April 2, 2020
McKeesport – April 2, 2020 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that the new federal stimulus program passed in response to the pandemic allows volunteer fire companies to apply for the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Loans (PPP).
“The federal stimulus act enables qualifying volunteer fire companies to apply for EIDL and PPP loans with funds that will be made available quickly,” Brewster said.
EIDL loans can provide up to $2 million in working capital with emergency grants immediately available. An advance of $10,000 for volunteer fire companies organized as IRC 501 (c) (3) of IRC 501 (c) 4 can be accessed within three days of application. Organizations applying for funding will not be required to repay the funds, even if a loan application is ultimately rejected.
Brewster said that qualifying volunteer organizations that pay firefighters can also access federal funds through the PPP. Under this program, loans will be forgiven if employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the funds are used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest or utilities.
“The International Association of Fire Chiefs has provided guidance for departments to seek federal stimulus funds to help cover costs,” Brewster said. “I encourage all volunteer fire departments to examine these programs in depth and seek federal help during this very difficult time.”
Brewster said that more information on the program can be found at https://www.iafc.org/blogs/blog/iafc/2020/04/02/volunteer-departments-eligible-for-cares-act-loan-programs
March 23, 2020
Senator says state needs to fill gaps in federal aid
McKeesport – March 23, 2020 – As efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 continues and federal economic plans come into view, a state stimulus effort focused on workers and small business is critical to fill gaps in national recovery efforts, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today.
In a detailed letter to Gov. Tom Wolf, Brewster laid out a 6-point plan to bolster economic recovery efforts and speed help to workers and small businesses once health risks subside.
“The federal government is capable of marshalling resources to deliver short-term economic relief for those impacted by the pandemic; and Congress is moving toward adopting a robust plan to kick-start the economy once the COVID-19 threat is contained,” Brewster said. “Without question, there will be gaps in the federal effort and that is where the state has a role to play.
“Infusing cash into the economy through grants to small business, bolstering unemployment compensation, accelerating public works projects, reducing business tax liability over the long-term, expanding bonding capacity and coordinating the response through a one-stop response office are ways the state can step in and speed relief.”
Brewster said his 6-point plan would buttress an expected a massive federal relief package now winding its way through Congress.
Details of the plan include:
- Unemployment Compensation (UC) Booster: To help workers weather the economic crisis, a state-augmented booster in the form of direct payments to workers who lost their jobs in the pandemic should be an integral part of the economic recovery plan. The UC booster would augment and supplement evolving federal efforts to help the unemployed.
- Bridge Grants: Create short-term bridge grants to get business up and running as soon as possible and cover near-term expenses. Once the immediate financial crisis period is over, provide additional assistance to qualifying small business can be in the form of zero-interest or very low-interest loans. The three-step approach would give businesses breathing room and provide a foundation for recovery.
- Expand Bonding Capacity: The funding to small businesses would come from expanding or repurposing Pennsylvania’s bonding capacity with new financing through either the Commonwealth Financing Authority or other bonding authority with funds immediately available for grants. Plus, sweep unencumbered General Fund and special fund accounts to finance recovery efforts.
- Special Tax Provisions: Expand Net Loss Carryforward: Help small businesses deal with long- term impacts, expand net loss carryforward program to cover taxes and help reduce future pandemic-related tax liabilities.
- Accelerate Infrastructure Improvement Projects: Pushing state funds out now and opening financial levers to fund water, sewer, transportation and community improvement projects would not only generate work directly in construction but also require supply chains to ramp up hiring to fill commodity requirements.
- Pandemic Recovery Czar: Coordinate the response and the distribution of funding specifically related to the pandemic through a single contact point in state government — a “recovery czar.” A recovery czar was effectively utilized by the federal government during the financial crisis a decade ago and has been a successful model for coordination of government services during past crises.
“My goal in detailing the plan is to begin identifying state resources and capabilities so that we can immediately respond to the economic crisis caused by the pandemic,” Brewster said.
The senator said he expects his Senate colleagues, House legislators and the governor to have other ideas about how to address the economic crisis. He said detailing his plan would help promote discussions of a robust state effort to reinforce federal stimulus plans.
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Editor’s note: Sen. Brewster’s letter to Gov. Tom Wolf follows.
March 23, 2020
Honorable Tom Wolf, Governor
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
225 Main Capitol
Harrisburg, PA 17025
Dear Governor Wolf:
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has had life-altering implications for citizens across Pennsylvania, throughout the United States and around the world. The steps your administration has taken to protect the health, safety and security of Pennsylvanians will save lives and stop the spread of the disease. Addressing the health care crisis is the priority now.
Pennsylvanians have heeded the call, and most are practicing social distancing. In addition, swaths of businesses have now been temporarily closed to aid mitigation efforts. Once the imminent health threat is addressed and Pennsylvanians are permitted to return to work and resume their lives, we need to look at the next steps that can be taken to restart economic activity as quickly as possible.
