August 23, 2023
West Chester, Pa (August 23, 2023) – With the back-to-school season upon us, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is reminding residents and drivers to be alert in school zones, pay extra attention to pedestrians, and follow Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law.
“With students returning to the class, there will be more school buses back on our roadways, more children crossing streets and walking to school, and a lot of excitement and distractions that tend to come with this time of year,” Comitta said. “Please remember to allow extra time for travel, pay attention to your surroundings, and be extra careful when approaching a school bus or crosswalk on our roadways.”
Under Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law:
- Motorists must stop at least 10 feet away from school buses that have their red lights flashing and stop arm extended.
- Motorists must stop when they are behind a bus, overtaking a bus, meeting the bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped.
- Motorists following or traveling alongside a school bus must also stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and all children have reached safety.
- If physical barriers such as grassy medians, guide rails or concrete median barriers separate oncoming traffic from the bus, motorists in the opposing lanes may proceed without stopping.
- Do not proceed until all the children have reached a place of safety.
The penalties for violating the School Bus Stopping Law can be significant, including a 60-day driver’s license suspension, five points on your driving record, and a $250 fine.
According to PennDOT, each year more than 700 drivers are convicted for passing a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing.
Motorists are also reminded to slow down to the posted speed limit of 15 mph in school zones, which are particularly busy in the morning and afternoon hours during student arrival and dismissal.
In addition, students can do their part to stay safe while walking or crossing roadways by unplugging from phones and electronic devices, using crosswalks and intersections with crossing guards, making eye contact with drivers, wearing visible clothing, especially in the early morning and evening hours, watching for turning vehicles, and traveling in groups.
More than 30,000 buses transported nearly 1.5 million children about 400,000 miles on Pennsylvania roads last year, according to PennDOT.
For more safety tips, visit penndot.pa.gov
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August 21, 2023
West Chester, Pa (August 21, 2023) – In an effort to create a more efficient and upgraded infrastructure system within our community, Willistown Township was recently awarded state funding for the expansion of a fiber optic communication system along Lancaster Avenue, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
“As new technology develops, we can create safer and smarter roadways,” Comitta said. “By expanding the fiber optic communication system in Willistown, we are investing in a more efficient transportation infrastructure for residents and motorists.”
The township was awarded $486,226 through the “Green Light-Go” grant program, a reimbursement to local municipalities administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
The program was created through Act 89 of 2013 and can be used for projects such as installing LED technology, signal retiming, developing special event plans, as well as upgrading traffic signals to the latest technologies.
Willistown is one of 77 Pennsylvania municipalities awarded a total of nearly $36 million through this round of funding.
August 18, 2023
West Chester, Pa (August 18, 2023) – Five elementary schools in the Coatesville Area School District will receive federal funding to provide students with fresh fruit and vegetable snacks during the school day, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan announced.
The grant funds, provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) and administered through the Pennsylvania Department of Education, are as follows:
- Caln Elementary School will receive $33,480.
- East Fallowfield Elementary School will receive $23,760.
- Kings Highway Elementary School will receive $34,920.
- Rainbow Elementary School will receive $48,456.
- Reeceville Elementary School will receive $23,976.
“Young people need food to learn and grow and this funding help provide them with healthy and nutritious options, like fresh fruits and vegetables,” Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee, said. “And we hope that promoting fresh fruit and vegetables as healthy snack options in school helps lead students to establish better eating habits at home and outside the classroom.”
“Our children, particularly our youngest students, need access to healthy food in order to learn while at school,” said U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan. “These valuable grant funds from the USDA and from the PA Department of Education provide more than fresh fruit and vegetables. They are an opportunity to invest in our next generation and to help our kids grow and thrive. I appreciate Senator Comitta and Secretary Mumin’s commitment to helping children in our Commonwealth.”
The goal of the FFVP is to create healthier school environments by providing healthier food choices, expanding the variety of fruits and vegetables that students can try, increasing unprocessed fruit and vegetable consumption, and positively impacting students’ present and future health. Additionally, it promotes nutrition education among students.
“In order to learn, grow, and achieve, children need access to healthy food options,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program will help learners across the Commonwealth access nutritious foods and create healthy habits—at no cost to their families—that will benefit them both in the classroom and at home.”
The program, implemented in Pennsylvania in 2004 and now available in all 50 states, has successfully introduced elementary school children to a variety of produce that they otherwise might not have the opportunity to try. According to the USDA, it also helps combat childhood obesity by increasing the overall acceptance and consumption of healthier food alternatives among children.
Under the program, selected schools receive reimbursement for the cost of making free fresh fruits and vegetables available to students during the school day. These fresh fruits and vegetables must be provided separately from the lunch or breakfast meal, in one or more areas of the school during the school day.
