September 29, 2020
Harrisburg – September 29, 2020 – The Senate Democratic Policy Committee today held a virtual public hearing today at the request of Sen. Steve Santarsiero (D- Bucks) to focus on electricity outages, reliability and preparedness.
“At the end of the day, we need to know that Pennsylvanians will have access to reliable electric service,” Santarsiero said. “Electricity reliability is not a new issue, but one that we have seen consistently worsen, particularly as we’ve seen a rise in the number of storms that pack high winds and hard downpours. Year-round electric reliability and preparedness is vital to the health and safety of all Pennsylvanians, and an issue that must be addressed both by the industry itself and the agencies that regulate it.”
Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-Lehigh/Northampton), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee, added, “It is important that we do all we can to assure that power outages are as limited as possible. We also need to make sure our utility and emergency service providers are ready to respond as quickly and efficiently as possible in times of crisis. Ensuring consumers have adequate and potentially lifesaving access to electricity in their homes is essential.”
The Pennsylvania Utility Commission (PUC) announced in their 2019 Electric Service Reliability Report that a total of 52 “reportable outage events” disrupted electric service to residents and businesses across the state. This is the highest number of recorded incidents in Pennsylvania since the PUC began collecting reliability data in 1993.
Reportable power outage events have mainly been driven by severe thunderstorms during the spring and fall. These events interrupted service to 1,988,188 customers last year according to the PUC’s latest Electric Service Reliability Report. These incidents are different from previous spikes in outage figures that were driven by a small number of high-impact storms, like hurricanes or severe winter storms.
The PUC report said that the increase in severe weather events combined with many electric distribution companies (EDCs) performance metrics being rated as “poor” in 2019, calls into question the reliability performance and resilience of the overall Pennsylvania electrical distribution system.
“Following up on the Electric Service Reliability Report, Commission staff will be meeting with the EDCs in October to discuss overall electric reliability and options for improvement through available regulatory tools,” Gladys Brown Dutrieuille, chairman of the PUC, said.
Dutrieuille said that in instances where extreme weather is known to be heading towards Pennsylvania, the PUC increases their efforts to be ready at all levels and will continue working through regulatory measures to make sure the EDC performance in these areas improve.
“If the impending weather event appears to be of a significant impact to the Commonwealth, the Commission works with PEMA and other state and federal agencies on preparation. Commission Emergency Preparedness Staff also work with the EDCs and other jurisdictional lifeline utilities (water, wastewater, telephone, and natural gas) to understand their preparations and to capture any unmet needs,” Dutrieuille continued.
Electric service provider representatives also all stated that the number one reason for power outages in Pennsylvania is downed trees. Vegetation management is essential in mitigating disruptions in electric services.
“Changing weather patterns in our region has led to an increased growth rate in the vegetation in proximity to our transmission and distribution facilities. To reduce disruptions in service, our Vegetation Management team has consistently minimized on-ROW (Right-of-Way) vegetation,” Kevin Walker, Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of Duquesne Light Company, said. “We are constantly examining these challenges, evaluating strategies, and working to mitigate the off- ROW tree problems in our service territory.”
Stephanie R. Raymond, Vice President of Distribution Operations at PPL also said that it is technological upgrades such as Smart Grids and tracking outages through data rather than reacting to them once they have already occurred, that will continue to allow electric service providers to improve consistent and reliable service.
However, Nicole LeVine, Vice President of Electric Operations at PECO said that just this year, “…we have experienced one of the most challenging storm years ever – including two of the ten most destructive storms in our company’s history two months apart.”
Santarsiero said that due to the serve weather instances this year, his office put out an informal survey within his district and found that anecdotally, “51% of respondents indicated that they lose power any time there is a significant weather event and 77% of respondents indicated that they lose power for more than 4 hours at a time.”
Santarsiero continued, “No one is calling for perfect, as wonderful as perfection would be. Ultimately, we have to make that balance of what is reasonable and what isn’t. Where we are today is a different place than where we were 20 years ago. Redefining what that means in the new context is the challenge that each utility and the PUC will have to grapple with.”
Boscola, who has chaired the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure for almost two decades, said how important utility reliability and access is for Pennsylvania customers, especially in times of severe and unpredictable weather and as we grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tanya McCloskey, Acting Consumer Advocate for the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate said that ensuring continuous and reliable electric service is necessary to ensuring the safety of consumers and the public, especially this winter as more consumers shelter at home for health reasons and remain at home for work and school as we continue to battle against the spread of COVID-19.
“It is important that the types of investments we heard about to be made and the long term plans we heard about today are put into place to make electricity more reliable. I hope this is a continuation of the conversation, not the end of it, since we have a lot of work that needs to be done,” concluded Santarsiero.
