by mail. Throughout that process, Boockvar was an unflappable defender of our democracy, even in the face of numerous threats to her personal safety and that of her family. Hers was a record of exemplary and, indeed, courageous service.
The irony of all this, of course, is that there never really was a need to amend the state constitution to allow the victims of child sex abuse access to justice. The General Assembly can pass a law today – which the Governor has said he will sign, if it does – that allows for the so-called two-year look back. Legal scholars and the Attorney General agree that this can and should be done.
So, why are we trying to amend the constitution and tossing aside a dedicated public servant in the process? Because the Republican leaders of the State House and Senate refuse to allow such a bill to be brought up for a vote. They argue that, if it were to pass, its constitutionality would be challenged. That may be, but just because those who bear responsibility for what happened to innocent children might challenge a new law that gives those now adult victims redress, does not mean that a challenge would succeed, and it should no longer be allowed to serve as the excuse for the legislature’s inaction.
This week, Senators Muth, Kearney, Collett, Lindsey Williams and I offered such a bill in the State Senate. We hope that a companion bill will be offered in the House. The legislation should be brought up for a vote and sent to the Governor’s desk without delay. To do anything less would amount to a needless continuation of the delay of justice for the victims. It is bad enough that the Department of State’s mistake is causing us to lose Secretary Boockvar; let us not compound that loss by yet again denying justice to those who have already waited too long.
February 1, 2021
Harrisburg, Pa. − February 1, 2021 − Pennsylvania Senate Democrats will introduce legislation to statutorily create a two-year window for survivors of sexual abuse to seek justice on claims that previously would have been time barred.
This legislative solution is intended to replace the constitutional amendment process, which has been inadvertently voided by the Department of State. To amend Pennsylvania’s constitution, a bill must pass in identical form in two consecutive legislative sessions. After each passage, the bill must be advertised and after the second passage, it goes to voters for their approval.
A constitutional amendment to open the two-year window for sexual abuse survivors passed in the previous session, but the Department of State failed to advertise it and thus the lengthy process would have to start over again.
The Senate Democrats do not believe that survivors should have to wait any longer for justice. Statutory windows to justice have been upheld constitutionally in other states, and the caucus believes that it is acceptable and necessary here in Pennsylvania.
“This is a disappointing setback in the process to create the window to justice,” said Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa, Jr. “If we continue with the constitutional amendment process, it will be at least another 2 years until the window would be created and that’s simply too long. A legislative solution can create the window immediately, and I’m encouraging bipartisan and bicameral support for the bill that members of our caucus is going to introduce. Survivors need justice now.”
Senators Maria Collett, Katie Muth, Lindsey Williams, and Steve Santarsiero and Tim Kearney will be introducing the bill immediately and have been champions for survivors of sexual assault since they were each elected in 2018.
“To say I am disappointed by this setback is an understatement,” said Senator Collett. “I am devastated on behalf of the victims of childhood sex abuse in my district and across the Commonwealth who have shared with us their heartbreaking stories and entrusted us to bring them long-overdue justice and path to healing. The last thing these victims need is another delay, another slight that makes them feel like no one cares about their pain. Regardless of our politics, religion, age or gender, we all know that the institutions whose failures led to these victims’ trauma need to be held accountable. The legislation my colleagues and I are introducing will correct the mistake made by the Department of State and bring victims across Pennsylvania one step closer to justice.”
“Legislative action is long overdue and with this latest delay waiting another two years is simply unacceptable,” said Senator Muth. “The General Assembly needs to pass a statutory window as soon as possible and finally allow justice and healing for these victims.”
“The time for debating has long passed,” said Senator Santarsiero. “There is no need to amend our State Constitution. The General Assembly has the authority to pass the two-year window to give the victims of child sex abuse what they have long sought and what they so dearly deserve: justice.”
“Victims cannot wait any longer for justice,” said Senator Williams. “We need to pass a statutory window immediately.”
“We led the fight last session to reform Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations, and we will not let up now,” said Senator Kearney. “The process of a constitutional amendment was unnecessary in the first place. Survivors have waited long enough for justice, and they shouldn’t have to wait another two years because of an administrative mistake. We must pass this bill now, because justice delayed is justice denied.”
On behalf of these survivors, the Senate Democrats ask for a swift passage of the new bill and the Governor’s commitment to make its passage a priority.
Read more about the legislation here.
