September 3, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – September 3, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that he has signed onto an amicus brief that will be filed later this month in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Org., a challenge to Mississippi’s 15-week abortion ban, currently before the United States Supreme Court.
“Anti-choice legislatures across the United States clearly feel emboldened,” explained Santarsiero. “They are passing laws that seek to restrict if not outright ban safe and legal abortion services. Mississippi’s law violates the Supreme Court’s decisions in Roe and Casey, and should be overturned.”
“Joining in this legal argument to do just that takes on even more importance in light of the Supreme Court’s decision earlier this week to allow a new Texas law to stand that essentially outlaws abortion in that state,” he added. The Texas law would prohibit abortions after a fetal heartbeat is first detected, which can be as early as six weeks, a time when many women are not even aware that they are pregnant.
“Equally alarming is the fact that the Texas law allows private vigilantes to terrorize women and their families under the guise of allegedly enforcing this unconstitutional law,” Santarsiero explained. “It’s hard to believe that in the year 2021 such a statute could be passed anywhere in the United States. I will continue to be an outspoken defender of women’s reproductive rights and will fight any attempt to undermine them here in Pennsylvania.”
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August 31, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – August 31, 2021 – The following statement is attributable to State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), in response to the order issued today by the Pennsylvania Department of Health mandating masking in K-12 schools:
“The goal we all share is for students and faculty to have a productive and safe in-person school year. Requiring masks at this time will help achieve that goal.
“Due to increasing COVID-19 case numbers here and the highly contagious Delta variant, the CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. With no vaccines currently approved for children under 12 years of age, our students remain vulnerable to COVID-19. With a return to in-person instruction, mitigation efforts such as masking will limit the spread of COVID-19 and keep our students, teachers and support staff healthy.
“It is most prudent that we continue to use the mitigation efforts we have seen work against this virus, so that our schools can remain open, and our students and teachers can benefit from in-person learning. I applaud Governor Wolf and Secretary Beam’s action to keep students, teachers and staff in schools, and to keep Delta out.”
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August 23, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – August 23, 2021 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) has announced a full schedule of community events this fall beginning Saturday September 25th with his annual KidsFest at Morrisville High School.
The event schedule is as follows:
- KidsFest on Saturday, September 25th from 11am – 2pm at Morrisville High School in Morrisville Borough,
- Flu Shot Clinic on Saturday, October 9th from 1-3pm at Charles Boehm Middle School in Lower Makefield Township,
- Shredding Event & Toy Drive on Saturday, October 16th from 10am-12pm at Holy Family University in Newtown Township,
- Veterans Luncheon on Thursday, October 28th from noon-1:30pm at Albert R. Atkinson Jr. American Legion in Doylestown Borough,
- College Financial Planning Night on Monday, November 8th from 7-8pm at Pennsbury High School in Falls Township
“I am excited to host a diverse series of events this fall, connecting residents of all ages with a variety of information on state and local services,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Kicking off the event calendar will be KidsFest, featuring information on children’s health and safety, including demonstrations from local police and fire companies, as well as information on vaccines and children’s healthcare. We’ll also have family friendly entertainment, including a magician and local food trucks.”
Sen. Santarsiero continued, “It is so important that everyone get a flu shot, which is why I am hosting a flu shot clinic on October 9th.” The clinic will be in partnership with Rite Aid and is free with proof of insurance.
The shredding event and toy drive will be co-hosted with Representative Perry Warren (D-31) and will benefit Toys for Tots. Habitat for Humanity Re-Store will also be on hand to accept furniture and housewares donations. “During the shredding event, residents can help protect their identities by safely disposing of documents with personal information,” added Sen. Santarsiero. “It is also a perfect opportunity to spread holiday cheer by donating a toy for children to receive this holiday season.”
The Veteran’s Luncheon will honor veterans ahead of Veteran’s Day, offering resources and information about programs benefitting those who served, including information for young veterans on job placement opportunities through Comcast’s VetNet program. “Veterans serve and protect our country, and when they return to civilian life there are resources available to help them make that transition, as well as services available on a continuing basis,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As the son of a World War II veteran, I have an incredible amount of respect for those who serve our nation. Through this event I hope to offer my gratitude and make sure the veterans in our community are aware of all of the resources available to them.”
In November there will be a College Financial Planning Night at Pennsbury High School, that will feature experts on planning and saving for college, financial aid and college admissions. “It is never too early, or too late, to begin saving for college. There are many state resources like 529s and financial aid programs that can benefit our residents, and I look forward to once again being able to share this information with parents and students in our community.”
Events will follow CDC guidance regarding masking, requiring all individuals to wear a mask when indoors.
For more information on the upcoming events, visit www.senatorstevesantarsiero.com/events.
August 18, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – August 18, 2021 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) today urged six Bucks County school boards to adopt the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidance and require all students, teachers, staff and visitors to K-12 schools to wear masks.
In letters to each school board with schools in the 10th Senatorial District (Pennsbury, Council Rock, Central Bucks, Morrisville, New Hope-Solebury and Pennridge) Sen. Santarsiero noted that Bucks County was recently categorized as an area of high-level community transmission, and with no vaccines currently approved for children under 12 years of age, these students remain vulnerable to COVID-19.
“The goal we all share is for students and faculty to have a productive and safe in-person school year,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “Requiring masks at this time will help achieve that goal and stop the spread of the highly contagious delta variant.”