Economic experts generally agree that the way for our nation and state to bounce back quickly is by infusing cash back into the economy. I wholeheartedly endorse any effort to get dollars into hands of workers, small businesses and all consumers. This is the best way to jump-start our economic recovery from the pandemic.
While Pennsylvania does not have the financial capacity of the federal government to present massive aid, we can provide substantial gap funding and augment national recovery efforts. The state’s effort needs to be broad-based and focused on workers, families and small business. We must be creative and willing to explore innovations to existing programs while being flexible so that economic needs can be met.
Our current unemployment compensation (UC) program will provide a brief, but insufficient respite for workers. While UC will help and the now-evolving federal stimulus efforts will likely bolster our UC program, it will not be enough to provide long-term family-sustaining compensation.
Extreme pressure will be placed on the system from the tens of thousands of displaced workers. Given the strain on the system, we must explore additional ideas to respond to needs of working men and women. To that end, we should plan on providing a state-funded booster, or UC kicker to the federal effort. Adding a state booster –perhaps $100 to $200 per month for pandemic-related job loss — would help workers get some relief now.
Another critical way to help workers — once the health risk abates– is through a robust assistance package for small businesses and those essential consumer businesses that have remained at work but have lost huge amounts of revenue during the shut-down. This includes dine-in restaurants that have become drive-thru services, media companies reliant on advertising from forced-closed business establishments and others that have remained open yet have absorbed losses from the pandemic. We cannot forget them in the recovery.
Lastly, we can put people back to work directly, and quickly, if we accelerate state grants and loans for infrastructure improvements and push out state money for water and sewer grants and loans, transportation projects and community improvements that are currently in the pipeline. Not only will this create jobs in construction, it will require supply chains to ramp up production and hire workers to fill needs.
This broad expansion would be funded in the near term by an aggressive expansion of bonding and use of all state financial levers to open doors to capital markets. In addition, we need to sweep unused and unencumbered state dollars in the General Fund and special accounts to speed the infusion of money and boost immediate recovery.
In an outline below, I’ve identified several elements of a state-based plan that would augment the federal assistance package that is now being crafted. These thoughts could be combined with other proposals you and your staff are gathering as we manage the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The plan includes:
- Unemployment Compensation (UC) Booster: To help workers weather the economic crisis, a state-augmented booster in the form of direct payments to workers who lost their jobs in the pandemic should be an integral part of the economic recovery plan. The UC booster would augment and supplement now-evolving federal efforts to help the unemployed.
- Bridge Grants: We need to provide short-term bridge grants to get business up and running as soon as possible and cover near-term expenses. Then, once the immediate financial crisis period is over, further assistance to qualifying small business can be in the form of zero-interest or very low-interest loans. This 3-step approach would give businesses breathing room and provide a foundation for recovery.
- Expand Bonding Capacity: The funding provided to small business should come from an expansion of our bonding capacity with new financing provided through either the Commonwealth Financing Authority or other bonding authority with funds immediately available for grants. Plus, we should transfer unencumbered General Fund and special fund accounts to finance recovery efforts.
- Special Tax Provisions: Expand Net Loss Carryforward: To help small businesses deal with long term impacts, we should expand the net loss carryforward program to cover taxes and help reduce future pandemic-related tax liabilities. Keeping business in business will spur re-hiring and be an important feature of our recovery.
- Accelerate Infrastructure Improvement Projects: Pushing state funds out now and opening financial levers to fund water, sewer, transportation and community improvement projects would not only generate work directly in construction but also require supply chains to ramp up hiring to fill commodity requirements.
- Business Recovery Czar: We should coordinate the response and the distribution of funding specifically related to the pandemic through a single contact point in state government — a “business recovery czar.” A recovery czar was effectively utilized by the federal government during the financial crisis a decade ago and has been a successful model for coordination of government services during past crises.
I realize that there will be many concepts and proposals offered to address economic needs of workers and businesses. The items noted in this letter represent one way to address the needs of working men and women and small business.
Please contact me if you or your staff are interested in further discussion.
Sincerely,
Jim Brewster
State Senator
March 20, 2020
Harrisburg – March 19, 2020 – The deadline to apply for a property tax or rent rebate has been extended to the end of the year, according to state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
The program is open for qualifying older citizens or residents with disabilities. The deadline was pushed back due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The previous deadline to apply was June 30.
“I am pleased that the state Department of Revenue has pushed back the deadline to apply for property tax and rent relief,” Brewster said. “The coronavirus outbreak has caused significant disruptions and closures of state offices and many seniors have raised questions about how they can get help in submitting the form.”
Brewster said by extending the deadline, there will be ample time for qualifying seniors or residents with disabilities to apply and receive financial help.