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January 25, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY— January 25, 2021 — Senate Bill 78, known as Kayden’s Law, was unanimously voted out of the Senate Judiciary Committee this afternoon, one of the first bills to move out of the committee since the start of the new session. The bi-partisan legislation is sponsored by Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Lisa Baker (R-20), and is named for Kayden Mancuso, a seven-year-old from Lower Makefield Township, who was killed in August 2018 by her biological father during a court-ordered, unsupervised visit granted following a year-long custody dispute.
“In the two years since Kayden’s death, I have been working with Kayden’s family and experts in the field of child abuse and child custody issues, to craft legislation along with Representatives Tina Davis (D-141) and Perry Warren (D-31), the sponsors of the legislation in the House, that would make a fundamental change to Pennsylvania’s child custody law,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Kayden’s death was a senseless and avoidable tragedy that shook our community, and together, the legislature can prevent others from experiencing this type of grief and loss. We must ensure the safety of our children is the most important concern in contentious custody battles.”
“It is our duty to do everything within our power to protect the most vulnerable individuals within our communities, and I am pleased that this legislation will help to better protect children across our Commonwealth,” Senator Baker said. “Our current state law failed to ensure the health and safety of Kayden, which was a heartbreaking tragedy, but, unfortunately, not unique. This bill requires a court to consider certain critical factors to ensure that the health and safety of children are weighed before custody of a child is awarded to any party or parties.”
Kayden’s Law was voted unanimously out of the Senate Judiciary Committee in September 2020, during the previous Senate session. With the start of the new session in January 2021, all bills that were not passed in the previous session must be re-introduced and begin the legislative process anew.
At the time the bill was passed out of committee in September 2020, Sen. Santarsiero said, “Never again. That should be our vow as lawmakers. Never again should one of our children die or be abused because Pennsylvania law does not do enough to protect them. The tragedy of Kayden Mancuso’s death demonstrates that the current child custody law does not in fact do enough.”
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January 15, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY — January 15, 2021 — State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced his appointment as Democratic Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. In addition to his chairmanship of the Judiciary Committee, Sen. Santarsiero will also serve on the Appropriations, Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure, Environmental Resources & Energy, and Intergovernmental Operations Committees.
“The Judiciary Committee helps shape the legal framework of our state, and I am honored to have been appointed as Democratic Chair of the Committee,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I look forward to working to enact policies that will improve the safety of our communities, ensure fairness in legal proceedings, and see quality judicial appointments to our courts.”
The Judiciary Committee reviews all legislation relating to aspects of the civil and criminal court systems, law enforcement and corrections, and is responsible for evaluating prison staffing, inmate populations, and housing conditions. The committee also oversees the Attorney General’s Office, Department of Corrections, State Ethics Commission, Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing and the Municipal Police Officers Education and Training Commission, among others.
Sen. Santarsiero has served on the Judiciary Committee since his election to the Senate in 2018. Last year, the committee held a hearing and voted out his legislation, Kayden’s Law, to protect children in especially contentious custody cases.
“I am pleased to be expanding my role on the Judiciary Committee, continuing the important work we began last session and taking on new legislation,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I want to thank Chairwoman Baker for her leadership of the Committee, and I look forward to serving alongside her in the new session.”
Sen. Steve Santarsiero represents the 10th Senatorial District, which includes: Bedminster Township, Buckingham Township, Chalfont, Doylestown, Doylestown Township, Dublin, East Rockhill Township, Falls Township, Haycock Township, Hilltown Township, Lower Makefield Township, Morrisville, New Britain, New Britain Township, New Hope, Newtown, Newtown Township, Perkasie, Plumstead Township, Sellersville, Silverdale, Solebury Township, Telford, Tullytown, Upper Makefield Township, West Rockhill Township, and Yardley.
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January 4, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY — January 4, 2021 — State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced the long-awaited groundbreaking for February 2021 on the $8.7 million project at Washington Crossing Historic Park. The project, which will rehabilitate 11 historic homes and other structures throughout the park, is expected to be completed in Spring 2022.
“Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of the most significant historic sites in our state and its situation along the Delaware River makes it a gem in our state park system,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “The restoration of these buildings will help the Friends of Washington Crossing Park to continue their incredible work highlighting the story of the crossing and lifting up the park as a tourist destination.”
The project, which has faced several delays since originally being funded nearly a decade ago, became the focus of coordinated effort between Sen. Santarsiero and the Friends of Washington Crossing. Sen. Santarsiero has worked with both the state Department of General Services (DGS) and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to get the project back on track.
