January 16, 2024
BUCKS COUNTY − January 16, 2024 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Perry Warren (D-31) today announced that Lower Makefield Township will receive $45,000 in Act 13 Greenway, Trails and Recreation Program funds to improve access to Five Mile Woods.
“Five Mile Woods was a favorite hiking spot for my children growing up and continues to be a place we frequently visit, so I recognized firsthand the value of supporting state funds to improve access to this vital nature preserve in Lower Makefield Township,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I look forward to more residents enjoying the 285-acres of dense forest and trails offered in this wonderful community resource.
“Historic places and recreational opportunities abound in our communities,” said Representative Warren. “Five Mile Woods Preserve is both geologically unique and an example of the evolution of the use of land by early settlers to later generations in Bucks County. This grant will help Lower Makefield improve access to this natural treasure.”
Grant funds can be awarded for projects which involve development, rehabilitation and improvements to public parks, recreation areas, greenways, trails, and river conservation.
Additional information about the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program can be found on the DCED website.
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January 16, 2024
BUCKS COUNTY − January 16, 2024 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) today announced that Bristol Borough will receive $250,000 in Act 13 Greenway, Trails and Recreation Program funds for Maple Beach Road trailhead improvement.
The funds will be used to design and construct a multi-use trail along Maple Beach Road and a parking area. The trail will connect the newly constructed Maple Beach Road bridge to the D&L Canal Trail terminus and Bristol Waterfront Park Trails.
“This project will connect several recreational and natural resources in Bristol Borough, further expanding the trail network and allowing residents to get the most out of the area’s outdoor recreational opportunities,” said Senator Santarsiero.
“Preserving our outdoor recreation area for future generations is important to the quality of life in the Bristol community,” said Representative Davis. “I look forward to the completion of the Maple Beach Road Trailhead Improvements project.”
Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program funds can be awarded for projects involving development, rehabilitation and improvements to public parks, recreation areas, greenways, trails, and river conservation. Additional information can be found on the DCED website.
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January 16, 2024
BUCKS COUNTY − January 16, 2024 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) today announced that Bristol Borough will receive $460,000 in state funds through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for a project to design and construct streambank stabilization measures along Adams Hollow Creek between North Cedar Street and Radcliffe Street.
“Restoring the streambank is critical to preserving the natural landscape and protecting the residential dwellings in the surrounding area,” said Senator Santarsiero. “These funds will enable Bristol Borough to mitigate future damage from flooding, keeping the borough a desirable place for economic growth and development.”
Representative Davis noted, “Preventing flooding through the Adams Hollow Creek project is important for the economic status of Bristol Borough as many businesses are within close proximity to the creek. This grant is important toward moving this project forward.”
Project funds include DCED’s Flood Mitigation Program. Flood Mitigation Program funds can be used for projects authorized by a flood protection authority, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) or the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) or identified by a local government for flood mitigation. Additional information can be found on the DCED website.
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December 19, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY — December 19, 2023 — Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), along with State Representatives Tim Brennan (D-29), Perry Warren (D-31) and Tina Davis (D-141) today announced $307,414 in PA Arts and Culture Recovery Program funds benefitting seven organizations, museums and performance centers in the 10th Senate District.
The awards are as follows:
- Artists of Yardley will receive $13,700;
- Bristol Riverside Theater will receive $71,653;
- Bucks County Center for the Performing Arts will receive $16,718;
- Bucks County Childrens Museum will receive $17,522;
- County Theater will receive $33,062;
- Historic Fallsington, Inc. will receive $10,000; and
- James A. Michener Art Museum will receive $80,310.
“Bucks County has a robust and thriving arts community that is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike and contributes to our local economy,” said Senator Santarsiero. “It is no surprise that the impacts of COVID-19 have affected these organizations, and I was happy to support these funds to help with their recovery.”
“The Arts are thriving in and around our communities,” said Rep. Warren. “Artists of Yardley features the work of local artists, and our residents are participants in and patrons of the fine and performing arts and museums in the nearby Bucks County communities.”
Of the funding for Bristol Riverside Theater in her district, Rep. Davis said, “The arts play an important role in our cultural identity, and the Bristol Riverside Theatre has been a local beacon for the Bristol area’s arts scene. I was pleased to see it get this funding.”
Rep. Brennan similarly voiced support for the Bucks County Center for the Performing Arts, Bucks County Childrens Museum, County Theater and Michener Museum, all located in his district. “If you follow me on social media or see me out and about in the district, you know I’m a proud supporter of all four of these institutions – each one enriches our community in its own unique way,” said Brennan. “As Bucks County residents, we’re fortunate to live in such a dynamic region with so much to offer, to both residents and visitors alike.”
The COVID-19 ARPA PA Arts and Culture Recovery Program (PACR) was created to provide grants to nonprofit arts and culture organizations, local arts and culture districts and arts and culture professionals located in the Commonwealth to ensure the stability and recovery of the Commonwealth’s arts and culture sector from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additional information about the COVID-19 ARPA PA Arts and Culture Recovery Program can be found on the DCED website.
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December 19, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY — December 19, 2023 — Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tim Brennan (D-29) announced today $1,885,036 in state grant awards through the H2O PA program for water improvement projects in Doylestown Township and Chalfont Borough.
“These projects will help make critical improvements to our municipal water and sewer systems, strengthening our infrastructure, protecting our environment and maintaining quality drinking water for our community,” said Sen. Santarsiero.
