October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Shelby Labs (R-143) announced $1,666,030 in state funds they have secured from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for the Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company.
“I am incredibly grateful for the time and service of the Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company firefighters who serve our community, and I enthusiastically supported the fire company’s application for funding to renovate and rebuild various parts of the fire station,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting our request to dedicate RACP funds for the Plumsteadville Fire Company, which will provide the fire company a state-of-the-art facility with which to serve the community.”
“The new and renovated stations will bring improved safety to our communities,” Labs said, “and it will give our first responders a better place to do their invaluable job of protecting us.”
The grant funds will be used for re-construction of the recently demolished Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company’s Sub-Station #20 and for renovations to their main station #24. These renovations and rebuilding projects will replace the existing, outdated structure, bringing it up to code and ensuring safe operation for years to come.
“This grant application was successful due to the collaborative efforts of the Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company, Plumstead Township Board of Supervisors, and Bedminster Township Board of Supervisors,” said Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company President Charlie Rumble. “We want to acknowledge Senator Santarsiero, Representative Labs and their staff members for advocating for this public safety project.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects 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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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced $1.3 million in state funds from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for Bristol Borough to redevelop multiple properties along Chestnut and Elm Streets in the Borough.
“Bristol Borough has seen great economic growth and revitalization in recent years, attracting new businesses and residents to the area. The redevelopment of the vacant properties at Chestnut and Elm Streets will help the Borough continue to expand its appeal and breathe new life into the area,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for allocating RACP funds for this project, which will help Bristol Borough complete a vision two decades in the making.”
“I am so proud that Sen. Santasiero and I were able to secure $1.3 million in RACP funding to redevelop the vacant properties at Chestnut and Elm Streets,” Rep. Davis said. “This funding will help to rehabilitate these dilapidated properties and help rejuvenate the entire area. This redevelopment is one more sign of Bristol Borough’s revitalization.”
The project is a partnership between Bristol Borough and the Redevelopment Authority of Bucks County to complete a project to revitalize properties along Elm & Chestnut Streets in Bristol Borough. Specifically, the funds will used to purchase seven units on Chestnut Street, clearing the way for the demolition and redevelopment of vacant units in the area.
“This project is so vital to the continuing Renaissance of Bristol Borough,” said Bristol Borough Council President Ralph DiGuiseppe. “On behalf of Council and Mayor DiGuiseppe, I would like to thank Senator Steve Santarsiero and Representative Tina Davis for their hard work to bring this crucial funding back to Bristol Borough.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects 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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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced $1 million in state funds from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) will go to the Croydon Fire Company for the construction of a new Emergency Services Building.
“I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting our request to dedicate RACP funds for the Croydon Fire Co Emergency Services Building project, which will provide the fire company a modern facility from which to serve the community,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The upgraded space will streamline fire station operations, ensuring the volunteers of the Croydon Fire Company have the resources they need to respond to community emergencies safely and efficiently.”
“I am proud to work with Senator Santarsiero to bring this critical funding back to our district,” Rep. Davis said. “This $1 million in grant money will help expand and renovate the Croydon Fire Company’s Emergency Services Building. The renovated building’s upgraded operations will enable its firefighters to more quickly get to residents in danger. This is literally life-saving funding and I thank Governor Wolf for approving its allocation.”
The renovation will be a two phased project. The first phase will entail the demolition of the existing building and site work. Phase two will be the construction of the new building. The new building will contain an engine room, an enhanced decontamination area for equipment, office space, and living quarters.
“Our organization is a completely volunteer fire company that serves a very challenging area, protecting residents, schools, and businesses between an industrial chemical plant, three major highways, and the Delaware River,” said Croydon Fire Company President Bob Struble. “This funding is crucial to allowing us to make the necessary improvements to our station to meet these challenges. We are grateful to Sen. Santarsiero and Rep. Tina Davis for the incredible efforts.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects 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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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $500,000 in state funds from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) will go to the renovation and expansion of the Craft Barn at Pine Run, which is part of Doylestown Health System, creating new and renovated activity space for the community.
“The Craft Barn renovation and expansion project would be a welcome addition to Doylestown Hospital’s growing campus, creating an enhanced space for creative activities that residents and visitors can use,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting my request to dedicate RACP funds for this project, which will help Doylestown Hospital continue to provide quality care for residents and outreach to the broader Doylestown community.”
The space will gain a new front entrance, gathering area, new studios, a larger and improved wood shop, a pottery studio, and several other upgrades and safety improvements.
“We sincerely appreciate the support of Senator Santarsiero and Governor Wolf to this very important project not only for the Villagers of Pine Run but for the entire community as a way to support creative and active lifestyles for our seniors,” said Jim Brexler, President & CEO of Doylestown Health.
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects 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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October 21, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 21, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today $630,000 in state funds to support and grow The Rainbow Room, ensuring the LGBTQ+ youth center’s continued presence in Doylestown and previewing a new, second location in Lower Bucks County.
The Senator was joined by Melissa Reed, CEO & President of Planned Parenthood Keystone, Marlene Pray, Director of The Rainbow Room, parents and youth of The Rainbow Room and clergy, to discuss the importance of supporting and expanding the organization to reach more youth.
“The Rainbow Room has been an important part of the Bucks County LGBTQ+ community for 20 years, and this investment will ensure the future of The Rainbow Room is robust and bright,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I have seen first-hand the immense benefit The Rainbow Room offers LBGTQ+ youth and their families in Bucks County. At a time in their lives with so much pressure and scrutiny, The Rainbow Room provides a safe and nurturing space for these young people to find community, education, and empowerment.”
