April 17, 2024
WEST CHESTER − April 17, 2024 – State Senator Katie Muth, chair of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Policy Committee, and Senator Carolyn Comitta, minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, co-hosted a virtual public hearing today on the environmental and public health impacts associated with spreading oil and gas wastewater on Pennsylvania roadways.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection declared a moratorium on spraying produced water from conventional wells onto roadways in Pennsylvania in 2018. However, despite that moratorium, reports cited at today’s hearing indicate that companies disposed of over 3.5 million gallons of toxic, radioactive drilling wastewater on Pennsylvania roads since 2018.
“The looting and polluting of Pennsylvania really needs to stop – we need government leaders to take the issues of environmental protection and public health seriously and to stop allowing industry profits to drive policy decisions in Harrisburg,” Muth said. “As we heard today, the spreading of toxic, radioactive oil and gas wastewater has no benefit and only causes harm to our roadways, our environment, and Pennsylvania residents.”
The current moratorium on road spreading contains a dangerous loophole that an outright ban would close – companies are allowed to make a coproduct self-determination that allows well owners/operators to self-determine the brine as a coproduct that is safe and has a beneficial use on the roadways. Senator Muth has introduced two bills that would effectively ban road spreading of oil and gas waste by closing the state’s hazardous waste loopholes. Senate Bill 26 and Senate Bill 28 would repeal the language under Title 58 that exempts the oil and gas industry from complying with the provisions of this law and include drilling waste in the Solid Waste Management Act’s definition of “hazardous waste.”
“Wastewater from oil and gas wells should not be dumped on roadways in Pennsylvania. Spreading chemical contaminants, heavy metals, and radioactive material is a threat to environmental health and public health. It has no benefit except to help drillers dispose of dangerous and toxic byproducts,” Comitta said. “Thank you to my friend and legislative colleague, Senator Katie Muth, for calling this hearing and to all those who participated.”
Participants in the hearing included David Hess, former DEP secretary and editor of PA Environmental Digest; Karen Feridun, co-founder, Better Path Coalition; Dr. William Burgos, Professor, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Penn State University; and Siri Lawson, a Warren County resident, submitted a statement that was read at the hearing.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection declined an invitation to participate in the hearing but did submit written testimony that is available at this link.
For more information on this policy hearing and to access all submitted testimony and a full recording of today’s hearing, visit www.SenatorMuth.com/policy.
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Testimony
Panel 1: Efficacy and Safety of Road Spreading Oil & Gas Wastewater
Panel 2: Advocates & Impacted People
Additional Testimony
April 9, 2024
Wayne, Pa (April 9, 2024) – Seniors are invited to enjoy a fun afternoon at the Wayne Senior Center featuring a Las Vegas-themed Senior (Citizen) Prom organized by State Senators Carolyn Comitta and Amanda Cappelletti.
The event, set for Wednesday, April 24th from 2 – 4 p.m. at the Wayne Senior Center at 108 Station Road, will also feature legislative resources and state services available through the Senators’ offices.
“This year, our Senior Prom is inspired by the magic and bright lights of Las Vegas. Seniors are invited to join us for an afternoon of dancing and socializing, along with information on the various services our legislative offices and state agencies offer,” said Comitta, a member of the Senate Aging and Youth Committee. “We hope you’ll stop by the senior prom and join the fun.”
“I’m thrilled to team up with Senator Comitta to host our second annual Senior Prom. When the older residents of our districts asked our offices to host a fun opportunity for the community to socialize where they could learn more about what we do, we knew that it was an easy yes,” said Senator Cappelletti. “We hope that folks can join us for this fun filled, Viva Las Vegas themed event.”
Attendees are encouraged and welcome to dress in Vegas themed attire.
The event is free and registration is encouraged. For registration information and more details on the event go to PASenatorCappelletti.com/Prom or contact Senator Comitta’s office at 610-692-2112 or Senator Cappelletti’s office at 610-768-4200.
April 9, 2024
(Berwyn, PA) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta and the YMCA of Greater Brandywine invite the community to enjoy a day of family fun at the Upper Main Line YMCA (UMLY) on Saturday, April 20 from 10 AM – 1 PM in celebration of Earth Day. The event will spotlight UMLY’s 54-acre campus which includes an environmental & STEM education complex and more than five miles of trails at the headwaters of Darby Creek. It is also home to Pennsylvania’s first conservation easement.