Doylestown Township Municipal Authority will receive $1,431,154 for the Northern Regional Water System Transmission Mains improvement project. The project will upgrade existing infrastructure to provide water more efficiently to residents in Doylestown Township, Plumstead Township and New Britain Borough. The project will also provide the opportunity for property owners with contaminated wells to connect to public water.
“Infrastructure investments are a critical component of protecting our environment and maintaining quality drinking water for our communities,” said Senator Santarsiero. “This water system improvement project will increase efficiency and reliability for residents across three municipalities.”
“We’re still putting ARPA funding to good use, which puts people to work and is solving issues in our backyard here at home,” said Rep. Brennan. “We need to continue to focus on building and preserving the essential infrastructure these grants support. State support for these projects also frees up local and county resources, which ultimately helps provide relief to local taxpayers across Central Bucks County.”
Chalfont Borough will receive $453,882 to replace stormwater pipes in the Woodview area of the borough, including the milling and repaving of the impacted roadways.
“As we see stronger and more frequent storms, it is more important than ever that we invest in stormwater management systems to adequately handle the needs of our communities,” said Senator Santarsiero. The stormwater pipe replacement project will go a long way to protecting properties and the health and safety of the citizens of Chalfont Borough.”
H2O PA provides grants for the construction of drinking water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer projects, the construction or renovation of flood control projects, and the repair or rehabilitation of high-hazard unsafe dams.
Additional information about H2O PA Program funding can be found on the DCED website.
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December 19, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY — December 19, 2023 — Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), along with State Representatives Tim Brennan (D-29), Perry Warren (D-31), Tina Davis (D-141), and Shelby Labs (R-143) today announced $3,458,844 in state grants were awarded for 12 small water and sewer improvement projects across the 10th Senate District.
“These projects will help make critical improvements to our municipal water and sewer systems, strengthening our infrastructure, protecting our environment and maintaining quality drinking water for our community,” said Sen. Santarsiero.
The awards in House District 29 are as follows:
- Chalfont Borough will receive $423,804 to replace stormwater piping in the borough;
- Doylestown Township Municipal Authority will receive $268,405 for the Forest Park Regional Water System Interconnection;
- North Wales Water Authority will receive $337,954 for the Yorkshire Meadows Project to replace and upgrade a 2,000-gallon Hydro-Pneumatic storage tank and arsenic removal system in Solebury Township;
- North Whales Water Authority will also receive $313,559 for the Ingham News Project to replace and upgrade a potable water Hydro-Pneumatic storage tank and the addition of an arsenic removal system in Solebury Township; and
- Doylestown Borough will receive $424,864 for the rehabilitation of the Maplewood Tank located in the borough.
“I was pleased to work with Rep. Brennan to secure these funds for Chalfont Borough, Doylestown Borough, Doylestown Township and Solebury Township,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Each project will make critical improvements to our water and sewer infrastructure.”
“We’re still putting ARPA funding to good use, which puts people to work and is solving issues in our backyard here at home,” said Rep. Brennan. “We need to continue to focus on building and preserving the essential infrastructure these grants support. State support for these projects also frees up local and county resources, which ultimately helps provide relief to local taxpayers across Central Bucks County.”
The awards in House District 31 are as follows:
- Township of Falls Authority will receive $343,388 for an inflow and infiltration elimination project in Lower Makefield Township; and
- Lower Makefield Township will receive $147,462 for stormwater improvements.
“I have been working with Lower Makefield Township to address ongoing stormwater management concerns in the Maplevale neighborhood area and I was happy to advocate for these funds to help implement projects to make necessary improvements,” said Sen. Santarsiero.
Rep. Warren added, “These grants of state funds will improve storm water management and filtration in Lower Makefield. Between these grants and Governor Shapiro signing into law the Flood Insurance Premium Assistance Task Force bill, the Governor, Senator Santarsiero, the Lower Makefield Board of Supervisors and I are working to reduce the impact of flooding upon our communities. The storm water management grant will directly benefit the areas most likely to flood during heavy rains and due to the flow of storm water.”
The awards in House District 140 are as follows:
- Township of Falls Authority will receive $71,400 for improvements to the Vermillion and Twin Oaks Interconnection in Falls Township;
- Township of Falls Authority will also receive $412,905 for the water main lining along Brentwood Road and Chestertown Road in Falls Township;
- Bucks County will receive $110,721 to improve drainage conditions at the Morrisville Senior Center; and
- Tullytown Borough will receive $93,184 to repair storm inlets and grates throughout the borough.
“Each of these projects will increase the effectiveness of important water supply and stormwater management infrastructure, helping to keep our communities safe and healthy,” Sen. Santarsiero added.
The award in House District 141 is as follows:
- Bristol Borough will receive $90,000 for the Howell Street vegetated swale to help reduce sediment discharge to the Mill Creek Watershed.
“A key component of protecting our environment is working to reduce the amount of sediment that is discharged into our waterways,” noted Sen. Santarsiero. “The project in Bristol Borough will keep the Mill Creek Watershed healthy.”
Rep. Davis said, “I whole-heartedly supported funding for this project. It is crucial that we work to reduce sediment pollution in the Mill Creek Watershed and, in doing so, protect our streams and aquatic life. I am pleased that the state agreed that this was a project worth investing in.”
The awards in House District 143 are as follows:
- Plumstead Township will receive $418,198 for a water interconnection between two distribution systems in the township.
“Quality drinking water and reliable sewer services are critical services for our residents,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I was proud to support these state funds for this project to help lessen the burden on Plumstead Township and local tax payers.”
