August 21, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 21, 2020 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced all school districts in Senate District 10 will receive grant funding, totaling $389,693, from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) for compensatory services for students with special needs.
The funding awards by school district are as follows:
- Central Bucks School District: $176,326
- Council Rock School District: $123,706
- Morrisville Borough School District: $7,217
- New Hope- Solebury School District: $5,000
- Palisades School District: $16,220
- Pennridge School District: $19,645
- Pennsbury School District: $41,579
“These funds will ensure that our special needs students receive the additional resources necessary to make up the gaps in learning and skill-building caused by the switch to distance learning in the spring,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Our school districts have been faced with countless challenges as they adapt to these uncertain times, yet their commitment to ensuring all students receive access to quality education remains unwavering. These additional funds will benefit both our special needs students, and provide our teachers with necessary resources.”
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act authorizes governors to determine the educational use of Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Funds, which can be used towards the safe reopening of schools in light of COVID-19. Grant amounts were calculated using an allocation formula based on the number of students with complex special education needs within each Local Education Agency.
For more information on Governor Wolf’s use of GEER Funds for Compensatory Services for Students with Special Needs, visit the PDE website.
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August 17, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 17, 2020 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced two municipalities in his district will receive a total of $700,000 through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) H2O PA Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water Projects Program. Chalfont Borough will receive $300,000 for improvements to its storm sewer replacement project and Doylestown Township Municipal Authority (DTMA) will receive $400,000 for its project to interconnect the DTMA and Delaware Valley University water systems.
“The funding awards for these programs will help the environment, improve our economic development opportunities and protect the health of residents,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I enthusiastically urged DCED to provide these critical funds to our community, which will help fund much needed local improvements to our water and storm sewer infrastructure.”
Chalfont Borough will use the funds to rehabilitate its stormwater system, making critical changes to fix an aging system. DTMA’s project will regionalize and consolidate two water systems, interconnecting the system currently serving Doylestown Township, New Britain Borough and Plumstead Township with the Delaware Valley University water system, improving access to public water.
H2O PA Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water project grants seek to help municipalities or municipal authorities with the construction or drinking water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer projects.
For more information on DCED’s H2O PA Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water Projects Program, visit the DCED website.
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August 17, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 17, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), along with Representatives Perry Warren (D-31), John Galloway (D-140), and Wendy Ullman (D-143) announced $1,763,403 in Small Water & Sewer Program grant funds through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), are coming to seven local municipalities.
The awards to local municipalities under the grant are:
- Doylestown Borough will receive $138,169 for its North Main Street Water Main Project,
- Bedminster Municipal Authority will receive $319,136 for its Stonebridge- Pennland Farms Water Systems Interconnection Project,
- Doylestown Township Municipal Authority will receive $157,065 for its South Water Tank Rehabilitation project,
- Falls Township Authority will receive $452,834, with $215,036 going to its Penn Village Water Main Lining project, and $400,000 going to its Sanitary Sewer Inflow and Infiltration Reduction project,
- Morrisville Borough will receive $122,008 for its Melvin Avenue Basin Improvements Phase II project,
- Perkasie Regional Authority will receive $200,000 for its Ridge Road Sewer Extension project, and
- Yardley Borough will receive $211,989 for its North Main Street Sidewalk Drainage Phase II project.
“These projects will help make critical improvements to our municipal water and sewer systems, strengthening our infrastructure to protect our environment and maintain quality drinking water for our community,” said Sen. Santarsiero.
“The Morrisville grant will enhance the delivery of water to our residents and business by meeting water quality best management practices, and with the landscaping it will be more aesthetically pleasing. It is a win-win for Morrisville,” said Rep. Warren. “The Yardley Borough grant for Phase II of the North Main Street sidewalk drainage will enhance safety and accessibility for Yardley and northern Lower Makefield residents and will be an economic boost to downtown businesses and the entire community. Yardley Borough Council has been working on this project for a long time, and it is great that the state is supporting the project.”
“Working in partnership with local municipalities to support key infrastructure projects is more important than ever to make sure essential services are provided to our citizens,” said Rep. Ullman. “Securing state support ultimately lessens the cost impact on our municipalities, and thus on local taxpayers.”
“These funds for both Falls Township and Morrisville will help make important improvements to our local water and sewer systems,” said Rep. Galloway. “I am glad to see projects in my district, and across the county, receiving funding for these much-needed updates.”
Small water and sewer grants are awarded to fund projects that assist with the construction, improvement, expansion, or rehabilitation or repair of a water supply system, sanitary sewer system, storm sewer system, or flood control projects.
For more information on DCED’s Small Water and Sewer program, visit the DCED website.
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August 7, 2020
MORRISVILLE – August 7, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), along with state Representatives Perry Warren (D-31) and John Galloway (D-140), announced that Morrisville Borough School District will receive a $35,050 Continuing of Education Equity Grant (CEEG) for the 2020-21 academic year from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).
CEEG grants are designed to help provide access and inclusion for all learners by bridging the gap for students who are currently limited in their ability to participate in continuity of education. These grants may be used to purchase computer equipment, such as laptops, tablets, and internet hot spots, or used towards providing instructional materials, such as paper lessons and coursework. Schools with the highest percentages of students lacking access to resources were given priority in receiving these grants.
“I am pleased to see Morrisville School District receive this critical funding to help ensure its students have the resources they need to succeed,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “During these uncertain times, our school districts need support as they work to protect the health and safety of teachers and students while providing quality education to all students. I have long advocated for funding for Morrisville School District, and will continue to urge PDE to increase funding to the district.”
“With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the transition to remote learning was challenging for schools and students,” said Rep. Warren. “Many school districts were short on the technical resources to teach remotely. This grant will help ensure that Morrisville students will have the tools required to learn remotely.”
“All of our children should have equal access to a great education,” said Rep. Galloway. “This money will help level the playing field by ensuring that Morrisville students will have the tools needed to succeed academically.”