The Earth Day event will be held in conjunction with the YMCA’s national Healthy Kids Day event which inspires kids and families to keep their minds and bodies active throughout the summer and beyond. Together, the events highlight the joy of a summer spent outdoors; actively enjoying and exploring nature, spending time away from devices and connecting with friends, family and peers.
Both events are open to the community and free to attend. Activities include bird walks, canoeing, art, tree-planting, stream studies, face painting and live music. The event will also feature a vendor area highlighting environmental and sustainability focused businesses, state agencies, and local non-profit organizations. Attendees can also enjoy YMCA amenities and learn more about membership, programs and summer camp offerings.
Prioritizing a Sustainable Future for Chester County
“We are proud to partner with Senator Carolyn Comitta to raise awareness of the importance of sustainability, to spotlight the many organizations across the county doing great work in this area and to provide a great day of fun for local families,” said Brian Raicich, Executive Director of the Upper Main Line YMCA.
Senator Comitta is a respected leader in environmental efforts for the state. She is co-chair of the Pennsylvania Climate Caucus and serves on the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.
“Environmental health and public health go hand-in-hand. The YMCA is a perfect partner for showcasing how outdoor recreation and environmental education stimulate our minds and bodies. We thank the Y and its staff for their ongoing efforts to support sustainable communities and a healthy environment while preparing the next generation to lead us to a cleaner, brighter future,” Comitta said.
The event will feature more than 30 vendors representing state agencies, such as the Department of Environmental Protection, regional non-profits such as Natural Lands, French & Pickering Creek Trust, and Brandywine Conservancy, and local businesses such as Mother Compost and Green Mountain Energy. Many of these individuals are helping to shape the future of a more sustainable Chester County.
The event will host the Pennsylvania Wood Mobile, a traveling 34-foot exhibit that provides an interactive experience educating visitors about our forest, the sustainable forest products industry, how products are made, and threats to our state’s forests. Food trucks will also be present and will include the famous Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Alliance Milkshake Truck, a very popular vendor at the annual Pennsylvania Farm Show.
Shreiner Tree Care is the title sponsor for the event and has served as the arborist for the YMCA’s campus and Cassatt Preserve for over 30 years.
A Commitment to Youth Development
With a commitment to delivering quality STEM and environmental education to local youth, it is fitting that the YMCA serves as the co-host for the Earth Day Festival. In addition to offering weekly STEM classes at locations throughout the county, the YMCA provides an expanded catalog of related offerings at UMLY – where the organization’s environmental education program was first launched 26 years ago.
“Environmental education and time spent in nature are not just enriching experiences; they are essential for nurturing the next generation of stewards for our planet,” shares Raicich. “YMCA programming plays a crucial role in increasing accessibility to these transformative experiences, ensuring that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to explore, learn and grow in nature’s classroom.”
UMLY hosts a variety of STEM and environmental summer camps, in addition to year-round programs at their environmental & STEM education complex – which includes a nature center, raptor center, micro-farm and barnyard, STEM classrooms, watershed lab and a woodshop cottage. UMLY also offers a Zoo & STEM on Wheels program which brings learning to life in schools, libraries and senior centers across Chester County and beyond.
A Legacy in Environmental Education
In addition to its long-standing history in environmental education, UMLY is home to the first conservation easement in Pennsylvania. The easement, put into place in 1966 in partnership with Natural Lands, permanently protects a portion of the YMCA campus indefinitely from future development.
In just the last few years, more than 500 native trees have been planted to enhance the wildlife habitat, restore floodplains and increase the tree canopy on UMLY’s campus where over 130 species of birds have been observed and documented.
To complement the variety of offerings on the UMLY campus, the program also has partnerships with local school districts and community groups to bring quality nature programs into classrooms across the region. Graduates of UMLY’s environmental education programs have gone on to become science teachers, civil and environmental engineers, wildlife biologists, ornithologists and more.
To learn more about the Earth Day Festival: https://ymcagbw.org/earth-day
To learn more about Senator Comitta’s Work in the Pennsylvania Legislature: https://www.pasenatorcomitta.com
To learn more about Environmental Education at YGBW: https://ymcagbw.org/nature-and-environmental-education-programs-ymca
To learn more about Natural Lands: https://natlands.org/
April 2, 2024
West Chester, PA (April 2, 2024) – A portion of Route 41 (Gap-Newport Pike) in Cochranville will be named in honor of Corporal Brandon Hardy, a soldier from our area who gave his life in service to our nation in Iraq in 2006.