“This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Rainbow Room and an already special milestone becomes even more memorable with this grant. The expansion of the Rainbow Room means that more LGBTQ+ youth have access to the peer support, education, and resources they need to be their authentic selves,” stated Marlene Pray, Founder and Regional Director of LGBTQ+ Youth Education.
“We are honored to be recipients of this grant that will expand LGBTQ+ youth programming in Bucks County. Senator Santarsiero is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ youth, and we are thankful for this support in making this expansion possible. Now the Rainbow Room will have two locations in Bucks County to ensure that LGBTQ+ youth have a safe and supportive space all their own. In the face of attacks on and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, this grant empowers us to stand up in the face of bigotry and provide more educational programming and resources to youth,” stated Melissa Reed, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Keystone.
SueAnn Devito, the parent of a Rainbow Room youth member echoed support for the organization saying, “The most difficult thing as a parent of an LGBTQ youth was fearing for my daughter’s safety. I am eternally grateful for the safe space that Rainbow Room provided her. In addition to having a safe place to gather, she and her friends learned about healthy relationships, holding safe space for others, and civic engagement-positively shaping all of their lives. The Rainbow Room has had a long lasting and profound impact they have all carried into adulthood.”
An initiative of Planned Parenthood Keystone, The Rainbow Room, which opened in 2002, is Bucks County’s LGBTQ+ youth center, which provides a supportive, brave and empowering environment and dynamic programs for youth ages 14-21. Currently, The Rainbow Room has one location at 186 E. Court Street in Doylestown, PA.
Additional information on The Rainbow Room can be found here.
The full press conference can be viewed here.
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October 12, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 12, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced fourteen school entities in his district will receive a combined $4,103,231 in state funds to support programs related to student mental health and school safety. Senator Santarsiero has been advocating for this funding, in partnership with Sandy Hook Promise, to provide schools across the Commonwealth with the resources necessary to keep children safe and prevent acts of violence in school.
The awarded amounts are as follows:
- Bristol Borough School District: $240,422
- Bristol Township School District: $410,042
- Central Bucks School District: $721,540
- Council Rock School District: $510,470
- Morrisville Borough School District: $229,175
- New Hope-Solebury School District: $239,821
- Pennridge School District: $404,212
- Pennsbury School District: $507,549
- Bucks County Intermediate Unit 22: $140,000
- Bucks County Technical High School: $140,000
- Middle Bucks Institute of Technology: $140,000
- Upper Bucks County Technical School: $140,000
- Bucks County Montessori Charter School: $140,000
- Center for Student Learning Charter School at Pennsbury: $140,000
“This funding is critical to helping our schools implement programs to keep students safe and better equip teachers and students with the skills necessary to stop potential acts of violence or suicide,” said Senator Santarsiero. “The pressure on our students and teachers is greater now than ever before. Evidence-based programs to support the health and safety of those in our schools will help keep our schools safe and allow students to focus on what they are in school to do—learn and grow.”
Senator Santarsiero first announced the availability of $200 million in this year’s budget to address student mental health and school safety during an August 18th press conference in Lower Makefield Township where he was joined by Mark Barden, Founder and CEO of Sandy Hook Promise, a non-profit group based in Newtown, Connecticut, led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the 2012 mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
The program is based on Senator Santarsiero’s Senate Bill 1263, the Safety and Violence Education (SAVE) Students Act, which would require schools to implement at least one hour, or a standard class period, per year of suicide prevention training, violence prevention training, and social inclusion training to students in grades six through twelve. Sandy Hook Promise advocates across the country for this training to be mandatory.
“As a society, we have an obligation to support our children and keep them safe,” Senator Santarsiero said during the August event. “To do that, we must focus on mental health issues in our schools. Every district across the Commonwealth should be taking advantage of this funding and implementing evidence-based programs to effectively teach youth and adults how to prevent school violence, shootings, and other harmful acts.”
Senator Santarsiero emphasized that while this program funding is important, there is still work to be done.
“We really do need to have these programs across the Commonwealth, in every school. I’d like to see a uniform approach spearheaded by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, which is why passing SB 1263 is still important,” he said.
Additional information about the School Mental Health and Safety and Security Grant funds can be found at https://www.pccd.pa.gov/schoolsafety/.
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September 23, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – September 23, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and State Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced today that Bristol Township will receive $255,000 in state funding for a watershed restoration project.
The project will improve the existing swales along Mill Creek near Plumbridge Drive in the township, helping to combat erosion of the existing swales and prevent the flow of sediment into the creek.
“Vegetated bioswales are an environmentally-friendly way to manage stormwater runoff and protect water quality in our local creeks,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Solutions like what Bristol Township is implementing here will preserve our natural resources while strengthening our infrastructure to combat increasingly severe weather.”
Bristol Township Manager Randee Elton described the project, noting, “With this funding, the Township has the opportunity to implement stormwater projects in an effort to reduce sediment in our waterways. The focus area is along the wooded section of Mill Creek adjacent to the Plumbridge Drive. The existing swales exhibit signs of severe erosion occurring and lacks vegetation which allows sediment to flow directly into Mill Creek. The proposed installation of vegetated swales will improve Mill Creek to protect water quality, promote groundwater recharge, and provide a reduction of pollutants to the waterways.”
“This state grant award will help implement the Plumbridge BMP Vegetated Bioswales project in Bristol Township whose goal is to reduce runoff and ensure that it is cleaner and better for the environment,” Davis said. “As we are affected by increasingly violent storms due to climate change, we must be innovative and resourceful in our approaches to mitigating their impact on our communities. This money will help us implement one such innovation in Bristol Township’s infrastructure.”
Council President Craig Bowen said, “The Township of Bristol is committed to preserving its natural resources and with the acceptance of this grant funding we are one step closer to that goal.”
For more information on the Watershed Restoration and Protection Program, visit the DCED website.