The senator said that his offices are currently not open for walk-ins, but staff is working remotely and can help constituents if they call or email the office.
“We are all adjusting our schedules and making changes in our lifestyles as we deal with the health threat posed by COVID-19,” Brewster said. “To ensure safety for all, my staff is addressing issues raised by constituents remotely, including helping with property tax and rent rebate applications.”
To be eligible for the Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program, a person must be 65-years of age or older, or, if a widow or widower 50-years of age or older, or be a Pennsylvanian with disabilities earning less than $35,000 per year for homeowners and $15,000 per year for renters. To calculate income, half of social security is excluded. The maximum rebate is $650 for most homeowners.
For more information about the program or to contact Brewster’s office about any other matter you can call 412 380-2242 or go to his website at https://www.senatorbrewster.com/
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March 20, 2020
The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry (L&I) recently approved several grants to bolster economic activity in Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties.
On March 18, PAsmart Grants were awarded for industry partnerships in Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties. The grants will be used to enhance education and training for workers and help match job skill sets with opportunities.
Local grants include:
Hospitality and Retail Partnership ($45,000)
Westmoreland-Fayette Logistics and Transportation Industry Partnerships ($45,000)
Southwest Corner Building and Construction Industry Partnership ($250,000)
Transportation and Logistics Industry Partnership ($250,000)
Pennsylvania Steel Alliance ($145,000)
Healthcare Industry Partnership ($45,000)
Financial Services Industry Partnership ($250,000)
Construction Industry Partnership ($250,000)
February 26, 2020
Harrisburg – February 26, 2020 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today said that $1.7 million in state school safety grants will soon be distributed to local schools.
Brewster, who represents portions of Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, serves as a member of the School Safety and Security Committee. He has been the General Assembly’s foremost advocate for addressing school safety issues. The funds were approved by the committee at its meeting today.
“These grants are critical tools that can be used to protect students, teachers, administrators and visitors to school facilities,” Brewster said. “As a member of the committee that approves these grants, I am keenly aware of the needs of area schools and committed to helping improve security.”
Brewster said that he would continue to work to adjust competitive grant criteria so that more school districts can access maximum funding.
The following school districts in Brewster’s area will receive competitive and meritorious school grants:
Allegheny County:
- Baldwin-Whitehall School District $45,000
- Brentwood School District $35,000
- Clairton School District $30,000
- Duquesne School District $30,000
- East Allegheny School District $481,508
- Elizabeth Forward School District $40,000
- Gateway School District $40,000
- McKeesport Area School District $45,000
- Plum Borough School District $40,000
- South Allegheny School District $455,000
- West Allegheny School District $40,000
- West Mifflin Area School District $40,000
Westmoreland County:
- Burrell School District $35,000
- Kiski Area School District $40,000
- New Kensington-Arnold School District $35,000
- Penn-Trafford School District $45,000
- Westmoreland IU7 $239,000
Brewster has been a strong and vocal advocate of improving security at school facilities. He has sponsored a package of bills to enhance safety in schools. The legislation includes: the development of a school safety commission, requiring school safety upgrades to be part of approved school construction and rehabilitation projects, and armed guards in school building.
In addition, last August the school safety committee approved Brewster’s request to create a subcommittee to explore the development of baseline safety and security standards that could be universally applied to all school districts.
“We must keep providing grant funds to pay for safety upgrades to schools,” Brewster said. “Our children deserve a safe and secure environment that is conducive to education.”
The School Safety and Security Committee was established in 2018. The grants are administered through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
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February 4, 2020
Spending plan invests in school safety, pushes charter school funding reform
Harrisburg – February 4, 2020 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) today said that Gov. Tom Wolf’s proposed 2020-21 state budget plan is a solid spending framework that emphasizes charter school funding reforms and investments in school safety.
Gov. Tom Wolf presented his $36 billion General Fund spending plan to a joint session of the General Assembly this morning at the state Capitol.
Brewster, who has been a leading advocate of charter school funding reform and school safety initiatives — including mental health counselors, remediation of safety hazards and better security at schools — said he was pleased that these areas were a focus of the governor’s budget.
The governor’s plan does not include a call for broad-based tax increases. The charter school reforms would generate an estimated $280 million in savings for school districts and taxpayers.
Brewster’s statement follows:
“The governor’s proposed budget does not include a call for additional taxes, which is a win for all taxpayers. The plan does include investments and important initiatives that I’ve been strongly backing for years. The charter school funding reforms will yield in excess of $280 million and there is funding included for school safety that can be used to pay for more counselors in schools.
“I look forward to working with the governor and all members of the General Assembly, on both sides of the aisle, to ensure that we enact a solid spending plan that meets the needs of our citizens, without the need to raise taxes.”
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January 30, 2020
McKeesport − January 30, 2020 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) is working with officials from the Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to reopen Bunola River Road.