Under legislation introduced by state Senator Carolyn Comitta, Route 41 from the intersection with Bernard Avenue to the intersection with Highland Road in West Fallowfield Township will be dedicated as the Corporal Brandon Hardy Memorial Highway later this month.
This span of Route 41, close to the Hardy family home and running to Octorara High School, is a route that Hardy would have traveled each day.
“We are so honored to have this section of Route 41 dedicated to Brandon. We know Brandon was proud to serve in the military and would say the same as Nathan Hale, ‘I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.’ It warms my heart that even almost 18 years after his death, this community still remembers him and honors his sacrifice,” said Jill Hardy, Corporal Brandon Hardy’s mother. “A big thank you to Rich Miller who came up with the idea and Senator Comitta and her staff for making it happen!”
A graduate of Octorara High School, Hardy knew from a young age that he wanted to serve his country and defend our freedoms in the armed services.
He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1999 and, as an airman, was deployed three times to the Middle East, serving in Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.
In 2005, Hardy made the unusual decision to forgo his rank and pay – to basically start over – and enlist as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps. As a crew chief of an amphibious assault vehicle, Hardy was deployed to Iraq in March 2006, as part of the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines.
During his deployment, fellow soldiers took note of Hardy’s traits as a natural leader, as well as his concern for the children of Iraq. He would often take time to interact with them and give them food, water, candy, school supplies, and books.
On April 28, 2006, Hardy was on an aid and assist mission while serving with the Scout Platoon of the 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, in the Haditha Dam area of Anbar Province. Upon completing the mission, the vehicle in which he was a passenger, struck an improvised explosive device (IED). Three of the five passengers of the Humvee, including Hardy, were mortally wounded.
Following Hardy’s tragic passing, Richard Miller, whose children attended high school with Brandon, approached Jill with the idea of dedicating a road in his memory.
“Both my children played in the marching band with Brandon, and I would help out with the instruments and transportation. I got to know a lot of the kids, but as a Marine, he was special to me. He was a fine young man,” Miller said.
Upon learning of Hardy’s story through Miller and the Corporal Brandon Hardy/Chester County Detachment Marine Corps League #286, Comitta introduced legislation (Senate Bill 621) to enact the road renaming.
“Corporal Hardy was an exceptional American and his story is that of so many brave soldiers who put themselves in harm’s way in service to our nation. We cannot forget. We must continue to support our veterans and remember our fallen heroes,” Comitta said. “I hope that when drivers travel this road, they remember not only Corporal Hardy but all those who answered the call of duty and the sacrifices they and their families made for all of us.”
The bill passed the legislature with overwhelming support and was signed into law as Act 17 of 2023. The road dedication will not impact postal delivery or mailing addresses on Route 41.
March 31, 2024
West Chester, PA (April 2, 2024) –To help more women access breast cancer detection services, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Danielle Friel Otten are partnering with Fox Chase Cancer Center to offer mobile mammography screenings at the Downingtown Library on Thursday, May 2nd.
“Since many women do not experience symptoms at the onset of breast cancer, early detection is critical to saving lives,” Comitta said. “I am proud to partner with Rep. Otten to bring mobile mammograms directly to our community. By making screenings easier, more convenient and more accessible for our neighbors, we hope more women will not only get mammograms, but also commit to getting them every year.”
About 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime and it is the second leading cause of cancer death in women. However, when detected early and in the localized stage, the 5-year survival rate is 99%.
“An annual mammogram screening remains one of the easiest steps women age 40 and above can take to prioritize their health and detect breast cancer as early as possible,” Otten said. “Early detection often means a better prognosis and less extensive treatment. Women’s Health Month serves as an essential reminder to empower women to make healthy decisions for themselves and inspire those around them. I am proud to partner with Senator Comitta to bring this essential, life-saving service to our community.”
Since routine mammography screenings became a standard recommendation over 30 years ago, there has been a 20-30% reduction in breast cancer-related deaths.
The event is open to women age 40 and older by appointment. Interested attendees must have a prescription from a physician. To schedule an appointment call Fox Chase Cancer Center at (215) 214-1682.
The Downingtown Library is located at 122 Wallace Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335.