To be eligible, schools must participate in the National School Lunch Program. FFVP prioritizes schools with the highest percentage of children eligible for free and reduced-price meals in order to give children from low-income families more opportunities regularly to consume fresh produce.
The funding for the CASD schools comes as part of nearly $7.5 million in FFVP grants awarded to 252 elementary schools across the Commonwealth.
August 17, 2023
Harrisburg (August 16, 2023) – The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) was recently awarded $352,000 in federal funding to help expectant and parenting students stay in school, graduate, secure employment, and become successful parents and adults.
The funding was awarded by the Pennsylvania Department of Education through Pennsylvania’s Education Leading to Employment and Career Training Program (ELECT). The program coordinates the continuity of educational services and community resources for pregnant and parenting youth, under 22 years of age within school districts and cyber and charter schools.
“Parenting or expecting a child while enrolled in school presents a unique set of challenges to students and their families,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “These funds will support important programs that aim to help students overcome these obstacles, avoid interruptions to learning, and beat the odds by graduating and pursuing successful jobs and careers.”
“In public education, we often come across students who face unique challenges. Our expectant and parenting students are no exception. With this generous funding, we’re not just supporting the dreams of young parents; we’re nurturing the futures of their children and enriching our community as a whole. I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Senator Comitta for her unwavering dedication to public education and her commitment to ensuring that all our students have the resources and support they need to succeed. This initiative is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together for the betterment of our next generation,” said Dr. George F. Fiore, CCIU Executive Director.
The ELECT program aims to support eligible pregnant and parenting youth in growing into productive, successful, and self-sufficient parents and adults.
The program also provides participants, through a combination of group and one-on-one sessions and home visits, with pregnancy prevention information, guidance and services to reduce the incidence of a second pregnancy, services to promote the importance of healthy parental relationships, and strategies and supports to encourage parents to play a significant role in their children’s lives.
“Expectant and parenting students are at risk of barriers to successful academic and career outcomes, especially if access to resources and community support is limited,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “This grant funding will enable students to receive the assistance they need to ensure their learning isn’t interrupted, allowing them to graduate with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to their family and community.”
The CCIU funding comes as part of $13.5 million in total federal ELECT funding awarded to 26 school entities statewide.
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August 16, 2023
West Chester (August 17, 2023) – Kennett Area Community Service’s (KACS) plans to build a new, larger facility to house its food cupboard, emergency assistance, and other programs recently got a major boost thanks to $100,000 in state funding secured by state Senators Carolyn Comitta and John Kane.
Comitta and Kane worked together to secure the grant funding, which comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, to support architectural and engineering costs related to the non-profit organization’s new building project.
“I am thrilled to support KACS’s plans to expand and grow in its mission to help more individuals and families in southern Chester County overcome poverty and achieve self-sufficiency,” Comitta said. “And I want to thank KACS supporters, staff, and volunteers who continuously strive to serve the community with effectiveness, integrity, and respect for the dignity of all people.”
“KACS is an invaluable asset to our Chester County communities. They provide essential services to those in need and work tirelessly to combat poverty,” said Senator Kane. “Their dedication and hard work are truly inspiring, and we are fortunate to have them as a partner in our efforts to make our community a better place for all. This funding will allow KACS to continue servicing folks in need not only with food but also with social services and life-enhancing workshops.”
“The offices of Senator Kane and Senator Comitta have been instrumental in helping us plan for this vital project that will serve those experiencing food insecurity and imminent and actual homelessness in southern Chester County, said Leah Reynolds, M.S.P.L., KACS Executive Director. “They have been proactive by reaching out to us to tell us about opportunities, and their guidance has been invaluable.”
Currently operating out of two buildings in Kennett Square Borough, the group plans to build a 24,500 square-foot-building on 5.8 acres of land donated by Michael and Nancy Pia located on West Cypress Street in Kennett and New Garden Townships.
The new facility is expected to include a 10,000-square-foot warehouse for food storage and distribution, as well as space for a food cupboard, social service offices, workshops, and administrative operations. The new building will provide much needed space for KACS to expand its offerings to meet the needs of a growing population, as building upkeep and maintenance at its current home are no longer cost-effective or sustainable. In addition, the new site also offers the potential for room to grow and further expand in the future.
KACS offers several important services to the community:
- Its food cupboard is the largest in Southern Chester County. In June, it fed more than 2,300 individuals and distributed more than 83,330 pounds of food.
- Its Social Services Program offers financial assistance, emergency housing assistance, and collaboration with local agencies to connect vulnerable individuals and families with sustainable living solutions.
- And its Bridges Out of Poverty workshops help employers, community organizations, social service agencies, and individuals comprehensively reduce poverty.
For more information about KACS, visit www.kacsimpact.org
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August 11, 2023
WEST CHESTER, PA (August 11, 2023) – In celebration of National Farmers’ Market Week, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is reminding Chester County seniors that they can receive credits for free fruits and vegetables from participating farmers through the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP).