Brewster said the road will reopen once a new temporary signal and a permanent power source are secured. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) recently closed the road to thru traffic after vehicles were witnessed running the lights creating a safety hazard. The road was originally closed to one lane last year due to a landslide.
Brewster said that Bunola River Road is a main artery for many residents and businesses along the Monongahela River in Elizabeth and Forward townships. PennDOT said it was closing the road to non-emergency traffic. The lawmaker said he was advised that once a power source is secured that can safely operate the lights the road will reopen.
Brewster’s statement follows:
“My offices have been receiving calls, emails and letters from constituents voicing their concerns about the repairs and closure of Bunola River Road. I understand their frustration.
“I have traveled Bunola River Road for over 40 years and know firsthand the importance of this road to area businesses, residents and the community. While there have been issues with the one-lane travel procedure that was put into place while the road is being repaired, I’ve asked PennDOT to help find funding and expedite work to safely open the roadway.
“PennDOT officials, especially District Executive Cheryl Moon-Sirianni, have done an excellent job of identifying alternatives and working through issues to try and reopen the roadway as soon as possible.”
District Engineer Sirianni’s statement:
“The Department’s intention from the beginning was to maintain a single-lane of traffic in order to avoid a lengthy detour for the community, but due to serious safety concerns we were forced to close the roadway. With the assistance of Senator Brewster and Representative Puskaric, PennDOT is in the process of evaluating options to allow us to safely open the roadway in the near future.”
Bunola River Road closure affects Elizabeth Borough, West Elizabeth Borough, Forward Township and Elizabeth Township.
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January 21, 2020
HARRISBURG, January 21, 2020 – The McKeesport Housing Authority will be led for the 30th straight year by state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
“It has been my privilege to lead the housing authority over the last 30 years,” Brewster said. “We have achieved a great many things during my tenure as chair, but we have more to do.
“I am excited to get our efforts underway this year as we work to ensure that affordable housing is available for citizens in the region.”
Brewster said that quality, affordable housing is an important element of a strong, healthy municipality. He said that he will continue to work with the members of the authority to solve issues and deliver secure housing.
The authority is responsible for more than 1,000 units including senior, handicapped-accessible and neighborhood sites.
The McKeesport Housing Authority is the third oldest housing authority in Pennsylvania. It was created under the auspices of the United States Housing Act of 1937. In addition to providing housing, the authority works in concert with other organizations to provide community assistance programs.
For more information on Sen Brewster’s activity in the McKeesport community and the McKeesport Housing Authority, visit senatorbrewster.com
January 6, 2020
Harrisburg – January 6, 2020 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D- Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced that he will host two free Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) Financial Aid Seminars for high school students and their families.
“Financing education after high school can be very expensive, but there are financial aid resources to help students who want to pursue college or technical school,” Brewster said.
The first information session will be hosted on Wednesday Jan. 15, 2020 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Penn State Greater Allegheny Ostermayer Room in the Student Community Center at 4000 University Dr., McKeesport, PA 15132.
The second session will be hosted on Wednesday Jan. 29, 2020 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) South Campus in the Auditorium at 1750 Clairton Rd., West Mifflin, PA 15122.
A student aid expert from PHEAA will be at both sessions to present on the student aid process and how best to plan to pay for a student’s higher education.
“Higher education has an essential role in the lives of students preparing to enter the workforce,” Brewster said. “It is important that students are financially prepared for this step in their lives.”
Students and families interested in attending these free seminars can contact Kathy Jo Osman in Senator Brewster’s office by phone at 412-664-5200 or by email at Kathy.osman@pasenate.com.
December 18, 2019
Harrisburg – December 18, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D – Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that $1,146,950 has been awarded for various railway track upgrades and expansion projects in the region.
“The railways that serve the industrial facilities of our region remain as critical components of highly integrated rail network,” Brewster said. “I am pleased that the state has made this significant investment that will help businesses in the area and create an environment that is conducive to job creation.”
U.S. Steel Corporation has been awarded $689,500 to complete rail track updates to accommodate their new hot rolling mill in Braddock.
Union Railroad was awarded $457,450 to construct new railway track and a new rail turnout that will also serve U.S. Steel’s new hot rolling mill.
PennDOT will be distributing the funds for the projects.
“I will continue to push for investments in railway and manufacturing operations,” Brewster said.
December 13, 2019
Harrisburg – December 13, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D- Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that he was honored to recognize more than 60 local veterans for their service to our country at a Thursday, Dec. 12 breakfast at VFW Post 92 in Lower Burrell.
“The veterans who were recognized at the breakfast — and all veterans from all branches of our armed forces — deserve to be recognized for their sacrifice and service to our nation,” Brewster said. “Reaching out to local veterans and thanking them for what they have done to protect our nation and defend liberty was an honor.”