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March 28, 2024
WEST CHESTER (March 28, 2024) – To help residents securely dispose of documents containing sensitive and personal information, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Kristine Howard are hosting a shredding event on Saturday, April 27th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Malvern Fire Company.
Residents and families should consider taking advantage of the opportunity to safely dispose of financial statements, tax forms, medical records, and other confidential information.
The documents will be destroyed onsite, and the shredded paper will later be recycled.
“As many of us begin our spring cleaning, it’s important to properly dispose of any paperwork containing sensitive personal information to protect from identity theft,” Comitta said. “If you are getting rid of those tax documents and other sensitive records, I encourage you to attend our event to safely and securely protect your personal information.”
Some examples of unneeded documents that should be shredded include: credit card statements and applications, bank records, canceled checks, income tax forms, insurance records, medical and retirement or pension fund information, and any documents that contain personal information like Social Security, credit card, or bank account numbers.
“This event is a green and secure way for residents to dispose of unwanted personal documents,” said Howard. “Properly disposing confidential information can prevent it from falling into the wrong hands. I am pleased to facilitate this service for the community.”
The event is free and open to the public. However, please note the following:
- This event is for individuals only, not businesses.
- There is a three (3) box limit per car.
- Only paper will be accepted. Please do not bring binders, binder clips, or books.
In addition, donations of non-perishable food items for the Chester County Food Bank will also be accepted at the event. While donations are welcomed and encouraged, they are not required to participate in the shredding event.
The Malvern Fire Company is located at 424 E. King Street, Malvern, PA 19355.
For more information visit pasenatorcomitta.com/shred-april-2024
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March 27, 2024
West Chester, PA (March 27, 2024) – Expectant mothers and families with babies and young children are invited to the Community Baby Shower set for Friday, April 12 from 3:30 to 5:30 at Ash Park in Coatesville, Pennsylvania.
The free event, organized by State Senator Carolyn Comitta and the Maternal and Child Health Consortium of Chester County (MCHC), offers an opportunity for moms, children, families, and others to connect with more than 20 local community organizations and the invaluable resources they offer.
“Our young children are the future and it’s essential that parents, grandparents, guardians, and families can access the support and resources they need to raise strong, healthy, and happy kids,” Comitta, who serves on the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus, said. “Whether you are an expectant mom, a new mom, or just looking for additional information and assistance in supporting children and families, we hope you’ll join us on April 12 in Coatesville.”
Milena Lanz, the Executive Director of MCHC, stated, “We at MCHC are delighted to collaborate with the office of Senator Comitta . . . As champions of community health for over two decades, MCHC is proud to continue our legacy of care in Chester County.” She continued, “We’ve dedicated ourselves to supporting at-risk mothers and newborns, and this upcoming event symbolizes our unwavering commitment to nurturing futures and fostering healthier communities.”
The event will feature free activities for children and raffle prizes, as well as the distribution of free diapers and other baby supplies collected by the Maternal and Child Health Consortium.
The Community Baby Shower coincides with Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-17) an important opportunity to bring awareness to and address the fact that maternal health challenges disproportionally impact women and communities of color.
Among affluent nations, the U.S. is already one of the least safe countries to have a baby. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. are preventable.
- Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.
- In 2021, the maternal mortality rate for Black women was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births.
“Maternal Health matters. Every child deserves a healthy start in life and that begins with strong maternal and perinatal care for moms and families,” Comitta said. “I want to thank all of the supporters and advocates for their work in bridging the gap in access to resources, accurate information, and quality care.”
March 26, 2024
West Chester, PA (March 26, 2024) – Roads and sidewalks in Coatesville, Oxford, West Bradford, West Chester, and Easttown are slated for major improvements thanks to state funding approved today, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
“Upgrades and repairs to our roads, sidewalks, and streetscapes help reduce traffic congestion, increase walkability, improve safety for drivers and pedestrians, and support local businesses and the overall quality of life in our communities and downtowns,” Comitta said. “As visitors and residents continue to flock to our region, it’s important that we continue to improve and maintain our transportation infrastructure.”
The projects, approved today by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, are funded through the Multimodal Transportation Fund. They are as follows:
- $751,730 for the City of Coatesville for the third phase of streetscape improvements along Lincoln Highway.
- $300,000 for Oxford Borough to repair and rehabilitate Niblock Alley (Railroad Avenue) and the Broad Street Bridge.