In May, Sen. Santarsiero and Reps. Warren and Galloway sent a letter to Governor Wolf requesting supplemental funding for Morrisville School District to help purchase hot spots and Chromebooks to assist in distance learning, and to review the funding formula used to allocate state funds to the district.
For more information on PDE’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, visit the PDE website.
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August 7, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 7, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) will be hosting a virtual resource fair for LGBTQ+ seniors on Tuesday, August 11th at 7pm. The event will feature speakers from diverse organizations serving the local LGBTQ+ community.
“I am very excited to be able to offer this virtual program for our LGBTQ+ seniors,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Our speakers bring years of expertise on issues of great importance, including health and human rights. I am looking forward to a robust discussion, and value the opportunity to share resources and connect virtually with the LGBTQ+ community, despite the pandemic.”
The speakers for the event are:
- Ron Strouse, Mayor of Doylestown (Moderator)
- Dan Stewart, MSG, Assistant Director for the HRC Aging Equality Project
- Terri Clark, MPH, SAGE Care Certified Trainer
- Julia Allen, Legal Advocate for Bucks County, SeniorLAW Center
- Brendan Corbalis, Esq., Assistant Director Victims Services, SeniorLAW Center
For more information or to RSVP, and receive the link to participate, contact Nancy Adam at nancy.adam@pasenate.com or 215-489-5000. All are welcome.
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August 6, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 6, 2020 – State Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Gene Yaw (R-23), as chairs of the Pennsylvania Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, sent a letter to all members of the Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation requesting dedicated federal funding in the next stimulus bill, for the purpose of plugging abandoned and orphaned conventional oil and gas wells across the Commonwealth.
The letter notes that there are currently over 10,000 wells on the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)’s Orphan Well List awaiting plugging, along with tens of thousands of additional abandoned wells that would qualify to be plugged by DEP. The lack of resources to address these wells impacts both the environment and the conventional oil and gas industry.
“The conventional oil and gas industry has been a crucial economic and employment driver in Pennsylvania for over a century,” Sen. Yaw said. “This industry, like many others, has not been immune to the effects associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, including industry-wide layoffs. Federal stimulus dollars can get many of those unemployed back to work, while at the same time plug thousands of orphaned and abandoned conventional wells across the state.”
“This kind of investment would create hundreds of needed jobs, while also eliminating some of the most damaging pollution to our environment,” Sen. Santarsiero said, noting that dedicated federal funding for this initiative would provide DEP with the necessary resources to plug the orphaned wells, protecting our environment, while supporting the conventional oil and gas industry.
“While there are many industries competing for stimulus funding, this is a ‘win-win’ situation, as both environmental advocates and industry leaders support taking action on this issue, which will also support workers who have been hard-hit during the pandemic,” continued Santarsiero.
For more information on DEP’s Abandoned and Orphaned Well Program, visit the DEP website.
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Well Plugging – COVID Funding
August 3, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 3, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $458,136 will be going to two postsecondary schools in his district, Bucks County Community College and Delaware Valley University, to assist them in implementing public health and safety plans and help them to resume operations in the fall. Bucks County Community College will receive $366,908 and Delaware Valley University will receive $91,228. The funding is part of $28 million being distributed amongst postsecondary institutions in Pennsylvania. The amount each entity received was based on both the shares of total enrollments by each postsecondary sector and the number of socio-economically disadvantaged students served by institutions.
“I was pleased to see that Governor Wolf set aside funds from the CARES Act to support Pennsylvania’s institutions of higher learning, like Bucks County Community College and Delaware Valley University,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As our colleges and universities prepare for the upcoming semester, these funds will be critical to help keep students, faculty and staff safe. Our schools deserve our support as they overcome the unique challenges to serve our students amid the Coronavirus pandemic.”
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act authorized Governor Wolf to determine the educational use of Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Funds. For additional information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education website.
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July 28, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – July 28, 2020 – The following statement is attributable to Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) in response to the recent antisemitic social media post by Philadelphia NAACP President, Rodney Muhammad.
“Hate, in any form, cannot stand and must be condemned. I was disappointed to learn of the antisemitic post made last week by Philadelphia NAACP President Rodney Muhammad. Mr. Muhammad’s disparaging post about the Jewish people runs counter to the mission of the NAACP to ‘secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons,’ and as such, he must resign.
We are living in a powerful moment in history, where conversations about racism and discrimination are at the forefront of our local, state, and national dialogue. As all of us look for ways to end racism and unify our diverse citizenry, it is imperative that we speak out at against discrimination or bigotry of any kind.
Mr. Muhammad’s actions should not overshadow the important work that the NAACP has done as a civil rights organization. I value the work that the Bucks County Branch of the NAACP has done here in our community, and I believe that we can, and must, continue the dialogue to educate all members of our community on the importance of equality, and ending bigotry in all its forms.”
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July 24, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – July 24, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that Elcon Recycling Services will be withdrawing its applications for a proposed hazardous wastewater processing facility in Falls Township, ending a years-long fight in the community. Falls Township Supervisors had unanimously voted to reject Elcon’s proposal in April 2019, leading Elcon to appeal the decision to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
“The withdrawal of Elcon’s applications for a proposed project in Falls Township is a win for both local residents and the environment,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I have been opposed to Elcon’s proposal from the beginning and have worked, alongside residents and activists, to advocate for DEP to reject Elcon’s proposal. Today’s announcement is a victory in a hard-fought battle, led by concerned residents, to protect the health and safety of our entire community.”
Sen. Santarsiero’s opposition to the proposed facility dates back to his time in the State House, when the proposal was first announced. Since then, Sen. Santarsiero has spoken out against Elcon at public meetings, submitted public comments in opposition to the proposal, and wrote a public letter to DEP outlining his opposition to Elcon, citing concerns over deficiencies in the company’s plan, and for its repeated attempts to avoid following state law.
For more information, visit http://www.dep.pa.gov/elcon.