“Our local farmers’ markets are community treasures delivering fresh, quality, and healthy produce for our residents to enjoy,” Comitta said. “Through the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, eligible seniors can enjoy some of our local farm products for free. This is a great program to make healthy and nutritious food options more readily available to our older neighbors and I encourage all eligible seniors to apply.”
The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture provides lower-income seniors with fresh, nutritious, unprepared, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs from approved farmers in Pennsylvania.
Each eligible resident receives five $10 SFMNP checks that can be redeemed at over 1,160 participating farmers, 828 farm stands, and 88 farmers’ markets across the state. To find a farmers’ market or farm stand that accepts FMNP checks go to www.pafmnp.pa.gov
To qualify you must be aged 60 years or older (or turn 60 by 12/31/2023) and meet household income eligibility guidelines. For a one-person household, total income cannot exceed $26,973. For a two-person household, total income cannot exceed $36,482.
Applications are available through the Chester County Department of Aging’s website or by calling Senator Comitta’s district office at (610) 692-2112.
Completed applications must be received by the Chester County Department of Aging before September 15, 2023. Applications are accepted by mail to Chester County Department of Aging, 601 Westtown Road, Suite 320, West Chester, PA 19380, or by emailing mwebb@chesco.org
For more information on the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) go to www.agriculture.pa.gov
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August 8, 2023
WEST CHESTER, PA (August 8, 2023) – To prevent any lapses in an individual’s medical coverage and protect our community’s health, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is reminding Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) recipients to check their coverage renewal date.
Due to a change in federal law, Medicaid continuous coverage requirements implemented at the onset of the COVID-19 federal public health emergency ended on March 31, 2023. As a result, Pennsylvanians receiving Medicaid or CHIP coverage must complete annual renewal applications.
“Thousands of Chester County residents depend on Medicaid and CHIP to keep their families healthy,” Comitta said. “If you are currently receiving coverage through these programs, make sure you are aware of your renewal date to stay covered and prevent any lapse in vital health services.”
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) will send renewal reminders to all recipients. To receive timely renewal information, Pennsylvanians should ensure their contact information is up to date with DHS.
Recipients can check and report changes to contact information, find their coverage renewal date, and report changes in their personal circumstances:
If a person is found ineligible for Medicaid benefits following their renewal application, they will be referred to other forms of affordable medical coverage such as CHIP or Pennie, the official health insurance marketplace in Pennsylvania, to prevent a lapse in health coverage.
To learn more about Medicaid and CHIP renewal information visit www.dhs.pa.gov/staycovered
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August 4, 2023
HARRISBURG, PA (August 3, 2023) – More senior citizens and people with disabilities will be able to access property tax relief through an expansion of the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.
The expansion, which increases the maximum rebate to $1,000 and increases the income limit to $45,000, was officially signed into law today by Governor Josh Shapiro.
“Many seniors in our area rely on the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program to help make ends meet,” Comitta said. “By expanding the program, we are bringing vital relief to more of our neighbors and helping more seniors stay in their homes.”
Under the expansion, nearly 175,000 more Pennsylvanians – including an estimated 2,300 in Chester County – will qualify, and many of the 400,000 seniors who already qualify will see their rebates nearly double.
Comitta, who serves as a member of the Senate Aging and Youth Committee, voted in favor of the legislation (HB1100) earlier this year.
This is the first permanent expansion of the program in more than 15 years. The legislation also increases the income limit each year by the annual percentage change in the Consumer Price Index.
“For too long, seniors have missed out on relief, solely because of the automatic cost-of-living adjustment in their Social Security payment,” Comitta added. “With this expansion, we are making sure that seniors and individuals with disabilities can continue to take advantage of the program.”
Supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery, the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program has distributed more than $7.6 billion to Pennsylvania residents since its inception in 1971.
Applications for the 2022 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program are still open. Residents can apply for the program online at mypath.pa.gov or by completing the PA-1000 paper application. Applicants must submit copies of income statements from 2022 and paid receipts of property taxes from the year 2022 (local, school, county) or a Rent Certificate completed by a landlord.
Assistance with the application is available by appointment at Senator Comitta’s district office at 17 E. Gay St. in Downtown West Chester. To schedule an appointment, call (610) 692-2112.
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August 2, 2023
WEST CHESTER, PA (August 2, 2023) – Following an announcement that the Pennsylvania Treasury’s Bureau of Unclaimed Property returned a record-breaking $273.7 million in assets to their rightful owners last year, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is reminding residents to check to see if they may be owed property that was lost or forgotten over the years.