- $250,000 for West Bradford Township to construct a roundabout at the intersection of Marshallton-Thorndale Road and Poorhouse Road.
- $750,000 for West Chester Borough to rehabilitate sidewalks and streetscapes along South High Street.
- $500,000 for Easttown Township to install sidewalks in the Village of Berwyn.
In total, over $2.5 million was awarded for transportation projects in the 19th Senate District.
The Multimodal Transportation Fund provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to Pennsylvania residents. Eligible projects include the development, rehabilitation, and enhancement of transportation assets to existing communities, streetscape, lighting, sidewalk enhancement, pedestrian safety, connectivity of transportation assets, and transit-oriented development.
The Commonwealth Finance Authority was established in 2004 as an independent agency of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages. It holds fiduciary responsibility over the funding of programs and investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth.
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March 20, 2024
Harrisburg, Pa (March 20, 2024) – Pennsylvania will establish its own cap-and-trade program to reduce harmful emissions, lower consumers’ electric bills, and create clean energy jobs under legislation introduced today by state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Aerion Abney.
The Pennsylvania Climate Emission Reduction (PACER) Program, a key part of Governor Shapiro’s Energy Strategy, calls for the Commonwealth to establish a Pennsylvania-specific price on carbon emissions and require large emitters to pay their fair share. The proceeds would be invested in utility rebates and projects that create jobs in clean energy and cut air pollution.
If passed by the legislature, in its first five years, PACER is projected to save ratepayers an estimated $252 million, create nearly 15,000 energy jobs, and generate $5.1 billion in investment in clean, reliable energy sources.
“We must act now to reduce our carbon emissions for this generation and the next one,” Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee said. “And with PACER, we can do it while supporting job growth, transitioning to clean energy, and saving consumers money on their electricity bills. We all have a role to play in addressing climate change and this legislation benefits every family in every community across the Commonwealth.”
“PACER is a bold vision that allows Pennsylvania to reimagine a climate future that benefits all residents and protects our environment. This legislation would provide a much-needed bridge to a more renewable future, foster economic growth, and move us closer towards environmental justice,” said state Rep. Aerion Abney.
Under PACER, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection will calculate a Pennsylvania-specific cap on carbon emissions and hold our own independent PACER credit auctions. The proceeds will be invested as follows:
- 70 percent returned directly to electricity consumers, including those in rural areas, as an across-the-board, on-bill rebate by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). This reflects the proceeds expected to come from Pennsylvania electricity customers.
- 30 percent to support energy efficiency projects that reduce air pollution in Pennsylvania, invest in new job-creating clean energy projects, and support low-income energy consumers with their energy bills through a year-round LIHEAP program. Of that project funding, 40 percent will be dedicated to directly benefit Environmental Justice communities.
PACER is an alternative to the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a carbon cap-and-invest program currently made up of eleven Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states. Pennsylvania was set to begin participating in the program two years ago but it is entangled in an ongoing legal battle. If passed, PACER would take Pennsylvania out of RGGI.
March 18, 2024
West Chester, PA (March 18, 2024) – To help support the Maternal and Child Health Consortium’s Diaper Drive, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is collecting donations of diapers and other baby supplies at her West Chester District office.
“As any parent or grandparent knows, babies can require a lot of supplies to keep them clean, dry, and healthy and those items can get expensive,” said Comitta. “That’s why I’m partnering with the Maternal and Child Health Consortium (MCHC) to collect donations to get families the supplies they need to help keep their little ones clean and healthy.”
The average newborn baby uses 8-12 diapers a day and up to 84 diapers in a week. However, nearly half of U.S. families struggle to afford diapers, according to the National Baby Diaper Network. That may lead to some not changing their babies as often as they would like. Clean diapers and baby supplies are a necessity to raise healthy babies and prevent infections, discomfort, and diaper rash.
Donations of new diapers of all sizes, as well as other new baby supplies like wipes, onesies, bottles, bibs, burp cloths, hats and socks, and bath supplies are appreciated.
Items can be dropped off in the atrium of our West Chester district office building at 17 E. Gay Street in downtown West Chester. The office is open during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Diapers can also be dropped off at MCHC’s Coatesville location, 1001 East Lincoln Highway, Suite 104.
March 14, 2024
West Chester, PA (March 14, 2024) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta is reminding residents of her office’s spring outreach hours to better serve Chester Countians and connect them to state government programs and services.
