July 8, 2022
Harrisburg, PA − July 7, 2022 − State Sen. Jim Brewster, Democratic Chairman of the Senate Law and Justice Committee, released the following statement today regarding passage of the 2022-2023 state spending plan:
“This budget represents a significant act of sober and realistic governance at a time of unprecedented divisiveness and political acrimony in Harrisburg. I am grateful that, at the end of a process that was unnecessarily late and acrimonious, leaders prevailed in completing the process with an agreement that does not fulfill everyone’s wish list, but makes progress in areas where Pennsylvanians have demanded it.
“It continues years of improvement in funding education, including more money being passed through the Level Up program to help historically disadvantaged school districts in a state that currently ranks 47th in education equity.
“School districts in the 45th district will receive more than $7 million in new Level Up funding, as well as education increases across the board of more than 10 percent, which comes on top of years of continued progress on education funding.
“This budget utilizes more than $2.1 billion in American Rescue Plan funds that will be used in a variety of programs that support health and child-care workers, public safety and anti-violence initiatives, housing, infrastructure and higher education.
“As a member of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s School Safety Committee, it’s important to acknowledge significant increases in programs aimed at curbing violence and ensuring safety in our schools.
“We were able to triple the amount of money available for grass-roots, street-level violence prevention from $30 million last year to more than $105 million this year. I look forward as a member of the committee to review the applications for these grants. On top of that, another $50 million will be invested in prosecution and investigation of violence.
“We’ll also be making dramatic increases in funding for mental health initiatives putting $100 million into behavioral health programs that can stem many of our societal problems before they ever result in crime or death.
“Even with these increased supports for our social safety net and education, we were able to cut corporate income taxes, putting us on a path to halve the Corporate Net Income tax in the coming years, making Pennsylvania more attractive in a competitive environment.
“It must be acknowledged that these critical investments were made possible by years of astute fiscal stewardship by legislative leaders and the Wolf administration which produced a historic $9 billion fund balance that allows these needs to be met while leaving billions in the Rainy Day Fund.
“This stewardship includes the staunch preservation of a billion-dollar revenue stream supplied by the state liquor store system, a system that has weathered constant attack by special interests while delivering for taxpayers.
“At the end of a difficult process we were able to negotiate, compromise and govern. Starting tomorrow we will continue our advocacy in the areas we fell short.”
July 7, 2022
Harrisburg, July 7, 2022 — A regional non-profit dedicated to growing and modernizing the local economy has been awarded a $2.25 million state loan to construct a new business center in Braddock, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
The Regional Industrial Development Corporation of Southwestern PA (RIDC) will receive the low-interest loan through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA).
“It has been a top priority of mine to link local redevelopment efforts with resources available through the state,” Brewster said. “I’m proud of the work being done on the ground in my district to restore former industrial sites and provide the 21st century jobs that will stabilize communities and keep families in the region.”
RIDC was approved for a 15-year $2,250,000 loan at a 3.5 percent fixed interest rate to acquire land and construct a new building located on Carrie Furnace Boulevard in Braddock. The new multi-tenant building that will consist primarily of flex industrial space that could host robotics, visual effect areas, and other technology industries. It is anticipated that two tenants will occupy the space. The total project cost is $10,000,000.
“The competition for economic development funds is fierce and the partnerships we’ve built in this region are up to it,” Brewster said. “This is the hard work of many people paying off.
To date in 2022, PIDA has approved $23,366,119 in low-interest loans that have resulted in $49,812,138 in private investment and supported 743 created and retained full-time jobs. Since 2015, PIDA has approved $361,778,277 in low-interest loans that have resulted in $727,981,169 in private investment and supported 14,765 created and retained full-time jobs.
June 16, 2022
Harrisburg − June 15, 2022 − Senator Jim Brewster announced today that he is the prime co-sponsor of legislation aimed at improving student mental health. This bill seeks to put more school-based mental health care programs and professionals into classrooms.
Senator Brewster and Senator Williams are co-sponsoring SB 1285, which will focus the majority of grants awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s School Safety and Security program for the 2022-23 school year on funding applications for projects that support students’ behavioral and mental health.
“As a member of Pennsylvania’s School Safety and Security Committee, I have been a leading advocate for more resources for mental health services in our schools,” Brewster said. “This legislation will direct a majority of funding for 2022-2023 to school districts for additional mental and behavioral health programming.”
This legislation is modeled after a similar step that the General Assembly took in 2020, when it temporarily focused these grants on responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Even before the pandemic, students have been telling us that there is a growing youth mental heath crisis,” said Senator Williams. “Safe2Say reports let us know that bullying, suicide, and self-harm are three of the biggest problems facing our students right now, and it’s time for the General Assembly to take action to address these. We’ve talked about how the pandemic has caused a mental health crisis in our students for over two years—it’s long past time we start taking action to fund the services that can provide immediate assistance to those students.”
June 14, 2022
Harrisburg, June 14, 2022 – The deadline to apply for a property tax or rent rebate has been extended to December 31st, State Senator Jim Brewster announced today.
The program is open for qualifying seniors or residents with disabilities. The previous deadline to apply was June 30.
“I am pleased by the Department of Revenue’s decision to extend the deadline to apply for property tax and rent relief,” Brewster said. “This is an important program to help seniors and those with disabilities manage their property tax bills.”
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 open, and staff can help constituents file applications.
“I encourage eligible seniors who have not yet applied to receive their rebate to please do so as soon as possible,” Brewster said. “This program is a good way to channel funds back to those who need help.”