Unclaimed properties include dormant bank and retirement accounts, jewelry, military medals, stocks, and uncashed checks throughout Pennsylvania, all waiting to be claimed by their rightful owners. Among the unclaimed assets are funds from uncashed checks, rebates, forgotten stocks, as well as items stored in safe deposit boxes.
One in ten Pennsylvanians has unclaimed property, and the average property claim is worth about $1,600, according to the Treasury.
“There’s a good chance that you or someone you know may have property waiting to be claimed,” state Senator Carolyn Comitta said. “The first step is to check the online database. If you find that you are owed any unclaimed property, please don’t hesitate to contact my office, and my staff will be glad to assist you in navigating the process to claim it.”
While the Treasury has made significant progress in reuniting individuals with their unclaimed assets, there is still an astonishing $4.5 billion waiting to be collected.
To see if you may have unclaimed property, visit the official website of the Pennsylvania Treasury at www.patreasury.gov or contact the Bureau of Unclaimed Property toll-free at 1-800-222-2046.
You can also reach out to Senator Comitta’s office for assistance at 610-692-2112
There is no fee for claimants to prepare and file an unclaimed property claim through the Pennsylvania Treasury or a legislative office.
Over the years, the Unclaimed Property Division has successfully reunited hundreds of millions of dollars in unclaimed assets with their rightful owners.
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August 2, 2023
HARRISBURG, PA (August 2, 2023) – Organizations that offer, or are looking to offer, environmental literacy programming can once again apply for grant funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
State Senator Carolyn Comitta is reminding organizations that the application is now open for the Environmental Education Grants Program, which supports a wide range of projects including hands-on workshops, teacher training, and community conservation projects.
“As environmental and climate science plays a greater role in our everyday lives due to the impacts of climate change, now more than ever it is important that we offer environmental literacy programming in our communities,” said Comitta, who serves as the minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.
Locally focused projects may receive a grant of up to $5,000, regional or statewide initiatives may receive up to $30,000, and projects that are designed to engage teachers and youth at the county, state, and national levels may receive up to $65,000.
Applications must be submitted by November 15, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Electronic Single Application website.
DEP Environmental Education staff will host a live webinar for interested applicants on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, from noon to 1:30 p.m. The webinar will highlight application details and staff will be able to answer questions on the program.
The grant is funded with five percent of all pollution fines and penalties collected by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
The Environmental Education Grants Program was first established by the Environmental Education Act of 1993. Since its inception, more than $13 million has been provided to support environmental education in Pennsylvania. In 2023, organizations serving Chester County received nearly $35,000 for environmental education programming.
For more information and application details visit the Department of Environmental Protection’s website.
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August 2, 2023
WEST CHESTER, PA (August 1, 2023) – To help students get ready to go back to school, the office of state Senator Carolyn Comitta is collecting new backpacks to donate to children and families served by The Crime Victims Center of Chester County, Inc. (CVC).
“Starting the school year with a new backpack and new school supplies can give students a sense of confidence and help set them on the path to academic success,” Comitta said. “If you are able, I encourage you to help a student in our community by donating a new backpack for the Crime Victims Center’s back-to-school drive.”
Donations can be made at the drop box at Senator Comitta’s District Office in the atrium of 17 E. Gay St. in downtown West Chester. The building is open Monday through Friday during regular office hours.
All donations benefit victims of crime and their families and will be distributed at the Crime Victims Center’s annual back-to-school drive event. The drive is supported by Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union and the Independence Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators.
Christine Zaccarelli, CEO at The Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County, Inc, shared “We are so grateful to have Senator Comitta’s help with our Back to School with CVC event again this year! Last year we were able to help over 50 current and former CVC clients go back to school with all the supplies they needed thanks to the support of Senator Comitta, the Independence Chapter, Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union and help from backpack drop sites at Gawthrop Greenwood and MacElree Harvey. We are hopeful to help even more students this year!”
Current and former clients of the Crime Victims Center are invited to attend their back-to-school drive Saturday, August 12th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 135 West Market Street in West Chester. RSVP is required by calling the CVC at (610) 692-1926 or by emailing reception@cvcofcc.org.
The Crime Victims Center of Chester County, Inc. has been serving victims since 1973 and is the designated provider of services for sexual violence victims within Chester County. The organization has two hotlines available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for community members in need of assistance. Victims of sexual assault can dial (610) 692-7273 and victims of all other crimes can dial (610) 692-7420.
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July 25, 2023
West Chester (July 25, 2023) – With extremely high temperatures impacting communities across Chester County and Pennsylvania, assistance is now available for the installation, repair, or replacement of air conditioning units for lower-income households thanks to the LIHEAP Cooling Pilot Program.
“Extreme heat is incredibly dangerous to our most vulnerable neighbors, and it is important that our residents have the necessary equipment to keep their homes safe and cool throughout the summer,” said state Senator Carolyn Comitta. “I encourage all eligible residents to apply for this program and continue to take precautions such as keeping hydrated, taking cool showers, and limiting outdoor activities to prevent heat-related illnesses.”