“From Berwyn to Coatesville, Downingtown to Oxford, and everywhere in between, we’re working to provide our communities with high-quality constituent services,” Comitta said. “That’s why my team and I are traveling to community centers and libraries across the district to connect residents with a variety of programs and resources that help make life a bit easier.”
The spring outreach schedule is as follows:
1st Wednesday of Every Month
Coatesville Public Library
501 E Lincoln Highway, Coatesville, PA 19320
10 a.m. – noon
2nd Tuesday of Every Month
Brandywine Valley Active Aging – Coatesville
250 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Coatesville, PA 19320
10 a.m. – noon
2nd Wednesday of Every Month
Easttown Library
720 First Ave, Berwyn, PA 19312
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
2nd Thursday of Every Month
West Chester Area Senior Center
530 E. Union Street, West Chester, PA 19382
10 a.m. – noon
3rd Tuesday of Every Month
Brandywine Valley Active Aging – Downingtown
40 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
3rd Wednesday of Every Month
Oxford Senior Center
12 E. Locust Street, Oxford, PA 19363
10 a.m. – noon
Staff members will be available to assist with a variety of state government services including SEPTA Senior Key Cards, Birth Certificates, Unclaimed Property claims, and utility assistance programs.
In addition, trained staff members may assist seniors with the application for the newly expanded Property Tax/Rent Rebate program, which provides older residents and individuals with disabilities with a rebate of up to $1000 on property taxes or rent paid in 2023.
Walk-ins are welcome. Appointments for assistance with Property Tax/Rent Rebate applications should be scheduled in advance by contacting Senator Comitta’s district office at 610-692-2112.
Senator Comitta and her staff will also be hosting resource tables at community events throughout the spring and summer. For a full list of community events visit pasenatorcomitta.com/events
March 11, 2024
I ran for office because of climate change. Leaving a cleaner, safer world for my children and grandchildren has always been a driving force behind my passion for public service. When I look into their eyes, I want to tell them I’m doing everything I can to save our planet – to protect our environment, cut pollution, and invest in a clean energy economy.
While I remain optimistic, progress on addressing climate change in Pennsylvania has not come easy. As a top energy-producing state, one that is responsible for about 1 percent of global emissions, we should be leading the way on clean energy. Instead, legislative foot-dragging and a fixation on fossil fuels have us falling behind. The Commonwealth ranks 50th in the nation for renewable energy growth over the past decade. It does not need to be that way.
As minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, the better part of my last three years in Harrisburg has been spent on seemingly endless battles over Pennsylvania participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). RGGI is a carbon cap-and-invest program currently made up of eleven Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states. Pennsylvania was set to begin participating in the program two years ago – a move that would have brought in hundreds of millions of dollars each year – but Senate Republicans tied it up in court.
Since then, Pennsylvania has missed out on an estimated $1.67 billion in total RGGI proceeds, funds that could have been used to invest in clean energy, support environmental justice communities, build climate-resilient infrastructure, help workers transition from the fossil fuels industry, and more. At the same time, through RGGI, emissions from our power sector (the third dirtiest in the country) would have been steadily reduced, meaning cleaner air for everyone.
Today, RGGI remains embroiled in litigation. However, that hasn’t stopped Senate Republicans from blaming it for everything from fluctuating utility rates to grid reliability concerns to the closure of coal-fired power plants and resultant job losses. They’re even pursuing legislation to repeal the regulations that allow us to join RGGI with statements like “Pennsylvania residents and employers can no longer bear the weight of RGGI.” That’s illogical. How could RGGI have caused all of these bad outcomes, when Pennsylvania is not and has never participated in it?
Whether or not you think that RGGI is a great opportunity to address climate change, it’s no scapegoat for the ongoing and inevitable decline of fossil fuels. Moreover, it’s no excuse for continued inaction on climate change. Putting RGGI aside, there is no shortage of options for the Commonwealth to move forward in supporting clean energy and protecting our environmental and public health. They include:
- Expanding investments in capping orphaned and abandoned wells and supporting stronger methane regulations.
- Taking advantage of opportunities for federal investment in clean energy and initiatives like the American Climate Corp.
These represent a few of the proposals on the table – ones that I continue to support in the legislature and will fight for throughout the budget process. But let’s stop rehashing the same old arguments – arguments that are only dividing us when we must move forward to protect our people and our planet.