“I want to especially thank DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn for working with us to find the additional funds needed to finally make this project a reality,” Sen. Santarsiero added.
“This will prove to be a transformative investment for the Washington Crossing Historic Park” said John Godzieba, the Board President of the Friends of Washington Crossing Park. Godzieba, who portrays George Washington during events at the Park, further stated that, “the timing of this project is fortuitous since it is only 6 years until the country celebrates its Sestercentennial – 250 years from independence in 1776. Finally, I also want to thank Senator Santarsiero as well as fellow Board member, Peter Tucci, who were both instrumental in this capital project coming to fruition.”
“Washington Crossing Historic Park holds a special place in our community and history, particularly their yearly re-enactments of the turning point in the Revolutionary War when General Washington led his troops across the Delaware River into Trenton, achieving a resounding victory over the Hessians,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “This year, due to COVID-19, the reenactment was virtual, but remained a quintessential part of the holiday season in Bucks County.”
“This certainly signals the start of a long-awaited and strongly supported transformation at Washington Crossing Historic Park, one that reflects the work of so many toward a shared, common goal,” said Dunn. “The many park supporters should be heartened that Sen. Santarsiero is championing their cause.”
Contracts were awarded to Jones Masonry Restoration Corp., Chadwick Service Company, QPI Electrical, Wu & Associates, Inc., and Murphy, Quigley Company, Inc., according to DGS.
To learn more about Washington Crossing Historic Park, visit its website.
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December 30, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – December 30, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and state Representative Perry Warren (D-31) announced that Bucks County Conservation District will receive $262,558 in Growing Greener grant funds through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). With a primary goal of improving the water quality of Neshaminy Creek, the funds will be used for a water quality improvement project at an equine facility in Newtown Township.
The project will implement a variety of water quality management best practices, including the design and installation of waterways and diversions, subsurface drainage improvements, stone lined outlets, fencing improvements, animal heavy use area improvements, rain gutter improvements, a roofed manure storage facility, and the creation of vegetated buffer areas.
“Funding for this project highlights the importance of ensuring our local farms and facilities are equipped with the necessary resources to protect our environment, specifically our waterways,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The improvements that will be made through this project will both protect Neshaminy Creek and help raise awareness within our local equine community about the importance of conservation.”
“This grant award both helps ensure that we have safe, clean water and recognizes the critical role work of the Bucks County Conservation District in managing and directing the county’s soil, water and natural resources,” said Rep. Warren.
“The Bucks County Conservation District is excited for this opportunity to expand upon our previous efforts to improve water quality with in the Neshaminy Creek Watershed, and especially to be working on a high-density equine operation,” said Gretchen Schatschneider, District Manager for the Bucks County Conservation District.
Additionally, The Heritage Conservancy, located in Doylestown, will receive $26,563 for its Bellwood Preserve Riparian Restoration project, outside of the 10th senate district in Newportville.
The Growing Greener grant program through DEP is used to fund watershed restoration and protection, abandoned mine reclamation and abandoned oil and gas well plugging projects. For more information about Growing Greener grants, visit the DEP website.
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December 29, 2020
Senators Will Be Joined by Pa. Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine
WEST CHESTER (December 29, 2020) – State Senator Steve Santarsiero, State Senator-Elect Carolyn Comitta and Senator Tim Kearney will hold a virtual townhall meeting with Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine to answer residents’ questions about the COVID-19 vaccine and discuss the Commonwealth’s vaccination plan.
The meeting, set for Wednesday, January 6 at 3 p.m., is focused on the southeast Pennsylvania region and will likely include additional state lawmakers representing the area. It will be held via Zoom and is free and open to the public. Interested participants should register ahead of time here or at either Senator-Elect Comitta’s (www.pasenatorcomitta.com), Senator Kearney’s (www.senatorkearney.com) or Senator Santarsiero’s website (www.senatorstevesantarsiero.com).
In addition, plans for more virtual townhalls on the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine are underway and will be announced soon.
The COVID-19 vaccine is currently being distributed in southeast Pennsylvania to front-line healthcare workers as part of a multi-phase plan. More information on the vaccine distribution plan for Chester and Delaware Counties is available at www.chesco.org/4376/Coronavirus-COVID-19. COVID-19 information from the Bucks County Health Depart is available at https://buckscounty.org/government/healthservices/HealthDepartment.
“As the vaccine rollout continues, more residents have more questions about safety, logistics, and distribution,” Senator-Elect Comitta said. “This is an opportunity for you to get answers. We welcome your questions and encourage you to pass along this information and share it publicly.”