“Hopefully in the near future we will get to a point where more people are vaccinated, and the spread of the virus and variants is slowed,” Sen. Santarsiero wrote. “Until then, it is most prudent that we continue to use the mitigation efforts we have seen work against this virus, so that our schools can remain open, and our students and teachers can benefit from in-person learning.”
The letters were sent to school board members in advance of school board meetings scheduled this week and next. All of the school districts are scheduled to open the 2021-2022 school year during the week of August 30.
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School Board Letters 8.18.21
August 2, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – August 2, 2021 – Nineteen small businesses in Perkasie will be poised for façade upgrades, thanks to a $50,000 state grant, Senator Santarsiero (D-10) announced today. The Keystone Communities Façade grant, administered through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) was awarded to Perkasie Towne Improvement Association (PTIA) as part of more than $200,000 in planned upgrades to Perkasie’s business district.
“Perkasie’s charm will get a little polish with these façade improvements,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I enthusiastically supported this grant to help PTIA continue the expansion and development of Perkasie’s vibrant business district, and give a boost to local businesses.”
PTIA was established in partnership with Perkasie Brough and in consultation with the local community to lead efforts in revitalizing economic and cultural opportunities the historic community. The partnership between PTIA and the borough has been extraordinarily successful, significantly increasing the number of small businesses, as well as developing and participating in community partnerships such as the Perkasie Farmers Market, Bucks County Covered Bridge Tour, and the Bucks County Ale Trail.
“Our businesses are excited about the opportunity to complete much-needed improvements that will enhance our economic development progress,” said Joe Ferry, Director of Development, Perkasie Towne Improvement Association
For more information on the Keystone Communities Façade Grant program visit the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development website.
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July 20, 2021
(L to R): Officer Steven Tamburo, Captain Bob Lewis, Chief Ken Coluzzi, State Senator Steve Santarsiero, Sergeant Kurt Bradley, Officer Brittany Peck
BUCKS COUNTY – July 20, 2021 – Lower Makefield Township Police Department is getting a new crime scene and accident investigation vehicle thanks to $60,000 in state funds secured by State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10).
“Beginning when I was a Lower Makefield Township Supervisor more than a dozen years ago, I have advocated for funding to support the important work our police do on a daily basis to keep our community safe,” said Senator Santarsiero during a visit to the Police Department to present the check on Tuesday. “I was happy to secure these state funds for Lower Makefield Township Police Department for the new crime scene and accident investigation vehicle, which will help detectives investigate crime scene more efficiently and effectively.”
Chief Coluzzi echoed support for these funds saying, “We are extremely grateful for Senator Santarsiero’s help in facilitating this grant for us. It is a very important piece of equipment, which will contain high tech, specialized tools.”
The crime scene and accident investigation vehicle is a resource not many police departments have in the area. Chief Coluzzi continued, “This will provide a benefit to all of the residents of Lower Makefield Township and all of the residents of Bucks County, as it will be a shared resource that neighboring departments can use on an as-needed basis.”
“They are trying to do everything they can to be fiscally responsible here in Lower Makefield,” Sen. Santarsiero continued, speaking about the Lower Makefield Township Board of Supervisors. “To the extent the state can come in and help with something like this, it’s one less thing the township has to buy, which helps them balance the budget and keep taxes at a reasonable rate.”
“Ensuring that our police have the resources they need has long been a primary goal of mine,” said Lower Makefield Township Supervisor John B. Lewis. “When I joined the Board in 2016, one of the first things I did was add two additional police officers to the force. Today, I am excited that Senator Santarsiero has helped Lower Makefield get an Accident Investigation Vehicle for our officers and for our community.”
Suzanne Blundi, Chair of the Lower Makefield Board of Supervisors added, “I wish to extend my sincere thanks to State Senator Steve Santarsiero for his continued support to our community. I believe this Keystone Grant will certainly aid our Law Enforcement in providing the highest quality of service to our residents.”
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July 20, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – July 20, 2021 − Governor Tom Wolf today announced four organizations in Bucks County are getting a boost from state funds as part of a $1.5 million statewide investment to assist Pennsylvanians experiencing homelessness and prevent future homelessness. A Woman’s Place, Family Services Association, Valley Youth House and YWCA Bucks County, will share $512,761 in Emergency Solutions Grant CARES Act funds.
Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) represents Doylestown, where A Woman’s Place is located, and applauded the investment saying, “Each of these four organizations does incredible work for residents of Bucks County experiencing tough times. I want to thank Governor Wolf for prioritizing these funds for our region, which will help individuals and families especially impacted by the pandemic.”
The funding is part of the federal CARES Act funding, which will be distributed to Bucks County to allocate to the organizations.
“The emergency shelter operations of these remarkable service organizations will provide residents with a safe place to live as they begin to rebuild economic stability,” continued Sen. Santarsiero. “Much progress has been made to combat COVID-19 and together we will continue to rise up and grow stronger as we move forward.”
For more information on the Emergency Solutions Grant CARES Act funds visit the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development website.
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July 14, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – July 14, 2021 – A COVID-19 Vaccine efficacy test created by Bucks County biotechnology firm FlowMetric got a boost from $750,000 in state funding secured by state Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10).
“If the last year and a half or so has taught us anything it’s that having data and information is critically important,” said Sen. Santarsiero during a press conference on Tuesday. “I was proud to advocate for the Keystone Communities Program Grant for FlowMetric, a company that is really on the cutting-edge doing great work, here at the PA Biotech Center. This test will not only determine vaccine efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States but will lead the way for future vaccine efficacy testing.”