The following testified at today’s hearing:
- Stephen Bennett, Manager, Regulatory/Legislative Affairs, PJM Interconnection – View Testimony
- Terry Fitzpatrick, President & CEO, Energy Association of Pennsylvania – View Testimony
- Nicole LeVine, Vice President, Electric Operations, PECO – View Testimony
- Stephanie R. Raymond, Vice President – Distribution Operations, PPL – View Testimony
- Kevin Walker, Vice President & Chief Operations Officer, Duquesne Light Company – View Testimony
- Scott Wyman, President, Pennsylvania Operations, FirstEnergy – View Testimony
- Gladys Brown Dutrieuille, Chairman, Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission – View Testimony
- Tanya McCloskey, Acting Consumer Advocate, Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate – View Testimony
- John Evans, Small Business Advocate, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania – View Testimony
Senators who attended today’s hearing include: Jay Costa (D- Allegheny), Larry Farnese (D- Philadelphia), Sharif Street (D- Philadelphia), Tim Kearney (D- Chester/Delaware), and Lindsey Williams (D- Allegheny)
The Senate Democratic Policy Committee has already held numerous hearings regarding COVID-19 related issues in Pennsylvania in the past six months, which can all be found on Senator Boscola’s website.
A full recording of this hearing, and links to all previous hearings, is available at senatorboscola.com/policy.
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September 24, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – September 24, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representatives Perry Warren (D-31) and Wendy Ullman (D-143) announced $320,000 in Community Conservation Partnership Program grants through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).
Newtown Borough will receive $70,000 for the development of the Bird-in-Hand property.
“The funds going to Newtown Borough to develop the Bird-in-Hand property will benefit the community by increasing accessibility to the area through the creation of pedestrian walkways, while also making improvements to the grounds that will highlight the historic home and lot,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The partnership between the borough and the Commonwealth to preserve this property shows the commitment of both Newtown Borough and the state to developing outdoor community spaces for all to enjoy.”
“This historic property is a Newtown treasure,” said Rep. Warren. “Borough Council creatively structured a plan to purchase, protect and preserve the Bird-in-Hand lot, and this state grant helps the Borough improve this historic property for the benefit and enjoyment of our residents and for generations to come.”
Doylestown Borough will also receive $250,000 for the development of the Broad Street Gateway Park.
“Last week I had the honor of participating in the groundbreaking for the new municipal complex in Doylestown, which includes the Broad Street Gateway Park development across the street,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “These additional state grant funds for the development of the park is a celebration of open space that will create a beautiful community gathering place in the heart of Doylestown Borough.”
“Parks are centers of community-spaces where people from all walks of life can enjoy nature and each other’s company,” Rep. Ullman said. “By supporting the development of the Broad Street Gateway Park, this grant money will help transform an unsightly brownfield – the former PennDOT maintenance yard — into a welcoming, green oasis for generations to come.”
For more information on the Community Conservation Partnerships Program Grants, visit the DCNR website.
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September 22, 2020
HARRISBURG – September 22, 2020 – Earlier today, Senate Bill 868 (Kayden’s Law), a bill that would revamp the state’s child custody laws, was unanimously voted out of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Sponsored by Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), Kayden’s Law is named for Kayden Mancuso, a seven-year-old from Lower Makefield Township, who was killed in August of 2018 by her biological father during a court-ordered, unsupervised visit granted following a year-long custody dispute.
“Never again. That should be our vow as lawmakers. Never again should one of our children die or be abused because Pennsylvania law does not do enough to protect them. The tragedy of Kayden Mancuso’s death demonstrates that the current child custody law does not in fact do enough,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “For nearly two years now, I have been working with Representatives Tina Davis (D-141) and Perry Warren (D-31), the sponsors of the legislation in the House, as well as with Kayden’s family and experts in the field of child abuse and child custody issues, to craft legislation that would make a fundamental change to Pennsylvania’s child custody law to make it forever clear that the safety of our children is the most important concern. I am grateful to Chairwoman Baker for bringing up the bill in committee and to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for unanimously voting to move it to the floor of the Senate,” Santarsiero added.
“Children should be our number one priority. Their safety should be their number one priority,” said Kathy Sherlock, mother of Kayden Mancuso. “Parental rights supersede children’s rights in our courts, and that’s backwards. We’re hoping that Pennsylvania leads in something we so desperately need.”
The changes proposed in Kayden’s Law will strengthen the current factors that judges consider to decide custody decisions and emphasize which party would ensure the health and safety of the child, and ensure that if there is a finding by the court of a history of abuse or an ongoing risk of abuse, that any custody order includes safety conditions and restrictions necessary to protect the child. The bill would also 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.
In October 2019, the Senate Democratic Policy Committee held a hearing on Kayden’s Law in Lower Makefield Township, during which testimony was heard from advocates and stakeholders on the need for changes to the existing law.
Santarsiero continued, “In the months since that hearing, I have been working with Kayden’s family and advocates from across the Commonwealth to fine-tune the bill’s language. The bill that was voted favorably out of committee today represents feedback from experts who work in our family court system every day, to ensure no family has to experience the same horror as Kayden’s family.”