“This will be an excellent chance for people to learn more about the vaccine and have their questions answered,” said Senator Kearney. “It’s also important to remember the vaccine will be just one tool in our fight against COVID-19. We can still protect ourselves and others by wearing a mask, keeping our distance, and washing our hands.”
“As the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine rolls out for our essential workers and most vulnerable populations, we are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel,” said Senator Santarsiero. “This town hall will provide information on the variety of vaccines and allow for questions from participants. Together, we will get through this.”
In addition to Dr. Levine, the meeting will include an expert panel of officials from both the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health team responsible for overseeing the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Comitta, Kearney, and Santarsiero also cautioned that while the vaccine is very promising, due to limited supply it won’t immediately be widely available to everyone. They urged all Pennsylvanians to continue to diligently follow the guidelines that are scientifically proven to stop the spread of the coronavirus, including mask-wearing, frequent handwashing, social distancing, and avoiding large crowds.
Currently, the FDA has granted emergency use authorization to two COVID-19 vaccines: the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine and the Moderna vaccine. More vaccines are in development and expected to be seeking emergency use authorization soon.
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December 23, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – December 23, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and State Representative Perry Warren (D-31) announced $1.5 million in state grant funding for improvements in Morrisville Borough. The Redevelopment Authority of the County of Bucks will receive $1 million for its Manor Park Landfill project and Morrisville Borough will receive $500,000 for a project at Patriots Park at Historic Summerseat.
The Manor Park Landfill project involves remediating and redeveloping a 12.96-acre vacant Brownfield site for new construction of a 70,000 square foot site for commercial use. Once remediation is complete, the redevelopment will include a fully equipped pad site, parking lots, landscaping and a retention basin.
“I want to thank Governor Wolf for prioritizing RACP funds for projects like these, providing important state investments in our local economy,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I enthusiastically supported all of these applications, advocating for projects across my district that will drive economic development and make continued regional improvements that are especially needed given the challenges of the pandemic.”
“The redevelopment of the Manor Park Landfill for commercial use will drive local job creation and economic growth in Morrisville, while taking necessary steps to protect the local environment,” continued Sen. Santarsiero. “Remediation and redevelopment projects in locations like this allow us to take advantage of our existing real estate, while improving the health of both of environment and local economy.”
Scott Mitchell, Morrisville Borough Manager said, “This project has been a high priority for Morrisville Borough for many, many years. We are thrilled to hear the grant was awarded so this project can get started and this under-utilized property can be redeveloped.”
“This grant is a double win – for the environment and for the economy,” said Rep. Warren. “We’ve been working for quite a while with the Borough Council, Mayor and Manager to address the Manor Park Landfill. This million dollar grant goes a long way toward improving the environment and preparing the property for economic or community use.”
“We are very thankful for Governor Wolf’s support for this project and the local support we receive from Senator Steve Santarsiero, Representative Perry Warren, and Representative John Galloway on this and many other projects in Morrisville,” said Ted Parker, Council President of Morrisville Borough
The Patriots Park at Historic Summerseat project will make improvements to the existing park with new lawn areas for various recreational activities, new asphalt walking paths, a reconstructed access road, numerous new historic statues and other common park features and facilities.
“These improvements to Patriots Park will enable residents and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and history of Morrisville,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I am always pleased to see project that highlight our plentiful open space and foster a strong sense of local community in our area.”
“People love Morrisville’s historic small-town America ambience. The preservation and improvement of Patriot’s Park at Historic Summerseat will create a gathering place at a passive park in the heart of residential Morrisville,” said Rep. Warren. “Together, these two grants will help create spaces for residents to enjoy and to welcome visitors to Morrisville.”
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. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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December 23, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – December 23, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $3.5 million in state grant funds to improve local infrastructure, health and safety, and arts and culture in Bucks County, which will help grow and strengthen businesses, while providing a needed economic boost to the region.
The awards will go to New Hope Borough, Doylestown Hospital, Bucks County Children’s Museum and the Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP). 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.
“I want to thank Governor Wolf for prioritizing RACP funds for projects like these, providing important state investments in our local economy,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I enthusiastically supported all of these applications, advocating for projects across my district that will drive economic development and make continued regional improvements that are especially needed given the challenges of the pandemic.”
New Hope Borough will receive $1,750,000 for the construction of a new five-level parking garage on borough-owned land, one block from Main Street. The project will also update road paving between the garage and Main Street and will provide for both pedestrian walkways and a shuttle service.