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September 21, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – September 21, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and State Representatives John Galloway (D-140) and Tina Davis (D-141) announced today that Bristol Borough will receive $110,000 in state funding for a watershed restoration project benefitting the Borough.
The project will create a vegetated swale at the wooded area between Green and Howell Streets in Bristol Borough. The existing swale has severe erosion, little-to-no vegetation in the flow area, and sediment buildup.
“As we see increased rainfall and flooding impact the residents of Bristol Borough, it is clear we need to implement solutions that help protect the homes and businesses in the area, while combating the devastating effects of climate change,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Vegetated swales, like the one that will be constructed on Howell Street, will use native plants to help manage stormwater runoff, filter pollutants and improve water infiltration.”
Converting the existing stormwater swale to a vegetated bioswale will help effectively treat and control the runoff going into the swale by filtering out pollutants and sediments, slowing runoff, and promoting infiltration. Native plants with deep roots and grasses will assist in building up the soil structure and allow water to infiltrate the ground more easily.
“This money will provide critical assistance to Bristol Borough in reducing the impact of heavy rainfall on our communities by constructing the Howell Street Vegetated Swale,” Rep. Galloway said. “We need support from our local, state and federal government to prepare our communities’ infrastructure for the increasingly violent impact of climate change. This state grant is a step in the right direction.”
“As we are affected by increasingly violent storms, we must be innovative and resourceful in our approaches to mitigating their impact on our communities,” Rep. Davis said. “It’s not enough to have innovative ideas—we need the money, too, to make these ideas reality, and the Commonwealth has thankfully provided critical fiscal support to Bristol Borough so it can implement one such innovation to its infrastructure.”
Bristol Borough Manager James Dillon echoed the environmental impact of the project saying, “Borough Council will be grateful for this grant, which will be used to benefit the environment.”
For more information on the Watershed Restoration and Protection Program, visit the DCED website.
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September 16, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – September 16, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit has upheld the June 2021 decision to allow a ban on fracking in the Delaware River Basin in a lawsuit to protect the drinking water for millions of Pennsylvanians.
In his opinion, Circuit Judge Julio Fuentes dismissed the appeal filed by the Republican Caucus and several municipalities for lack of standing to bring the case. “What Plaintiffs-Appellants cannot do is seek redress in federal court for broad institutional injuries about which they have no standing to complain,” Judge Fuentes wrote in his opinion.
“The drinking water of five million Pennsylvanians will remain safe from the hazardous environmental effects of fracking with today’s court opinion,” said Senator Santarsiero. “The Republican Caucus has once again been stopped in their misguided effort to overturn the now-permanent ban on fracking in the Delaware River. This is good news for the future of our water supply and our environment.”
The appeal stemmed from a June 2021 order entered by Judge Diamond in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania that dismissed, with prejudice, the claims of the Senate Republican Caucus based on lack of standing to bring the lawsuit. Damascus and Dyberry Townships, and Carbon and Wayne Counties, local government plaintiffs in the lawsuit, also had claims dismissed at the time.
The Republican Senate Caucus filed the lawsuit in an attempt to overturn the Delaware River Basin Commission’s now-permanent ban on fracking in the Delaware Basin. In March 2021, Senate Democrats intervened in the lawsuit and were later joined by Bucks and Montgomery Counties. The intervening parties together filed a motion to dismiss, arguing the plaintiffs lacked standing.
Court filings and previous announcements on this matter can be found here.
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September 13, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – September 13, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that Doylestown Borough was awarded a grant for $250,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) for the further development of Broad Commons Park.
The expansion of Broad Commons Park is the second phase of the Borough’s project to develop the park, providing a playground for children ages 5-12, including custom and inclusive play structures. The project will also include required safety surfacing, fencing, ADA access and landscaping.
“The Broad Commons Park development project has been transformative for Doylestown Borough, remediating the former PennDOT maintenance site and turning it into a green space for our entire community to enjoy,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The addition of the Tot Lot will make the park a great option for families, provide increased recreational opportunities for area youth, and highlight the legacy of Henry Mercer and the rich history of our region with tilework and artistic design.”
The state grant is through DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnership Program. Funds from this program had already been awarded for 2022, but an additional grant round was added with funds from this year’s 2022-2023 budget.
Sen. Santarsiero applauded the availability of additional funds saying, “This year’s budget saw historic investments in the outdoors and our park system. Thank you, Governor Wolf for your continued commitment to conservation and outdoor recreation projects like the Broad Commons Park project.”
In 2019, Senator Santarsiero secured $1.5 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) funds to acquire and redevelop the existing PennDOT maintenance facility on the corner of North Broad and Doyle streets to build a new Doylestown Borough Hall, the Central Bucks Regional Police Department and Broad Commons Park.
The second phase of the park project will cost $584,667, with the additional funding provided through a local match.
For more information on the Community Conservation Partnership Program, visit the DCNR website.
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September 6, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – September 6, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) sent the following letter to Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority today, opposing the potential sale of the Authority to Aqua PA:
Senator Santarsiero Opposes Sale of Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority
August 25, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – August 25, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) was joined by state and local officials, prosecutors, and gun violence prevention advocates in Doylestown to announce $50 million in state grant funds for a new program to help law enforcement and District Attorneys investigate and prosecute gun crimes.
The Gun Violence Investigation and Prosecution Grant Program was funded in this year’s budget using American Rescue Plan Funds, thanks to a push by Senator Santarsiero and other Democratic lawmakers and will be administered through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. Joining Senator Santarsiero at the press conference at the Bucks County Justice Center were the Senate Appropriations Democratic Chair Vince Hughes (D-7), Senator Jimmy Dillon (D-5), Deputy District Attorney for Bucks County David Keightly, Jr., Chair of the Bucks County Commissioners Bob Harvie and Bucks County volunteer leader with CeaseFire PA Aileen Bochanski.