Eligible residents must have received a Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grant or weatherization assistance within the last 12 months.
Affiliated weatherization providers will supply eligible participants with free cooling equipment installation or repair – including Energy Star window air conditioner units, fans, or even the repair or replacement of heat pumps or central air conditioning systems.
Chester County residents who are interested in applying should contact Community Action Agency of Delaware County at (610) 521-8770. The application window is open now through August 31st.
This is the second year that Pennsylvania has designated some of its federal utility assistance money to help support home cooling needs. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, more than 2,000 households received cooling assistance last summer.
July 18, 2023
WEST CHESTER, PA (July 18th, 2023) – Rebates are starting to be distributed to the homeowners and renters that applied for the 2022 Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate program.
The program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older with a rebate for property taxes or rent paid in the prior year.
“Each year, thousands of our Chester County neighbors are able to get more money back in their pockets thanks to this program,” Comitta said. “As the first rebate checks of the year are sent out, I encourage all eligible residents to submit an application if they haven’t done so already. Should you need any assistance, my district office is here to help.”
The deadline to apply for the 2022 rebate was recently extended to December 31st, 2023.
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program is supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery and offers a maximum rebate of $650. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, with half of Social Security income excluded.
Earlier this month, Comitta voted in favor of HB1100 to expand the program, increasing the maximum rebate to $1000 and increasing the maximum income limit to $45,000. The legislation passed both the state house and the state senate, and the Governor has stated that he will sign the bill into law.
Residents can apply for the application online at mypath.pa.gov or by completing the PA-1000 paper application. Applicants must submit copies of income statements from 2022 and paid receipts of property taxes from the year 2022 (local, school, county) or a Rent Certificate completed by a landlord.
Assistance with the application is available by appointment at Senator Comitta’s district office at 17 E. Gay St. in Downtown West Chester. To schedule an appointment, call (610) 692-2112.
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July 13, 2023
West Chester (July 13, 2023) – Eric D. Ruggeri of East Bradford was appointed to the Pennsylvania Board of Funeral Directors, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said this week.
Ruggeri, who has been involved in public safety in the West Chester area for the last 40 years, was nominated to the board as a public member by Governor Josh Shapiro at Comitta’s recommendation. The Pennsylvania Senate unanimously voted to appoint Ruggeri to the board on June 29.
Currently employed as a police officer locally in the West Chester area, Ruggeri previously worked in the funeral industry for 20 years, mostly in Chester County.
“Eric brings a breadth and depth of experience in the funeral industry and public safety to the board,” Comitta said. “We appreciate his service. And I thank the governor for nominating him and my Senate colleagues for approving his appointment.”
The State Board of Funeral Directors regulates the licensure and practice of funeral directors in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The board’s functions include the formulation of necessary rules and regulations for the proper conduct of the business or profession of funeral directing in order to safeguard the interests of the public and the standards of the profession.
In addition, the board fixes the time and place for the examination necessary to obtain a license and, through its authorized inspector, conducts inspections of funeral homes.
“I look forward to serving on the board which interacts with every licensed funeral home and funeral director licensee across our great Commonwealth,” Ruggeri said of his appointment. “And an additional heartfelt thank you to Senator Comitta for recognizing me for the position as well.”
Ruggeri was one of 35 Pennsylvanians approved by the state Senate to serve on 21 of the state’s 29 professional licensing boards and commissions.
“The people serving on these licensing boards play a vital role in helping preserve Pennsylvania’s economy and in protecting the health and safety of all Pennsylvanians,” Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt said. “Adhering to rigorous professional licensing standards protects the public from fraudulent and unethical practitioners while also helping people stay employed.”
Each of the Commonwealth’s licensing boards and commissions has between seven and 17 members, including professionals in those fields and everyday Pennsylvanians who represent the public at-large. And each board has its own statute governing its powers and functions. The Department of State’s Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs (BPOA) provides the 29 boards and commissions with legal and administrative support.
Professionals interested in applying for appointment to a licensing board should send a letter stating their interest, including the desired board, as well as a current resume or bio that includes an email address and phone number, to RA-STBOARD-MEM-CAN@pa.gov or to the Governor’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs / Office of Boards & Commissions, 508-E Floor, Main Capitol Building, Harrisburg, PA 17120.
Interested professionals should also contact their state senator to obtain a letter of support for their appointment to a licensing board.
Any Pennsylvanian interested in serving as a public member on any licensing board or commission should send the same information to the above-listed locations and should also obtain a letter of support for their board appointment from their state senator.
For a list of Pennsylvania’s professional licensing boards and commissions, visit dos.pa.gov.