“New Hope is a thriving borough with many restaurants and retail shops that attract locals and tourists alike,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The parking garage project will accommodate 350 cars, which will make New Hope more accessible, boosting revenue for many small businesses in our local economy.”
“The Borough welcomes the opportunity to move forward with this grant for a new parking garage,” said Peter Grey, New Hope Borough Manager. “With an off street parking site, the Borough will be able to provide needed relief to visitors of New Hope who come to enjoy the various restaurants and shopping that are offered. We look forward to moving forward in the process and thank State Senator Santarsiero for assisting us in our application and Governor Wolf for authorizing the funding for the Borough.”
“This is a dream come true for Bucks County Playhouse and the 80,000 people a year who come to our performances. Indeed, it will be transformative for every business in New Hope. Definitely the best news to come out of 2020,” said Alexander Fraser, Producing Director of Bucks County Playhouse. “On behalf of the Board and staff of Bucks County Playhouse, we owe a huge debt of gratitude to Steve Santarsiero and Connie Gering for their belief in the dream, and their diligence in this huge first step in making it a reality,” said Fraser referring to New Hope Borough Council President Constance Gering.
The $1 million funds to Doylestown Hospital will be used for the hospital’s new Women’s Diagnostic Center, to relocate, expand, and enhance the current diagnostic area, helping to improve Doylestown Hospital’s commitment to quality care for its patients. The new Center will feature dedicated space for mammography and ultrasound, with upgraded equipment to increase efficiency in screening and diagnostics.
“Doylestown Hospital has a longstanding commitment to providing quality care, and this project highlights that commitment,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “With the completion of the new Women’s Diagnostic Center, the hospital expects to be able to accommodate 10-15% more patients, leading to increases in early detection of cancer in patients and better prognoses with early treatment.”
“The support of Gov. Wolf and Sen. Santarsiero is a tremendous boost to the transformative renovation and expansion of key priorities across Doylestown Health,” said Jim Brexler, President and CEO of Doylestown Health. “We deeply appreciate the Commonwealth’s investment in our community health system. They join a growing list of community, Board and staff donors who recognize the need for state-of-the-art facilities, enhanced services, and program growth to serve our community. This support comes at a pivotal time as we continue to raise critical funding for ONE VISION: The Campaign for Doylestown Health allowing us to safeguard the future of healthcare while remaining independent.”
The Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center will receive $500,000 to develop a public museum and education center on the preserved Highland Farm site in Doylestown. The project will include restoration of existing home structures, and repurposing of the facility to include exhibition and classroom spaces, as well as a welcome center.
“I have been working with the Oscar Hammerstein Museum and all of our local museums here in Bucks County throughout the pandemic to help ensure they come out on the other side of this stronger than before”, said Sen. Santarsiero. “These state funds to help restore and redevelop this iconic property will allow the public to visit the space that inspired some of the most classic American musicals like Oklahoma, South Pacific and Sound of Music.”
“We are extremely grateful to Senator Santarsiero and Governor Wolf for this grant. Preserving Highland Farm, the homestead and creative epicenter where Oscar Hammerstein II wrote the lyrics to some of the world’s most noted and performed songs, is essential for Bucks County, for Pennsylvania and for our country,” said Greg Roth, President of the Board, Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theater Education Center. Speaking on behalf of the Board of Directors, Christine Cole, and all of the organization’s supporters and advocates, Roth continued, “Oscar Hammerstein’s themes of inclusion and acceptance are as relevant today as they were 80 years ago when he penned them. The Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theater Education Center will provide a place for enthusiasts and visitors to be inspired and a place for children from all over the world to have an opportunity to learn about musical theater and pursue their musical theater passions and interests.”
The Bucks County Children’s Museum will receive $250,000 for construction of a new 20,000 sq. ft. facility, that will feature expanded exhibit and gallery areas, expanded indoor and outdoor space, and will incorporate additional health and safety best practices. The project will also increase parking and build new administrative offices.
“The Children’s Museum offers our young people an opportunity to explore their creative side in an interactive environment, while serving both our local community and attracting families from a wider area,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Our museums have been hit hard by the Coronavirus pandemic, so I am particularly excited that Bucks County Children’s Museum has been awarded funding to build a new facility that will include improvements to meet health and safety guidelines, including larger indoor and outdoor spaces.”