“The safety of our children is paramount. Kayden’s Law will ensure that the best interest of the child is the top priority in judicial child custody and visitation decisions,” said Rep. Warren. “The Senate Judiciary Committee’s unanimous vote is a critical step forward in making this lifesaving bill become law. Thank you to Kathy Sherlock for her courage and to Sen. Santarsiero. Rep. Tina Davis and I join the Senator in introducing and advocating for Kayden’s Law in the House.”
“I applaud the Senate Judiciary Committee in moving Kayden’s Law forward today,” said Rep. Davis. “This is a great first step towards protecting children by ensuring the courts look at the warning signs of abuse and neglect in child custody cases. My colleagues and I will fight to continue moving this legislation forward and into a law that will save lives and prevent another Kayden Mancuso tragedy.”
“We heard from over 1,400 Pennsylvanians, from all across the Commonwealth, about the importance of the Senate Judiciary Committee considering Kayden’s Law,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I am pleased to see the committee vote in favor of the bill today. It’s one step in the process, but it’s an important step in changing the law to save children’s lives.”
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September 18, 2020
DOYLESTOWN, PA – September 18, 2020 – Construction has begun on a $19 million expansion of the nonprofit Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center (PABC), which is one of the nation’s most successful life sciences incubators. Last night, Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) joined with PABC leadership to celebrate with a ceremonial “Construction Kickoff.”
The PABC, located in Doylestown, has more than 70 member companies, 41 of which have operations in the facility. The expansion will lead to more than 100 additional jobs at the center, with dozens of new companies and millions of dollars in commercial activity. PABC-member companies currently employ more than 300 highly skilled scientists, staff and students.
“Entrepreneurs at the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center have produced more than $2 billion in company value, created hundreds of new jobs and launched several publicly traded companies,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “Our state investment not only spurs further economic growth to the area’s biotech sector, but it has the added benefit of helping to save lives and to improve the quality of life for many.”
The PABC has received $4.4 million in grants from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, for which Sen. Santarsiero has been a strong advocate. Since 2106, PABC has received $4 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grants. In August, they received $430,000 through the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development’s (DCED) Office of Technology and Innovation to develop laboratory space for COVID-19 research through the COVID-19 Vaccines, Treatments and Therapies (CV-VTT) program.
“We are confident in Pennsylvania’s future, as our investment in this major expansion clearly demonstrates,” Timothy M. Block, Ph.D., founder, president and CEO of the PABC, said. “We also appreciate the vote of confidence in our operation by state legislators and federal officials, who provided the grants needed to move our project forward.”
For more information, visit the PABC website.
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September 17, 2020
DOYLESTOWN – September 17, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Wendy Ullman (D-143) announced $37,312 in awards to three Doylestown veterans’ groups through the Veteran Trust Fund Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). American Legion Post 210 will receive $12,500, Operation Homefront will receive $10,000 and Bucks County Veterans Affairs will receive $14,812.
“We are fortunate to have several groups in Doylestown who work closely with our veteran community, and these funds will help continue their important work of providing services and support to those who have served our country in the armed services,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The Veterans Trust Fund is a shining example of the commitment that Pennsylvanians have toward supporting our veterans. As the son of a World War II veteran, I am a strong supporter of our veterans and military families, and I look forward to seeing these funds used to continue the excellent work here in our community.”
“Thank you to everyone who donates to the commonwealth’s Veteran Trust Fund – your impact on your community is felt especially now,” Rep. Ullman said. “Veterans have taken care of us all for generations, and this is an important way we can keep saying thank you.”
Veteran Trust Fund Grants are funded by Pennsylvanians who voluntarily made a $3 donation when applying for or renewing their driver’s license or photo ID, or when renewing a motor vehicle registration. Additional funding for the grant comes from proceeds from the sale of “Honoring Our Veterans” and “Honoring our Women Veterans” license plates, and from private donations.
For more information about the Veterans Trust Fund, visit the DMVA website.
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September 15, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – September 15, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $211,408 in funding through the COVID-19 Cultural and Museum Preservation Grant Program, administered through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). The funds were part of $20,000,000 in CARES Act funds awarded statewide. The funding awards in the 10th State Senate District are as follows:
- James A. Michener Art Museum will receive $101,431.
- Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve will receive $34,977.
- Bucks County Children’s Museum will receive $25,000.
- Pearl S. Buck International will receive $25,000.
- New Hope Historical Society will receive $25,000.
The funding awards were announced one day after the Senate Democratic Policy Committee Hearing on COVID-19’s Impact on Arts, Cultural and Historic Institutions, during which organizations from across the Commonwealth shared the challenges they have faced and the critical need for state support.