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July 16, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – July 16, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), along with State Representatives Perry Warren (D-31) and John Galloway (D-140), announced that Morrisville Borough will receive $227,805 from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s (PennDOT) Multimodal Transportation Fund. The funding will go toward improving the pedestrian and traffic signals at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Trenton Avenue in Morrisville Borough.
“This funding for Morrisville Borough will help make much-needed safety improvements at this busy intersection,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The forthcoming changes will help keep both pedestrians and drivers safe, while improving pedestrian access to the local businesses nearby. I am pleased to support Morrisville and its continued progress to improve the community.”
“The improvements funded by this grant will enhance both traffic safety and quality of life in Morrisville,” said Rep. Warren. “I was pleased to assist Morrisville Borough Council and the Mayor with their efforts in pursuing this funding for the benefit of their residents, neighbors and businesses.”
“This is great news for the residents of Morrisville Borough,” said Rep. Galloway. “This money can help improve the quality of life for all of the Borough.”
The Morrisville Borough project is one of 27 projects announced statewide through the Multimodal Transportation Fund. PennDOT evaluated the applications and made selections based on such criteria as safety benefits, regional economic conditions, the technical and financial feasibility, job creation, energy efficiency, and operational sustainability.
For more information on PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, please visit the PennDOT website.
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July 10, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – July 10, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced that Bucks County will receive $996,400 in Emergency Solution Grant (ESG) funding to assist in mitigating the impacts Coronavirus has had on homeless families and individuals in the county, and to prevent future homelessness. The funding is part of $19 million in federal CARES Act funds and is being distributed statewide by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
“I am pleased to see that nearly $1million in funding will be coming to Bucks County to help our homeless population and to prevent future homelessness,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The pandemic has had devastating effects on the financial security of individuals and families across the Commonwealth, including here in Bucks County. These funds will help support some of our most vulnerable residents when they most need it, and will help make a lasting impact on the fight against homelessness moving forward.”
County officials had previously indicated that there has been about a 10% increase in homelessness in Bucks County since the pandemic began.
For more information on DCED’s Emergency Solution Grants – CARES, visit the DCED website.
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June 30, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – June 30, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced that Snipes Farm and Education Center received a $3,000 mini grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Environmental Education Grant Program.
Snipes Farm, located in Falls Township, will use the grant to implement the program “Where Does Stormwater Go? Linking a School, a Town and a Farm.” Through the program, high school students will explore increased rain volumes stemming from climate change and stormwater runoff impacts on water quality, and how they can effect change in the quality of their community’s environment.
“Hands-on learning is such a valuable part of education, and I am pleased to see Snipes Farm receive this grant to benefit students in our community,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Climate change is an issue of critical importance to our future, and I am excited to see the work that both Snipes and the students will achieve toward improving the quality of our local environment.”
For more information on Snipes Farm and Education Center, visit their website.
For more information on DEP’s Environmental Education Grant Program, visit the DEP website.
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June 24, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – June 24, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced that $114,000 in funding is available to assist homeless families in finding housing and combatting homelessness across the commonwealth. The funding is through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), made available by the federal Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program.
There are six categories for eligibility, which include rapid rehousing, homelessness prevention, street outreach, homeless management information systems, and administration. Rapid rehousing helps individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness, fleeing violence, or living in a home not suitable for human habitation. Homelessness prevention resources help families or individuals who are currently housed, but may be in jeopardy of losing their homes with rental assistance and case management resources. Street outreach connects unsheltered homeless individuals with emergency shelter and/or health services. Emergency shelter funding supports costs associated with essential services, operating expenses, and renovations necessary to provide emergency shelter.
“Housing is a basic human need, and I am pleased to see resources coming to Bucks County to support some of our most vulnerable residents,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “This funding will provide critical assistance to those in need, whether it is housing those who are homeless, keeping families in their homes, or providing resources to organizations that serve these individuals.”
The funds are part of almost $5.5 million for statewide distribution. For more information, visit the DCED website.
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June 11, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – June 11, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced the award of $120,000 in grant funding through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to two organizations in Bucks County. The Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) was awarded $100,000 through the Children’s Advocacy Center Advisory Committee (CACAC) funds. The Bucks County Public Defender’s Office will receive $20,000 through the Criminal Justice Advisory Committee (CJAC) Capital Case Indigent Defense Program Funds.
“Both NOVA and the Bucks County Public Defender’s Office provide vital assistance to some of the most vulnerable residents of Bucks County,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “The CACAC grant will enable NOVA to continue their important work of advocating for children and families in need. I was also pleased to see that funds will be going to the Public Defender’s office to assist with the legal cases of indigent clients through the CJAC grant.”
“The award from PCCD will allow NOVA to expand on the exceptional forensic and counseling services that we provide to children who are the victims of sexual abuse and their families, said “Penny Ettinger, Executive Director of NOVA. In particular, we will expand our forensic interview services through the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) and specialized trauma- counseling for children who have yet to disclose their abuse directly to an adult but where there is significant concern that the abuse has occurred. NOVA is the comprehensive victim services organization in the county. The CAC is a multi-disciplinary partnership with the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office, the County Children and Youth Agency, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, and local law enforcement.”
“This is the first time the Bucks County Public Defender has received an award of funding from PCCD, and we appreciate their approval of our request,” said Ann Russavage-Faust, Chief Public Defender for the agency. “We currently have two pending capital cases and will be putting this award to immediate use on these cases.”
NOVA’s programs serve residents across Bucks County, with offices in Jamison, Perkasie and Fairless Hills. For more information about NOVA, visit their website.
The Bucks County Public Defender’s Office represents indigent defendants in all phases of criminal defense, mental health, and domestic relations proceedings. For more information about the Bucks County Public Defender’s Office, visit their website.
The CACAC seeks to promote prevention, treatment, and justice for victims of child sexual abuse and child abuse through children’s advocacy centers and multidisciplinary investigative teams throughout the Commonwealth. To learn more about the CACAC, visit the PCCD website.