“I am thrilled to see Plumstead Township receive this grant,” said Rep. Labs. “This necessary investment into our infrastructure will secure a brand-new water interconnection between two existing systems. The new interconnection will improve water reliability in Plumstead Township, and make our system less reactive to drought, system failure, and other potential issues.”
Grants for small water, sewer, and storm water infrastructure projects include activities to assist with the construction, improvement, expansion, or rehabilitation or repair of a water supply system, sanitary sewer system, and storm water system projects. Act 54 of 2022 appropriated $105.6 million of American Rescue Plan Act funds to the PA Small Water and Sewer Program.
Additional information about PA Small Water and Sewer Program funding can be found on the DCED website.
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December 18, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY − December 18, 2023 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today $45,617 for security improvements at Thompson Memorial Presbyterian Church in Solebury Township. The funds come from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) Non-Profit Security Grant Program.
“Freedom of religion means no one should fear for his or her safety while observing their faith,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Unfortunately, that is not always the case, which is why these funds are so important to our community and to the congregants of Thompson Memorial Presbyterian Church.”
The funds will be used to install security cameras and upgrade building doors with lock improvements and key fob entry.
Pastor Stephanie Templin Ashford shared her gratitude for the state funds saying, “We are so grateful for the resources provided by our State to help protect this precious place of worship and to allow it to be a safe space for all of God’s people. Thank you!”
The Thompson Memorial Presbyterian Church dates back to 1811 when it was founded as the Solebury Presbyterian Church.
The Non-Profit Security Grant Program administers funds to nonprofit organizations who principally serve individuals, groups or institutions that are included within a bias motivation category for single bias hate crime incidents. For more information, visit the PCCD website.
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December 14, 2023
HARRISBURG – December 14, 2023 – The Senate of Pennsylvania last night unanimously passed critical legislation to save children’s lives. Senate Bill 55, also known as Kayden’s Law, is legislation that provides urgently needed reform to Pennsylvania’s child custody statute. The bi-partisan legislation is sponsored by Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Lisa Baker (R-20), and is named for Kayden Mancuso, a seven-year-old from Lower Makefield Township, who was killed in August 2018 by her biological father during a court-ordered, unsupervised visit granted following a year-long custody dispute.
“Kayden’s Law will ensure the safety of the child is paramount in custody cases and will save children’s lives,” said Senator Santarsiero. “No child in Pennsylvania should fear for their safety or be left alone with an abuser. Kayden’s Law will help ensure that never happens again by requiring supervised visitation at a minimum when there is a potential risk to the child’s safety.”
“One of the most difficult and wrenching decisions local courts must make is in awarding child custody in divorce cases,” said Senator Baker. “Judges must sort through a variety of allegations and conflicting contentions in order to determine what arrangement is in the best interests of the child. With the passage of Kayden’s Law, we are updating the criteria courts must consider before custody of a child is awarded, including adding seven crimes to the list of offenses that must be taken into account when rendering judgement.”
Senate Bill 55 will:
- Strengthen the current factors that judges must consider in making custody and visitation decisions, to make it clear that the most important issue is the protection of the child;
- Ensure that if there is a finding by the court of an ongoing risk of abuse, that any custody order includes safety conditions and restrictions necessary, including supervised visitation, to protect the child; and
- Encourage the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania to implement an annual educational and training program for judges and relevant court personnel on child abuse, adverse childhood experiences, domestic violence, and its impact on children.
Sen. Santarsiero continued, “Kayden’s Law has been a years-long collaborative effort, led by the tireless advocacy of Kayden’s mom Kathy Sherlock, along with family law advocates and experts. Kathy’s strength and dedication have continued to motivate me to push for this legislation and get it to Governor Shapiro’s desk to be signed into law. I want to thank my colleague, Sen. Lisa Baker, for her partnership in writing the bill and helping it get through the Senate. I also want to thank my House colleagues Tina Davis and Perry Warren for their work on this issue.”
“Every day children are at risk of being ordered to remain in abusive, unsafe and deadly situations,” Kathy Sherlock said. “I vowed to do whatever it took to protect children and have found support from so many on this journey and with today’s overwhelming vote for Kayden’s Law we are one step closer to fulfilling our mission of ‘not one more’.”
Senate Bill 55 now moves to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for consideration.
December 6, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY − December 6, 2023 − Today, State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D 10, Bucks) called on Elizabeth Magill to resign as the president of the University of Pennsylvania in the wake of her congressional testimony on December 5, 2023, in which she failed to express, without qualification, that should Penn students call for the genocide of Jews they would violate the university’s code of conduct.
“In her congressional hearing yesterday, President Magill was given several chances to clearly state what should be obvious: that should any student call for the genocide of the Jewish People they would not only violate university policy but would be condemned in the strongest possible terms and face expulsion,” Santarsiero explained. “She refused to do so, choosing instead to give what appeared to be a coached response that utterly failed to express the moral clarity that the question demanded. For that reason, I call upon her to resign from her post immediately. To be clear, I will not vote for any state funding for the university until she does so.”
“In the early 1950s, when my late father-in-law was a freshman at Penn, the university required all students to pass a swimming test,” Santarsiero added. “If they failed to do so, they were made to take swimming lessons for a semester. That year, the swim test was administered on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. When my father-in-law asked to be allowed to take the test another day, the university declined the request. As a result, he refused to take the test and, despite being a lifeguard, was forced to take swimming lessons for the rest of the semester.”