July 12, 2023
West Chester (July 12, 2023) – Residents at risk of losing water or wastewater service can now apply for water bill utility assistance.
The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a temporary program offering grants to lower-income families to help pay for overdue water bills.
“Having accessible and affordable clean drinking water is essential for all residents and families,” Comitta said. “As we enter the summer months when it is even more important to stay hydrated, I hope all eligible community members take advantage of this opportunity to maintain their water service.”
Eligible households can receive one crisis grant for water service and one for wastewater service of up to $2,500 each.
Crisis situations can include past-due water bills, termination of utility service, and having received notice that service will be shut off within the next 60 days.
Residents can apply for assistance online at dhs.pa.gov/compass, by calling 1-877-395-8930, or by visiting the Chester County Assistance Office at 100 James Buchanan Rd, Thorndale, PA 19372. The deadline to apply for assistance is August 11th, 2023.
For more information visit dhs.pa.gov/WaterHelp.
June 23, 2023
HARRISBURG (June 23, 2023) – Legislation calling for stronger protections for student journalists was supported by students from Conestoga High School and others at a press conference in Pennsylvania State Capitol this week.
The legislation, Senate Bill 622 introduced by state Senator Carolyn Comitta and House Bill 1309 by state Representative Melissa Shusterman, calls for school districts to implement policies that place administrative review of student publications and communications in the hands of student editors to help ensure journalistic integrity.
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Currently, Pennsylvania’s education regulations ensure students have the right to express themselves, but still allow principals and school administrators to review and have the final say on pieces of student journalism.
“A free press is fundamental to our democracy. That’s why it’s so important that we empower and inspire the next generation of journalists to use their voices with accountability, integrity, and freedom in schools and communities across Pennsylvania,” Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee, said. “As a former public school teacher, I am proud to support this legislation and the vital role of local journalism and a free press in our schools and communities.”
“I have a lot of hope for the next generation of young people. They are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in, and we need their energy and leadership in our communities. Their voices also need to be heard, so passing this legislation to guarantee freedom of speech for student journalists is vital. We can’t take away their voice just as these young people are defining themselves and becoming passionate about the world around them,” said state Rep. Melissa Shusterman.
“With the Student Journalism Protection Act, we can ensure that no student journalist or faculty advisor is illegally censored or threatened for publishing factual, important stories for their communities. When we give our Pennsylvania student journalists the security to learn how to be responsible, ethical, unbiased journalists without fear of retaliation, we are investing in the future of our news media,” said Ben Shapiro, a rising senior at Conestoga High School and editor-in-chief of its award-winning newspaper, The Spoke.
In addition to Conestoga High School, Comitta and Shusterman were joined by nearly two dozen student journalists and advisors from Conestoga High School in Chester County, Freedom Area High School in Beaver County, and State College Area High School in Centre County, as well as representatives from the Pennsylvania School Press Association, the Journalism Education Association, and the Student Press Law Center.
“Student journalists want to focus on honest and ethical journalism that reflects their communities, not on navigating the subjective and arbitrary concerns of adults in and outside of their school. No student should be forced to silence their truths to protect their teachers, and no teacher should lose their job for supporting their students’ quality work,” said Hillary Davis, Advocacy and Organizing Director for the Student Press Law Center. “We are proud to support the student journalists of Pennsylvania, and thank Senator Comitta and Representative Shusterman for all their work on this important bill. We look forward to celebrating Pennsylvania as the eighteenth state to protect student press freedom!”
Comitta also noted that supporting student journalists is especially important given the national decline in local newspapers. Between 2004 and 2019, there was a 29 percent decrease in local newspapers across the U.S. With nothing to replace them, student journalists may be the sole source of news in some communities.
Following the press conference, the students spent the day advocating for Senate Bill 622 and House Bill 1309, which are both currently before their respective Education Committees.
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June 19, 2023
HARRISBURG (June 19, 2023) – A historic barn located on land that served as a backdrop to the Battle of the Brandywine will be restored thanks to $100,000 in state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
East Bradford Township was awarded funding for the restoration of Strode’s Barn and Springhouse, a part of Strode’s Mill Historical District, an agricultural and commercial crossroads village dating back to 1721.
“By preserving our historical landmarks like Strode’s Barn, we can tell a more complete story about our community’s history to future generations,” Comitta said. “This funding will help East Bradford Township continue the restoration of Strode’s Mill Historical District and further share our history and heritage with both residents and visitors alike.”
The township plans to use the funding to restore elements of the barn and create a historical center for residents and visitors to learn about Strode Mill’s role in early American history. The barn, located at Birmingham Road and Route 52 along the Plum Run Creek, was a local landmark, known for its iconic “Strode’s Country Fresh Sausage and Scrapple” mural for many years.