“At yesterday’s Policy Committee Hearing, we heard about the continued struggles of the arts community during these unprecedented times,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “These funding awards will benefit a diverse cross-section of my district’s cultural groups and museums, helping them to continue to enrich our community even as they face dramatic loss in revenue and fundraising. There is still a lot more that needs to be done to support our arts, culture and museum groups, and I will continue to advocate for funding and grant opportunities from the State.”
For additional information on the COVID-19 Cultural and Museum Preservation Grant Program, visit the DCED website.
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September 14, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – September 14, 2020 – Two Bucks County cultural institutions were featured in a Senate committee hearing that highlighted the value of historic, arts and cultural organizations to our local and state economies, and the support they need to survive the challenges of the pandemic.
State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) today co-hosted the Senate Democratic Policy Committee Hearing on the Impact of COVID-19 on the Arts, Cultural, and Historical Institutions of Pennsylvania. Two local panelists, Kyle McKoy, President & CEO of the Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle, and Alexander Fraser, Producing Director of the Bucks County Playhouse, provided testimony on the challenges of serving the public during the pandemic.
“We are so fortunate to have such a robust arts and culture scene here in the 10th state Senate district, but it is clear that these organizations have faced incredible hardship during the pandemic,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “We heard today about the challenges of hosting in-person performances, exhibits and tours, ensuring adequate fundraising, and issues with navigating the grant process to help keep their doors open and their staff on payroll. I am committed to ensuring there is continued opportunities for funding and resources available for the industry, as they struggle to serve the community in these unprecedented times.”
Sen. Santarsiero pointed to the arts and cultural institutions as vital to our economy and to our community well-being, and he added that if there is a way to resume live performances that can be done safely for the performers, support personnel and audience, then it should be done.
“The public and private sectors have responded in tremendous ways to support charitable organizations. A key shift in giving has been the increased focus on the need for nonprofit entities to receive general operating support,” McKoy testified. “Just like the for-profit sector, there is a cost for doing business for not for profit organizations also–we need to pay people, maintain properties, buildings and offices. In doing so, nonprofits are vital to the health and viability of our local communities. Nonprofits support other businesses—banking and financial services, manufacturing, hospitality, printing, technology, and the list goes on.”
McKoy added that the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle’s combined total economic impact is $13.9 million, in direct, indirect and induced spending for the Doylestown area. Similarly, Fraser said the Bucks County Playhouse drew over 85,000 visitors to New Hope, generating $10 million to the Pennsylvania economy last year.
“Like all performing arts institutions, today, the Playhouse is fighting to stay alive. As a young nonprofit organization with no endowment, the Playhouse is particularly vulnerable,” testified Fraser. “Please allow theatres to resume indoor performances with prudent safety guidelines such as the allowance of 50% occupancy for in-door restaurants.”
The full video of the hearing is available here.
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September 10, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – September 10, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $8,512,517 in funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) will be helping Bucks County organizations and localities serve victims of crimes and assist with offender probation programming. Through the Victims Services Advisory Committee (VSAC), $8,296,517 will be dispersed pursuant to the Federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) to the following organizations:
- Network of Victim Assistance will receive $4,481,387.
- A Woman’s Place will receive $2,127,215.
- Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania will receive $1,689,915.
- Plumstead Township will receive $106,118.
“These funding awards will help support critical work by these exemplary organizations to provide assistance to survivors of domestic violence and other crimes,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The programs supported by these funds benefit our community by providing crisis response to those in need. I am proud of the organizations committed to serving our residents here in Bucks County and the important services they offer.”
An additional $216,000 in Intermediate Punishment Treatment Funds from the County Adult Probation and Parole Advisory Committee (CAPPAC) will go to Bucks County to support its Restrictive Probation Program.
The Victims’ Services Advisory Committee (VSAC) serves in an advisory capacity to PCCD and to assure that the voices, needs, and perspectives of all crime victims/survivors will be considered in the development of services, services standards, policies, funding priorities, legislation, and outcomes. For more information on VSAC’s role within PCCD, visit the PCCD website.
The County Adult Probation and Parole Advisory Committee (CAPPAC) serves in an advisory capacity to PCCD to ensure reasonable and efficient administration on all matters pertaining to the Pennsylvania County Adult Probation and Parole System. For more information on the CAPPAC’s role within PCCD, visit the PCCD website.
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September 4, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY − September 4, 2020 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) sent the following letter to PECO on planned maintenance:
Sen. Santarsiero Letter to PECO 9-4-2020
Download Letter →
August 28, 2020
DOYLESTOWN – August 28, 2020 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced that the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center of Bucks County will receive $803,306.00 in grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Office of Technology and Innovation. This funding through the COVID-19 Vaccines, Treatments and Therapies (CV-VTT) program will support the advancement of vaccines, treatments, and therapies by qualified biotechnology entities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The PA Biotech Center is an important part of our region’s response to the COVID-19 crisis, ushering in some of the first diagnostic tests in Bucks County through on-site companies, as well as hosting a number of other entrepreneurs who are developing new drugs to manage this disease,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “This investment not only spurs economic growth to the area’s biotech sector, but will likely help save lives here and across the world.”
The Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, which manages the PA Biotech Center, was awarded $165,406 to continue work on a new compound that binds to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and prevents viral entry and promote it to human clinical trials. This could be the first small molecule drug for treatment of COVID-19.
The Blumberg Institute was also awarded $207,900 to conduct a study to determine if a small molecule, iminosugar, alone or in combination with Remdesivir or Favipiravir, has useful antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19.
The PA Biotech was awarded $430,000 to convert an under-used warehouse grade space in its complex into useful research and training space that will accelerate the pace of development of projects dealing with COVID-19 and related work. The 6,000-square-foot space will be used by several biotechnology companies, research projects, and trainees who will work on new therapeutics and diagnostics discovery science, as well as human phlebotomy for COVID-19.
“The PA Biotech Center has demonstrated that it can be a hub for numerous growth opportunities,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “I am very excited to work with the Center to help those opportunities become real jobs and new industries here.”
The PA Biotech Center is a non-profit, managed by the Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, offering state-of-the-art laboratory and office space to research and biotechnology companies. The CV-VTT funds, which will be matched dollar for dollar with private funds, will enable the PA Biotech Center to respond to the explosive demand and immediate need for additional research to accommodate multiple COVID-19 treatment and therapy projects.
For more information on the CV-VTT program, visit the DCED website.
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August 21, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 21, 2020 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced all school districts in Senate District 10 will receive grant funding, totaling $389,693, from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) for compensatory services for students with special needs.
The funding awards by school district are as follows:
- Central Bucks School District: $176,326
- Council Rock School District: $123,706
- Morrisville Borough School District: $7,217
- New Hope- Solebury School District: $5,000
- Palisades School District: $16,220
- Pennridge School District: $19,645
- Pennsbury School District: $41,579
“These funds will ensure that our special needs students receive the additional resources necessary to make up the gaps in learning and skill-building caused by the switch to distance learning in the spring,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Our school districts have been faced with countless challenges as they adapt to these uncertain times, yet their commitment to ensuring all students receive access to quality education remains unwavering. These additional funds will benefit both our special needs students, and provide our teachers with necessary resources.”
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act authorizes governors to determine the educational use of Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Funds, which can be used towards the safe reopening of schools in light of COVID-19. Grant amounts were calculated using an allocation formula based on the number of students with complex special education needs within each Local Education Agency.
For more information on Governor Wolf’s use of GEER Funds for Compensatory Services for Students with Special Needs, visit the PDE website.
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August 17, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 17, 2020 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced two municipalities in his district will receive a total of $700,000 through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) H2O PA Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water Projects Program. Chalfont Borough will receive $300,000 for improvements to its storm sewer replacement project and Doylestown Township Municipal Authority (DTMA) will receive $400,000 for its project to interconnect the DTMA and Delaware Valley University water systems.
“The funding awards for these programs will help the environment, improve our economic development opportunities and protect the health of residents,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I enthusiastically urged DCED to provide these critical funds to our community, which will help fund much needed local improvements to our water and storm sewer infrastructure.”
Chalfont Borough will use the funds to rehabilitate its stormwater system, making critical changes to fix an aging system. DTMA’s project will regionalize and consolidate two water systems, interconnecting the system currently serving Doylestown Township, New Britain Borough and Plumstead Township with the Delaware Valley University water system, improving access to public water.
H2O PA Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water project grants seek to help municipalities or municipal authorities with the construction or drinking water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer projects.
For more information on DCED’s H2O PA Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water Projects Program, visit the DCED website.
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August 17, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 17, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), along with Representatives Perry Warren (D-31), John Galloway (D-140), and Wendy Ullman (D-143) announced $1,763,403 in Small Water & Sewer Program grant funds through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), are coming to seven local municipalities.
The awards to local municipalities under the grant are:
- Doylestown Borough will receive $138,169 for its North Main Street Water Main Project,
- Bedminster Municipal Authority will receive $319,136 for its Stonebridge- Pennland Farms Water Systems Interconnection Project,
- Doylestown Township Municipal Authority will receive $157,065 for its South Water Tank Rehabilitation project,
- Falls Township Authority will receive $452,834, with $215,036 going to its Penn Village Water Main Lining project, and $400,000 going to its Sanitary Sewer Inflow and Infiltration Reduction project,
- Morrisville Borough will receive $122,008 for its Melvin Avenue Basin Improvements Phase II project,
- Perkasie Regional Authority will receive $200,000 for its Ridge Road Sewer Extension project, and
- Yardley Borough will receive $211,989 for its North Main Street Sidewalk Drainage Phase II project.