The CJAC supports a comprehensive strategy to reduce crime that prioritizes evidence-based policy and practice at every stage of the Commonwealth’s justice system. To learn more about the CJAC, visit the PCCD website.
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June 9, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – June 9, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $225 million in grant programs for small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The money originated from the federal CARES Act, and was allocated through the recently passed state budget. The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) will distribute the funds to the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), which will then administer the funding in the form of grants.
Eligible businesses will be able to use the grants to cover operating expenses as they transition to re-opening, and for technical assistance including training and guidance for business owners as they stabilize and relaunch their businesses.
“As all sectors of our economy begin to re-open, these grants will provide necessary resources to aid our small businesses and ease the transition for business owners,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As guidance becomes available on how businesses can apply for these grants, I look forward to sharing that information with our small business owners and working closely with local CDFIs to ensure businesses here in Bucks County receive the support they need.”
Sen. Santarsiero also announced the award of $200,000 to two businesses in his district from the Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) COVID-19 Working Capital Access Program (CWCA). Curtin and Heefner, located in Lower Makefield Township, and Well of Life Center for Natural Health, located in Doylestown, each received the maximum amount of $100,000 through this program. This was the final round of CWCA funding, as the state moves toward re-opening.
“I am pleased that this final round of CWCA funding has brought an additional $200,000 to two businesses in my district, bringing the total amount of funds received in the 10th district to $1.4 million,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “With this last round of funding, businesses are continuing to receive critical support as we move into the yellow phase of re-opening. While this program is winding down, the positive effects on these businesses will continue to be felt as they transition into the yellow phase of re-opening.”
The CWCA Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) and provides critical working capital financing to small businesses located within the Commonwealth that are adversely impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. For more information on the CWCA program, visit the DCED website.
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May 28, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – May 28, 2020 – Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Maria Collett (D-12) were joined by State Representatives Perry Warren (D-31), Tina Davis (D-141), John Galloway (D-140) and Wendy Ullman (D-143) in asking Governor Wolf to issue an executive order permitting personal services businesses, such as barbers and salons, located in counties in the yellow or green phase to reopen with enhanced safety measures.
The letter references a plan for reopening of the personal service industry used in neighboring Ohio, developed by a personal services workgroup at the request of Ohio’s Governor. The Ohio plan includes a list of requirements and best practices for businesses to implement, such as maintaining six feet of social distancing (except between the client and employee when appropriate), requiring employees to wear facial coverings (with some exceptions), requiring businesses to clean high-touch items after each use, and requiring employees to wear gloves and dispose of gloves in between tasks.
“During a productive call with 45 barbers and hair stylists from across the Commonwealth, they shared the process for reopening their industry that is being implemented in Ohio,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Based on the precautions they recommend, paired with the hundreds of hours of training that licensed professionals in the industry receive in sanitation, sterilization and hygiene, I believe it is time to safely reopen this sector of Pennsylvania’s economy.”
“I have heard from many hair, nail, and tanning salon owners in my district, the majority of these salons being women- and minority-owned, who are ready and able to implement these expanded safety guidelines and return to serving our communities,” said Sen. Collett. “It is important that we continue to generate and propose creative solutions and compromises so that businesses in yellow phase counties can begin to resume operations and rebuild while we continue to protect the public health.”
The full text of the letter to Governor Wolf can be found here.
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May 20, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – May 20, 2020 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) was joined by almost 80 democratic colleagues in the House and Senate yesterday, in asking Governor Wolf to support our small business community by allowing for curbside pick-up at all retail stores across the Commonwealth.
During a press conference, Sen. Santarsiero spoke of the economic impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on small businesses and urged the Governor to allow all small retailers to open for curbside pick-up. Sen. Santarsiero also shared that a letter, signed by 16 Senate Democrats would be sent to the Governor with the same request. A similar letter signed by more than 60 House members from the northeast, southeast and Philadelphia regions was also sent yesterday.
“Curbside pick-up for retail will give a much-needed boost to small businesses across the Commonwealth, without sacrificing the efforts that have been made to flatten the curve,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As Bucks County and others remain in the red phase, our neighbors across the river in New Jersey are allowing curbside pick-up for all retail. Allowing curbside pick-up for all retail in Pennsylvania will help support our local small businesses and keep money here in the state.”
The letter notes the significant economic impact the Coronavirus pandemic has had on small retailers and the continued uncertainty and challenges that re-opening will bring. During the press conference, Sen. Santarsiero also emphasized that businesses in Pennsylvania have already implemented curbside pick-up for restaurants, liquor stores and other essential services.
“Over the last 10 weeks we have seen restaurants, liquor stores and essential services successfully operate curbside pick-up options for customers,” continued Sen. Santarsiero. “This existing framework can easily be expanded to all retail across the Commonwealth, giving counties still in the red phase access to goods from local small businesses.”
The full text of the letter to Governor Wolf can be found here.
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May 13, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – May 13, 2020 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) joined with Senator Katie Muth (D-44) and their Democratic colleagues in the Senate and 39 Democratic House members today to request that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court issue an order staying all eviction and foreclosure proceedings until 90 days after a county is moved from the red phase to the yellow phase of reopening.
The letter highlights the concerns of Sens. Santarsiero and Muth, and their Democratic colleagues, that a stay on evictions and foreclosures until a specific date will not adequately protect Pennsylvanians whose counties were among the first to shut down and will remain in the red phase for a longer period of time. Currently, an Executive Order from Governor Tom Wolf extends a stay on foreclosures and evictions through July 10th.