“This support from the Commonwealth is great news for the thousands of families and children who visit The Bucks County Children’s Museum each year,” said Kelly Krumenacker, Executive Director of The Bucks County Children’s Museum We are excited for the opportunity to increase our capacity to serve the community and visitors to the county in an expanded facility filled with unique and engaging educational experiences.”
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. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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December 21, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – December 21, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) is urging local elected officials to follow the state’s lead and act this month to bring thousands of new jobs to Lower Bucks County.
Sen. Santarsiero said Bucks County, Falls Township and Pennsbury School District all must pass resolutions to reauthorize the Keystone Opportunity and Investment Zone (KOIZ) in Falls Township. A reauthorization of the KOIZ is necessary to move forward on the largest redevelopment project in Bucks County in decades and create thousands of local jobs.
Sen. Santarsiero voiced his support for the reauthorization of the KOIZ at both the December 17th Pennsbury School Board meeting, as well as the December 21st meeting of the Falls Township Board of Supervisors. The reauthorization was approved unanimously at both meetings. “I am requesting that Bucks County follows Pennsbury School Board and Falls Township in voting to support growth and job creation in Falls Township,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “By voting to reauthorize the KOIZ, the County will join Falls Township and Pennsbury School Board in doing its part to bring hundreds of construction jobs, and thousands of permanent jobs to our community over the next few years, helping to ensure economic stimulus and growth in our local economy, at a time when it is most needed.”
Act 114 of 2020 was passed in November to extend the state’s general operating budget through July 1, 2021. Senator Santarsiero drafted a provision that was added to the fiscal code bill, which became Act 114, to allow for the reauthorization of the KOIZ, but the three taxing authorities – Falls Township, Pennsbury School District and Bucks County — all have to pass resolutions before December 31, 2020 for it to take effect.
“I advocated for this provision to be included in the fiscal code, because I understand the importance and urgency in bringing both short-term construction and long-term, permanent jobs to our community,” Sen. Santarsiero continued. “At a time when so many are without work, this project will breathe new life into our local economy and help thousands of residents secure gainful employment.”
The KOIZ in Falls Township is comprised of the former Fairless Works U.S. Steel site which first opened in 1952. The site closed in 2001 and has largely sat empty since. NorthPoint Development has made public plans for the Keystone Trade Center, a $1.5 billion redevelopment of 1,846 acres of the U.S. Steel property. The project would involve construction of 20 or more state-of-the-art industrial warehouse buildings, totaling 10 million square feet, resulting in between 5,000 to 10,000 jobs.
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December 17, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – December 17, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) is urging local elected officials to follow the state’s lead and act this month to bring thousands of new jobs to Lower Bucks County.
Sen. Santarsiero said Bucks County, Falls Township and Pennsbury School District all must pass resolutions to reauthorize the Keystone Opportunity and Investment Zone (KOIZ) in Falls Township. A reauthorization of the KOIZ is necessary to move forward on the largest redevelopment project in Bucks County in decades and create thousands of local jobs.
“Tonight, I am requesting the Pennsbury School Board to take action because a failure to act this month will mean a missed opportunity for years of job creation,” said Sen. Santarsiero during a Pennsbury School Directors meeting. “By reauthorizing the KOIZ, Pennsbury School District will help move forward a redevelopment project that will bring hundreds of construction jobs and thousands of permanent jobs over the next few years, and it will be a vital catalyst for stimulating our economy during one of the most difficult times in our nation’s history.”
Act 114 of 2020 was passed in November to extend the state’s general operating budget through July 1, 2021. Senator Santarsiero drafted a provision that was added to the fiscal code bill, which became Act 114, to allow for the reauthorization of the KOIZ, but the three taxing authorities – Falls Township, Pennsbury School District and Bucks County — all have to pass resolutions before December 31, 2020 for it to take effect.
“I advocated for this provision to be included in the fiscal code, because I understand the importance and urgency in bringing both short-term construction and long-term, permanent jobs to our community,” Sen. Santarsiero continued. “At a time when so many are without work, this project will breathe new life into our local economy and help thousands of residents secure gainful employment.”
The KOIZ in Falls Township is comprised of the former Fairless Works U.S. Steel site which first opened in 1952. The site closed in 2001 and has largely sat empty since. NorthPoint Development has made public plans for the Keystone Trade Center, a $1.5 billion redevelopment of 1,846 acres of the U.S. Steel property. The project would involve construction of 20 or more state-of-the-art industrial warehouse buildings, totaling 10 million square feet, resulting in between 5,000 to 10,000 jobs.
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