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. When calculating 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 state-related matter, constituents can call 412-664-5200 or visit Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program (pa.gov) to apply online.
June 14, 2022
HARRISBURG, June 14, 2022 – Projects in the 45th Senate District aimed at expanding housing and preventing homelessness will get a $1.6 million boost from the state, Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“Safe and sufficient housing is becoming out of reach for too many in our region,” Brewster said. “These grants will help increase the stock of available and affordable living space for struggling families. I’m proud to work with so many good organizations dedicated to addressing this crisis.”
The funding comes through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) fund. Gov. Tom Wolf named 245 housing and community development initiatives in 67 counties that will share a portion of a total $48.4 million in PHARE funding for fiscal year 2021-22. The PHARE fund is managed by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.
“Too many seniors and young families are being priced out of the market,” Brewster said. “With this program, the money goes where it is needed most and helps our neighbors remain our neighbors.”
A list of the proposals receiving PHARE funding is available at www.phfa.org/legislation/act105.aspx
Funding for 45th district projects was awarded to:
712 Hawkins Avenue, Za’kiyah House Housing Inc
$300,000 to create three affordable housing units in a historic church which will additionally be the future site of programs and services to address homelessness and promote healthy lifestyles. The apartments will be priority housing for individuals facing housing discrimination because of their criminal record or substance use disorder.
Allegheny County Accessibility Program, Allegheny County Economic Development
$200,000 to provide accessible modifications to households in Allegheny County, excluding the City of Pittsburgh, for individuals with low to moderate incomes and at least one permanent physical disability. Allegheny County will provide $100,000 from its Allegheny Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) as 50% matching funds (generated by the Act 137 enabling legislation).
North Hills Affordable Housing, Inc: A Home For Every Family
$200,000 to maintain safe, decent, and affordable housing and resources to vulnerable populations, including transitional and affordable housing. Funds will be used primarily for individuals with children who are working towards economic mobility after surviving domestic violence or other trauma within HEARTHs transitional housing program. The focus of the funding priority is homelessness prevention to assist households below fifty percent (50%) of the median area income.
Housing Connector, The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania
$200,000 to support the salary of a Housing Connector, who assists people with disabilities to locate and obtain housing that is affordable and accessible. Additionally, two expert housing navigators will offer one-on-one assistance using a custom database created in collaboration with community resources, providing tangible support to make a move possible and help people maintain stable housing.
Homeless Prevention Assistance Program, Westmoreland Human Opportunities, Inc.
$100,000 to provide necessary supports to Westmoreland County residents to prevent homelessness. These supports are accompanied by case management to ensure the assistance will make a lasting impact on the individual or family and provide the tools necessary to help the individual or family reach self-sufficiency.
Morning Sun Senior Lofts, The Westmoreland County Land Bank
$500,000 for adaptive reuse purposes of the former East Vandergrift school building. Work to include interior selective demolition, roof replacement, limited façade restoration, and closure to points of entrance for weather elements.
The SMART Housing Program, Westmoreland Human Opportunities, Inc.
$100,000 to prevent homelessness and provide rapid-rehousing and rental assistance to nine transition-age youth (ages 18-24) who are homeless or at-risk for homelessness. All enrolled youth will receive supportive services from a Peer Support Specialist and Case Manager including assessing educational needs, job skills, financial stability, and transportation needs.
June 3, 2022
MONROEVILLE, June 3, 2022 – State Senator Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee, joined Senator Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) to co-host a public hearing on state policies and the public health impacts of the development of the shale gas industry in Pennsylvania yesterday in Allegheny County.
“Pennsylvania is one of the largest gas producing states and therefore one of the biggest waste and pollution-producing states in our nation. The continued development of the fracked gas industry with regulators using discretionary enforcement, allowing reckless companies to put people in harms way all across our state, writing off the harm as the cost of doing business,” Muth said. “The stories we heard from impacted residents and research presented on the health impacts of the drilling industry make it abundantly clear that the Majority party in the House and Senate in Harrisburg must enact stronger regulations and close loopholes in the law so that the fracked gas industry is held to the same standards as other industries operating in our Commonwealth, and take urgent action to replace contaminated water supplies and ensure healthcare to every resident suffering from the harms they’ve been forced to endure for the sake of corporate profits.”
The Senate Democratic Policy Committee hearing, hosted at CCAC’s Boyce Campus in Monroeville, featured three panels of testimony that included Pennsylvania residents impacted by the shale gas industry and public health and policy experts.
“Thanks to the experts who provided informative testimony about the policies surrounding Pennsylvania’s shale gas boom,” Brewster said. “While I am a supporter of the shale gas industry because it boosts our economy and creates family-sustaining jobs, I also believe that companies need to pay their fair share and follow the rules to protect the health and safety of residents.”
In April, the Environmental Health Project presented its latest white paper, Pennsylvania’s Shale Gas Boom: How Policy Decisions Failed to Protect Public Health and What We Can Do to Correct It, which demonstrated that public health considerations have not been central to the conversation in the development of the shale gas industry in Pennsylvania.
“The path that got us to where we are today involved downplaying existing public health research, presuming safety and vast economic benefits based on the word of industrial interests, and pushing the burden of proof to those who are often least equipped to advocate for themselves,” Alison L. Steele, Executive Director, EHP added. “It is within the government’s capability to create a better, stronger, more health-protective approach, starting today. We call on leaders in the Pennsylvania government to introduce policy and support decisions that protect the public’s health in the face of this emission-intensive extractive industry. There is much to be done.”