“It amazes me that 70 years since antisemitism was sanctioned policy at Penn that the university has a president, who, rather than express outrage at the very thought of one or more students calling for the murder of the Jewish People, sought to parse her answer, claiming that the ‘context’ of the statement mattered. For that, Ms. Magill must go. We have come too far for someone who would respond in such a manner to be the leader of one of our country’s great research universities,” Santarsiero added.
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December 4, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY − December 4, 2023 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Perry Warren (D-31) joined Governor Josh Shapiro today in Yardley Borough for the bill signing of House Bill 735, establishing a task force to address rising flood insurance premiums.
“After a devastating storm this summer dropped a month’s worth of rain in a span of just two hours and flash flooding swept cars off of roads, and flooded homes, schools, and businesses in Bucks County, my Administration was on the ground immediately, providing assistance to rescue and recovery efforts, set up detours, and keep people safe,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “Chaired by Insurance Commissioner Mike Humphreys, the task force established by HB 735 will bring together leaders from my Administration and the Legislature to closely review the needs of our communities who are at an increased risk of flooding. They’ll identify the kinds of programs that would make sure flood insurance is accessible and affordable for the Pennsylvanians who need it – and recommend the best courses of action our Commonwealth can take to help increase the number of Pennsylvanians protected by flood insurance.”
“Eight years ago, I introduced what was then HB 1299 which was the precursor for HB 735, to help Pennsylvanians living in flood zones with flood insurance premiums,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Then, as now, residents in neighborhoods along the Delaware River were facing skyrocketing flood insurance costs that threatened their ability to protect their homes and made it almost impossible for them to sell. I want to thank my friend and successor in the House Rep. Warren for continuing the work on this issue with me. This is an important step toward helping Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth find relief from rising flood insurance premiums.”
The bill signing took place at the Yardley Inn, a restaurant in Yardley Borough that has been flooded several times. The building is set to begin renovations in early 2025 to move the restaurant further back from the Delaware River and elevate the foundation to prevent future flooding.
“Thank you to Governor Shapiro for coming to Yardley to sign House Bill 735 into law as Act 22 of 2023,” Representative Warren said. “I reintroduced this bill when I was first elected in 2017, it passed in the House in the 2019-2020 Session, and it was the first bill passed by the House Insurance Committee in 2021-2022, but it did not get across the finish line. This year, through the collective efforts of Senator Santarsiero, the House Insurance Committee, the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee and me, and in the wake of the devastating flooding in Upper Makefield and Lower Makefield in July, the bill passed in the House and Senate and has become law with Governor Shapiro’s signature.”
Reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program that Congress passed in 2012, called the Biggert-Waters Act, phased out the federal subsidy for flood insurance costs and directed the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to revise its flood plain maps. Those new maps included many more homes in the flood zones and requiring flood insurance.
In late 2014 and early 2015 Senator Santarsiero held townhalls and neighborhood meetings, as well as discussions with local stakeholders and elected officials. From those meetings it became clear the best option at the state level was a task force to review the problem and identify state solutions.
HB 735 establishes the Flood Insurance Premium Assistance Task Force to explore ways to lower flood insurance premiums and incentivize communities to invest in flood prevention measures. The task force would consist of one appointee each from the Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of Banking and Securities, Senate Majority Leader, Senate Minority Leader, House Majority Leader, and House Minority Leader.
Senator Santarsiero introduced Senate Bill 442, the Senate companion bill, which passed out of the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee earlier this year.
The task force would have the power to review and analyze existing law, procedures, practices, processes, and rules related to the administration of flood insurance. In addition, the task force would hold public hearings and accept written comments from the public.
“The establishment of a flood insurance task force is a proactive step towards ensuring homeowners and businesses in Bucks County can more easily recover from future flash floods,” said Bucks County Commissioner Chair Bob Harvie. “My fellow Commissioners and I are committed to working closely with Governor Shapiro, state and local officials, insurance providers, and our dedicated emergency services personnel towards improving our response to these devastating floods.”
The task force would have six months to issue a final report to include recommendations on:
- potential programs to provide flood insurance premium discounts;
- potential programs, whether through the mechanism of premium discounts or other relief, that create incentives for local governments to undertake or continue mitigation efforts;
- the implementation of necessary changes in state statutes and practices, policies and procedures relating to the administration of flood insurance;
- ways to educate the public about flooding risks and mitigation techniques;
- how to inform Pennsylvanians about flood insurance options when purchasing;
- recommendations to increase the number of flood insurance policies purchased by Pennsylvanians.
Representative Warren added, “As Vice-Chair of the House Insurance Committee, this new law combines the committee’s efforts to contain insurance costs while expanding insurance coverage, with our efforts to reduce and contain the cost of flooding. Senator Santarsiero and I worked with our local communities to forward this legislation, and Governor Shapiro coming to Yardley to sign the bill evinces the positive impact Act 23 will have for our communities. I look forward to the recommendations of the task force.”
Senator Santarsiero continued, “Communities along Pennsylvania’s rivers, creeks and streams have been devastated by plummeting property values due to unaffordable flood insurance premiums. While it was meetings with local constituents that initiated this legislation, the benefits of this legislation will help countless citizens across the Commonwealth.”
October 17, 2023
HARRISBURG − October 17, 2023 − Senate Bill 55, known as Kayden’s Law, was unanimously voted out of the Senate Judiciary Committee today. The bi-partisan legislation is sponsored by Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Lisa Baker (R-20), and is named for Kayden Mancuso, a seven-year-old from Lower Makefield Township, who was killed in August 2018 by her biological father during a court-ordered, unsupervised visit granted following a year-long custody dispute.