FlowMetric CEO Renaldo Capocasale thanked Senator Santarsiero for his help in securing the grant funding adding, “This is a historical day for FlowMetric Life Sciences. With deep gratitude we are accepting a grant from the state of Pennsylvania and Senator Santarsiero.”
“Everything we do is about dealing with and addressing unmet medical needs,” continued Capocasale. “When the COVID pandemic began, we quickly recognized that we could support testing in ways we felt would make a great contribution, and that has led to the recognition by Senator Santarsiero and his colleagues that testing for immune response to COVID 19 vaccines is something that is truly helpful and going to provide great value.”
Individuals who have received any of the COVID-19 vaccine and can request a test from their doctor. The event also included a tour of the mobile lab by Robert Hilliard, co-founder and Chief Technology Officers for Veterans Technology Systems, the developer of the lab. The grant will be used to purchase lab equipment to expand testing capabilities, and toward expansion of the mobile labs, to improve access to community-based testing.
Sen. Santarsiero continued, “A few months ago I was able to bring my colleagues in leadership of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees on a tour of the PA Biotechnology Center, which included a stop at FlowMetric. While here, I took the COVID-19 Vaccine Immune Response Test and when the results came back I learned I had COVID-19 before I received the vaccine. My colleagues and I were all incredibly impressed with this innovative test and the implications it can have on public health moving forward. The work that is being done here underscores how important this type of technology is and why the state being able to invest in this research is so critically important.”
FlowMetric is housed in the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center, one of the nation’s most successful Life Sciences incubators, located in Buckingham Township. For more information on the COVID-19 Vaccine Immune Response Test, visit http://www.vaxeffect.com.
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July 8, 2021
Connie Gering (New Hope Borough Council President), Senator Santarsiero, Larry Keller (New Hope Arts Board Chair and New Hope Mayor) and Carol Cruickshanks
BUCKS COUNTY − July 8, 2021 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) visited New Hope Arts Center today to present the organization with a check for $116,000 in state funds. The grant is for the installation of an elevator so that the exhibition space, located on the second floor, is accessible to all visitors.
“New Hope has long been a beacon for locals and tourists interested in its thriving arts and cultural scene,” said Sen. Santarsiero at a press conference. “New Hope Arts has the admirable mission of lifting up new artists and providing a space for those who would not traditionally get a gallery showcase. I was proud to work with the state to secure these funds for the installation of an elevator, which will make the gallery accessible to a broader audience, boosting New Hope Arts as an organization, the impressive artist it features, and the vibrant New Hope community.”
Senator Santarsiero was joined at the press conference by members of the New Hope Arts Board of Directors, local elected officials, and supporters of the organization.
“Since we opened 11 years ago, this is our first opportunity to allow everybody to come to our events, shows and the New Hope Arts Festival,” said Larry Keller, Board Chair of New Hope Arts and Mayor of New Hope. “I’m giddy and appreciative that Senator Santarsiero has helped us get public support for the first time in our history. This is a turning point that will help us provide accessibility to the arts, so no one is left out.”
New Hope Borough Council President Connie Gering echoed the effects this grant will have on the arts community in New Hope saying, “This is such a vision for the leadership of the New Hope Arts Center to bring grant money in. New Hope has been known as an arts community and New Hope Arts is the center of that for New Hope. Thank you Senator Santarsiero for making this vision possible. This will be an asset to our town to be able to bring more visitors.”
Carol Cruickshanks, Executive Director of New Hope Arts noted that the grant for the elevator will help to expand the opportunities for the organization, saying “We look forward to expanding even more with this great benefit that we have been provided with, and we thank Senator Santarsiero for this opportunity.”
New Hope Arts is an incorporated non-profit arts center that showcases the work of contemporary local artists. Established in 2002, New Hope Arts presents six to eight exhibits annually, often featuring emerging artists. More information about New Hope Arts, including current exhibit information, can be found on the organization’s website.
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July 7, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY − July 7, 2021 − The following statement is attributable to Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), as a member of the Senate Intergovernmental Operations Committee, in response to the actions by Committee Chair Doug Mastriano (R-33) to initiate a forensic investigation into the 2020 General and 2021 Primary elections:
“The 2020 election was fair, accurate and free of fraud. Any suggestion to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to perpetuate the Big Lie. When we return to session in the fall, we should be considering election reform measures that will make it easier for Pennsylvanians to vote and strengthen public confidence in our elections. A full forensic investigation of our most recent elections is not that. It is an attempt undermine our democratic processes, and it cannot stand.”
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July 7, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY— July 7, 2021 — Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Perry Warren (D-31) announced today the award of $271,520 in state funds to Newtown Borough as part of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Green Light-Go grant program.
Newtown Borough will use the funds for a complete upgrade to the traffic signal at Lincoln and Washington Streets. Along with the modernization of the traffic signal, the project will include new pedestrian accommodations.
“This upgrade will help relieve congestion and improve the flow of traffic in Newtown Borough, benefitting residents and visitors,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “With so many shops and restaurants along State Street in the Borough, increasing accessibility both for cars and pedestrians will continue to boost our local economy while keeping our community safe. I was happy to work on getting the state to award this much-needed grant.”