“On behalf of East Bradford Township, the Board of Supervisors would like to express gratitude to the PHMC for the generous award of a Keystone Historic Preservation grant for the restoration of Strode’s Barn,” said Bruce Laverty, chair of the East Bradford Board of Supervisors. “The Township has been working for a decade to save and restore this historic 1875 barn that is located in the Strode’s Mill National Historic District. This grant award is critical to our success and we would like to thank Senator Comitta, Representative Pielli, and the Township’s residents for supporting the effort to preserve a local landmark and an important part of our community’s history!”
The historical district played host to both colonial and British troops during the Battle of Brandywine and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
“This grant for the restoration of Strode’s Barn and Springhouse will go a long way towards the preservation of the rich history of our community for generations to come,” said state Representative Chris Pielli. “I am excited to see this restoration project move forward with the help of this well-earned grant.”
The grant is one of 48 awards announced by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission through the Keystone Historic Preservation Grant program.
The program is funded through the Keystone Recreation, Park & Conservation Fund which is supported with a portion of realty transfer tax revenue.
Also awarded funding was the Chester County Department of Facilities for restoration and structural repairs to the historic Chester County Courthouse.
June 9, 2023
WEST CHESTER, PA (June 9th, 2023) – Chester County organizations working to promote affordable housing and address housing insecurity within the community have been awarded over $2.7 million in grant funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
“A thriving Chester County is dependent on every resident having a safe, healthy place to call home,” Comitta said. “This funding is vital to the organizations working tirelessly to address housing insecurity, prevent homelessness, and create affordable and safe housing across our community.”
The funding awarded from the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) through the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) is as follows:
- $50,000 for the Home of the Sparrow – Pennsylvania for apartment subleases and re-entry case management for women transitioning from the criminal justice system.
- $200,000 for the Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children for their Eviction Prevention Court program.
- $200,000 for Brandywine Valley Active Aging for their case management program supporting individuals who are homeless, at-risk for homelessness or housing insecurity, or have survived disasters.
- $200,000 for the Housing Partnership of Chester County to support their Conservatorship Blighted Property Pilot Program to rehabilitate abandoned properties to be sold to first time home buyers.
- $200,000 to DMPA Investment Group for the construction of new container homes in the City of Coatesville.
- $100,000 for the Habitat for Humanity of Chester County for the purchase and renovation of two homes in the City of Coatesville.
- $100,000 for the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County to support homelessness prevention services for domestic violence survivors.
- $60,000 for Kennett Area Community Services (KACS) to support homelessness prevention for individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity in Southern Chester County.
- $50,000 to the Housing Partnership of Chester County for housing counseling, financial literacy, and credit counseling programs.
- $350,000 for the Housing Authority of Chester County for their Housing Locator Program to assist lower-income residents who need assistance with securing housing based on their specific needs.
- $150,000 to the W.C. Atkinson Memorial Community Service Center, Inc. for their Individualized Intensive Case Management program to help identify and find solutions to the root causes of housing instability for men in the community.
- $150,000 for the Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children for the NIA House, a transitional housing program for women that were previously incarcerated.
- $200,000 to Human Services Inc. to rehabilitate a vacant garage to provide housing support services to Coatesville area community members.
- $150,000 to Safe Harbor of Chester County for their emergency shelter and case management program.
- $375,000 for the Chester County Department of Community Development to increase the capacity for their street outreach and data team.
- $110,000 to Open Hearth Inc. for their Targeted Homelessness Resource Coordination (THRC) program and creating and maintaining a list of those experiencing homelessness in the County and working with all housing providers to prioritize those on this list for permanent housing.
- $100,000 to Good Neighbors Home Repair Inc. for home rehabilitation programs for lower income residents in Southern Chester County.
The PHARE Fund was established by Act 105 of 2010 to assist with the creation, rehabilitation, and support of affordable housing throughout Pennsylvania. The program is funded through Realty Transfer Tax Fund and the Marcellus Shale Impact Fee Fund.
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June 6, 2023
WEST CHESTER (June 6, 2023) – As part of a new initiative launched by state Senator Carolyn Comitta, three Chester County high school students recently had the chance to present their perspectives on issues facing Pennsylvania communities and proposed legislative solutions.
Elizabeth Stafford, Anika Sapra, and Peter Kennedy formed the inaugural class of Comitta’s Student Advisory Council, an internship program that offers students the opportunity to learn about the legislative process while crafting their own legislative proposals and bills.
Comitta, a former public school teacher who currently serves on the Senate Education Committee, said the goal of the council is to engage young people in the legislative process instead of simply focusing their efforts on the office tasks, like data entry and answering phones, typically assigned to interns.