“Governor Wolf’s order to prevent foreclosures and evictions is a good step forward in providing a safety net for Pennsylvanians during these unprecedented times. I applaud the Governor and the Attorney General for their leadership on this issue; however, I believe we still need to address the hardships faced by Pennsylvanians in counties that remain in the red phase of mitigation,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “A single date for lifting the stay state-wide will have the unintended consequence of putting residents in places like Bucks County at a disadvantage. During an already stressful time, Pennsylvanians who have been out of work should know that they have some time to recover financially before they can face a possible foreclosure or eviction. Furthermore, the current stay needs to be extended to commercial evictions and foreclosures. Our small businesses need this relief so that they can get back on their feet when we enter the yellow phase without the risk of losing their stores or offices.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented unemployment rates as well as numerous small businesses struggling to survive. This puts both individuals and “mom and pop” business owners in a dire financial situation with many who are struggling to pay their mortgages or rents,” said Sen. Muth. “Our job, as legislators, is to make sure we are advocating for regulation and creating laws that would directly benefit those we are elected to represent. Our request protects Pennsylvanian homes and businesses no matter what county they are in and gives people options on how to manage the diverse range of financial problems this pandemic has instigated. Ultimately, it gives a voice to so many who feel left behind.”
“As Pennsylvanians continue to face the realities of a life-threatening pandemic, economic hardship and uncertainty, the last thing they should be worried about is losing the roof over their heads,” Senator Maria Collett (D-12) said. “Extending the stay on evictions and foreclosures will provide families, workers, and small businesses much-needed peace of mind.”
“We cannot compound the devastation Pennsylvanians have experienced by immediately moving to kick people out of their homes and businesses when the governor’s order expires,” Senator Vincent Hughes (D-7) said. “Many of these folks have been waiting on assistance that has been insufficient, delayed or has not come at all. That is why it is critical that we are mindful of the realities that people are facing and show some measure of compassion as a response to this crisis.”
“The recovery of Pennsylvania’s economy is inextricably linked to the survival of our small business communities,” Senator Sharif Street (D-3) said. “The livelihoods of our displaced workforce and small business owners depend on how much time they are afforded to recover economically. We must ensure their stability by providing protection from foreclosure and eviction for 90 days past the critical phase of this pandemic, unique to each county.”
“The extension of the moratorium on evictions is important to help our renters receive much-needed, temporary relief,” Senator John Blake (D-22) said. “The moratorium on evictions should, however, also apply to our commercial renters trying to keep their business in business. It is also important to reassure our landlords that any forbearance on current payments must ultimately be made by renters in accordance with binding rental agreements or leases.”
The full text of the letter to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court can be found here.
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May 5, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – May 5, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced the award of $400,000 to four businesses in his district from Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) COVID-19 Working Capital Access Program (CWCA).
Briarwood Recreation located in Furlong, Baldwin Publishing located in Washington Crossing, Gemini Plastics located in Fallsington, and Roger S. Wright Furniture located in Hilltown Township each received the maximum amount of $100,000 through this program.
“I was pleased to see four local businesses in my district receive funding from DCED,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “With each round of CWCA funding, more and more businesses are receiving the resources they need to support their businesses during these unprecedented times. I encourage local businesses to continue to apply for these, and other resources, made available through the state.”
The CWCA Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) and provides critical working capital financing to small businesses located within the Commonwealth that are adversely impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. For more information on the CWCA program, visit the DCED website.
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May 1, 2020
MORRISVILLE − May 1, 2020 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and state Representatives Perry Warren (D-31) and John Galloway (D-140) held a virtual press conference today to discuss the critical need for funding to support Morrisville School District. They were joined by representatives of Morrisville School District and Morrisville Borough.
The legislators called on Governor Tom Wolf and the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) to review demographic data that has been used to calculate the state funding Morrisville School District receives. The shortfall in funding stems from an unintended consequence in the way that both the existing and new funding formulas are calculated for Morrisville (a conclusion supported by the fact that even under the new, so-called fair funding formula, Morrisville actually receives less support from the state than under the older allocation).
For the 2020-21 fiscal year, the formulas are based in part on a projected 5-year median household income in Morrisville of nearly $75,000, well above some of the most challenged districts in the state. But that number is not accurate. It is not limited to the income of people living within the municipal – and, therefore, school district – boundaries of Morrisville Borough. Instead, it includes large numbers of residents in nearby Lower Makefield Township and Yardley Borough, who share the 19067 zip code with their neighbors in Morrisville. When looking only at Morrisville residents, the median household income drops to $53,000. As a consequence of this issue, Morrisville School District has been unfairly underfunded for a number of years.
“Despite the school board’s prudent management of the district finances, Morrisville School District continues to suffer blatant inequity due to a calculation error in the funding formula. Through no fault of their own, the students, teachers, and support staff of Morrisville are forced to bear this burden,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “There is a constitutional obligation to provide ‘a thorough and efficient system of public education’ to all of Pennsylvania’s children, and even during our current public health crisis, this remains one of our most important responsibilities and is why we’re requesting this critical assistance.”
“The funding formula deals with 500 different school districts in an incredibly diverse state,” said Rep. Galloway. “There are going to be anomalies, and one of those was Morrisville.”
Since 2015, Morrisville School District and its elected officials in the Pennsylvania House and Senate, have been working with the administration of Governor Wolf to provide Morrisville’s schools with $1 million in supplemental funding each fiscal year to help close the gap. However, even with this supplemental funding, it is increasingly difficult for the district to survive. For example, in the 2020-21 school year, the district is faced with a budget deficit of close to $1.2 million.
“I’ve spent a lot of time in the Morrisville school district, reading to the kids at Grandview, walking the halls of the high school with Superintendent Harris and Board President Miller, attending football games and other events, and it is a special place,” said Rep. Warren. “The $1 million extra funding is more than a band-aid, it’s a bandage, but it is and always has been a short-term fix. We need a real long term funding solution. Our kids deserve to continue to have the great educational and co-curricular opportunities that we, the board, administration, teachers and staff, and the community have worked so hard to provide for them.”
“Morrisville is more than just numbers,” said Morrisville Superintendent Jason Harris. “In spite of the volatility in the costs to educate students and meet mandated costs, our Board, staff and administration have supported programs which have yielded some remarkable results… School budgets are a constant source of strain and stress on any district. However, in Morrisville, with its limited tax base and other streams of revenue, spikes in Special Education costs put an even greater strain on an already strapped resource. The District often relies on the use of grants to support programs.”