“These projects will help make critical improvements to our municipal water and sewer systems, strengthening our infrastructure to protect our environment and maintain quality drinking water for our community,” said Sen. Santarsiero.
“The Morrisville grant will enhance the delivery of water to our residents and business by meeting water quality best management practices, and with the landscaping it will be more aesthetically pleasing. It is a win-win for Morrisville,” said Rep. Warren. “The Yardley Borough grant for Phase II of the North Main Street sidewalk drainage will enhance safety and accessibility for Yardley and northern Lower Makefield residents and will be an economic boost to downtown businesses and the entire community. Yardley Borough Council has been working on this project for a long time, and it is great that the state is supporting the project.”
“Working in partnership with local municipalities to support key infrastructure projects is more important than ever to make sure essential services are provided to our citizens,” said Rep. Ullman. “Securing state support ultimately lessens the cost impact on our municipalities, and thus on local taxpayers.”
“These funds for both Falls Township and Morrisville will help make important improvements to our local water and sewer systems,” said Rep. Galloway. “I am glad to see projects in my district, and across the county, receiving funding for these much-needed updates.”
Small water and sewer grants are awarded to fund projects that assist with the construction, improvement, expansion, or rehabilitation or repair of a water supply system, sanitary sewer system, storm sewer system, or flood control projects.
For more information on DCED’s Small Water and Sewer program, visit the DCED website.
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August 7, 2020
MORRISVILLE – August 7, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), along with state Representatives Perry Warren (D-31) and John Galloway (D-140), announced that Morrisville Borough School District will receive a $35,050 Continuing of Education Equity Grant (CEEG) for the 2020-21 academic year from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).
CEEG grants are designed to help provide access and inclusion for all learners by bridging the gap for students who are currently limited in their ability to participate in continuity of education. These grants may be used to purchase computer equipment, such as laptops, tablets, and internet hot spots, or used towards providing instructional materials, such as paper lessons and coursework. Schools with the highest percentages of students lacking access to resources were given priority in receiving these grants.
“I am pleased to see Morrisville School District receive this critical funding to help ensure its students have the resources they need to succeed,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “During these uncertain times, our school districts need support as they work to protect the health and safety of teachers and students while providing quality education to all students. I have long advocated for funding for Morrisville School District, and will continue to urge PDE to increase funding to the district.”
“With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the transition to remote learning was challenging for schools and students,” said Rep. Warren. “Many school districts were short on the technical resources to teach remotely. This grant will help ensure that Morrisville students will have the tools required to learn remotely.”
“All of our children should have equal access to a great education,” said Rep. Galloway. “This money will help level the playing field by ensuring that Morrisville students will have the tools needed to succeed academically.”
In May, Sen. Santarsiero and Reps. Warren and Galloway sent a letter to Governor Wolf requesting supplemental funding for Morrisville School District to help purchase hot spots and Chromebooks to assist in distance learning, and to review the funding formula used to allocate state funds to the district.
For more information on PDE’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, visit the PDE website.
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August 7, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 7, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) will be hosting a virtual resource fair for LGBTQ+ seniors on Tuesday, August 11th at 7pm. The event will feature speakers from diverse organizations serving the local LGBTQ+ community.
“I am very excited to be able to offer this virtual program for our LGBTQ+ seniors,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Our speakers bring years of expertise on issues of great importance, including health and human rights. I am looking forward to a robust discussion, and value the opportunity to share resources and connect virtually with the LGBTQ+ community, despite the pandemic.”
The speakers for the event are:
- Ron Strouse, Mayor of Doylestown (Moderator)
- Dan Stewart, MSG, Assistant Director for the HRC Aging Equality Project
- Terri Clark, MPH, SAGE Care Certified Trainer
- Julia Allen, Legal Advocate for Bucks County, SeniorLAW Center
- Brendan Corbalis, Esq., Assistant Director Victims Services, SeniorLAW Center
For more information or to RSVP, and receive the link to participate, contact Nancy Adam at nancy.adam@pasenate.com or 215-489-5000. All are welcome.
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August 6, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 6, 2020 – State Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Gene Yaw (R-23), as chairs of the Pennsylvania Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, sent a letter to all members of the Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation requesting dedicated federal funding in the next stimulus bill, for the purpose of plugging abandoned and orphaned conventional oil and gas wells across the Commonwealth.
The letter notes that there are currently over 10,000 wells on the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)’s Orphan Well List awaiting plugging, along with tens of thousands of additional abandoned wells that would qualify to be plugged by DEP. The lack of resources to address these wells impacts both the environment and the conventional oil and gas industry.
“The conventional oil and gas industry has been a crucial economic and employment driver in Pennsylvania for over a century,” Sen. Yaw said. “This industry, like many others, has not been immune to the effects associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, including industry-wide layoffs. Federal stimulus dollars can get many of those unemployed back to work, while at the same time plug thousands of orphaned and abandoned conventional wells across the state.”