“Keeping our communities safe, in Bucks County and across the Commonwealth, requires supporting our local law enforcement and prosecutors with the resources to do their jobs,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As we continue to fight the gun violence epidemic we must focus on prosecuting gun crimes, investigating and preventing straw purchases and implementing reasonable gun safety measures to protect children, families and our law enforcement community.”
Grants will be awarded to district attorneys and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute violations of the firearms act and crimes of violence. Grant funds may be used to:
- Improve and enhance coordination between Federal, State and local law enforcement agencies,
- To support personnel costs;
- To purchase technology systems, initiatives that support the tracing of firearms used to commit crimes; and,
- Any other efforts that aid in the investigation, arrest and prosecution of crimes.
“Finding the solution to the gun violence crisis plaguing our communities is a complex and arduous task; however, it is one we are not giving up on. This historic, new $50 million investment will give district attorneys additional new resources to better investigate gun crimes and to prosecute those making our communities less safe. This is just one of three measures my colleagues and I, with the full support of Governor Tom Wolf, were able to get included in the ’22-’23 state budget to improve public safety and combat gun violence, and we look forward to seeing the impact all three will have on making our commonwealth an even better place to live.” Ten percent of available grant funds will be reserved under the program for county district attorney’s offices and law enforcement agencies serving rural communities. The remaining funds are available on a schedule based on municipal size and population, which can be found here.
David Keightly, Jr. spoke of the need for additional staff to investigate and build strong cases, saying “We don’t want to be satisfied with working backwards. We want to be able to work forwards, using this money to figure out purchase trends, suspicious trends among people who keep buying firearms and their guns keep winding up on the street. We want to be able to tackle that before these guns hit the streets. A lot of what we need right now is technology and manpower, and that is exactly what this grant money will be used for if we were to receive it.”
Support for the program was echoed by community advocates, including representatives from CeaseFire PA. “For too long, our communities have faced gun violence without the resources necessary to intervene and prevent it before a life is lost,” said Adam Garber, Executive Director of CeaseFire PA. “Now, thanks to leaders like Sen. Santarsiero and Senator Hughes, we’re now investing in a safer community.”
The full press conference can be viewed here.
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August 24, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – August 24, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $200 million in state funding to address student mental health and school safety in this year’s budget during a press conference in Lower Makefield Township. The Senator was joined by Mark Barden, Founder and CEO of Sandy Hook Promise, and representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA Bucks) to encourage school districts across the Commonwealth to apply for these grant funds through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency ahead of the August 31st application deadline.
The program is based on Senator Santarsiero’s Senate Bill 1263, the Safety and Violence Education (SAVE) Students Act, which would require schools to implement at least one hour, or a standard class period, per year of suicide prevention training, violence prevention training, and social inclusion training to students in grades six through twelve.
“In this year’s budget, we were able to get many aspects of the SAVE Students Act passed, and most importantly, funded,” announced Senator Santarsiero. “As a society, we have an obligation to support our children and keep them safe. To do that, we must focus on mental health issues in our schools. Every district across the Commonwealth should be taking advantage of this funding and implementing evidence-based programs to effectively teach youth and adults how to prevent school violence, shootings, and other harmful acts.”
The effort to mandate this training has been advocated for by Sandy Hook Promise, a non-profit group based in Newtown, Connecticut, led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the 2012 mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
“What we are doing is working together to not only save lives, to stop acts of violence, prevent suicides, but to foster a more connected culture of upstanders, students who know to look out for one another,” Mr. Braden said. “I can tell you from experience what one school shooting does to a family and a community. Hundreds of suicides have been prevented by students who were trained in these programs. This works. I want to share my heartfelt gratitude to Senator Santarsiero and all the folks who have been working tirelessly, relentlessly and persistently to get this life-saving legislation across the finish line and implemented into the schools here.
Dr. Deb Carrera, Executive Deputy Secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Education echoed the importance of these programs saying, “This $200 million investment is an historic investment to support schools with what we know they already need.”
School districts across Bucks County have been working with community organizations, like NOVA Bucks and National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI Bucks) to conduct prevention education training in schools.
“This is about committed people coming together to do something in a positive way to help our children, to create a world we all want to live in,” said Mary Worthington, Director of Prevention and Training at NOVA Bucks. “NOVA has been in Bucks County doing prevention programs for nearly 40 years and one of the most important missions that we have is collaborating with schools, parents and our community at large.”
Senator Santarsiero emphasized that while this funding in the budget is important, there is still work to be done.
“We really do need to have these programs across the Commonwealth, in every school. I’d like to see a uniform approach spearheaded by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, which is why passing SB 1263 is still important,” he said.
Additional information about the School Mental Health and Safety and Security Grant funds can be found at https://www.pccd.pa.gov/schoolsafety/.
August 1, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − August 1, 2022 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) recently secured two state grants to support Snipes Farm & Education Center’s mission to share produce with seniors in the community and provide education to low-income children through its summer camp program.
A $100,000 grant was used to purchase a refrigerated food delivery vehicle and an electric UTV. The refrigerated food delivery vehicle is being used to deliver fresh produce, grown on the farm, to senior centers and partners across Bucks County. The electric UTV allows staff to get around the farm and is helping Snipes meet its commitment to sustainable energy.
The second grant of $33,419 was used by Snipes Camp to provide educational programming for 21 children living in the Bucks County Emergency Homeless Shelter this summer.
“Snipes Farm and the Snipes family have a long and admirable history in Bucks County of giving back to the community and helping those in need,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I was happy to support these grants for the vehicles and summer camp, both of which help them share the bounty of the farm with more community members.”