Participants in the hearing included Gillian Graber, Executive Director, Protect PT; Cathy Lodge, Washington County resident; Mackenzie White, Public Health Manager, EHP; Dr. Brian Schwartz, Professor of Environmental Health and Engineering, Epidemiology, and Medicine, Johns Hopkins University; Lisa Graves-Marcucci, Pennsylvania Coordinator, Community Outreach, Environmental Integrity Project; and Alison L. Steele, Executive Director, EHP.
“Pennsylvania residents are reporting serious health impacts from shale gas development. As a public health professional, I find these stories to be quite concerning,” Mackenzie White, Public Health Manager, EHP, said. “While not everyone can be a public health professional, legislators are in a position to represent their constituents—so many of whom have similar stories. We can still take actions to protect the health of Pennsylvanians and ensure a healthier future for all.”
Other members of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee that participated included Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa, Senator Lindsey Williams, Senator Wayne Fontana, and Senator John Kane.
“Yesterday’s hearing emphasized that more work needs to be done to address the serious public health concerns surrounding natural gas extraction,” Costa said. “The economic, health and environmental factors surrounding the matter are not mutually exclusive and I know that we can balance those needs in an effective, responsible manner.”
All submitted testimony from the policy hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
Agenda →
Testimony
Panel 1: Community Impact
Panel 2: Health Effects
Panel 3: Policy Solutions
Other Documents
May 15, 2022
McKeesport – May 15, 2022 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny) issued the following statement on the death of former Sen. Jim Ferlo:
“Senator Jim Ferlo was a fighter, a leader and friend. He stood up for the most vulnerable and was a fierce advocate for those in need.
“Jim never stepped back from his principles, nor did he shy away when faced with great challenges. Jim was not a quiet advocate. He was direct, enthusiastic, and energetic.
“Jim leaves behind a long record of achievements. He enjoyed success as a member of council in Pittsburgh and did outstanding work in Harrisburg as state senator. He fought to cut high utility bills, create affordable housing, improve access to health care and battle injustice.
“Senator Jim Ferlo leaves behind many people who were touched by his good works. They remain as a lasting tribute to a long, accomplished life in public service.”
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April 22, 2022
ARNOLD − April 22, 2022 − The City of Arnold has been awarded a $53,000 state grant for improvements to Rankin Street, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“Our local communities have struggled to keep up with infrastructure improvements and state support is important,” Brewster said. “This grant will help make travel easier for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users.”
The funding comes from the PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, aimed at improving local infrastructure for all modes of transportation.
Arnold’s grant will go toward improvements to Rankin Street from Woodmont Avenue to Freeport Road, including roadway paving, sidewalk enhancements and ADA compliance.
PennDOT evaluated applications and made selections based on such criteria as safety benefits, regional economic conditions, the technical and financial feasibility, job creation, energy efficiency, and operational sustainability.
April 21, 2022
PITTSBURGH – April 21, 2022 – State Senator Katie Muth (D- Berks/Chester/Montgomery), chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee joined Senator Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny), state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie) and state Rep. Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) to host a roundtable discussion yesterday on various issues facing Pennsylvania’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies.
The roundtable discussion, organized jointly by the Senate Democratic Policy Committee and the House Democratic Policy Committee, was held at the Community College of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh.
“Our EMS agencies play a critical role in our communities and knowing that they will always answer the call is in itself invaluable, but it doesn’t mean they should not be fully funded,” Muth said. “Our mission is to fight that fight in Harrisburg and to ensure that our EMS agencies have adequate funding, appropriate reimbursement rates, access to mental health services, and the tools they need to recruit and retain EMTs.”
The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically worsened a nationwide staffing shortage for emergency medical technicians and paramedics bringing longstanding issues — including low federal reimbursement rates and salary constraints — to the forefront of an industry already dealing with extremely high turnover.
“EMS companies across PA share the revenue and staffing challenges that we heard about today. These stories and those I’ve heard from EMS companies in Erie County are why I introduced the Community Paramedicine bill which enables EMS providers to do more and honors their service to those in need,” Bizzarro, chair of the House Democratic Policy Committee, said. “We need action in Harrisburg and our Caucus is prepared to help those who help us.”
The roundtable discussion featured local and regional leaders in the EMS field from Western Pennsylvania who discussed many of the challenges facing Pennsylvania’s EMS agencies which include state funding, reimbursement, recruitment, and retention.
“I’m grateful to my co-hosts and the EMT’s who testified during our roundtable. Our communities rely on the fact that a well-equipped and professionally staffed ambulance will be there when an emergency happens,” Williams said. “In order to make sure that assurance continues, we must work together to provide the funding and structural support our EMTs are telling us they need to continue to serve all of us.”
The SR 6 Report of 2018 illuminated the financial situation of the state’s EMS agencies and indicated its poor financial state is a key reason for the consistent decline in the number of agencies. The report showed that the number of Emergency Medical Technicians had fallen by over 6,000 since 2012, while the number of paramedics is down by 4,000 providers in the same time frame.
“There’s a bicameral and a bipartisan understanding that we need to do more for our EMS companies but we need to keep communicating these challenges so we can find the political will in Harrisburg to do more,” Pisciottano said. “Our EMS companies do so much for our communities and we need to honor that. Thank you to all those who serve our communities and those who came to testify today.
Participants in the roundtable included Greg Porter, Assistant Director, Ross/West View EMS; Eric Schmidt, Chief, Shaler Hampton Township EMS; Douglas Pascoe, Chief, South East Regional EMS; Bill Miller, Chief, McKeesport Area EMS Rescue; Jim Erb, EMS Supervisor, Citizens Hose Ambulance Service; and Todd Plunket, Chief, Baldwin EMS.