“During my 7 years on Newtown Borough Council, traffic safety and traffic congestion were ongoing topics of conversation and concern,” said Rep. Warren. “As state representative it was a pleasure working with Newtown Borough Council toward securing this Green Light Go grant. This traffic signal upgrade will enhance safety and reduce congestion on two heavily trafficked thoroughfares through Newtown. Newtown Borough residents, Newtown Township residents, visitors, businesses and passers-through all will benefit from this traffic signal and safety project.”
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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July 2, 2021
HARRISBURG − July 2, 2021 − Senators Lisa Baker (R-20) and Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced their intention to introduce legislation requiring all future non-prosecution agreements to be in writing to be enforceable.
The action comes in response to the recently decided case of Commonwealth v. Cosby, where the Pennsylvania Supreme Court vacated the criminal convictions of Cosby for aggravated indecent assault.
The Court’s decision was based upon the fact that certain inculpatory testimony, which had been given in depositions at an earlier civil trial, was admitted at Cosby’s subsequent criminal trial. Overturning the trial court’s determination to the contrary, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court concluded that the testimony of Cosby at the earlier civil trial was provided only after an enforceable oral non-prosecution agreement was entered into with Cosby, and that Cosby relied on that agreement in providing his testimony at the civil trial. Allowing the admission of the inculpatory testimony, according to the Court, violated Cosby’s due process rights.
“The recent Supreme Court decision in Commonwealth v. Cosby highlighted a need for clearer rules regarding the prosecution of crimes,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Requiring that non-prosecution agreements must be in writing will protect the due process rights of the accused, while helping to ensure that victims have access to justice.”
“The oral agreement may be legal for the moment, but it is indefensible given what we have learned about the prevalence of sexual abuse and harassment throughout our society,” said Sen. Baker. “The system is slanted too heavily toward perpetrators, discouraging reporting and denying a true chance of justice for those with the fortitude to bring charges.”
“This oral agreement turned into a horrible miscarriage of justice. We must act to prevent a repetition,” Baker and Santarsiero added.
The Senators serve as the Republican and Democratic chairs, respectively, of the Senate Judiciary Committee, which has jurisdiction in this matter.
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June 24, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY − June 24, 2021 − Today the State Senate passed landmark legislation that will save children’s lives. Senate Bill 78, also known as Kayden’s Law, is legislation that will provide urgently needed reform to Pennsylvania’s child custody statute. Kayden Mancuso, in whose memory the bill was named, was a seven-year-old from Lower Makefield Township. In August 2018, her biological father brutally murdered her during an unsupervised weekend visit. The visit had been ordered by the court in the custody case between the father and Kayden’s mom, Kathy Sherlock, despite evidence of abusive and violent behavior by the father.
Senate Bill 78 is a bi-partisan effort by Senators Lisa Baker (R-20) and Steve Santarsiero (D-10), who serve as the Republican and Democratic chairs, respectively, of the Senate Judiciary Committee. The legislation would help protect children by making their safety and welfare the principle focus in any custody dispute. It does that by imposing safety conditions and restrictions on visitation in cases of abuse; modifying the factors that a judge must consider in making a custody award to put the focus on the health and safety of the child; and recommending better training of all court personnel involved in custody cases.
“Too many terrible tragedies are explained away with the unacceptable excuse that no system can protect everyone or anticipate the actions of individuals intent on violence,” said Sen. Baker. “Our responsibility in protecting children is to take every reasonable step available to keep them from harm’s way and prevent a repetition of what happened to Kayden. Without this change in the law, the system would remain tilted to the detriment of the interests and safety of at-risk children.”
“Make no mistake, if signed into law, Senate Bill 78 will save children’s lives,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “No child in Pennsylvania should ever be left alone with an abuser, period. Kayden’s Law will help ensure that that never happens again,” he added.
The vote today in the Senate is an important step in the process of getting the bill to the governor’s desk. Santarsiero acknowledged everyone who has helped get it to this point. “I want to thank my friend and colleague, Senator Lisa Baker, for her leadership and for making this bill a priority of the committee this session. I also want to thank my House colleagues, Representatives Tina Davis (D-141) and Perry Warren (D-31) for their work on this issue as well as all of the advocates who have weighed in on the many drafts of the legislation. But the greatest credit must go to Kathy Sherlock and the rest of Kayden’s family. Kathy has been a tireless advocate for the children of our state. Her strength and dedication to this cause has inspired me time and again not to give up.”
“We have been working so hard for years now to see this day for justice for Kayden and for all the kids who are put in harms way by family courts every single day,” said Kathy Sherlock, Kayden’s mom. “Kayden’s Law could have saved my daughter if it had been in place in 2018. Let’s hope it helps other children suffering and at risk right now.”
Senate Bill 78 now moves to the State House for consideration.
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June 17, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY − June 17, 2021 − The following statement is attributable to Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) in response to the United State Supreme Court Decision on the Affordable Care Act:
“Today’s Supreme Court decision in California v. Texas sends a clear message—stop attacking the Affordable Care Act. Access to quality, affordable health insurance is a critical right of all Americans. The ACA has for nearly 11 years provided millions with essential healthcare coverage, and the peace of mind that they can access appropriate health care services when needed, without fear of bankruptcy.”
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June 11, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – June 11, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that a federal judge sided with Senate Democrats to protect the drinking water of five million Pennsylvanians.