“Healthy food should be for everyone, no matter their income level,” said Jonathan Snipes, Executive Director. “And providing enriching, science-based programs in nature for the most vulnerable kids is one of the best things we do at Snipes Farm! This grant support helps our mission come true! We are thrilled!”
Snipes Farm & Education Center is a 501(c)(3) educational organization located in Morrisville, Pennsylvania. The Snipes family are 11th generation Bucks County farmers, dating back to 1688, and have operated the present Snipes Farm since 1808. More information on Snipes Farm & Education Center can be found at www.snipesfarm.org.
July 15, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − July 15, 2022 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today the award of $1,248,462 in state funds for five projects in the district as part of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Green Light-Go grant program.
Four municipalities were awarded grants to complete five projects:
- Doylestown Township – $469,492 for fiber interconnection of traffic signals at seven intersections along Swamp Road (Route 313);
- Doylestown Township – $100,000 for safety upgrades including flashing yellow arrow and advance dilemma-zone detection along Route 611 from Edison Furlong Road to Kelly Road;
- Dublin Borough – $129,360 for upgrades to traffic signals at three intersections along Main Street (Route 313);
- Falls Township – $244,290 for upgrades to the traffic signal at Trenton Road and North Olds Boulevard; and
- Lower Makefield Township – $305,320 for upgrades to the traffic signal at Pine Grove Road and Big Oak Road.
“These upgrades will help relieve congestion and improve the flow of traffic on some of our busiest roadways, benefitting residents and travelers,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Traffic signal upgrades like these projects increase accessibility to our local businesses and ensure safety on our roadways.”
Green Light-Go grants are provided as reimbursement to municipalities for updates to improve the efficiency and operation of existing traffic signals. Grant funding through the Green Light-Go program may be utilized for a range of operational improvements including, but not limited to light-emitting diode (LED) technology installation, traffic signal retiming, developing special event plans and monitoring traffic signals, as well as upgrading traffic signals to the latest technologies. For more information visit the PennDOT website.
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June 30, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − June 30, 2022 − The following statement is attributable to Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), in response to the Supreme Court of the United States’ decision in West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency.
“The Supreme Court’s decision today in West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency represents another major departure from established legal precedent and ignores the clear will of Congress in passing the Clean Air Act, which gave discretion to the EPA and its environmental experts to implement reasonable measures to protect our environment.
This politically motivated Supreme Court majority is again out of step with the majority of Pennsylvanians and Americans. We cannot further delay reasonable and scientifically valid regulations to address the imminent and present dangers climate change poses to our economy, our environment, our national security and indeed our way of life.
Here in Pennsylvania, the environmental amendment in our state Constitution is clear: ‘The people have a right to clean air, pure water, and to the preservation of the natural, scenic, historic, and esthetic values of the environment. Pennsylvania’s public natural resources are the common property of all the people, including generations yet to come.’
I will continue to work with my colleagues in the General Assembly to ensure those rights are protected and that we do all we can to combat the devastating effects of climate change we feel every day.”
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June 29, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − June 29, 2022 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that he has introduced legislation to support student mental health in our public schools. Senate Bill 1263, the Safety and Violence Education (SAVE) Students Act would require schools to implement at least one hour, or a standard class period, per year of suicide prevention training, violence prevention training, and social inclusion training to students in grades six through twelve.
“As a society, we have an obligation to support our children and keep them safe,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Experts say childhood depression and anxiety were on the rise for years, but the pandemic’s unrelenting stress and grief exacerbated the problems. These early-prevention measures empower everyone to keep our schools and communities safe, and effectively teach youth and adults how to prevent school violence, shootings, and other harmful acts.”
In the training, school personnel will also learn how to identify the signs and signals of depression, suicide and self-injury in students, and when and how to refer youth and their families to appropriate mental health services for assessment within the school entity and the community.
The legislation has support from the Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) in Bucks County, which offers programs like the ones in the legislation to area schools.
“NOVA supports SB 1263,” said NOVA Executive Director Penny Ettinger. “As the comprehensive victim service organization in Bucks County, the core of our mission is violence prevention. For over 30 years, NOVA has provided school-based programs that not only give students and school personnel the tools to recognize signs of a young person suffering but also deliver an age-appropriate interactive learning experience that advances and creates a culture of empathy, kindness, inclusion, and positive relationship building. The demand for these programs and our suicide prevention training has significantly increased over the past year.”
The effort to mandate this training has been advocated for by Sandy Hook Promise, a non-profit group based in Newtown, Connecticut, and led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the 2012 mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
“Experience tells us that when students are taught how to contribute to the emergence of an inclusive school environment and how to recognize the signs and signals of someone who may be at risk of harming themselves or others, they do the right thing; they speak up. SB 1263 will ensure all students have access to high-quality violence-prevention training and the opportunity to help others by being Upstanders instead of bystanders,” said Mark Barden, co-founder and CEO of the Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund.
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June 24, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − June 24, 2022 − The following statement is attributable to Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), in response to the Supreme Court of the United States’ decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.
“Today, and every day, I stand in support of a woman’s right to make her own reproductive decisions and that includes access to a safe and legal abortion.
The Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization has thrown out a fundamental constitutional protection for millions of Americans — one that has existed for nearly 50 years. This is unacceptable.
The Court’s opinion today to overturn Roe v. Wade is not in line with the majority of Americans who share the view that women should have a right to pregnancy decisions.
By removing a national framework for women’s access to abortion, every state is left to determine the right to reproductive freedom. While abortion remains legal in Pennsylvania today, Republicans in our legislature will make every effort to overturn women’s reproductive rights here in the Commonwealth. We have come too far to turn back the clock now. I will continue to fight to protect women’s healthcare and defend access to abortion in the Commonwealth.”