“Our EMS heroes have been on the front lines of the pandemic and given their best to continue to provide services despite the immense challenges of the last two years,” state Rep. Austin Davis (D-Allegheny), chair of the Allegheny County Delegation, added. “However, EMS companies are struggling with burnout, staffing shortages, and having enough funds to stay in service. We should be doing everything we can to support them as much as they’ve supported our communities.”
All submitted testimony from the policy hearing and the full video is available at SenatorMuth.com/Policy
# # #
Testimony
Panelists
- Greg Porter, Chairman, Allegheny County EMS Council, Ross West View EMS Assistant Director
- Eric Schmidt, Chairman, Allegheny County EMS Chiefs Association, Shaler Hampton Township EMS Chief
- Douglas Pascoe, Chief, South East Regional EMS
- Bill Miller, Chief, McKeesport Area EMS Rescue
- Jim Erb, EMS Supervisor, Citizens Hose Ambulance Service
- Todd Plunket, Chief, Baldwin Emergency Medical Service
March 22, 2022
McKeesport, March 22, 2022 – State Senator Jim Brewster partnered with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and U. S. Steel to host a drive-up food distribution event at the West Mifflin Area High School on Tuesday.
“Our country grows more food than any other nation, so it is unthinkable that anyone should go hungry,” Brewster said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with these organizations to bring this vital need to area residents.”
The event took place between 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. in the West Mifflin Area High School parking lot, with volunteers loading boxes of food into vehicles and handing out information about state-related programs to help combat food insecurity.
Lisa Scales, President & CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank added, “Partnerships in the community are critical in making sure our neighbors have access to food when and where they need it. We’re seeing more and more families struggle with paying more at the gas pump and in the grocery store. Our entire network is here to make sure no family has to choose between paying their bills and feeding their loved ones.”
Senator Brewster’s office helped to register over 250 vehicles to drive up and receive a box of food, which included frozen ground beef, chicken breast, and ham steak, along with a non-perishable box of food and a box of produce.
“U. S. Steel and our employees are pleased to be working with Senator Jim Brewster and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to support the Mon Valley communities where we live and work,” said Don German, Plant Manager, U. S. Steel Irvin Plant. “We hope these boxes help our neighbors, and we thank Senator Brewster for his years of leadership and support in the Mon Valley.”
With the help of supporters and partners, the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank distributed nearly 45 million meals in Southwestern Pennsylvania from July, 2020 through June, 2021. However, there are more than 343,000 people in the Food Bank’s service area who experience food insecurity, according to a study conducted by Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap. That means 1 in 7 of our neighbors are living with food insecurity. Individuals who want to help, can donate or volunteer by visiting www.pittsburghfoodbank.org.
Senator Brewster added that anyone unable to attend on Tuesday can find more food distribution events in the region, as well as additional information about food assistance programs by visiting www.pittsburghfoodbank.org or by calling 412-460-3663 ext. 655.
February 8, 2022
HARRISBURG – February 8, 2022 – State Sen. Jim Brewster released the following statement today regarding Gov. Tom Wolf’s proposed 2022-23 state budget and its implications for Pennsylvanians:
“Since taking office seven years ago, Gov. Wolf has recognized education as the building block for prosperity, safety and sustainability. This budget, with its ambitious investments in education from toddlerhood to college, is an indication that he wants to leave the next chief executive in a position to continue the revenue surplus and economic success we’ve enjoyed despite the catastrophic pandemic.
After weathering the turmoil caused by COVID-19, Pennsylvania is sitting on $6 billion that can and should be used to make investments in not just the next administration, but the next generation.
Tackling disparities in education and providing economic relief to graduating seniors will help mitigate the costly problems that dog our economy now, including crime, violence, and drug abuse.
The governor and I agree that investments in education will provide dividends for many years to come and we’ve never had a better opportunity to make that generational change than we now do.
I’m looking forward to working over the next several months to help that vision become a bipartisan consensus.”
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February 2, 2022
Harrisburg, February 2, 2022 – Despite the news delivered by Pennsylvania’s most famous groundhog today, State Senator Jim Brewster said there are real signs that spring is on the way.
“With due respect to Phil, for thousands of Pennsylvanians like me, this week’s release of the Trout Stocking Schedule is enough to let us know to start preparing for spring,” Brewster said. “It’s time for anglers across Pennsylvania to get their maps and equipment together to pick out their prime spots and be ready to cast.”
In Punxsutawney today, Phil predicted six more weeks of winter.
The trout stocking schedule is searchable by county, lists the waterways in alphabetical order and indicates stocking dates, meeting locations for volunteers, and the species of trout that will be stocked.
In 2022, Pennsylvania will return to a single, statewide Opening Day of Trout Season on April 2. A single, statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day will take place on Saturday, March 26. Under this change, which will result in a longer regular season for trout statewide, the practice of holding a separate regional opening day and mentored youth day for Pennsylvania’s 18 southeastern counties will no longer occur.
Senator Brewster, also the Chairman of the PA Senate Game & Fisheries Committee, volunteers annually to help with the stocking and urged others to do the same.