The reality is there’s not going to be a silver bullet to transition from harmful emissions. Pennsylvania needs a cohesive, economy-wide approach that includes strategies to support energy efficiency, renewables, workers, consumers, and infrastructure as we navigate the path to net zero. It will most likely include hydrogen. It may eventually include RGGI, or another cap-and-invest program as recommended by the Governor’s bipartisan RGGI working group. But the bottom line is we must work together to take effective action now.
Like many of you, I love spending time outdoors, especially with my grandchildren. At the same time, I cannot help but reflect on how climate change is threatening the places, experiences, and traditions we all love. We’ve had some snow this winter, but for the most part, warmer temperatures are hindering cherished cold-weather activities like ski trips, sledding, and ice-skating on frozen lakes and ponds. As we approach Spring and Summer, will smoke from Canadian wildfires again blanket our air? Will torrential rains flood our roads, neighborhoods, and parks? Will poor air quality and extreme heat force us indoors?
I hope not. I hope that my grandchildren can explore nature and enjoy outdoor sports and activities for years to come. I hope that they can share these joys with their kids, too. And I’m determined to do everything I can to ensure they do. The future belongs to them, but action on climate change must start today for this generation and the next one – for my grandchildren and yours.
NOTE: This Op-Ed originally appeared on PennLive on March 10, 2024, under the title: “There’s no excuse for inaction on Climate Change in Pa”
March 7, 2024
West Chester, PA (March 7, 2024) – Oxford Borough was awarded state funding to improve operations and deliver services more efficiently and effectively, said state senator Carolyn Comitta.
The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) recently approved $120,000 in grant funding through its Strategic Management Planning Program (STMP) for the borough. The funding will support Oxford entering Phase 2 of the program, which includes software and IT upgrades.
“As a former mayor and borough council member, I know just hard our local leaders and officials work to serve our communities with limited resources. This funding will help Oxford overcome organizational challenges and operate at top capability through better planning, management, and economies,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Local Government Committee and the Pennsylvania Local Government Commission. “I applaud Oxford Borough for taking on this effort in the interest of good government and providing effective, reliable services to constituents and business.”
“The Strategic Management Planning Program has been invaluable to Oxford, as we work to make informed decisions and improve the Borough’s finances and operations,” said Kathryn Cloyd, Council President. “Phase 1 provided us the opportunity to carefully evaluate all Borough departments to identify inefficiencies. This STMP Phase 2 funding will now enable us to improve, and reduce the cost to deliver, services to our residents. We thank DCED and our state legislators for supporting us through this process.”
“Governor Shapiro is committed to making Pennsylvania’s communities better places to live and work, and we applaud the growth demonstrated by Oxford Borough,” said Secretary Rick Siger, Department of Community and Economic Development. “The STMP is an important tool in the Commonwealth’s efforts to create fiscal strength for a municipality. Funding for programs like this one significantly improve the capability of local governments to deliver services more efficiently and effectively, and to promote growth and community improvements.”
For more information on DCED programs, visit www.dced.pa.gov
March 6, 2024
West Chester, PA (March 6, 2024) – In honor of Read Across America Week, state legislators are teaming up to expand a free book-giving program started by country music legend Dolly Parton to children across Pennsylvania.
State Senator Carolyn Comitta, state Senator John Kane, state Senator Maria Collett, and state Representative Liz Hanbidge this week introduced legislation to expand Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library statewide.
The program, established through the Dollywood Foundation in 1995, mails high-quality age-appropriate books to all registered children, from birth to age 5, at no cost to the child’s family each month.
Currently, more than 53,000 Pennsylvania children are enrolled in the Imagination Library across 44 counties. However, there are approximately 700,000 eligible children in the Commonwealth.
The legislation, introduced by Comitta, Kane, and Collett (Senate Bill 1097) in the Senate and by Hanbidge (House Bill 2025) in the House, calls for establishing a statewide Imagination Library program to support local affiliates with resources to reach even more children.
“As a mother, a grandmother, and a former public school teacher, I know just how important promoting literacy and reading readiness is in early childhood education and development,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “Children learn by reading and the Imagination Library helps make reading a habit at home. By giving them a new book each month, this program empowers kids to pursue independent reading, learn at their own pace, and explore new areas of interest.”