The lawmaker has hosted events to honor veterans at several locations throughout the year.
As a part of the breakfast, veterans were called up to receive a special pin and certificate of recognition.
Brewster has been very involved in veterans’ issues during his tenure in the Senate. In this session alone, he co-sponsored and voted for legislation to help pay for an education program for spouses and family members of those in the National Guard. He is also a co-sponsor of legislation to increase the pension for blind and vision impaired National Guard veterans.
Veterans services representatives from federal, state and county offices were available at the event to answer questions about programs and services.
“I was happy to recognize veterans who came to the breakfast and offer services,” Brewster said. “If a veteran or family member needs help at any time, they can call any of my district offices and my staff can provide assistance.”
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December 11, 2019
Harrisburg, PA – Just in time for the holiday season, Senator Jim Brewster is excited to announce that the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is now selling 2020 fishing licenses.
“When you buy a fishing license now, you really get the most value for your dollar,” said Amber Nabors, Director of the PFBC Bureau of Outreach, Education and Marketing. “Not only will you be covered for every fishing season for the rest of this year and next year, but if you like to buy your license at a store, you can avoid the long lines we often see around the start of the spring trout season.”
All fishing licenses and related permits purchased now are valid for up to 13 months, from December 2019 through December 31, 2020. Licenses and permits can be purchased at www.gonefishingpa.com, at more than 700 issuing agents, county treasurers’ offices and at all PFBC regional offices.
In addition to licenses and permits, such as the trout/salmon or Lake Erie permits, customers may choose to purchase vouchers that can be given as gifts and be redeemed by recipients.
“We are always looking for ways to spend more time with our families and friends,” said Nabors. “Vouchers make great gifts for the avid angler in your life or even someone new to the sport. If you want to introduce someone to fishing, buying them a license voucher can be the nudge they need to join you on the water this year.”
The price of an annual resident fishing license this year is still $22.90. Multi-year options are also available in 3, 5 and 10 year increments. The most popular add-ons, a trout-salmon permit and a Lake Erie permit cost $9.90 each, or $15.90 for a combination permit. Once again for the 2020 license year, customers can purchase a collectible fishing license button for $10. This year’s button features a pumpkinseed sunfish design and is customized with the angler’s individual license number (buttons are not issued at the time of purchase and will be mailed to the buyer within 3-4 weeks).
In 2020, anglers who visit a license issuing agent in-person can receive the Fishing Summary book free of charge. The book, which outlines current fishing regulations and laws, seasons and creel limits, and safety information also includes advertising and coupons. An identical, digital version of the Fishing Summary book can be viewed and printed for free at www.FishInPA.com, or viewed on the free FishBoatPA mobile app for smart phones.
“Pennsylvania anglers have a lot to look forward to this year,” added Nabors. “In 2020, we will be more than doubling the number of trophy-sized trout being stocked in lakes and streams across the state and extending many of our Keystone Select Stocked Trout Waters. We’ll also be increasing the number of Golden Rainbow Trout that we stock prior to the trout season and stocking them in-season for the first time ever. The FishBoatPA app can help you keep track of stocking locations and the expanded special regulation areas closest to you.”
Customers purchasing a 2020 license can once again can support their favorite PFBC programs through the purchase of voluntary permits for Bass, Musky, Wild Trout and Enhanced Waters, and Habitat/Waterways Conservation. These permits are not required for fishing and carry no additional privileges, but all funds generated through them are reinvested into their respective program.
While youth anglers under age 16 do not require a fishing license, they must have either a Voluntary Youth Fishing License ($2.90) or a free Mentored Youth Fishing Permit to participate in various youth opportunities throughout the season. This includes the Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Days, which occur the week before the opening of the regional and statewide openers in each area.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is a user-funded agency that operates primarily on funds generated through the sale of fishing licenses, boating registrations and associated fees. The PFBC receives no Pennsylvania General Fund tax revenue to support its programs.
Fishing Dates
December 1, 2019 – 2020 Fishing Licenses On Sale
March 28 — Regional Mentored Youth Trout Day (18 southeastern counties)
April 4 – Regional Opening Day of Trout Season
April 11 – Statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day
April 18 – Statewide Opening Day of Trout Season
November 1, 2019 through April 30, 2020 – Mandatory Life Jacket Requirement
November 18, 2019
Harrisburg – November 18, 2019 – Legislation that would empower the Pennsylvania Game Commission to allow hunting on up to three Sundays each year received final legislative approval on Monday (November 18) and was sent to the Governor for enactment into law, according to Senators Dan Laughlin (R-49) and Jim Brewster (D-45).
“Today was a historic vote. We are now just one step away from increasing recreational opportunities for the thousands of Pennsylvania sportsmen and women who enjoy hunting,” said Senator Laughlin, prime cosponsor of the bill and Chairman of the Senate Game & Fisheries Committee. “This has been a long time coming and is truly a tribute to the thousands of hunters and the many organizations who have supported this effort.”