“Despite the efforts Morrisville School District has made regarding educational opportunities and facility upgrades, the continuation and sustainability of those efforts are in jeopardy,” said Damon Miller, President of the School Board of the Borough of Morrisville. “The issues and effects of these trends the Morrisville School District faces are not ones that will stop at the school district borders. As Morrisville declines, so too will neighboring communities as those effects bleed into our surrounding townships. We are asking for the state to step in and provide assistance in not only helping the students of Morrisville receive an equitable education as their peers in surrounding districts, but also the Morrisville community as a whole.”
“Even though the district and the borough government are separate entities, we are attached at the hip,” said Ted Parker, Morrisville Borough Council President. “The district has not been receiving what it should from the state.”
The funding issue has further been exacerbated during the Coronavirus pandemic, as distance learning replaced traditional classroom learning. Nearly 600 of the over 800 students in Morrisville School District currently do not have the resources to participate in distance learning. Morrisville School District applied for the Continuity of Education and Equity Grant (CEEG) to help fund the purchase of Chromebooks and hotspots, but the application was denied, likely in part due to the same flaw in calculating the level of need in Morrisville described above.
In light of this discrepancy, Sen. Santarsiero, Reps. Warren and Galloway, and representatives from Morrisville Borough and Morrisville School District joined together in requesting assistance from the Office of the Governor, that an amount equivalent to what the district would have received under the CEEG program be granted to the school district as soon as possible so that Morrisville can purchase the needed equipment in time to cover the remainder of this school year.
The full text of the letter sent to Governor Wolf is available here.
The full recording of the press conference is available here.
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April 29, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – April 29, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) joined his Democratic colleagues for a virtual press conference to unveil the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus’ plan to allocate federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds Wednesday morning.
The Pennsylvania CARES Plan, which is supported by the entire caucus, offers a set of spending priorities to best use the $3.9 billion in federal CARES ACT funding the commonwealth is set to receive. A major focus of the PA CARES Plan would fund initiatives that help individuals and families, such as housing assistance programs, student debt relief, veterans’ assistance, utility assistance, and food bank support.
Other aspects of the proposal would allocate additional assistance to frontline workers, funding for the health care industry and its workers, small business grants, and much-needed support communities disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. School districts and local governments would also receive support to help offset pandemic-related expenses.
“I am proud to stand with my colleagues in support of the Pennsylvania CARES Plan.” Sen. Santarsiero said. “I have been hearing from small business owners, families, school districts and frontline workers across Bucks County about the vital need for resources to help get them through these uncertain times. The proposed spending plan provides needed support for our communities and businesses that have been hardest hit during the Coronavirus pandemic. The PA Cares Plan ensures the nearly $4 billion in one-time federal funds that we will receive is allocated to those that are providing the goods and services Pennsylvanians rely on each day as we navigate this health crisis.”
Highlights of the PA CARES plan include:
- $1.1 billion for assistance for working people
- $900 million for education and childcare initiatives
- $650 million for health care industry & frontline workers assistance
- $425 million for small businesses
- $350 million for local government assistance
- $300 million for historically disadvantaged communities
The Senate Democrats’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic remains focused on helping working people, families and Pennsylvania’s small businesses. Members of the caucus have a number of proposals to address COVID-19 relief and recovery efforts in Pennsylvania.
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April 27, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – April 27, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced the award of $375,000 to four businesses in his district from Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) COVID-19 Working Capital Access Program (CWCA).
J.B. Kimmel & Company located in Sellersville Borough, Kalaimagal Corporation located in Falls Township, and Curious Kids Inc in New Britain Township each received $100,000, which is the maximum amount that can be paid through this program. Maryanne Pastry Shoppe, Inc. in Doylestown Borough received $75,000.
“I am thrilled to see four businesses in my district receive these much needed funds through the CWCA program,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “There is still much more that needs to be done to help our local businesses. I hope to see additional funds from the state and federal governments quickly made available to businesses in need.”
The CWCA Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) and provides critical working capital financing to small businesses located within the Commonwealth that are adversely impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. For more information on the CWCA program, visit the DCED website.
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April 20, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – April 20, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) joined his colleagues today in calling for the passage of Senate Bill 1114 (SB 1114), which would protect small businesses that are currently experiencing business losses due to the novel Coronavirus.
While ordinarily a business may have insurance to account for losses that it sustains related to business interruptions, due to a provision that was added into insurance policies in 2006, following the SARS outbreak, there is an exception for claims due to viruses or bacteria. SB 1114 would allow for businesses to have continued coverage during the virus outbreak and would allow for insured businesses to purchase a rider for coverage due to the virus.
“I have been hearing from small businesses across Bucks County that have had business interruption insurance claims denied because of the exemption for viruses,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “It is vital that during this time we do everything we can to protect our businesses and make sure they are able to receive the insurance support they need. Whether it is car dealerships, law firms, construction companies, restaurants, or other businesses, we must ensure that when it is safe to re-open our economy, our small businesses are ready and able to serve their customers.”
Pennsylvania is one of several states, including New Jersey, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, and Louisiana, currently considering such a legislative fix.
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April 8, 2020
Harrisburg, PA − April 8, 2020 − The Senate adjourned Tuesday afternoon after the House Republicans indicated they would not be taking up Senate Bill 841, legislation that would have enabled local municipalities to hold their meetings remotely, permitted e-notary use; lengthened the time period a property tax payer can receive an early payment discount and delay penalties for late payments to Dec. 31st; and allowed businesses to make delayed payments on EITC. Another important amendment offered by Senator Pam Iovino (D-Allegheny) allowed school districts to renegotiate contracts to ensure contracted school workers can get paid and continue to receive benefits.
The amended SB 841 passed the Senate with bipartisan support. While the Senate Democrats and Republicans chose to put partisan difference aside, the House Republicans were pushing to please special interests and big donors. Intending to use this crisis as leverage, Speaker Turzai and his caucus passed legislation to prematurely allow businesses to reopen during this public health crisis and create a partisan task force to interfere with the Governor’s disaster response, both of which unnecessarily risk lives and threaten to expend the emergency.