“No child in Pennsylvania should fear for their safety or be left alone with an abuser,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Kayden’s Law will ensure the safety of the child is paramount in custody cases and will absolutely save children’s lives.”
During the committee meeting Senator Baker noted that Kayden would have turned 13 years old on Sunday, October 15th.
Senate Bill 55 will:
- Strengthen the current factors that judges must consider in making custody and visitation decisions, to make it clear that the most important issue is the protection of the child;
- Ensure that if there is a finding by the court of an ongoing risk of abuse, that any custody order includes safety conditions and restrictions necessary, including supervised visitation, to protect the child; and
- Encourage the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania to implement an annual educational and training program for judges and relevant court personnel on child abuse, adverse childhood experiences, domestic violence, and its impact on children.
Sen. Santarsiero continued, “Kayden’s Law has been a collaborative effort, led by the tireless advocacy of Kayden’s mom Kathy Sherlock, along with family law experts. I am proud to have the opportunity to sponsor this legislation and will continue to advocate for the bill to be brought before the full Senate.”
Kayden’s Law passed the Senate in 2021, during the previous Senate session, but was not brought up for a vote in the House. With the start of the new session in January 2023, all bills that were not passed in the previous session must be re-introduced and begin the legislative process anew.
Senate Bill 55 may now be brought up for a full vote of the Senate.
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October 17, 2023
HARRISBURG − October 17, 2023 − The Pennsylvania Senate today passed a resolution on unanimous consent sponsored by Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Judy Schwank (D-11) condemning the unprovoked terrorist attack launched by Hamas against the State of Israel on October 7, 2023, and expressing deep condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives as a result of this senseless act of violence.
“We cannot be silent,” said Senator Santarsiero. “We must call out the barbarous terrorist attack by Hamas. The loss of life of more than 1,000 Israelis, the kidnapping of 200 innocent civilians, and the wounding of thousands more must be condemned. I thank my colleagues in the Senate for joining Senator Schwank and me in this strong renunciation of the terrorist organization Hamas and in showing support for the Israeli people.”
“The October 7 attack on Israel was shocking in scale and savagery,” said Senator Schwank. “This was the worst incidence of violence inflicted on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Jews all over the world and certainly the Israeli people are still reeling. It’s important that Pennsylvania stand with Israel and the people impacted by this horrific attack and express support for all those affected. Most importantly, we all must join together and advocate for a lasting and meaningful peace for all.”
The resolution reads, in part:
RESOLVED, That the Senate condemn the unprovoked terrorist attack launched by Hamas against the State of Israel on October 7, 2023, the Jewish Sabbath, also known as Shabbat; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Senate express deep condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives as a result of this senseless act of violence; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Senate pledge its solidarity with the Israeli people during this challenging time and its unwavering support for the State of Israel’s right to defend itself against this barbaric war and to ensure the safety and security of its citizens; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Senate call upon the Congress of the United States and the international community to condemn unequivocally acts of terrorism and violence deliberately targeting civilians and to support efforts aimed at achieving a lasting and peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The full text of the resolution can be found here.
The resolution passed 49-0.
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October 10, 2023
PHILADELPHIA – October 10, 2023 – State Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10), Tina Tartaglione (D-2), Jimmy Dillon (D-5) and John Kane (D-9), and representatives from the building trades announced Build Better PA, a package of bills to promote fairness, quality, and skilled craftsmanship within the tax incentive programs designed to stimulate economic growth.
“Union labor means quality work done right the first time,” said Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10). “As businesses enjoy the benefits of tax incentive development zones, it is in the best interest of taxpayers and workers to make sound investments in how the work is done. While these programs have been instrumental in driving economic development, they also provide a unique opportunity to raise the bar in terms of labor standards and workforce quality. Building trades and apprenticeships invest in workers, ensuring fair, family-sustaining wages and high-quality final products.”
Build Better PA introduces two essential benchmarks for businesses making capital investments exceeding $25,000 in construction, reconstruction, demolition, alteration, or repair of facilities within designated tax zones:
- Prevailing Wage Requirement: This provision ensures that businesses within the tax program pay their workers fair wages in line with regional standards. It aims to prevent the exploitation of labor and maintain equitable compensation for workers contributing to these projects.
- Skilled Craft Labor Mandate: To further enhance the quality of workmanship, the bill mandates that at least 70% of the workforce on prevailing wage-eligible projects are “skilled craft laborers.” This criterion ensures that projects funded through tax incentives maintain high standards of craftsmanship and expertise, promoting both worker skill development and the overall quality of construction.
“For decades our Commonwealth has supported business development and created special tax incentives to drive growth,” said Senator Tina Tartaglione (D-2). “These bills will make sure while we keep driving Pennsylvania forward, we don’t leave the working class behind. Unions, skilled trades and apprentice programs are the key to continuing to grow the middle class, which is imperative for our continued success.”
“I have witnessed the challenges that workers in the construction industry face, both as a plumber and as the Business Manager for the largest Plumbers Union in Pennsylvania. This legislation will benefit our labor force by giving them a stronger voice, ensuring fair wages for their hard work, and emphasizing apprenticeships that will properly train our next generation of skilled laborers,” said Senator John Kane (D-9). “As Minority Chair of the Labor and Industry Committee, I am committed to doing everything I can to create a more equitable future and improve Pennsylvania’s position in the construction industry, and this legislation does exactly that.”