“Volunteering is a good way to give back to the sport that gives so much to families in our region,” he said. “It’s a great way to initiate young people into giving their time to help their communities.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will be welcoming the volunteers to help distribute approximately 3.2 million hatchery-raised adult trout to hundreds of waterways statewide throughout the 2022 season. The PFBC is proud to partner with conservation groups, schools, and walk-up volunteers to help spread out the trout in local waterways. Volunteers are asked to keep the safety of PFBC staff and other volunteers in mind, obey traffic laws while following stocking vehicles, and stay home if they are not feeling well.
For more information on trout stocking, visit the PFBC website.
December 20, 2021
HARRISBURG – December 20, 2021 –The deadline to apply for relief from property tax and rent costs is quickly approaching, State Senator Jim Brewster reminded constituents today.
Older adults and people with disabilities have until Friday, December 31 to apply for rebates on property taxes and rent paid in 2020. The rebates are available through the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, which benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
“This program helps many Pennsylvanians every year, and I don’t want to see any qualified homeowners or renters miss out on this opportunity for failing to meet the application deadline,” Brewster said. “If you know someone who might qualify, have them reach out to my office and we can help.”
Eligible applicants can also visit mypath.pa.gov to electronically file their rebate applications.
The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, and half of Social Security income is excluded.
The maximum standard rebate is $650, but supplemental rebates for certain qualifying applicants can boost rebates to $975. The Department of Revenue automatically calculates supplemental rebates for those who qualify.
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program is one of five programs supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery. Since the program’s 1971 inception, older and disabled adults have received more than $7.1 billion in property tax and rent relief. The rebate program also receives funding from slots gaming.
Anyone who hasn’t yet applied for a rebate for 2020 or who needs an application can contact any of Senator Brewster’s offices and his staff can help.
November 19, 2021
Harrisburg, November 19, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced $1,025,000 in state grant funding for community projects in the 45th Senate District.
“Local officials are working hard to improve our communities while protecting taxpayers,” Brewster said. “It is a privilege to advocate for state funding on their behalf in Harrisburg so that we can continue to move our communities forward.”
The grants were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority today at a meeting in the Capitol.
Grants approved today include:
Act 13
- Pool improvements in Baldwin, $50,000
- East field wall repair in East McKeesport, $40,000
- Amphitheater construction in West Mifflin, $35,000
Multimodal Transportation
- Phase 2 of the revitalization of Rankin Street in Arnold, $100,000
- Repair of Eagle Lake by Friends of the Riverfront in Baldwin, $50,000
- Road reconstruction of Delaware Avenue in Glassport, $300,000
- Virginia Avenue storm sewer in Lincoln, $150,000
- Repair of Naser Road in North Versailles, $300,000
Multimodal Transportation Grants and Act 13 grant funding is distributed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). For more information, visit DCED’s website.
November 9, 2021
HARRISBURG – November 9, 2021 – Community revitalization efforts will receive more than $2.6 million in tax credits to help fund their projects, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“It is gratifying that the efforts of these organizations are being recognized for the work they’re doing to improve their communities, especially for the most challenged among us,” Brewster said. “These are highly competitive awards, and I was honored to help these efforts stand out in Harrisburg.”
The funding through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) supports nonprofits, businesses, and resident projects in distressed areas or low-income neighborhoods.
The program also provides for COVID-19 and social justice related assistance. In this round of funding, priority was given to projects that sought to address critical issues related to the pandemic, its aftermath and recovery, social justice and support for policy changing movements, and improving opportunities for marginalized populations.
“We know that the pandemic hit some communities harder than others,” Brewster said. “We are striving for a recovery that recognizes disparities and aims to build a more equitable economy going forward.”
The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank located in Duquesne, which serves 11 counties in southwestern Pennsylvania will receive more than $1.3 million to help cover a more than 30 percent increase in need since the pandemic began.
Other recipients in the 45th District include:
- McKees Point Development Group – McKeesport, $360,000
- Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, McKeesport – $150,000
- Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, Clairton – $15,000
- Mon Valley Initiative, Clairton – $380,000
- Mon Valley Initiative, North Braddock – $160,000
- Westmoreland Community Action, New Kensington $160,000
- Tube City Renaissance – McKeesport, Allegheny County $13,750
For more details on the applicants and awards, click here.
October 6, 2021
McKeesport, PA – October 6, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today praised the completion of a nearly 37-acre land deal that will expand a medical cannabis cultivation site in the Industrial Center of McKeesport.
Regional Industrial Development Corporation of Southwestern Pennsylvania (RIDC) closed the deal with Trulieve, a multi-state operator (MSO) in the medical cannabis industry. The deal includes two buildings at the RIDC’s Industrial Center of McKeesport along with nearly 37 acres of property.
“Trulieve’s expansion in McKeesport is another example of how the Mon Valley continues to grow,” Brewster said. “The expansion not only brings employment opportunities but also strength to the local economy. I am proud to have Trulieve in my district and look forward to their continued success.”
Officials said Trulieve will build a processing and cultivation facility with 800 employees and covering more than 500,000 square feet at the site.
The sale is a landmark event in a more than three-decade effort to restore the former brownfield to productivity, said Brewster who has contributed to the process as a city councilman, mayor and now state Senator representing the region.
“This has taken a long-term partnership between local and state government and I’ve worked on it from both ends for 30 years,” he said. “We never gave up on the idea that our best days were ahead of us and, while the officials changed, the mission never did.”
“Trulieve is thrilled to partner with RIDC as we strive to bring high-quality medical marijuana to patients in Pennsylvania,” said Jim Wernick, Trulieve’s Director of State Expansion. “We look forward to building lasting partnerships with communities and benefiting from the strong talent pool that exists in McKeesport and the surrounding areas.”