“This bill is a result of collaborative effort of the major stakeholders that had an interest Sunday hunting. And will not only create opportunities for hunters- men and women, young and old to get out into Pennsylvania’s great outdoors,” said Senator Brewster, Democratic Chairman of the Senate Game & Fisheries Committee and prime cosponsor of the bill. “Also, it will generate additional revenue that we can hopefully use to solve CWD, which is fatal to deer and elk.
Senate Bill 147 provides for hunting on three Sundays: one during rifle deer season, one during the statewide archery deer season and one on a Sunday determined by the Game Commission. The bill also amends the Pennsylvania Game Code to make trespassing while hunting a primary offense and increase the penalties for the offense.
“Weekends are the only free time for many hunters,” Senator Laughlin said. “Those two days are essentially the only time that most working men and women can get out into the woods. The same could be said for many young people, the ones who represent the future of the sport. Lifting the ban will give them increased opportunities to pursue the activity that they love.”
The bill also provides that written permission of the landowner is required to hunt on private property on any of the Sundays being added to the expanded Sunday hunting provisions. The penalty for a violation of this provision will be a summary offense of the third degree.
Additionally, Senate Bill 147 requires the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to perform a financial analysis of the Game Commission’s fees, fines, penalties, royalties, Federal and state appropriations and other sources of revenue received by the commission, and of expenditures, including annual operating costs, investments, land purchases and capital projects, within 180 days after the bill is enacted.
November 15, 2019
Harrisburg – November 15, 2019 – More than $1.5 million in tax credits to spur community revitalization has been approved for projects in the Monongahela Valley, eastern Allegheny County and Westmoreland County, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today.
The tax credits were approved through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program.
“These tax credits will help fund a variety of community development projects in Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties,” Brewster said. “There are a wide variety of projects that received tax credits, with each having a great impact on neighborhoods and communities throughout the region.”
Brewster said tax credits were approved for the following projects:
- Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh in McKeesport ($225,000) will complete the rehabilitation of 20 housing units. The project will create four jobs and 2000 volunteer hours of labor are included in the scope of work;
- McKees Point Development Group in McKeesport ($360,000) will use the tax credits to stabilize existing housing stock, rehabilitate and resize the downtown business district and maximize job creation from tourism. The project includes development of historical assets and further access to the Great Allegheny Passage;
- Tax credits were approved for the Mon Valley Initiative in Braddock ($160,000) to support new investment and development in Braddock and increase home ownership;
- In Clairton, tax credits were approved for Economic Development South ($380,000) to spur investment and restore housing stock;
- Greater Community Food Bank in Duquesne will use ($110,000) in tax credits to strengthen its partner network, implement new practices to expand coverage and rehabilitate a building;
- Center for Victims were approved for ($82,500) to complete building renovations to serve those who need shelter services;
- In East Pittsburgh, This Generation Connect will use tax credits ($110,000) to establish a permanent base to support healthy engagement and relationship building. These tax credits will promote the development of alternative drop in space to serve as a “safe-harbor”.
- Westmoreland Community Action in New Kensington received tax credits ($160,000) to address issues including recreation, blight, beautification efforts and main street rehabilitation while addressing concerns expressed by local businesses.
November 14, 2019
Harrisburg – November 14, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that recreation and park projects in Lower Burrell, Westmoreland County and Baldwin Borough in Allegheny County have been awarded Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) grants totaling nearly $230,000.
“State resources redirected back to help local communities fund park and recreation projects are important and help municipalities in their redevelopment efforts,” Brewster said. “Planning for future recreation and the preservation of open spaces, in addition to developing community parks are excellent uses of DCNR grants.”
- Lower Burrell was awarded $19,000 to prepare a recreation and open space plan for the city;
- Baldwin Borough will receive a $210,000 grant to help rehabilitate and further develop Elm Leaf Park. The project includes renovations, development of parking areas, dugouts, comfort stations, new play equipment in addition to other improvements.
The grants were part of third-round funding for Community Parks and Partnerships.
September 27, 2019
McKeesport – Sept. 27, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that PennDOT’s District Executive Cheryl Moon-Sirianni acted quickly, decisively and in the interest of public safety when she ordered the temporary closure of the Route 51 Bridge between Elizabeth and West Elizabeth following a cable support failure.
“The temporary closure of the heavily-used bridge was necessary to avert a crisis,” Brewster said. “District Director Moon-Sirianni took decisive action to protect those who use the Route 51 Bridge in Elizabeth. Safety is a top priority.”
Brewster said he has been assured that repair work will continue on the span and crews will be on scene doing repairs until the bridge can be safely reopened.