The “zone” programs the legislation would apply to are: City Revitalization and Improvement Zones, Neighborhood Improvement Zones, Keystone Opportunity Zones, Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones, Keystone Opportunity Improvement Zones, Keystone Special Development Zone Program, Keystone Innovation Zones and Airport Land Development Zones.
“These tax incentive programs have fueled economic development across the Commonwealth, but we owe it to ourselves to make sure they also uplift our workers,” said Senator Jimmy Dillon (D-5). “I’m honored to partner with Senators Santarsiero, Tartaglione, and Kane to make sure that businesses investing in our communities benefit both themselves and the hardworking men and women who make it all possible.”
“Thank you, Senators Santarsiero, Tartaglione, Kane and Dillon for recognizing the value of union labor to ensure quality construction projects, and fair wages with good benefits for workers,” said Fran McLaughlin, Business Manager for District Council 21. “Apprenticeship programs offer a path for individuals looking not just for a job, but a career that offers family-sustaining wages. Quality work and fair wages will enable us to build a better Pennsylvania and protect investments for taxpayers.”
Senator Nikil Saval (D-1), a co-sponsor of the legislation, voiced his support saying, “Any form of state investment, whether direct or through tax incentives, that drives our Commonwealth’s economic growth should primarily center the creation of jobs with family sustaining wages. This legislation will ensure that Pennsylvania carefully balances our responsibility to attract capital investments and do so in a manner that lifts working class families.”
Any business found in violation of the law would have to refund the full amount of the tax exemption, deduction, abatement or credit awarded for the year that they violated the provisions, as determined by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
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October 5, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY − October 5, 2023 − Today, Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $250,000 in state funding for two municipal park improvement projects through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Community Conservation Partnerships Program.
Doylestown Township will be awarded $200,000 for further development of Central Park. These funds will go toward the construction of pedestrian walkways, basketball and pickleball courts, ADA accessibility, landscaping, and other improvements.
Another $50,000 in funds will be awarded to Solebury Township for the preparation of a comprehensive park, recreation, open space, trail, and greenway plan.
“Abundant parks and open space are one of the things that make the 10th District so special,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Continued investments in outdoor recreation are vital to the continued health and wellbeing of our environment and our communities.”
The Community Conservation Partnerships Program is designed to assist local governments and recreation and conservation organizations with funding relating to parks, recreation, and conservation. The grant program is run by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.
For more information on the DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program Grants, visit their website.
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September 26, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY – September 26, 2023 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) today announced $49,405 in state funds were awarded by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to Rolling Harvest Food Rescue to improve food storage and reduce food waste.
With the funds, provided through the Food Recovery Infrastructure Grant Program, Rolling Harvest will partner with Solly Brothers Farm to purchase a second 10 x 20 walk-in, outdoor refrigerated cooler to increase their safe food storage capacity and to use as a central Food Access Hub for food distribution in the region.
“The work of Rolling Harvest Food Rescue is critical to combatting food insecurity that affects too many individuals and families in Bucks County,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Through partnerships with local farms, Rolling Harvest helps reduce food waste and provide nutritious, local produce to those in need. I proudly supported this grant to increase the organization’s capacity to store thousands of pounds of fresh produce for community members in need.”
“On behalf of all of us with Rolling Harvest Food Rescue, please accept our sincere appreciation in helping us secure the recent $50,000 PA DEP Food Recovery Infrastructure Grant, said Cathy Snyder, Founder and Executive Director of Rolling Harvest Food Rescue. “One of the main barriers to being able to rescue and redistribute perfectly wholesome, healthy surplus food has always been a lack of available cold storage in Bucks County, and beyond. This grant helps remove that barrier by providing us with a new, large cooler facility in a central location, increasing our food recovery efforts with local farmers, food producers, and food retailers to benefit all of our neighbors in need struggling with food insecurity and lacking access to nutrition. Cold food storage means this precious and highly perishable food does not have to be left in the fields or sent to landfills.”
Rolling Harvest Food Rescue connects farmers with food pantries to eliminate waste and meet local demand. The organization works to increase access to donated fresh produce and other healthy foods to area hunger-relief sites that serve the at-risk, food-insecure population by providing local farmers and food producers with free, effective delivery and distribution of their surplus. Additional information about Rolling Harvest Food Rescue can be found on their website.
Food Recovery Infrastructure Grant funds are used for the procurement of eligible equipment to reduce food waste disposal from food retailers, wholesalers, agriculture organizations, farms and cooperatives by repurposing and redistributing apparently safe and wholesome foods to Commonwealth nonprofits that provide food to segments of the public.
For additional information on DEP’s action to reduce food insecurity click here.
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September 21, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY – September 21, 2023 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) today announced $5,291,460 in state funds were awarded by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to benefit residents of Bucks County.
Federal Victim of Crime Act (VOCA) Funds totaling $4,371,113 were awarded as follows:
- Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) Bucks: $1,567,916
- A Woman’s Place: $718,405
- Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania: $563,305
- SeniorLAW Center: $1,531,487
PCCD also awarded Bucks County $920,347 in Continuing County Adult Probation and Parole Grant Funds.
“We are fortunate to have incredible victim services organizations providing vital assistance to some of the most vulnerable residents of Bucks County,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I’m pleased to support PCCD funding for these organizations so they can continue to serve those in need.”
Bucks County Commissioner and PCCD Board Member Diane Ellis-Marseglia said, “I am proud to serve on the PCCD Board and happy that I am able to bring these important funds to protect victims and assist our probation officers in keeping the community safe.”