“While the Governor and Department of Health Secretary offer leadership on public safety in daily briefings and Democratic members of the PA House and Senate draft legislation to protect working people who are either out of work or employed on the front lines of essential businesses, Republicans are putting lives at risk and undermining the Governor and Secretary Levine’s best efforts to end this crisis,” said Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa, Jr. “Instead of taking the advice of our Health Secretary, they are trying to slow down our response and hasten the re-opening of non-essential businesses against the guidance of every public health entity in the country.”
The House Republicans were seeking even more egregious measures to provide civil immunity to big businesses, upend school districts ability to pay their teachers, and leave our corrections department employees at serious threat of the Coronavirus. Perhaps worst of all, the language does nothing to protect frontline workers, provide assistance to those that are out of work, or to help small businesses weather this crisis.
In an amendment to Senate Bill 327, House Republicans designed a task force with partisan appointees to usurp the Governor’s ability to rapidly respond to this quickly-evolving crisis. Their bill would require the Secretary of Health to leave PEMA, take hours away from public health crisis planning and defend her work in front of a redundant, political body.
The Senate Democratic Caucus will not support these bills. Alternatively, this caucus will be supporting legislation on the following issues:
- The American Working Family Relief Action Plan for front-line worker protections (Collett/L. Williams)
- Protecting workers during public health emergencies (Santarsiero)
- COVID-19 Food Worker Safety Act (Tartaglione)
- COVID-19 Grocery Store Worker Safety Act (Tartaglione)
- Payment of contract services in schools (Iovino)
- Childcare assistance (Schwank/L. Williams)
- Emergency expansion of the Family Medical Leave Act to provide paid sick leave (Farnese)
- Crisis grants for volunteer fire and EMS companies due to COVID-19 (Brewster)
- Require business interruption insurance to cover COVID-19 related business closures (Hughes)
- Eviction protection for all disaster emergencies (Farnese)
- Coronavirus disease and schools: allowing for online instruction (Dinniman)
- Creating a Common Wealth Fund to collect donations from individuals to provide for essential needs of those in need (AH Williams)
- Providing a presumption of eligibility for Workers’ Compensation benefits for workers that get sick in the workplace (Tartaglione)
- Ensuring receipt of a stimulus check from the Federal government is not included in an individual’s income for purposes of qualifying for social safety nets (Schwank)
- Exempting stimulus checks from the Federal government from State and local taxation (Brewster)
- Collaborating with financial institutions to mandate mortgage loan forgiveness, assistance to homeowners that were laid off due to state emergencies (Farnese)
“While many working Pennsylvanians are suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic, facing lost hours or even complete unemployment, others who find themselves in more fortunate circumstances have expressed a desire to help their fellow citizens by either donating to a local charity or patronizing local businesses,” said Senator Anthony H. Williams. “By establishing the “Pennsylvania Common Wealth” restricted account, taxpayers could redirect all or a portion of their stimulus check to the state, which in turn would be authorized to direct those funds into programs which help the neediest Pennsylvanians – property tax & rent rebates, temporary assistance for needy families, CHIP or medical assistance.”
“Pennsylvania needs solutions that help protect its working people who have been hit the hardest by the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic,” Senator Vincent Hughes said. “We in the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus have put forth a number of policy proposals that would do just that, meanwhile House Republicans have chosen to ignore these needs and push an agenda that jeopardizes public health and puts additional pressure on working people by delaying immediate relief. Our mission should be helping people in this unprecedented time of need and we will remain vigilant in protecting hardworking folks across the commonwealth.”
“As public servants, our most important duty is to protect the health, safety and welfare of our citizens. This includes making difficult decisions in challenging times. We all want businesses to reopen, employees back on the job, students back in classrooms and some semblance of normal life to resume, but that cannot happen unless we first continue mitigation efforts and follow the advice of our scientists and experts,” said Senator Wayne D. Fontana. “Anything contrary can set back progress and cause further harm on our economy and most importantly, on human health. The bipartisan legislation the Senate approved provides some necessary guidance and relief to local governments, businesses, school employees and property taxpayers during this unprecedented situation. It is unconscionable that House Republicans blatantly disregarded that duty and have chosen not to act.”
“The spread of coronavirus has not quieted the voice of special interests in Harrisburg and that’s tragic,” said Senator Larry Farnese. “Mitigation through isolation is working and we have to recognize that sacrifice through legislation that actually helps front-line workers instead of just saying nice things on social media.”
“This crisis and the Commonwealth’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic requires leadership, transparency and cooperation – not partisan politics,” said Senator John Blake. “While we’ve worked well with the Senate majority on real solutions that actually help people in this crisis, the House majority looks to undermine the executive authority of the Governor as well as the advice of medical and scientific experts regarding public health. I applaud the work being done by Governor Wolf and his administration to keep Pennsylvanians safe and to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. I will continue to support important legislation to help our business community, front-line workers and medical professionals; and to protect our citizens, schools and local governments across this state. We need to remain vigilant in following the recommendations of the PA Department of Health and the federal CDC.”
“Issues that the Commonwealth was already facing have been exacerbated by this pandemic, and child care services and early learning programs are near the top of the list. Childcare centers are teetering on the brink of insolvency, which is why part of our legislative package addresses early childhood learning and safe, quality childcare. We will not be able to restart Pennsylvania’s economy without this key component,” Senator Judy Schwank said. “Additionally, it’s vital that the income requirements of state programs like PACENET and Property Tax and Rent Rebate are adjusted so that Pennsylvanians receiving federal aid are not penalized later.”
“The key to an effective response to the pandemic is to ensure that our citizens are protected, health risks are addressed, and our economy restarts quickly,” Senator Jim Brewster said. “That’s why I introduced a six-point stimulus plan that will help small business, protect workers and create jobs once we are clear the threat posed by the pandemic. In addition, we need to make sure to address the immediate and long-term needs of first responders and all workers and businesses who are providing essential services during this time of extraordinary stress.”