The order entered today by Judge Diamond in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania dismisses, with prejudice, the claims of the Senate Republican Caucus based on lack of standing to bring the lawsuit. The Republican Senate Caucus had filed the lawsuit in an attempt to overturn the Delaware River Basin Commission’s (DRBC) now-permanent ban on fracking in the Delaware Basin. In March, 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.
“This is an important victory in our effort to protect the drinking water of five million Pennsylvanians,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Today’s order granting our motion to dismiss the Senate Republican’s claim was granted with prejudice, which means they are not able to re-file their lawsuit. The DRBC has been a steward of our water supply, and with today’s order they will be able to continue to ensure the Delaware River is free from the hazardous environmental effects of fracking.”
The claims by the local government plaintiffs– Damascus and Dyberry Townships, and Carbon and Wayne Counties—were also dismissed. Those claims were dismissed without prejudice, for failing to state a claim for which relief can be granted. These plaintiffs were given until July 1, 2021 to provide an amended complaint. If they fail to do so by the deadline, their claim will then be dismissed with prejudice.
“I am confident that this is behind us,” continued Sen. Santarsiero. “If the local governments choose to file amended complaints, we will continue to engage in the lawsuit. The Pennsylvania Constitution’s Environmental Rights Amendment guarantees the right to clean, safe drinking water, and my Democratic colleagues and I will continue to do what is necessary to make that a reality across the Commonwealth.”
Court filings and previous announcements on this matter can be found here.
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June 4, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – June 4, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) visited the Newtown Township Police Department to present a check for $131,900 in state funds to Newtown Township Police Chief John Hearn.
“Our community is safest when our police have the resources necessary to do their jobs,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I was happy to work with Newtown Township Supervisors and the Newtown Township Police Department to assess their needs, and advocate for state funds to backfill their budget shortfall.”
The funds will be used for the purchase of 2 new patrol vehicles, replacing an aging fleet of vehicles. The vehicles are expected to be on the road in later summer or early fall.
“We can’t do what we do without our elected official’s support,” said Newtown Township Police Chief Hearn. “They see our needs, and their support of our police department and agency is phenomenal. We couldn’t do it without them. As long as we continue to work together, the community benefits.”
“We are lucky to have Senator Santarsiero here in those challenging moments when we are trying to do the budget process,” said Newtown Supervisor David Oxley. “It is important for our police officers to know they have our support, and for our residents to be confident that their police officers can get to them in a timely fashion.”
“That’s what grants like these are for,” continued Sen. Santarsiero. “They are there to help when, particularly in this last year, communities are facing budget constraints. As a former Township Supervisor, I know that we have to make sure the police force has the resources they need to keep our community safe.”
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May 25, 2021
Harrisburg, PA − May 25, 2021 – Today, Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro and members of the Senate Democratic Caucus led in this effort by State Senator Steve Santarsiero held a virtual press conference to discuss a package of bills aimed at increasing transparency, oversight and the overall safe management of gas drilling operations in the fracking industry.
The package of legislation addresses recommendations made in Pennsylvania’s 43rd Statewide Investigating Grand Jury report on the unconventional oil and gas industry. The report was a result of a two-year investigation that included personal testimony from 70 households across the Commonwealth and dozens of current and former state employees. Findings detailed disturbing health impacts of Pennsylvania fracking operations on children, homeowners and livestock that live within proximity of drilling sites. Multiple families close to wells or other industrial sites described unexplained rashes, sudden nosebleeds, and respiratory issues.
“Last year, the Grand Jurors called on Pennsylvania to make concrete changes to reduce the health and safety risks on a fracking industry left unchecked by regulators impacting families across Pennsylvania. It is common sense to ensure fracking isn’t happening next to a school or too close to someone’s home. It is common sense for companies to be transparent about the chemicals they are using near the water supplies of homes,” said Attorney General Josh Shapiro. “I want to thank Senators Santarsiero, Collett, Muth, Sabatina and Comitta for their work on these reforms—my office is committed to making sure Pennsylvanians are protected against powerful interests.”
The package of bills sponsored by Senate Democrats aim to usher in reforms that were specifically recommended by the Grand Jury report. The eight recommendations included:
- Expanding no-drill zones in Pennsylvania from the required 500 feet to 2,500 feet;
- Requiring fracking companies to publicly disclose all chemicals used in drilling and hydraulic fracturing before they are used on-site;
- Requiring the regulation of gathering lines, used to transport unconventional gas hundreds of miles;
- Adding up all sources of air pollution in a given area to accurately assess air quality;
- Requiring safer transport of the contaminated waste created from fracking sites;
- Conducting a comprehensive health response to the effects of living near unconventional drilling sites;
- Limiting the ability of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection employees to be employed in the private sector immediately after leaving the Department;
- Allowing the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General original criminal jurisdiction over unconventional oil and gas companies.
Senators Santarsiero, Collett, Muth, Sabatina and Comitta will sponsor and co-sponsor bills that directly respond to the recommendations and the urgent need for action.
“Under this package of bills, citizens and others could report potential environmental crimes directly to the Attorney General’s office for investigation without having to go through other agencies first,” said Sen. Santarsiero, adding “This would speed up the process for investigations and convictions for environmental crimes and make it clear to potential polluters that damaging our land and water will be met with real consequences. Pennsylvanians have a constitutional right to clean air, pure water and the protection of the Commonwealth’s natural resources. As a former Chief Deputy Attorney General for Environmental Protection in Pennsylvania, I have firsthand experience in how cumbersome, time consuming, and counter-productive the current process can be. It is time we ensure accurate resources exist to protect the constitutional right of all Pennsylvanians to clean air and pure water.”