“This kind of investment would create hundreds of needed jobs, while also eliminating some of the most damaging pollution to our environment,” Sen. Santarsiero said, noting that dedicated federal funding for this initiative would provide DEP with the necessary resources to plug the orphaned wells, protecting our environment, while supporting the conventional oil and gas industry.
“While there are many industries competing for stimulus funding, this is a ‘win-win’ situation, as both environmental advocates and industry leaders support taking action on this issue, which will also support workers who have been hard-hit during the pandemic,” continued Santarsiero.
For more information on DEP’s Abandoned and Orphaned Well Program, visit the DEP website.
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Well Plugging – COVID Funding
August 3, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – August 3, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $458,136 will be going to two postsecondary schools in his district, Bucks County Community College and Delaware Valley University, to assist them in implementing public health and safety plans and help them to resume operations in the fall. Bucks County Community College will receive $366,908 and Delaware Valley University will receive $91,228. The funding is part of $28 million being distributed amongst postsecondary institutions in Pennsylvania. The amount each entity received was based on both the shares of total enrollments by each postsecondary sector and the number of socio-economically disadvantaged students served by institutions.
“I was pleased to see that Governor Wolf set aside funds from the CARES Act to support Pennsylvania’s institutions of higher learning, like Bucks County Community College and Delaware Valley University,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As our colleges and universities prepare for the upcoming semester, these funds will be critical to help keep students, faculty and staff safe. Our schools deserve our support as they overcome the unique challenges to serve our students amid the Coronavirus pandemic.”
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act authorized Governor Wolf to determine the educational use of Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Funds. For additional information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education website.
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August 3, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY − June 2, 2020 − State Senators Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Gene Yaw (R-23) sent the following letter to the PA Congressional Delegation on Well Plugging:
Well Plugging – COVID Funding
July 28, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – July 28, 2020 – The following statement is attributable to Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) in response to the recent antisemitic social media post by Philadelphia NAACP President, Rodney Muhammad.
“Hate, in any form, cannot stand and must be condemned. I was disappointed to learn of the antisemitic post made last week by Philadelphia NAACP President Rodney Muhammad. Mr. Muhammad’s disparaging post about the Jewish people runs counter to the mission of the NAACP to ‘secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons,’ and as such, he must resign.
We are living in a powerful moment in history, where conversations about racism and discrimination are at the forefront of our local, state, and national dialogue. As all of us look for ways to end racism and unify our diverse citizenry, it is imperative that we speak out at against discrimination or bigotry of any kind.
Mr. Muhammad’s actions should not overshadow the important work that the NAACP has done as a civil rights organization. I value the work that the Bucks County Branch of the NAACP has done here in our community, and I believe that we can, and must, continue the dialogue to educate all members of our community on the importance of equality, and ending bigotry in all its forms.”
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July 24, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – July 24, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that Elcon Recycling Services will be withdrawing its applications for a proposed hazardous wastewater processing facility in Falls Township, ending a years-long fight in the community. Falls Township Supervisors had unanimously voted to reject Elcon’s proposal in April 2019, leading Elcon to appeal the decision to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
“The withdrawal of Elcon’s applications for a proposed project in Falls Township is a win for both local residents and the environment,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I have been opposed to Elcon’s proposal from the beginning and have worked, alongside residents and activists, to advocate for DEP to reject Elcon’s proposal. Today’s announcement is a victory in a hard-fought battle, led by concerned residents, to protect the health and safety of our entire community.”
Sen. Santarsiero’s opposition to the proposed facility dates back to his time in the State House, when the proposal was first announced. Since then, Sen. Santarsiero has spoken out against Elcon at public meetings, submitted public comments in opposition to the proposal, and wrote a public letter to DEP outlining his opposition to Elcon, citing concerns over deficiencies in the company’s plan, and for its repeated attempts to avoid following state law.
For more information, visit http://www.dep.pa.gov/elcon.
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July 10, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – July 10, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced that Bucks County will receive $996,400 in Emergency Solution Grant (ESG) funding to assist in mitigating the impacts Coronavirus has had on homeless families and individuals in the county, and to prevent future homelessness. The funding is part of $19 million in federal CARES Act funds and is being distributed statewide by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
“I am pleased to see that nearly $1million in funding will be coming to Bucks County to help our homeless population and to prevent future homelessness,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The pandemic has had devastating effects on the financial security of individuals and families across the Commonwealth, including here in Bucks County. These funds will help support some of our most vulnerable residents when they most need it, and will help make a lasting impact on the fight against homelessness moving forward.”
County officials had previously indicated that there has been about a 10% increase in homelessness in Bucks County since the pandemic began.
For more information on DCED’s Emergency Solution Grants – CARES, visit the DCED website.
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June 30, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – June 30, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced that Snipes Farm and Education Center received a $3,000 mini grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Environmental Education Grant Program.