The federally funded Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) supports the provision of direct services to victims of crime. This includes a broad array of services for victims ranging from crisis intervention, emergency shelter, counseling, and criminal justice advocacy.
For additional information on the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency visit the PCCD website.
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August 21, 2023
NEW HOPE − August 21, 2023 − Senator Steve Santarsiero released the following statement on New Hope Parking Garage:
For years surveys by New Hope Borough and individual businesses reveal that nearly everyone – residents, visitors and businessowners – agrees that insufficient parking is an inconvenience for residents and stifles growth opportunities for restaurants, retail and the arts in New Hope. A parking garage is a logical way to address the situation and would be a proper use of local and state resources.
When I saw the presentation from the 2nd Ad Hoc Committee for the Parking Garage that cited a $28 million cost estimate for the parking garage I was alarmed. When I did a thorough analysis of their presentation, I found that cost to be a gross exaggeration and not supported by the facts, thus inappropriately jeopardizing the feasibility of this project.
As the state Senator representing New Hope Borough and the sponsor of a $1.75 million state grant to help with the construction of the garage, I felt compelled to correct the record so that residents and all of borough council could make a more informed decision on whether to support this worthy public improvement project.
As my presentation showed, the borough could in fact build a 250-stall garage for closer to $7 million. Further I noted that I am committed to continuing to pursue additional state funding to further lower the borrowing cost for the project.
Unfortunately, members of council offered a motion that was not on the agenda and certainly a violation of the spirit and intent of the state’s Sunshine Law, consequently leaving the public ill-informed on essential facts regarding the project. In a 4-3 vote Council ended its contract with the garage construction consultant and rejected the $1.75 million state grant for the project.
At the end of the day, New Hope Borough Council will decide for itself whether or not to go forward with this public improvement project that done properly would bring in revenue for the borough. But they should make that decision after the public has been able to review the facts. The vote on Tuesday night, as opposed to voting at a future Council meeting after the public and council has had the opportunity to review the facts, is a disservice to the community.
Download Presentation →
August 15, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY − August 15, 2023 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tim Brennan (D-29) announced $279,200 in state funds for Doylestown Township through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Green Light-Go program.
The funding will be used for updated signal equipment at Easton Road (Route 611) and Edison Furlong Road in Doylestown Township.
“Doylestown Township has been working to continue safety improvements at this busy intersection and I am pleased to see these funds awarded for this project,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Traffic signal upgrades like this ensure safety on our roadways while increasing accessibility to local businesses.”
Rep. Brennan added, “Many traffic accidents occur at these types of intersections. By updating our roads with the latest signal technology, we’re improving public safety not only for drivers, but for pedestrians and cyclists as well. We should also see better traffic flow with these improvements!”
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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August 10, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY − August 10, 2023 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced they will be hosting an event to assist constituents replace hard to read license plates. The event, in partnership with the Bristol Township Police Department, will be held on Wednesday, August 23rd at the Bristol Township Municipal Complex from 4-7pm.
“Our roads are safest when vehicles are regularly inspected and easily identifiable,” said Senator Santarsiero. “We are happy to partner with Bristol Township Police to get the paperwork completed for hard to read license plates so they can be replaced for free.”
During the event, a police officer will evaluate whether a license plate is hard to read and sign off on the necessary paperwork to receive a free replacement from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). Individuals are asked to sign up for a 10-minute drive thru appointment time by RSVPing on Senator Santarsiero’s website.
“Most drivers likely don’t think about their license plate on a regular basis, so I am hopeful this event can help raise awareness about hard to read license plates and assist drivers in getting a free replacement plate and avoiding fines,” said Representative Davis.
A license plate is deemed illegible when one or more numbers or letters cannot be recognized from 50 feet or if the registration plate shows any blistering, peeling, discoloration or loss of reflectivity. PennDOT will replace an illegible license plate for free with a completed Form MV-46, which must be signed off on by a law enforcement officer or certified inspection station, verifying the need for the replacement due to illegibility. The vehicle owner must then send the completed form in to PennDOT in order to receive the replacement plate.
If a ticket is issued, the fine for an illegible license plate is $100.
The event will be held on Wednesday, August 23rd from 4-7pm in the parking lot of the Bristol Township Municipal Complex at 2501 Bath Road in Bristol, PA.
Additional information on illegible license plate replacement can be found on the PennDOT website.
Questions about the event can be directed to Senator Santarsiero’s office at 215-497-9490.
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June 28, 2023
NEWTOWN – June 28, 2023 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $100,000 in state funds for continued renovations of the Newtown Theatre at the theater’s “Reel” Garden Party last week.
The funding for the Newtown Theatre will be used toward the second phase of the renovations focusing on the balcony and restrooms. The project, which will include private donation support, will include replacing the floors and seats, demolishing and rebuilding the projection room and renovating the restrooms to make them ADA compatible.
Senator Santarsiero recounted how he worked in his hometown’s theater as a teen and then when he returned after graduating from college the theater had been razed after being neglected for several years.
“The support of so many dedicated volunteers like Dave Callahan, Andy Smith, Heather Lewis and so many others have kept this vital part of Newtown’s history alive while also making Newtown a destination for theater, music, film screenings and other events,” Senator Santarsiero said. “The Newtown Theatre is undeniably a jewel of Bucks County’s cultural heritage, and these renovations will guarantee the theater’s viability for generations.”