“SB653 is a worker and public safety issue,” Senator Sabatina said. “When first responders show up to an accident scene, they need to quickly identify the substance in a spill. We have to keep truck drivers, first responders and drivers in Pennsylvania safe.”
“This package of bills should’ve been enacted before a single permit was approved by the DEP,” said Senator Muth. “For over ten years, Pennsylvanians have been left in the dark about the cumulative health impacts of the extraction industry and often have no idea what kind of harmful chemicals are being used right in their backyard or leaching into their water supplies. The recommendations included in report one of the 43rd Statewide Investigative Grand Jury Report are commonsense, proactive measures that will increase transparency about the hydraulic fracturing process. It’s time for state government to protect the people and our natural resources instead of protecting corporate polluters who only care about profits, even if it means harming people and the planet.”
According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Pennsylvania is the second largest producer of natural gas, following Texas. The industry has boomed in Pennsylvania with very little legal or regulatory accountability. Proposed legislation will address negligence, a lack of transparency and gaps in oversight that have allowed drillers to operate largely on their own accord, with profit often prioritized over children, families and animals that suffer because of exposure to dangerous chemicals, contaminated water and air pollution.
“In my district, where PFAS contamination levels have been among the highest in the nation, water quality is not something we take for granted,” said Senator Collett. “This urgent legislation will allow the Attorney General to take action against polluters and allow us to stop using state dollars – your dollars – to remediate hazards like these across the Commonwealth.”
“The health effects from industry activity are “magnified by proximity”, a fact that is highlighted in Attorney General Josh Shapiro’s Grand Jury report,” said Senator Santarsiero. “We must protect our communities and keep families safe in their homes by increasing the distance unconventional gas drilling operations must be from buildings and water supplies.”
“The Attorney General’s report showed that natural gas drilling operations can have serious impacts on our health, safety, and well-being and those impacts are amplified by proximity. Drilling operations don’t belong in the middle of our neighborhoods or near schools, hospitals, or our water resources,” Senator Comitta said. “It’s time to enact safer setbacks to better protect Pennsylvania families, children, and communities from the potential for the significant, negative health impacts associated with fracking.”
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May 24, 2021
HARRISBURG – May 24, 2021 – Legislation sponsored by Senator Bob Mensch (R-24) and Senator Santarsiero (D-10) advanced out of the Senate today. This legislation will more substantially criminalize the act of “upskirting” in Pennsylvania.
In January of 2020, a former math teacher and soccer coach at Palisades High School in Bucks County was found to be taking ‘upskirt’ photos of students and then sharing them online.
“The bill was made necessary by the unspeakable actions by a former teacher in my district. As a result of this despicable act, the teacher was charged with invasion of privacy and indecent exposure, which is certainly the least of what he deserved,” Mensch said. “Specifically, our legislation will make this offense a third-degree felony for a first offense and a second-degree felony for subsequent offenses of invasion of privacy of a minor when committed by a person of authority.”
“We send our kids to school with an expectation that they will learn in a safe environment, and we have to do everything we can do to provide that safe environment,” said Senator Santarsiero. “This legislation, to strengthen the penalties where an adult takes upskirt photos of a minor, will help do that. I want to thank my colleague, Senator Mensch for working with me on this legislation in the Senate, and Representative Staats for sponsoring the House bill.”
With this legislation, we hope to send a strong message that invasions of privacy like this that do so much irreparable harm to our children will not be tolerated and carry with them serious penalties and consequences.
You can watch Senator Mensch’s floor remarks here.
You can watch Senator Santarsiero’s floor remarks here.
The House companion bill, House Bill 163, was passed in the House and is sponsored by State Representative Craig Staats (R-145) and State Representative Shelby Labs (R-143).
The House bill now awaits consideration in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
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May 14, 2021
Washington Crossing, PA − May 14, 2021 − Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn today announced the start of an $8.7 million project to conserve and improve 17 historic and other structures at Washington Crossing Historic Park in Bucks County.
“We’re pleased to get this project underway to help to protect the cultural and historical significance of some of the buildings at Washington Crossing and continue the site’s historic legacy for the public’s education and enrichment,” Dunn said at a groundbreaking today where she joined local officials and partners.
The 500-acre park that lies along the Delaware River preserves the site of George Washington’s dramatic boat crossing during the American Revolution.
A National Historic Landmark, it has an upper and a lower section.
Together they include historic buildings that give many clues about living conditions during the Revolutionary era.
The following buildings are included in the project:
- McConkey’s Ferry Inn: new roof, window and door restoration, masonry, HVAC, exterior
- Mahlon Taylor residence: new roof, window and door restoration, interior, exterior
- Amos Taylor residence: new roof, window and door restoration, electric, exterior
- Frederick Taylor house: window and door restoration, plumbing, exterior
- Elmer Buckman residence: new roof, window and door restoration, electric, exterior
- Eliza Taylor residence: new roof, window and door restoration, interior, exterior
- Hibbs House: new roof; window and door restoration, masonry, plumbing, interior, exterior
- Frye House: new roof, window and door restoration, interior, exterior
- Andrassy House: new roof, window and door restoration, interior, exterior
- Taylorsville General Store: new roof, window and door restoration, interior, exterior
- Oliver Taylor residence: new roof, window and door restoration, exterior
- Thompson Neely house: new roof, window and door restoration, masonry, HVAC, exterior
- Thompson Neely restroom: plumbing, electric, interior
- Blacksmith Shop: new roof, exterior
- General Washington Pavilion: new roof, masonry repairs
- General Washington Bathhouse: new plumbing
- Bowman’s Hill Tower: parking lot and road improvements
The contractor for the project is Wu & Associates of Mount Laurel, New Jersey. The work already has begun.