Snipes Farm, located in Falls Township, will use the grant to implement the program “Where Does Stormwater Go? Linking a School, a Town and a Farm.” Through the program, high school students will explore increased rain volumes stemming from climate change and stormwater runoff impacts on water quality, and how they can effect change in the quality of their community’s environment.
“Hands-on learning is such a valuable part of education, and I am pleased to see Snipes Farm receive this grant to benefit students in our community,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Climate change is an issue of critical importance to our future, and I am excited to see the work that both Snipes and the students will achieve toward improving the quality of our local environment.”
For more information on Snipes Farm and Education Center, visit their website.
For more information on DEP’s Environmental Education Grant Program, visit the DEP website.
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June 24, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – June 24, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced that $114,000 in funding is available to assist homeless families in finding housing and combatting homelessness across the commonwealth. The funding is through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), made available by the federal Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program.
There are six categories for eligibility, which include rapid rehousing, homelessness prevention, street outreach, homeless management information systems, and administration. Rapid rehousing helps individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness, fleeing violence, or living in a home not suitable for human habitation. Homelessness prevention resources help families or individuals who are currently housed, but may be in jeopardy of losing their homes with rental assistance and case management resources. Street outreach connects unsheltered homeless individuals with emergency shelter and/or health services. Emergency shelter funding supports costs associated with essential services, operating expenses, and renovations necessary to provide emergency shelter.
“Housing is a basic human need, and I am pleased to see resources coming to Bucks County to support some of our most vulnerable residents,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “This funding will provide critical assistance to those in need, whether it is housing those who are homeless, keeping families in their homes, or providing resources to organizations that serve these individuals.”
The funds are part of almost $5.5 million for statewide distribution. For more information, visit the DCED website.
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June 9, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – June 9, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $225 million in grant programs for small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The money originated from the federal CARES Act, and was allocated through the recently passed state budget. The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) will distribute the funds to the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), which will then administer the funding in the form of grants.
Eligible businesses will be able to use the grants to cover operating expenses as they transition to re-opening, and for technical assistance including training and guidance for business owners as they stabilize and relaunch their businesses.
“As all sectors of our economy begin to re-open, these grants will provide necessary resources to aid our small businesses and ease the transition for business owners,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As guidance becomes available on how businesses can apply for these grants, I look forward to sharing that information with our small business owners and working closely with local CDFIs to ensure businesses here in Bucks County receive the support they need.”
Sen. Santarsiero also announced the award of $200,000 to two businesses in his district from the Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) COVID-19 Working Capital Access Program (CWCA). Curtin and Heefner, located in Lower Makefield Township, and Well of Life Center for Natural Health, located in Doylestown, each received the maximum amount of $100,000 through this program. This was the final round of CWCA funding, as the state moves toward re-opening.
“I am pleased that this final round of CWCA funding has brought an additional $200,000 to two businesses in my district, bringing the total amount of funds received in the 10th district to $1.4 million,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “With this last round of funding, businesses are continuing to receive critical support as we move into the yellow phase of re-opening. While this program is winding down, the positive effects on these businesses will continue to be felt as they transition into the yellow phase of re-opening.”
The CWCA Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) and provides critical working capital financing to small businesses located within the Commonwealth that are adversely impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. For more information on the CWCA program, visit the DCED website.
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May 20, 2020
BUCKS COUNTY – May 20, 2020 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) was joined by almost 80 democratic colleagues in the House and Senate yesterday, in asking Governor Wolf to support our small business community by allowing for curbside pick-up at all retail stores across the Commonwealth.
During a press conference, Sen. Santarsiero spoke of the economic impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on small businesses and urged the Governor to allow all small retailers to open for curbside pick-up. Sen. Santarsiero also shared that a letter, signed by 16 Senate Democrats would be sent to the Governor with the same request. A similar letter signed by more than 60 House members from the northeast, southeast and Philadelphia regions was also sent yesterday.
“Curbside pick-up for retail will give a much-needed boost to small businesses across the Commonwealth, without sacrificing the efforts that have been made to flatten the curve,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As Bucks County and others remain in the red phase, our neighbors across the river in New Jersey are allowing curbside pick-up for all retail. Allowing curbside pick-up for all retail in Pennsylvania will help support our local small businesses and keep money here in the state.”
The letter notes the significant economic impact the Coronavirus pandemic has had on small retailers and the continued uncertainty and challenges that re-opening will bring. During the press conference, Sen. Santarsiero also emphasized that businesses in Pennsylvania have already implemented curbside pick-up for restaurants, liquor stores and other essential services.
“Over the last 10 weeks we have seen restaurants, liquor stores and essential services successfully operate curbside pick-up options for customers,” continued Sen. Santarsiero. “This existing framework can easily be expanded to all retail across the Commonwealth, giving counties still in the red phase access to goods from local small businesses.”
The full text of the letter to Governor Wolf can be found here.
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