“The bridge is a key aspect of the Mon Valley transportation system and must be quickly repaired,” Brewster said. “PennDOT leadership has been open, transparent and acted to protect those who use the bridge.”
Brewster said that PennDOT will provide further updates as work progresses.
September 25, 2019
McKeesport – September 25, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D- Allegheny/Westmoreland) will host a free shredding event at the Allegheny Township Municipal Building Parking Lot, 136 Community Road in Leechburg. The event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28.
“Securely disposing of personal documents and records is incredibly important,” Brewster said. “Consumer fraud and identity theft are very real issues that can be prevented by shredding documents that hold personal information.”
Brewster said that documents such as social security documents, personal banking records, credit card statements and medical records may contain personal information and can be shredded at this event it they are no longer needed for one’s personal records.
“I look forward to this event and helping keep people’s personal information secure,” Brewster said.
September 24, 2019
McKeesport – Sept. 24, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D- Allegheny/Westmoreland) will host a Senior Wellness and Safety Expo in McKeesport this Thursday, Sept. 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McKeesport Palisades, 100 Fifth Avenue.
“Hosting this event is an excellent opportunity to provide valuable information to our seniors,” Brewster said. “It is also an opportunity to provide them with beneficial health services and screenings.”
Brewster said that there will be health screenings for hearing, vision, blood pressure, bone density, carbon monoxide and blood glucose. He said that seniors will also have the opportunity to receive a flu shot for free with no proof of insurance required.
Rep. Austin Davis (D- Allegheny) is partnering with Brewster for this event.
“I look forward to seeing many of our senior citizens come out for this fun and informative event,” Brewster said.
September 17, 2019
Harrisburg – Sept. 17, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) today said he is pleased that more than $500,000 in state grant funding was approved for an array of recreation projects in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.
“Our ability to help local communities improve their recreation and public spaces is significantly bolstered by funding that is brought back from Harrisburg,” Brewster said. “These new dollars for the enhancement of recreation projects in both Allegheny and Westmoreland counties will improve the quality of life in our communities.”
Funding was approved for park and recreation projects in Port Vue, Baldwin, Plum, Elizabeth and North Versailles in Allegheny County. Vandergrift and Lower Burrell in Westmoreland County also received state funds for park and pool rehabilitation projects.
The grants were made available through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Act 13 program funds. The following program dollars were approved in this round of funding for projects in Brewster’s district in Allegheny County:
- Port Vue Borough Port Vue Athletic Association Recreation Building $53,763
- Baldwin Borough Elm Leaf Park Improvements $50,000
- Plum Borough Logan’s Ferry Park Improvements $150,000
- Elizabeth Borough Streetscape, Riverfront Park Improvements $50,000
- North Versailles Crestas ball field lighting $50,000
In the Westmoreland County portion of Brewster’s district, funding for the following projects were approved:
- Lower Burrell Veterans Central Park Improvements $50,000
- Vandergrift Borough Pool Renovation $165,313
Brewster said that while he is pleased that these grants were approved, he will continue to seek other resources for communities through other state programs.
September 13, 2019
McKeesport, September 13, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced a total of $811,844 in state funds for four local crime reduction and victim services programs.
“I am committed to using state resources to strengthen local efforts to curb gun violence and help those who are victimized by crime,” Brewster said.
Brewster said the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency this week approved the following grants:
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September 13, 2019
Harrisburg, September 13, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced a total of $26.5 million in state funds for construction work at the community colleges in Allegheny and Westmoreland County.
“As our community colleges become a more viable and important educational opportunities for area students, I am pleased that state funds are being used to improve and expand their facilities.”
According to Brewster, the state Department of Education has approved $20 million for the Community College of Allegheny County for construction of its Workforce Training Center. An additional $6.5 million was earmarked for the Westmoreland County Community College to modernize its Enterprise Resource Planning System.
The department monies represent 50 percent of the annual capital expense for the projects, with the remainder financed by local sponsorship.
“I will continue to seek state support for projects and programs that enhance our community colleges,” Brewster said.
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August 29, 2019
Harrisburg – Aug. 29, 2019 – The statewide School Safety and Security Committee has endorsed state Sen. Jim Brewster’s (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) plan to create a subcommittee to explore the development of baseline safety and security standards applicable to all schools.
“To ensure the safety and security of our students and all who go into public schools, it is critical that schools’ baseline safety standards be in place,” Brewster said. “A detailed safety and security plan with a focus on a school’s physical plan, accessibility to mental health services and environmental protections is necessary.”
Recommendations produced by the subcommittee will be sent to the full School Safety and Security Committee for approval, Brewster said.
Earlier this year, Brewster sent a letter to the members of the School Safety and Security Committee asking that they consider his proposal. Brewster, who serves on the committee, has sponsored Senate Bill 788, which would create baseline standards by statute.