“There is no segment of our Commonwealth that hasn’t been upended by this crisis. Everything is a priority. But in order to save livelihoods, we must first save lives,” said Senator Maria Collett. “As a nurse, I know firsthand the challenges our health care workers are up against and the urgency of passing legislation like the American Working Family Relief Action Plan for Front-Line Workers. Our doctors, nurses, first responders, senior care aides and others should not have to worry about getting sick or infecting others while performing their essential work.”
“It is irresponsible for the state to reopen businesses at the height of the COVID-19 outbreak. Those who are not essential workers should remain home,” said Senator Art Haywood. “We need to do all we can as legislators to support essential employees risking their lives on a daily basis,” said Senator Haywood (D-Montgomery/Philadelphia). “I will continue to support the work Governor Wolf and Secretary Levine have done to inform the public to remain safe and stay home.”
“The citizens of Pennsylvania are counting on their elected representatives to save lives by responding swiftly, pragmatically, and in a bipartisan manner to slow the spread of this highly contagious virus,” said Senator Pam Iovino. “To fulfill our duty to the public, we must follow the consensus guidance of public health professionals, focus on protecting front-line essential workers, and put in place protections that allow furloughed or unemployed workers and small businesses to weather the economic disruption.”
“As the Democratic chair of the Local Government Committee, I worked with stakeholders for weeks to craft the provisions of SB 841, I am disappointed these commonsense measures, which passed the Senate with bipartisan support, are being held up by House Republicans for little reason,” said Senator Tim Kearney. “The House should immediately pass SB 841 and focus on bringing relief to Pennsylvanians, rather than sabotaging the Governor’s efforts to keep our families safe.”
“Yesterday, the majority party in both chambers failed to use their legislative power, where they can literally pass any bill they want to, and instead decided to pack up and go home without,” said Senator Katie Muth. “Failing to pass meaningful bills when people are fighting for their lives is simply negligent.”
“Now is not the time to play politics,” said Senator Steve Santarsiero. “Saving lives has to be the first priority. In order to do that, we must all do our part and follow the Governor’s and Department of Health’s plans as they’ve been explained to us countless times. SB 841 is just one of many ways our caucus has worked in a bipartisan effort to provide relief to those who need it most. However, SB 327 is exactly what our healthcare professionals warn us against. Promoting a premature return to normalcy will only undermine our effort to keep the public safe, and further endanger thousands of lives.”
“Government’s most important role is the protection of its people. Since the COVID-19 crisis the Senate has met three times, with little to show for it. Communities across the commonwealth have no interest in the paralysis of government especially in the most desperate of times. What they do care about is the protection of our essential workforce, the interruption of our small businesses, job loss, staying in their homes and educating their children. The only thing that matters is the preservation and protection of every resource needed to keep families safe during this health crisis,” said Senator Sharif Street.
“We need to be back in Harrisburg, we need to get back to work. We must work together to ensure our communities are protected during uncertain times.”
“As thousands of Pennsylvanians continue to get sick and hundreds die, now is no time to play partisan politics,” Senator Tina Tartaglione said. “As public leaders, we must unite behind the common goal of reducing the threat of this virus and mitigating the harm being done to our constituents. The package of bills we have proposed will directly help all Pennsylvania families, including essential workers, displaced workers, first responders, school children, those who have become sick, and those in need. I urge all legislators from all political parties to support these bills.”
“Stopping the spread of COVID-19 and saving lives is our top priority. We also need to protect and support our constituents, our communities, and our businesses,” said Senator Lindsey Williams. “Our front-line essential workers – our hospital workers, grocery store workers, emergency service personnel and others – cannot afford to wait for PPE. They needed it weeks ago. Our childcare facilities need our help to stay open and provide care to the children of our essential workers while they risk their lives for us. Our small businesses need financial support to stay afloat. Our municipalities need the ability to meet remotely and make decisions that will ensure the safety of all of residents. There are a lot of needs right now and our constituents do not have time for us to waste playing partisan games or naming bridges. The Senate Democrats have offered concrete solutions that will help people. We should all be working together to get them to the Governor’s desk for signature as soon as possible.”
More information on the work of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus during the COVID-19 crisis can be found at pasenate.com/covid19.
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April 3, 2020
EAST ROCKHILL TOWNSHIP – April 3, 2020 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced that the lease agreement for mining at Rockhill Quarry has been terminated. The decision to terminate the lease has been agreed to by Hanson (the owner) and Pierson (the contract operator) for the property. Hanson has also requested an extension to respond to comments requested by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
“The termination of Pierson’s lease to mine at the quarry is a tremendous victory for the residents of East Rockhill Township, who have been tirelessly fighting to protect the health and safety of everyone in the community,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “While we know that there is a strong possibility that Hanson will pursue further testing and will try to resume activities at the quarry at some point in the future, the lack of an active operator at Rockhill Quarry is a huge step in the right direction. I will continue to work with REPA, the township and our state and federal officials to prohibit mining, crushing and asphalt activities at the site. The presence of asbestos at the quarry makes those activities inherently dangerous no matter who operates there.”
“The testing for asbestos at the Rockhill Quarry is a major concern with the residents of East Rockhill Township,” Katie Zackon of Rockhill Environmental Preservation Alliance (REPA) said. “REPA requests that PADEP does not accept the extension, and requires Hanson to respond to PADEP’s comments as scheduled for April 6, 2020. REPA continues to request that PADEP require that all operations at the Rockhill Quarry permanently cease.”
Sen. Santarsiero will be working closely with DEP to keep informed of any requests to transfer the permits or begin a new contract. Sen. Santarsiero has previously called for the permanent closure of the quarry, citing community health risks due to findings of asbestos at the site. Mining operations have been temporarily halted since late 2018 when DEP confirmed positive tests of naturally occurring asbestos at the quarry.
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