Washington Crossing became Pennsylvania’s 121st state park in February 2016 when it was transferred to DCNR from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.
Opportunities for recreation at Washington Crossing include river access for fishing; walking trails; and pavilions for picnicking.
The park and the Friends of Washington Crossing provide historical and environmental education programs, as well as hosting special events and re-enactments.
Attendance at Washington Crossing Historic Park was almost 900,000 visits in 2020, an increase of more than 56 percent, as many people took to the outdoors during the pandemic for well-being and activity.
Find more information about Washington Crossing and all of Pennsylvania’s 121 state parks on the DCNR website.
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April 30, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – April 30, 2021 – State Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Maria Collett (D-12) today announced legislation to allow the state Attorney General to more directly investigate and pursue polluters, and others who damage our land, waterways and drinking water.
“Under this package of bills, citizens and others could report potential environmental crimes directly to the Attorney General’s office for investigation without having to go through other agencies first,” said Sen. Santarsiero, adding “This would speed up the process for investigations and convictions for environmental crimes and make it clear to potential polluters that damaging our land and water will be met with real consequences.”
Currently, the Office of the Attorney General must wait for a referral from the local district attorney, the Department of Environmental Protection or another agency with jurisdiction, before it can take action to pursue a matter involving environmental crimes.
The three bills in the package would provide the Office of the Attorney General with concurrent jurisdiction in environmental criminal matters under the state’s Solid Waste Management Act, Clean Streams Law and Safe Drinking Water Act.
“This legislation is urgent because it would give the Attorney General the power to take action against the polluters who created the PFAS contamination crisis in my district and across the Commonwealth,” said Sen. Collett, who has again introduced legislation to set an interim maximum contaminant level for PFAS chemicals and have them classified as hazardous under the Hazardous Sites Cleanup Act (HSCA). “As legislators, one of our jobs is to make sure our government has the tools it needs to keep our communities safe and go after those who endanger them.”
“Pennsylvanians have a constitutional right to clean air, pure water and the protection of the Commonwealth’s natural resources,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As a former Chief Deputy Attorney General for Environmental Protection in Pennsylvania, I have firsthand experience in how cumbersome, time consuming, and counter-productive the current process can be. It is time we ensure accurate resources exist to protect the constitutional right of all Pennsylvanians to clean air and pure water.”
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April 21, 2021
HARRISBURG – April 21, 2021 – Legislation sponsored by Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Senator Bob Mensch (R-24) advanced unanimously out of the Senate Judiciary Committee today. This legislation will more substantially criminalize the act of “upskirting” in Pennsylvania.
In January of 2020, a former math teacher and soccer coach at Palisades High School in Bucks County was found to be taking ‘upskirt’ photos of students and then sharing them online.
“I’m not sure the word ‘upskirting’ connotes just how critically bad this behavior is. It’s predatory. These young women had no idea that he was doing this. As a result of this despicable act, the teacher was charged with invasion of privacy and indecent exposure, which is the least of what he deserved. We believe that Pennsylvania statute can be even more clear in punishing these acts, particularly when they are committed against minors and especially when they are committed by individuals in positions of authority,” Mensch said. “Specifically, our legislation will make this offense a third-degree felony for a first offense and a second-degree felony for subsequent offenses of invasion of privacy of a minor when committed by a person of authority.”
“As a father and former high school teacher, I feel strongly that educators have a special responsibility to protect and support students in their care,” said Santarsiero. “The case in Bucks County of a teacher who surreptitiously took photos of students and then shared them with others was a flagrant example of a violation of that responsibility and a breach of the trust that parents and students put in our teachers. I am grateful to have worked with my colleague, Senator Mensch, on this legislation. It will help hold those who break the law accountable and protect our children and students.”
We hope to send a strong message with this legislation that invasions of privacy like this that do so much irreparable harm to our children will not be tolerated and carry with them serious penalties and consequences.
You can watch Senator Mensch’s floor remarks here.
Watch Senator Santarsiero’s floor remarks here.
The House companion bill, House Bill 163, was passed in the House and is sponsored by State Representative Craig Staats (R-145) and State Representative Shelby Labs (R-143).
The House bill now awaits consideration in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
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April 21, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – April 21, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and state Representative John Galloway (D-140) announced the award of $125,000 in state funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for projects in Falls Township and Tullytown Borough. The grants are awarded through the Commonwealth Financing Authority as funds authorized by Act 13.
Falls Township will receive $55,029 through the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program for improvements to the township’s roller hockey rink. The project will make repairs to the existing rink, specifically installing new boards, repainting the surface and repairing existing fencing.
“I enthusiastically supported this project because the improvements to the Falls Township hockey rink will both encourage recreation, and drive economic growth with new revenue from rink rental and hockey league play funding park maintenance and future improvements,” said Sen. Santarsiero.