“We have three decades of history in McKeesport,” said Donald F. Smith, Jr., RIDC President. “In 1990 we were leading brownfield redevelopment on this former U.S. Steel site in coordination with Allegheny County. Now we’re welcoming companies like Trulieve, Dura-Bond Industries, Trillium Flow Technologies, American Textile Company, and River Materials Inc. to make their new homes here. And the Mon Valley truly has some valuable assets: availability of a talented workforce to fuel expansion and proximity to national transportation and distribution networks.”
McKeesport Mayor Michael Cherepko said the City of McKeesport is ecstatic over Trulieve’s expansion. “Trulieve’s decision to expand its presence here truly exemplifies the vision we had when PurePenn first broke ground in RIDC park,” said Mayor Cherepko. “It’s because of companies like Trulieve—the jobs they bring and their investments in the community—that our economy is steadily growing. This tremendous investment will translate to several hundred more jobs coming to our community.”
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October 4, 2021
Harrisburg, October 4, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster, Democratic Chair of the Senate Law and Justice Committee, issued the following statement regarding recent action by the state Liquor Control Board to limit purchases of certain alcohol products and the resulting criticism:
“Over the years, critics of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and its management of the commonwealth’s retail alcohol sales have aired various complaints in a not-so-subtle move to dismantle the system and turn its profitable business over to private interests.
Some of those complaints have been warranted, and the PLCB has responded with reforms that have made liquor sales in Pennsylvania more consumer friendly and increasingly profitable to taxpayers.
The pandemic brought more challenges to the system and its thousands of employees, along with the predictable volley of complaints from the long-time critics. The latest protest against the board’s decision to ration certain high-end alcohol products to prevent hoarding is perhaps the weakest brew they’ve ever distilled.
The pandemic brought a certain level of chaos to the free-market system, and liquor products are no exception. Pennsylvanians are fortunate to have a single manager of alcohol sales, allowing fairer and more rational distribution. Rather than hurting consumers, the rationing plan helps preserve availability across the state, which could otherwise see supply dominated by wealthier markets.
In New Jersey, for instance, there were widespread reports that wealthy New Yorkers were traveling south to buy up entire store supplies of certain products making them unavailable to locals.
The PLCB was also criticized 18 months ago when it made the decision to close stores to prevent unnecessary public gathering, giving the outlets opportunity to develop socially distant shopping procedures and protecting its employees from a dangerous health threat.
Due to the leadership and the more than 3,500 employees, the PLCB has delivered $2.91 billion in profits on behalf of the taxpayers, while ensuring availability and selection in areas with lower customer traffic.
We are still facing numerous serious threats as the pandemic lingers and dangerous variants emerge. A two-bottle limit on $80 bourbon isn’t one of them.”
September 9, 2021
HARRISBURG – September 9, 2021 – Regional organizations aimed at reducing community violence and drug abuse have been awarded more than $2.6 million in state grants, with more help on the way, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“These grants represent an installment on a long-term commitment to help groups in our communities continue their valuable work and to find new approaches and ideas to help residents feel safer in their communities,” Brewster said. “There will be more help available by the end of the year, and I urge organizations to begin the process of securing financing in this next round.”
Brewster, who fought for additional funding in the most recent state budget for anti-violence efforts, said applications for that new funding are now being accepted by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). To find out more on how to apply, click here.
Interested applicants can access application resources through PCCD’s Gun Violence webpage under the “Grants & Funding” tab. PCCD is utilizing a single online survey form (via SurveyMonkey) for the initial funding request application. An informational webinar will also be hosted on September 14, at 11 a.m. for interested applicants.
The window to apply is open now through Friday, October 15, 2021. Awards will be announced at the December 1, 2021 School Safety and Security Committee meeting, with projects slated to begin January 1, 2022.
The following organizations have been awarded funding through PCCD programs:
- Brothers and Sisters Emerging – Community Programs – $150,000 Awarded through the JJDPC State Violence and Delinquency Prevention Program Funds
- Three Rivers Youth Inc. – LifeSkills Training Planning Project – $100,000 Awarded through the JJDPC Federal State Opioid Response (SOR) Funds
- Allegheny County Chief Executive Officer – Allegheny County Jail MAT Methadone Program – $150,000 Awarded through the CJAC Opioid Response Funds
- Allegheny County Chief Executive Officer – Latent Prints Continuous Improvement Project – $9,853 Awarded through the CJAC Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Funds
- Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner – Firearms Examination Initiative – $224,945 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- Allegheny Intermediate Unit – School- based and Community Outreach Program – $225,000 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- Center for Victims – Family and Community Support Team Funding – $225,000 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- Community Empowerment Association, Inc. – Gun Violence Prevention and Community-based Outreach Efforts – $225,000 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- Greater Valley Community Services – Violence Prevention in Braddock and Surrounding Areas – $200,000 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- Healthy Village Learning Institute – Proactive Prevention and Intervention Processes through the P.O.W.E.R. (Positive Outcomes With Excuses Removed) Prevention Program – $211,680 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- South Pittsburgh Coalition for Peace – Peacemakers Street Outreach Intervention Initiative – $220,000 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- The Center that CARES – Enhancing the REACH Initiative Prevention Program – $220,000 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- Voices Against Violence – Programing for Street Mediation, Conflict Resolution, and Restorative Justice Practices – $177,000 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- Legacy Arts Project – Drums Not Guns Youth Art Apprenticeship Program – $205,750 Awarded through the Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program
- Allegheny County Chief Executive Officer – Decreasing Gun Violence through the CURE Model – $71,388 Awarded through the CJAC Gun Violence Reduction Funds
- City of McKeesport – McKeesport Gun Violence Reduction Project – $50,500 Awarded through the CJAC Gun Violence Reduction Funds
September 2, 2021
McKeesport, September 2, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster has written to Pennsylvania’s legislative leaders asking for a September vote on his perks reform package, including elimination of ‘per-diem’ payments.