Brewster said he asked the committee to act on his idea to expedite work on developing the standards.
“All school districts should have state resources available to adhere to easily understandable and clear baseline standards regarding the physical structure of schools, access to mental health professionals for counseling, and protection from environmental problems such as lead, mold and other health threats,” Brewster said. “Our efforts are centered on protecting students, teachers, administrators and parents who are in our school buildings and on campus.”
The McKeesport lawmaker said the state budget has included $60 million installments for each of the last two years for school safety. This funding can be applied to helping school districts comply with baseline requirements developed by the subcommittee, he said.
The School Safety and Security Committee was established by statute in 2018 and is administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
Brewster said he is grateful that the committee acted on his request and pleased that it made his proposal a priority.
August 28, 2019
Harrisburg – August 28, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D- Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that Allegheny County Airport has been awarded a state grant for $900,000 to upgrade airport buildings.
“Allegheny County Airport is a regional resource that enhances development potential throughout the Mon Valley,” Brewster said. “An improved airport, in addition to the new Mon-Fayette Expressway and other local economic projects create business development opportunities for the area.”
Funding for the $900,000 grant was through PennDOT’s Aviation Transportation Assistance Program, Aviation Development Program, and the Multimodal Fund.
Allegheny County Airport (AGC) is a key cog in the transportation infrastructure of the region. The airport began serving the county in 1931. The airport has more than 60,000 commercial and scheduled flight takeoffs and landings every year.
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August 22, 2019
Join Forces on Collaborate-Educate-Enroll events
Harrisburg – August 22, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced today a new outreach partnership with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank on Collaborate-Educate-Enroll events.
“My office has worked with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank over the past year to successfully share state services with those who attend the Produce To People event at the Food Bank’s facility in Duquesne,” Brewster said. “I look forward to expanding our educational partnership by traveling to numerous libraries in the region this September to offer state assistance.”
A wide variety of state services will be presented at local libraries including the Property Tax/Rent Rebate, PennDOT’s Yellow Dot Program, Unclaimed Property and the new Senior Bus Pass (ConnectCard). A representative from the Food Bank will also be on hand to discuss numerous food assistance programs.
“The Food Bank is delighted to partner with Senator Brewster and his team to reach out to our neighbors throughout September to help them access food assistance and other resources. Hunger Action Month 2019 is a great time to draw awareness not only to the problem of hunger, but also the ways we can help each other meet the basic need for food,” said Lisa Scales, President and CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.
Collaborate-Educate-Enroll events will be taking place at the following libraries:
- Braddock Carnegie Library, 419 Library Street, Braddock
Wednesday, September 4, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- North Versailles Public Library, 1401 Greensburg Avenue, North Versailles
Tuesday, September 10, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Baldwin Borough Public Library, 5230 Wolfe Drive, Baldwin
Wednesday, September 18, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Carnegie Library of McKeesport, 1507 Library Street, McKeesport
Thursday, September 19, 1 9.m. – 2 p.m.
- Carnegie Library of McKeesport-Duquesne Branch, Duquesne Education Center 300 Kennedy Avenue
Thursday, September 19, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Monroeville Public Library, 4000 Gateway Campus Boulevard
Friday, September 20, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
“Libraries are key resources to help educate and inform,” Brewster said. “I am grateful that local libraries are excited to join us in this new collaboration.”
To learn more about this event or food assistance services in the district visit www.senatorbrewster.com/producetopeople.
August 16, 2019
Harrisburg – Aug. 16, 2019 – Seniors can sign up for Port Authority ConnectCards at Senator Jim Brewster’s offices in Monroeville, McKeesport or New Kensington.
“Senior ConnectCards enable those over the age of 65 to use public transportation for free,” Brewster said. “This is an important cost-saver for seniors.”
Brewster, who is a board member of the Port Authority of Allegheny County, said he hopes seniors take advantage of the convenience of his office locations to acquire Senior ConnectCards.
“My staff is available to help seniors with the applications and resolve any bureaucratic issues that arise,” he added.
Once the applications are completed and submitted, it takes about two to four weeks for the cards to be issued, Brewster said.
The Port Authority will continue to accept blue or yellow senior transit ID cards, however, seniors who use their Medicare cards to ride public transportation must switch over to ConnectCards by January.
To obtain a Senior ConnectCard, an applicant must be 65-years of age and provide proof of age. Driver’s licenses, birth and baptismal certificates, armed forces discharge papers, PACE or another state issued ID card or a statement from the Social Security Administration can be used to verify age.
Brewster’s district offices are located in: McKeesport at 201 Lysle Boulevard (412) 664-5200; One Monroeville Center, 3824 Northern Pike, Suite 1015 in Monroeville (412) 380-2242; and New Kensington City Hall, 301 11th Street, Suite L (724) 334-1143.
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