“I am pleased to see these funds going to improve the hockey rink in Falls Township,” said Rep. Galloway. “This project will be a boost to the community, providing recreation and a much-needed facelift to the rink.”
Tullytown Borough will receive $70,000 through the Watershed Restoration Protection Program for the construction of two rain gardens and a vegetate swale, which will help improve the impaired watershed of Martins Creek.
Sen. Santarsiero supported the project saying, “The rain garden and vegetated swale improvements to the community park in Tullytown is a great example of using native plants to help contain runoff from the creek. I was proud to advocate for this project, to protect and restore the creek which also helps to preserve local habitats.”
“The grant for Tullytown to improve the community park will help both preserve the creek and make the park more enjoyable for residents. Our parks and waterways as an important part of my district, and I am always happy to support projects that help them thrive.”
Act 13 Program Funds come from the Commonwealth Financing Authority for statewide initiatives that include abandoned mine drainage abatement, abandoned well plugging, sewage treatment, greenways, trails and recreation, baseline water quality data, watershed restoration, and flood control. For more information about Act 13 Programs, visit the DCED website.
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April 21, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – April 21, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and state Representative Todd Polinchock (R-144) announced the award of $249,971 in state funds to Chalfont Borough from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program.
Chalfont Borough will use the grant to fund the construction of a multi-use trail along the west bank of the North Branch of the Neshaminy Creek. The trail will be 8 feet wide and will extend .5 miles long, connecting multiple neighborhoods along Lindenfield Parkway. The trail will also provide a sidewalk leading to the SEPTA train station in Chalfont Borough.
“I proudly supported this project, as it will provide opportunities for walking, biking and other recreation, while bringing the community closer together along one of the most scenic waterways in the area,” said Sen. Santarsiero.
“Our community here in Chalfont is well deserving of this grant to support and build a walking and biking trail. I’m thrilled to see the benefits of this trail which will play out for generations,” said Rep. Todd Polinchock.
Act 13 Program Funds come from the Commonwealth Financing Authority for statewide initiatives that include abandoned mine drainage abatement, abandoned well plugging, sewage treatment, greenways, trails and recreation, baseline water quality data, watershed restoration, and flood control. For more information about Act 13 Programs, visit the DCED website.
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April 21, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – April 21, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and state Representative Todd Polinchock (R-144) announced the award of $480,000 in Multimodal Transportation Grant funds to New Britain Borough through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
The grant will fund construction for a .25 mile stretch of sidewalk and a pedestrian bridge between Cedar Drive and Shady Retreat Road, which will increase walkability and provide alternative transportation.
“The addition of the sidewalk and pedestrian bridge in New Britain Borough will not only provide recreation but will also help with local economic development for the businesses in the borough,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Most impressively, when this section is complete, residents can bike or walk from Doylestown Borough all the way to New Britain Township by utilizing various trails, one of the many reasons I supported the award of funding for this project.”
“This grant is so important to continue making our New Britain community a beautiful place to live and support our parks and local small businesses,” said Rep. Polinchock.
Multimodal transportation fund grants encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the commonwealth. For more information about the Multimodal Transportation Fund Grants, visit the DCED website.
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April 21, 2021
BUCKS COUNTY – April 21, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and state Representative Perry Warren (D-31) announced today the award of Multimodal Transportation Fund Grants to Lower Makefield Township, Newtown Township and Yardley Borough. Lower Makefield Township will receive $353,000, Newtown Township will receive $227,000 and Yardley Borough will receive $95,000 in funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
“These funding awards are an important opportunity to make improvements to our local transportation infrastructure while providing economic benefits to our communities,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I enthusiastically supported all of these applications, which will hep residents enjoy the outdoors and drive traffic in our thriving boroughs.”
“Bikepath, trail, sidewalk – these CFA grants support local projects that enhance our health, our safety and our quality of life. And, these projects provide recreational opportunities and benefits to residents and businesses in all our communities,” said Rep. Warren.
Lower Makefield Township will use the funds for its Woodside Road bike path project, which will run from Makefield Highlands Golf Course to Taylorsville Road, and connect to a new path on Woodside Road. The bike path ultimately provide bicycle and pedestrian access to Scudder Falls Bridge.
“This bike path will be a welcome addition to Lower Makefield Township, providing increased access and safety for cyclists along Woodside Road,” continued Sen. Santarsiero.
The funds to Newtown Township will be used for the second phase of construction of a multi-use trail along Lower Dolington Road. The first phase of the trail was funded through the same grant program and was awarded in 2019.
Of the Newtown project, Sen. Santarsiero said, “The second phase of the multi-use trail along Lower Dolington Road will improve recreational opportunities for walkers and cyclists to safely enjoy the outdoors, benefit the health of our residents and keeping our residents safe.”
The Yardley Borough project will construct approximately 1,200 linear feet of concrete sidewalk along the northern side of North Main Street. The project will also include related stormwater and pedestrian facility improvements.
“Yardley Borough is home to many restaurants and businesses right along North Main Street. Construction of the sidewalk in this area will help customers access these shops, helping our local economy continue to grow and thrive,” said Sen. Santarsiero.
Rep Warren continued, “Senator Santarsiero and I have advocated for these grants, as they represent the state’s commitment to partner with community leaders on pedestrian and cyclist access and safety and the corresponding recreational and economic benefits to our communities.”
Multimodal transportation fund grants encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the commonwealth. For more information about the Multimodal Transportation Fund Grants, visit the DCED website.
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