In a letter dated August 19, the key lawmaker, who has introduced similar bills in previous sessions of the General Assembly, said the vote should be a follow-up to the recent move by legislative leaders to make more expense information available online.
“Increasing public access to expenses is a welcomed and needed step. I certainly support the effort. However, expense transparency alone does not go far enough,” Brewster wrote. “To increase accountability, the General Assembly needs to swiftly move to eliminate ‘per diem’ payments and institute other necessary reforms.”
Brewster said that blanket per-diem payments don’t provide the transparency on spending that the public is asking of public officials and his legislation would require receipts for expenses instead.
In addition to the elimination of the controversial per diem payments (SB362), Brewster’s legislation, now sitting idle in the Senate State Government Committee, includes:
SB 361 – Replaces yearly, automatic cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) by a once-per-decade raise consideration following the decennial U.S. Census and calculated by the Consumer Price Index.
SB 363 – Ends state vehicle leases for members of the General Assembly, instead reimbursing for actual mileage and tolls for documented government travel.
SB 364 – Bans gifts of any value to members of the General Assembly. No member could solicit or accept, for their personal use or for another’s use; a gift, favor, entertainment, hospitality, loan, or any other item of monetary value.
Brewster said lagging public confidence in the General Assembly demands action on the bills, at the very least a floor vote when the Senate returns to session in several weeks.
“I am confident that if the leadership of our respective bodies would allow their members to decide the issue, the outcome would favor the transparency you profess to seek,” Brewster wrote. “Therefore, I request that the reform package – including the measure that ends ‘per diem’ payments – be scheduled for consideration in September.”
August 24, 2021
Allegheny County, August 23, 2021 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) and Rep. Jessica Benham (D-Allegheny) will host a free, on-site shredding event for residents of their shared Legislative District on Saturday, August 28, from 9am– 11am. The event will be held at the Brentwood Community Center at 3501 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh
“In this day and age, identity theft and consumer fraud have unfortunately become more common,” said Brewster. “This is an opportunity to protect your personal information and safely destroy confidential documents.
The shredding event is for individuals only, documents from businesses will not be accepted. Each vehicle is being asked to bring no more than three boxes. Examples of items to bring include bank and credit card statements, tax documents, insurance claim forms, medical records, retirement fund information, and any other documents with social security numbers or other personal and identifying information. Only paper documents will be accepted, no binder clips or books. Document shredding will occur in a truck on-site with the shredded paper later taken to a recycling facility.
“I am happy to help constituents protect their personal information with this shredding event,” Benham said. “If you can’t make it, please remember that personal information should be kept safe and secure until it can be properly discarded. When destroying personal information, it should be shredded or safely burned in a firepit or fireplace.”
The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank will be accepting non-perishable food items (no glass) during the shredding event, though a donation is not required to participate. There will also be a prescription drug take back occurring at the event for those interested in safely disposing of expired or unneeded medicine.
For more information or questions about the event, please contact Kathy Jo Osman in Sen. Brewster’s office at 412-664-5200 or Moira Kaleida in Rep. Benham’s office at 412-881-4208.
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August 23, 2021
McKeesport – August 22, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) today said he is thrilled with McKeesport’s Swin Cash’s induction into the WNBA Hall of Fame.
Cash, who starred at McKeesport High, was an integral member of the University of Connecticut women’s basketball teams that dominated the sport. The team won two national championships while Cash played for the Huskies.
“Swin Cash is an outstanding basketball player who dominated the sport at every level,” Brewster said. “Even more importantly, Swin comes from a great family, she is an exceptional person and a tremendous role model.
“Over the years, she not only demonstrated remarkable skills on the court, but she also worked very hard to become a terrific player – an all-time great.”
When Cash finished her collegiate career, she was selected in the WNBA draft by the Detroit Shock. Over the years, she played for multiple teams that won multiple championships. Cash also won two Olympic gold medals in 2004 and 2012.
“Those of us who watched Swin play through the years were not surprised that she has reached such heights in the world of women’s basketball,” Brewster said. “She demonstrated her commitment to succeed and compete at the highest levels early in her career.
“The entire McKeesport community is proud of Swin’s induction into the WNBA Hall of Fame and we send congratulations for this incredible honor,” Brewster said.
Cash currently serves as vice-president of basketball operations for the New Orleans Pelicans.
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July 20, 2021
McKeesport, July 19, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster has been named “Sportsman of the Year” by the Elizabeth Township Sportsmen Association (ETSA), the group announced Saturday.
Brewster, who serves as Democratic Chair of the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee, said he was grateful for the recognition and the work the nearly 50-year-old group does in the local community.
“The Elizabeth Township Sportsmen Association has been providing recreational and educational opportunities for local residents since 1972 and their mission goes well beyond their onsite shooting ranges,” Brewster said. “I’m deeply grateful to be recognized by its members and their families.”
The 1000-member ETSA provides education and safety training programs for owners of firearms as well as community outreach and fundraising for a variety of causes.