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June 22, 2022
Harrisburg, PA – June 22, 2022 – Today, Pennsylvania Senate Democrats held a press conference shortly after President Joe Biden made a call to federal and state law makers to pause gas taxes.
“Our stance is simple; we are calling on state Republicans to join us in supporting a suspension to the state gas tax. We know there is concern about a loss of revenue while the pause is in place, but Pennsylvania has billions in surplus funds that can be used to maintain roads and bridges during the gas tax holiday,” said Senator Jay Costa, Senate Democratic Leader. “This is about putting people over corporate profit. We need to implement a gas tax holiday, use Pennsylvania’s budget surplus to ensure our roads and bridges still receive the funding they need, and hold the oil and gas industry accountable to pass the savings to consumers.”
Several Democratic Senators joined Sen. Costa, including Sen. Hughes, Sen. Boscola, Sen. Cappelletti, Sen. Flynn, Sen. Haywood, Sen. Santarsiero, Sen. Schwank, and Sen. Street. All expressing their support for President’s call to states to pause the gas tax and make sure those savings were felt by consumers and not absorbed by the oil and gas industry.
“We have the money to support a gas tax holiday. We can give hardworking families some relief at the gas pump and still make sure our roads and bridges receive funding,” said Senator Vincent Hughes. “And when we do this tax reduction, the oil and gas industry need to leave those savings for consumers. We’re stepping up. We’re responding to the President’s call. It’s time for state Republicans and the oil and gas industry to step up too.”
Senator Lisa Boscola and Senator Marty Flynn recently introduced bills that would temporarily pause the gas tax in Pennsylvania. A statewide gas tax holiday could amount to an average of thirty cents a gallon in savings to consumers.
“I applaud President Biden’s call for a gas tax holiday,” said Sen. Marty Flynn. “Right now, Pennsylvania families are paying triple the price for gas compared to what they paid last year. This is one of the most pressing issues for families, and we have money in the bank to help them. I’m done naming bridges, it’s time we do something for the people.”
“Gas tax relief is something we can do immediately in this inflation storm,” said Senator Lisa Boscola. “The billions in surplus we have is taxpayer money, and taxpayers deserve some of this money back. Combined with the federal plan, a state gas tax holiday would give real savings to families.”
Sen. Collett, Sen. Dillon, Sen. Fontana, Sen. Kearney, and Sen. Lindsey Williams also attended the press conference to show support for a proposed state gas tax holiday.
A full video of the press conference and remarks from all speakers from the Democratic Senate Caucus is available online.
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June 22, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – June 22, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $1 million in state funds he has secured from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for the Doylestown Township Community Recreation Center.
“I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting my request to dedicate RACP funds for the Doylestown Township Community Recreation Center project, which will provide a place for residents and community groups to meet and will offer a variety of programs to keep people of all ages physically fit and active,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The community center will not only benefit Doylestown Township residents, but the broader central Bucks region.”
The project will include construction of a multi-use, public community recreation center on the municipal campus in Doylestown Township. The recreation center will also include an indoor multi-function gym and classrooms.
“I am very excited for the township and very appreciative of Senator Santarsiero’s efforts,” said Doylestown Township Supervisor Barbara Lyons. “The community center will serve not only Doylestown Township but the greater central Bucks community. We believe in Doylestown Township that a hearty parks and recreation system results in a hearty and healthier community overall.”
Doylestown Township Supervisor Jennifer Herring also voiced enthusiasm for the funding, saying “Doylestown Township takes pride in providing excellent service to our community. With the $1 million RACP grant funding we will receive through the support of Senator Santarsiero and the hard work of our staff, we will be able to fund our Doylestown Township Community Center further. This community center will be home to programs designed to enhance the lives of people of all ages with sporting events, educational opportunities, and entertainment.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects 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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June 15, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − June 15, 2022 − Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10), Scott Martin (R-13) and Amanda Cappelletti (D-17) have introduced legislation to help counties with the collection of household hazardous waste. Senate Bill 1220 would increase the limit on matching funds that each county may receive from $100,000 to $250,000.
“Our counties are taking the lead on collecting millions of pounds of household hazardous waste annually, but some counties, like Bucks County, are only receiving a fraction of the cost back,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “It is in the best interest of our communities to dispose household hazardous waste properly to protect our environment. Raising the cap on the reimbursement will allow the counties spending the most to offer more services to their residents.”
“Bucks County has been calling on the state for years to better fund these types of programs, so we applaud Sen. Santarsiero and this bipartisan effort,” said Bob Harvie, Chair of the Bucks County Commissioners. “Household Hazardous Waste collections are among the most popular programs we provide at the county level, because Bucks County residents know proper disposal of these items is critical to protecting our environment. Additional resources that help us continue providing this resource to our residents would be immensely helpful.”
Under Act 190 of 1996, counties currently receive a state funding match of up to $100,000 to help with the cost of collecting household hazardous waste. Despite this proposed 150% cap increase to $250,000 there would be no need to increase the funding allocated by Act 190, given recent annual expenditures by counties on this program.
“This legislation recognizes the important work counties do to ensure hazardous waste is disposed of safely and it will compensate them fairly for continuing to do so, without any additional cost to taxpayers,” Sen. Martin said. “It’s a common sense update to a vital service that counties have offered for more than 25 years, despite dramatically increasing disposal costs.”
Household hazardous waste includes unused household products that may explode, catch fire, or be generally harmful to the environment if not properly disposed, such as oil-based paint, pesticides, pool chemicals, drain cleaners, batteries, and motor oil.
Sen. Cappelletti added, “Pennsylvania households struggle to safely dispose their household hazard waste on their own. Counties fill the need by holding events where residents can dispose of these items, but are in need of assistance to sustain the programs. By aiding counties in funding these initiatives through this legislation, our communities will have the resources necessary to safely dispose of hazardous waste, and keep our environment clean and protected.”