“I am in awe of the young leaders in Chester County and across the country that are stepping up and taking action to build a better, more sustainable community for all,” said Comitta. “That’s why I started the Student Advisory Council, to empower them to roll up their sleeves and take a hands-on approach to the issues that interest and impact them. Along the way, we not only helped foster their leadership skills, but my staff and I enjoyed the opportunity to learn from them as well.”
The council consisted of high school-aged students from across the 19th senate district who have a passion for public policy and community engagement. In addition to assisting constituents, tracking legislation, and learning about careers in state government, they had the opportunity to present legislative proposals to Comitta and her team.
Elizabeth Stafford, a rising senior at West Chester East High School, focused her work on expanding access to naloxone to help combat the opioid epidemic and prevent overdose deaths.
“Senator Carolyn Comitta’s Student Advisory Council allowed me to explore the inner workings of local government and its essential role in our community,” said Stafford. “As a council, we discussed topics we felt were relevant to our peers and researched solutions. I am incredibly grateful for the insight I gained on the legislative process and for the opportunity to be a part of Senator Comitta’s Student Advisory Council.”
Anika Sapra, a rising senior at Great Valley High School, presented her research on funding for reproductive healthcare options in Pennsylvania.
“The Student Advisory Council was an excellent and unique opportunity for me to get involved with the political process and what it means to legislate,” said Sapra. “I learned a lot about what goes into advocating for important issues while supporting and giving back to your community. What I learned empowered me to pursue public policy and legislation further, and I really loved my time in Senator Comitta’s office.”
Peter Kennedy, a rising junior at West Chester B. Reed Henderson High School, proposed increasing education on epilepsy and seizure disorders among students, school staff, and teachers.
“Senator Comitta’s Student Advisory Council was an amazing opportunity that proved to be both informative and fun,” said Kennedy. “I greatly enjoyed the work that was conducted in the office during our time and enjoyed learning about the various roles in the Senator’s office. In addition to learning more about government, politics, and community service, I also made two new friends. I thank the Senator and her District 19 Office for giving me this opportunity of a lifetime.”
June 1, 2023
WEST CHESTER (June 1, 2023) – To highlight the importance of good posture for our health and well-being, state Senator Carolyn Comitta has introduced a resolution designating “Correct Posture Month” in Pennsylvania.
“Posture impacts a lot more than our backs. While many of us have been told to “sit up straight” as children, bad habits can take shape over the years that negatively impact our posture,” Comitta said. “By taking a few small steps to improve our posture, we can make a big impact in our overall quality of life, including improved mood, boosted confidence, and projecting strength and positivity.”
Since the pandemic, experts have seen an increase in posture issues facing the general population. As work from home increased, Dr. David Binder in The Journal for Harvard Medical School noted increased complaints of lower back pain. Additionally, “slumping” and “slouching” is now regularly observed in children, teenagers, and young adults at an alarming rate.
While posture is the result of habits formed over years, it can be corrected through regular practice of proper form.
In recognition of Correct Posture Month, Senator Comitta visited Jester Family Chiropractic in West Chester and presented the resolution to Dr. Deron Jester (BS, DC, CCWP, CPN), Dr. Jennifer Jester (BS, DC, CFMP), Dr. Greg Parsons (BC, DC), and the Jester team.
“We are so honored to have spent 20 years as part of our community, helping people achieve better health and wellness naturally. We seek to educate our patients about how posture dictates function,” said Dr. Jennifer Jester. “When we optimize our posture and structural integrity, we also optimize our function and reduce our risk of injury and early degeneration. Ideal posture allows for better breathing, less body fatigue, reduced pain response, improved sleep, proper digestion and enhanced energy. These are all things that have a major daily impact on quality of life. Our goal is to help each and every patient optimize their function through better posture and structural biomechanics, utilizing the many services we have incorporated including chiropractic, massage, yoga, and functional medicine.”
Experts note that it is important to take frequent breaks from sitting, standing, and sitting straight up with your shoulders back, and keeping your head level and in line with your body.
Kim Wolff (LMT/CYT200), Co-owner and Chief Marketing Officer of Optimal Massage in West Chester, emphasized that regular self-care and exercise can also improve posture and overall wellness.
“According to the dictionary, the definition of posture is the position in which someone holds their body when standing or sitting. In my experience working with clients as both a massage therapist and a yoga teacher, poor posture can greatly impact our health. Holding ourselves in the same posture (sitting at a desk and not using proper ergonomics) for long periods of time as well as repetitive motions like typing and texting can cause stress to our muscles, joints and spines which can cause pain and dysfunction, including headaches and low back pain,” Wolff said. “A regular regimen of self-care, including massage, yoga, stretching (preferably throughout the day), drinking enough water, using a standing desk that can be used while either sitting or standing, and using a smartwatch such as a Fitbit to increase movement/steps are all great lifestyle habits that can be utilized to improve posture and decrease the stress, tension and pain that poor posture and repetitive motion can cause.”