The historic property underwent extensive first-floor renovations through the spring and summer of 2021 and re-opened to the public in December 2021.
The Newtown Theatre is the nation’s longest operating theater, having been in operation since 1906. The building’s history dates to 1831 as “Newtown Hall” and had featured notable abolitionist speakers such as Frederick Douglass. The Theatre, in addition to films, shows musical performances, plays, comedy shows, and more. Additional information about the Newtown Theatre can be found on their website.
June 28, 2023
HARRISBURG − June 28, 2023 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Perry Warren (D-31) announced that Senate Bill 442 and House Bill 735, each of which would establish a task force to address rising flood insurance premiums, were voted unanimously out of the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee yesterday.
“Eight years ago, I introduced what was then HB 1299 and today is SB 442, to help Pennsylvanians find relief from rising flood insurance premiums,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Then, as now, residents in neighborhoods along the Delaware River were facing skyrocketing flood insurance costs that threatened their ability to protect their homes and made it almost impossible for them to sell.”
Reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program that Congress passed in 2012, called the Briggert-Waters Act, phased out the federal subsidy for flood insurance costs and directed the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to revise its flood plain maps. Those new maps included many more homes in the flood zones and requiring flood insurance.
In late 2014 and early 2015 Senator Santarsiero held townhalls and neighborhood meetings, as well as discussions with local stakeholders and elected officials. From those meetings it became clear the best option at the state level was a task force to review the problem and identify state solutions.
SB 442 would establish the Flood Insurance Premium Assistance Task Force to explore ways to lower flood insurance premiums and incentivize communities to invest in flood prevention measures. The task force would consist of one appointee each from the Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of Banking and Securities, Senate Majority Leader, Senate Minority Leader, House Majority Leader, and House Minority Leader.
The task force would have the power to review and analyze existing law, procedures, practices, processes, and rules related to the administration of flood insurance. In addition, the task force would hold public hearings and accept written comments from the public.
The task force would have six months to issue a final report to include recommendations on:
- potential programs to provide flood insurance premium discounts;
- potential programs, whether through the mechanism of premium discounts or other relief, that create incentives for local governments to undertake or continue mitigation efforts;
- the implementation of necessary changes in state statutes and practices, policies and procedures relating to the administration of flood insurance;
- ways to educate the public about flooding risks and mitigation techniques;
- how to inform Pennsylvanians about flood insurance options when purchasing;
- recommendations to increase the number of flood insurance policies purchased by Pennsylvanians.
“When I was a township supervisor in Lower Makefield Township after three catastrophic floods in 2004, 2005 and 2006, we took local action implementing new engineering controls, like back flow preventers, and adopted a nationally-recognized Low Impact Development Ordinance to reduce stormwater runoff,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Those are the types of things that the state could potentially incentivize local governments to do to reduce costs for residents.”
Senator Santarsiero continued, “This is an issue that impacts Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth. Communities along Pennsylvania’s rivers, creeks and streams have been devastated by plummeting property values due to unaffordable flood insurance premiums.”
Members on both sides of the aisle echoed support for the bill noting that their constituents are also experiencing increasing premiums, devastating flooding, and the difficult financial decision of whether to buy insurance they may not be able to afford or risk financial ruin from a significant flooding event.
Representative Perry Warren, who succeeded Senator Santarsiero in the House, has continued his predecessor’s work on this issue, authoring House Bill 735. HB 735 passed the House in May and was also voted favorably out of the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee.
“Our respective districts have among the most waterfront property in Pennsylvania,” said Rep. Warren. “We need to create a more equitable way to tabulate flood insurance premiums, and our current system is becoming unsustainable for our neighbors who live on or near the flood plain. These bills will help create solutions.”
Either or both bills need to be passed by the Senate and sent to the House for passage before being presented to the Governor for his signature.
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June 13, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) today announced $616,000 in state funds were awarded by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to combat substance use disorders and reduce incarceration in Bucks County.
- Child and Family Focus, Inc: $200,000
- The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania: $200,000
- Bucks County Restrictive Probation Program: $216,000
The funding for Child and Family Services and The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania is a disbursement of State Opioid Response Funds to benefit Bucks County residents with substance use disorders. State Opioid Response Funds support drug courts, Medication Assisted Treatment, Naloxone for first responders and evidence-based prevention programs.
“The opioid epidemic touches every corner of our community, and we must do more to help those who are suffering from substance use disorders,” said Senator Santarsiero. “These organizations do great work treating those in need in our community and I am pleased these state funds are supporting programs to benefit our residents in Bucks County.”
The funding for Bucks County is from Intermediate Punishment Treatment Program funds and will support the county’s Restrictive Probation Program. The program is a sentencing alternative for non-violent offenders in lieu of incarceration.
“Probation is an effective alternative to incarceration for certain non-violent offenders and Bucks County has an impressive program in place,” Senator Santarsiero continued. “These funds will help the county continue its work supporting individuals on probation, setting them on a path toward positive behavioral change.”
Bucks County Commissioner Diane Ellis-Marseglia said, “As a board member of PCCD I was very happy to see these awards were made.”
Child and Family Focus Inc. is a non-profit mental health agency serving children and youth primarily in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lehigh and Northampton, and Montgomery counties in Pennsylvania. Additional information about Child and Family Focus can be found on their website.
The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania is a private non-profit prevention, education, advocacy, assessment, intervention, and recovery support organization, serving the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery & Philadelphia. Additional information about The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania can be found on their website.
For additional information on the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency visit the PCCD website.
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