Information on SB 1220 can be found here.
June 10, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY — June 10, 2022 − In the wake of several mass shootings in recent weeks, State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) will be introducing a bill banning military-style assault weapons in Pennsylvania.
“Military-style weapons have no place in civilian society,” said Sen. Santarsiero at a press conference on Thursday in Lower Makefield Township. “Easy access to assault weapons is one of the greatest threats to the health and safety of Pennsylvanians.”
The bill will broaden the scope of what the state classifies as assault weapons, banning more than 150 gun models. It will also ban the sale of gun magazines with a capacity of more than 10 rounds and will provide for a voluntary buy-back program for individuals that currently own firearms that would no longer be permitted.
“Guns are now the leading cause of death among U.S. kids; yet, the only recent bill sent to my desk by our legislators would remove background checks and permits for secured carry,” said Governor Tom Wolf. “I vetoed it. Let’s make it harder — not easier — for dangerous people to use guns to kill people.”
Sen. Maria Collett (D-12) said, “Reducing gun violence in our communities is not an insurmountable task. No parent should send their child to school wondering if it may be the last time they see them. Restricting assault weapons – commonly used in mass shootings, including the recent massacres in Uvalde and Buffalo – is a logical step forward for Pennsylvania.”
“In the wake of the tragedies in Buffalo, Uvalde, and a growing number of communities across our nation, one of the common threads appears to be the proliferation of military-style assault weapons and high-capacity magazines,” said Sen. Carolyn Comitta (D-19) These weapons are designed to inflict maximum carnage and they are doing just that to innocent children, families, and communities. I strongly support an assault weapons ban here in Pennsylvania and I urge legislative leaders to call this bill up for a vote.”
Pennsylvania does not limit the type of weapon which a person may possess; both assault weapons and high-capacity magazines are legal to own in the Commonwealth.
“With each passing day that we fail to enact reasonable gun reforms, we are choosing to protect the gun lobby and firearm manufacturers over the lives of all Pennsylvanians,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012, Pennsylvania has taken no meaningful action to keep our children safe with reasonable gun safety measures. That must change.”
Echoing the need for legislative action to protect our communities, Sen. Tim Kearney (D-26) said, “Now more than ever, we are seeing the need for common-sense gun safety laws. This legislature has to be action-oriented and committed to doing its job and protecting our constituents. I signed up to serve my constituents and get things done – not hope and pray. Sen. Santarsiero’s legislation does just that – it takes action and will protect our communities. I support it.”
“Faith without works is dead,” said Sen. Sharif Street (D-3). “Thoughts and prayers ring hollow to the families of every victim without action behind them. This is a uniquely American problem, and if we are a civilized nation then the right to bear arms cannot supersede the right to live free from violence. I’m proud to join Senator Santarsiero who continues to lead on common sense reform for responsible firearms ownership.”
Sen. Santarsiero’s legislation is modeled after a law that was enacted in Connecticut after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, which is considered to be one of the toughest in the nation.
Senator John Kane (D-9) noted, “An assault weapon ban in Pennsylvania just makes sense, and it’s about damn time. It is our responsibility to do everything possible to protect the people and the communities of our districts. By enacting straight forward, and common sense legislation like this, we can ensure a safer environment for the children and families of our commonwealth.”
Noting the prevalence of military-style assault weapons in mass shootings, Senators called for community safety and protecting children and our community.
Sen. Amanda Cappelletti (D-17) said, “Military style assault weapons that are frequently used to perpetrate mass shootings have no place in our modern, civil society. I support action to stop the increasing epidemic of gun violence that is taking over our lives, including an assault weapons ban. We must prioritize this legislation to make our communities and loved ones safer.”
“Pennsylvanians deserve to feel safe and to be safe in their homes and neighborhoods, in grocery stores, churches, schools, and public spaces,” added Sen. Nikil Saval (D-1). “The presence of military-style assault weapons destroys this safety. These weapons have only one purpose, which is to kill as many people as possible in the shortest time possible. Prohibiting assault weapons shows residents that their lives and the lives of their loved ones are more important than the profits of gun lobbies.”
Rep. Dan Frankel, who co-chairs the PA SAFE Caucus with Sens. Santarsiero and Cappelletti said, “More than three years ago, 11 of my friends and neighbors were murdered in an anti-Semitic attack as they worshipped in the Tree of Life building. We will never know how many of their lives would have been saved if this legislation had been in place, but we can take action now to prevent other communities from suffering as mine has. A firearm designed to kill as many people as possible, as quickly as possible, has no place on the streets of Pennsylvania.” The PA SAFE Caucus is a group of legislators who believe in reducing all types of violence in our society through adequate funding for mental health services; stronger tools for law enforcement; resources to curb the effects of addiction and illegal drugs; and solutions that reduce gun violence and promote public safety.
Gun violence prevention groups also voiced their support for the proposed legislation. “Weapons of war have no place where we shop, eat, learn and pray,” said Adam Garber, Executive Director, CeaseFire PA. “That simple fact has been painfully obvious in the last few weeks in Buffalo and Uvalde. Now, it’s time for our elected officials to take action to stop our communities from being war zones by banning assault weapons.”
“We applaud Sen. Santarsiero and the other Pennsylvania legislators who are taking action by introducing and supporting common-sense legislation that will protect the safety and lives of children, as well as second amendment rights. We encourage their colleagues in the State Senate and House to follow their lead and pass the legislation immediately,” said Mark Barden, co-founder and CEO of Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund and father of Daniel, who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy.
Sen. Santarsiero is also the prime sponsor of bills requiring universal background checks (SB 88), safe storage of firearms (SB 581, SB 582), as well as a bill to repeal Pennsylvania’s “Stand Your Ground” law (SB 546).