“In a world of virtual and electronic entertainment, ETSA helps keep the community connected with its roots and the joys of nature,” Brewster said. “Preserving the natural environment is not only a recognition of where we’ve come from, but it’s also the only way to preserve a healthy future.”
The award comes on the heels of Brewster’s recognition by the century-old Allegheny County Sportsmen League which noted his commitment to its mission and also his “Legislator of the Year” award presented by the Pennsylvania Federation of Sportsmen & Conservationists, Inc.
“As Democratic Chair of the Game and Fisheries Committee, I’m always looking for ways we can preserve and expand opportunities for Pennsylvanians to get away from their computers, get outdoors and relax,” Brewster said.
July 6, 2021
McKeesport, July 6, 2021 – In addition to funding from previous years, State Sen. Jim Brewster announced today that schools in the 45th Senate District will receive an added $10,684,245 for the next fiscal year, including $3 million in new “Level-Up” supplements targeted to help traditionally underfunded districts.
“This additional funding comes at a critical time for local school districts,” Brewster said. “We are still recovering from a pandemic that ravaged our state, and I hope to see the additional funding for education alleviate the pressure on taxpayers. The residents who fund our public education system by paying property taxes should not see an increase in their taxes – that was one of my goals while advocating for this additional funding.”
In all, the state’s 2021-2022 spending plan increases school funds by more than $300 million across Pennsylvania, including $100 million in the new Level-Up program.
“Our school funding system has too long created winners and losers among students in different – sometimes neighboring – districts,” said Brewster, a member of the Senate Education Committee. “Quality of schools and pay for teachers shouldn’t depend on zip code. Every child deserves the same chance to succeed, and this budget takes a big step toward equity. All of the schools in my district will see a substantial increase in funding, and some schools will get supplemental funding in addition to the traditional allocation. That’s a win.”
“I was happy to help shepherd these increases for public education through the Legislature to pass a budget on time without raising taxes.”
June 25, 2021
HARRISBURG, June 25, 2021 – With help for pandemic-stricken Pennsylvanians falling far short of needs, state Sen. Jim Brewster said today he voted to approve Pennsylvania’s state budget because it meets one of his priorities: getting help to struggling Pennsylvanians immediately.
“It’s disappointing to me that we would stash money in a vault when it’s needed out on Main Street,” Brewster said. “The pandemic left small businesses, schools, and essential workers struggling to stay afloat and the majority in Harrisburg wants to keep the life preservers on the boat. I don’t get it.”
At the same time, Brewster said, a long budget impasse could be even worse.
“We’ve said all along that we wanted to send relief immediately and that will happen,” he said. “But we will continue to talk with those who are struggling to find ways to loosen Harrisburg’s grip on federal stimulus funds that rightfully belong to those hurt by the pandemic. This isn’t over.”
The budget takes steps toward fair funding for schools but falls short of the goals Brewster and other Democrats had laid out for a $3 billion surplus and $7 billion federal stimulus. Much of that funding is set aside for future needs in the budget agreement passed late Friday.
“I will continue to fight for more money, fairly distributed, for schools, businesses and vulnerable individuals,” Brewster said. “As we move forward, tangible results from these investments will be the best argument for additional resources.”
Setting aside $2.5 billion in the Rainy Day Fund, and reserving most of the federal stimulus for future use, the spending plan contains no tax increases and injects $300 million in additional funds for K-12 education.
Brewster said the $200 million over four years for higher education does not provide adequate resources to avoid cuts and consolidation for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, but the surplus set aside means students, faculty and residents of affected communities still have an opportunity to make their voices heard.
“No one can say there’s no money to help our state schools,” Brewster said. “We can still let the General Assembly know that value-oriented college education is a priority that deserves consideration when there is money stashed away in a vault.”
Increased education line items this year include:
- $300 million in basic education
- $200 funded through the Fair Funding Formula
- $100 million for Level Up, a new effort provide funding for schools that have been historically underfunded
- $20 million for Ready to Learn block grants
- $25 million for Pre K Counts
- $5 million for Headstart
- $50 million for special education
- $11 million for early intervention
- $200 million for PASSHE, over 4 years, including funding for the Diversity, Education & Inclusion program proposed by Senate Democrats.
“The work doesn’t end because at the constitutional deadline to pass a budget,” Brewster said. “Allies in the General Assembly and advocates across the state are gearing up for continued effort to expand educational opportunities for all students at all levels. We’ve taken some steps but there’s a long way to go.”
June 25, 2021
HARRISBURG, June 25, 2021 — By a wide, bipartisan margin, the state Senate today approved a proposal by state Sen. Jim Brewster to help counties create a fund to remediate blighted properties and restore communities.
“Run-down buildings and abandoned properties bring down the value of entire neighborhoods and promote more decay,” Brewster said. “We need to give local government the tools they need to tear down, fix up and restore blighted neighborhoods.”
Senate Bill 574 will establish a demolition and rehabilitation fund in each county through a fee collected from sheriff sales or mortgage foreclosures. The fee will be capped at $250.
In addition to the purchase price, the bureau conducting the sale of the property or the sheriff in a mortgage foreclosure will collect the fee.
“Cash-strapped local communities need help to rebound from years of decline and population shifts,” Brewster said. “With the housing market exploding and young people looking for a more convenient urban lifestyle, the time is right to make key investments.”
The fund established may be used by the county, any not-for-profit or pro-profit corporation that has a contract with the county or a taxing district, redevelopment authority, land bank or other government entity, for the demolition or rehabilitation of blighted property located in the county.
The bill is the second Brewster authored measure to pass the Senate this week. It now heads to the House.
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