The full press conference can be viewed here.
The speakers were:
- Senator Steve Santarsiero
- Nicole Peirce, Teacher, Pennsbury School District
- TR Kannan, President, Pennsbury School Board
- Senator Sharif Street
- Kimberly Everett, Executive Director, BCHIP
- Senator John Kane
- Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer
- Senator Amanda Cappelletti
- Penny Ettinger, Executive Director, NOVA
- Adam Garber, Executive Director, CeaseFire PA
- Dr. Andrea Fellerman Kesack
- Reverend Steven McComas, Rolling Hills United Methodist Church
May 25, 2022
HARRISBURG – May 25, 2022 – Today, Pennsylvania Senate Democrats wrote the following letter to Republican leaders in response to rampant gun violence and mass shootings that have become too common in the United States. Just this year, 215 mass shootings have taken place in the country, with the devastating shooting that occurred at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas on May 24, 2022, being the 215th.
In the letter, the caucus calls on the Republican majority to act on “reasonable and responsible legislation and appropriations” that does not infringe on Second Amendment rights but will help keep guns away from bad actors and support gun violence prevention. Senate Democrats list seven bills that have been introduced to mitigate gun violence but have sat in committee with no discussion or votes. They also highlight how American Rescue Plan dollars and Pennsylvania’s current budget surplus can be used to help communities prevent horrific violence.
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May 25, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – May 25, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) is seeking to raise awareness about the dangers of skin cancer and over-exposure to the sun. Along with State Senator Pat Browne (R-16), Sen. Santarsiero introduced a resolution to recognize May as Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month and the first Monday in May as “Melanoma Monday”.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 3.5 million new cases diagnosed each year. Of the various types of skin cancer, melanoma is the most dangerous, and is the leading cause of death from skin disease.
Sen. Santarsiero hosted two constituents, Valerie Mihalek and her husband Don, in the Senate on Tuesday and thanked Ms. Mihalek for her advocacy on the subject. “Valerie shared with me her personal experience with melanoma and brought to my attention how dangerous this form of cancer can be,” Sen. Santarsiero said from the floor of the Senate. “She has been a strong advocate for increasing public awareness of the need to take preventative measures to avoid skin cancer.”
Sen. Santarsiero specifically reminded parents of young children, who are particularly susceptible to skin damage at an early age, of the need to take precautions when outside during summer months, including wearing sunscreen and seeking shade.
“Skin cancer is a disease that we can prevent. Everyone must be cognizant to the dangers of over-exposure to the sun and the need to wear sunscreen,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “The issue hit a bit closer to home this year when I was diagnosed with a basal cell carcinoma. I was fortunate that basal cell carcinoma is a relatively good diagnosis when caught early. A simple outpatient procedure was enough to fully remove the cancer with minimal to no long-term effects.”
Senate Resolution 263 can be found here.
May 12, 2022
HARRISBURG – May 12, 2022 – Legislation to strengthen Pennsylvania’s juvenile justice system is set for action according to Senator Lisa Baker (R-20), Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Senator Jay Costa (D-43), who have been working to implement reforms needed to improve outcomes for youth, families, and communities, with a continued focus on protecting public safety.
The Senators are advancing a package of bills intended to achieve taxpayer savings that can then be reinvested to implement more effective research-based policies. The effort includes changes to standardize the expungement process and shorten the timeline for eligibility in certain cases, and provide funding for alternative sentencing and juvenile defense expenses.
“Making substantial and impactful changes to long-held policies requires comprehensive examination and focus,” Senator Lisa Baker said. “It is critical that we hold juveniles accountable for their actions, but also put in place policies that offer the chance for positive growth. From the beginning, the issue of reforming Pennsylvania’s juvenile justice system has been a joint, bi-partisan effort. No matter if young people live in rural, suburban, or urban areas of our state, the system and processes in place should be fair and equipped with the tools to strengthen families and reduce recidivism rates.”
Last year, Pennsylvania’s Juvenile Justice Task Force issued its Juvenile Justice Task Force Report containing 35 policy recommendations following a comprehensive review of current practices. The 30-member panel assessed the state’s juvenile justice system and reviewed data from court and state agencies and examined how current practices can better align with what research says works best.
Senator Lisa Baker, who leads the Senate Judiciary Committee and co-chaired the Juvenile Justice Task Force, said a public hearing will be held on May 23 to give proponents and opponents a final chance to comment on the reforms before full committee action.
“These bills will help ensure that all juveniles are treated fairly during all stages of their interactions with the justice system,” Senator Steve Santarsiero said. “The justice system should not create a permanent impediment to the success of the juvenile offender after their debt to society has been paid. Together, this package of bills will help youth in the juvenile justice system move smoothly and justly through the process and give them a chance at success in the future.”
“I am proud to join my senate colleagues on the introduction of these bills as well as other recommendations of the task force being introduced,” said Juvenile Justice Task Force co-chair Senator Jay Costa. “It is the beginning of a process that will include the review of the proposals by several committees as well as both houses of the General Assembly. I look forward to working with all of the sponsors, task force members and other stakeholders on improving our juvenile justice system.”
The specific bills introduced in this package are:
- Senate Bill 1227 – Addresses JJTF Recommendation 2, by amending the Human Services Code to include both juvenile justice and child welfare funding goals.
- Senate Bill 1229 – Addresses JJTF Recommendation 5, by amending the Human Services Code to provide funding for indigent juvenile defense services.
- Senate Bill 1228 – Addresses JJTF Recommendation 16, by keeping youth in out-of-home placement no longer than the timeframe supported by research.
- Senate Bill 1226 – Addresses JJTF Recommendation 23, by creating a standardized statewide expungement process.
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