“I am always honored to advocate for legislation that bookmarks a new chapter in Pennsylvania’s education resources,” said Kane. “The Imagination Library sparks a love for books in kids from their earliest years, raising a new generation of book lovers across the Commonwealth. This initiative shows just how much we believe in our kiddos’ futures and how committed we are to enriching education in our state. I can’t wait to see the effect this will have on our young readers.”
“Making reading fun and accessible is key to promoting early literacy and setting our kids up for a lifetime of success. As a book lover myself, I’m so pleased to join Senators Comitta and Kane and Representative Hanbidge to ensure children in every corner of our Commonwealth can receive free, monthly book deliveries through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library,” Collett said.
“Books have the power to free the mind, nourish the soul, and set students up for success! I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with my colleagues in the House, and Senators Comitta, Kane, and Collett, to ensure that every young child in the commonwealth has the opportunity to develop a love for books and the educational leg up provided by early access to literacy,” said Hanbidge.
From distributing 1,700 books in its first order nearly 20 years ago, the Imagination Library has grown to send more than 2 million books per month to children in states across the nation and countries around the world, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Ireland. In total, the Imagination Library has gifted more than 229 million books as of January 2024.
For more information on the Imagination Library and to see if it’s currently offered in your area, visit imaginationlibrary.com.
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March 5, 2024
West Chester, PA (March 5, 2024) – In recognition of Theater in our Schools Month, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is highlighting student performances and productions at schools across Chester County this spring.
“Theater is a great avenue for our students to express their creativity and artistic talents while learning the importance of collaboration with their fellow performers,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “There are some incredible productions being held in our community throughout the spring and I encourage you to support our students by attending a performance at your local school.”
The schedule is as follows:
Avon Grove High School: Mean Girls
April 11 – 13
Center for Performing and Fine Arts: Amélie
March 13 – 17
Coatesville High School: Shrek the Musical
March 7 – 8
Collegium Charter School: The Addams Family
March 21 – 23
Conestoga High School: The Little Mermaid
February 28 – March 2
Devon Preparatory School: The SpongeBob Musical
March 7 – 8
Downingtown East High School: Mean Girls
April 11 – 14
Downingtown West High School: Grease
April 4 – 7
Great Valley High School: Mean Girls
April 11 – 13
B. Reed Henderson High School: Hello, Dolly!
March 14 – 17
Malvern Preparatory School: Children of Eden
March 1 – 2 and March 8 – 9
Octorara High School: Annie the Musical
February 29 – March 2
Oxford High School: The Wizard of Oz
March 7– 9
Unionville High School: The Little Mermaid
March 14 – 16
Villa Maria Academy High School: The Sound of Music
May 17 – 19
West Chester East High School: The Addams Family
February 29 – March 2
West Chester Rustin High School: Rent
February 29 – March 2
Studies show that student participation in theater or drama education can lead to stronger academic achievement, higher test scores, improved reading comprehension, stronger attendance rates, fewer dropouts, and improved self-esteem, peer relations, and empathy for others.
This session, Comitta is again introducing a Senate Resolution recognizing March as “Theater in Our Schools Month,” “Music in Our Schools Month,” “Dance in Our Schools Month,” and “Youth Art Month” in Pennsylvania.
March 4, 2024
West Chester, PA (March 4, 2024) – The Coatesville Area School District (CASD) received an additional $650,000 in state grant funding thanks to the work of state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
The additional funds, which come through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Ready to Learn Block Grant program, are being used to support kindergarten programs and teachers.
“Studies show that so much learning, growth, and development takes place in a child’s early years,” said Comitta, who began her career in the classroom as a public school teacher. “I’m thrilled that we successfully secured these additional funds for kindergarten teachers and programs in Coatesville area schools.”
“This funding provides tremendous support for our district, and we are very grateful to Senator Comitta for her work in securing this grant for our schools,” said Superintendent Dr. Catherine Van Vooren. “Coatesville’s elementary program is robust, dynamic and warm, focused on helping students to build a strong foundation in literacy and math while also engaging them in important social and emotional skill building. Ultimately, we want students to develop not only important academic skills, but also a lifelong love of learning. Funding like this goes far in helping us to achieve those goals.”
The grant funding includes stipulations for use. Coatesville allocates this funding for kindergarten teacher salaries and benefits. Funding that would have gone to support staffing can then be used for programming, teacher training, technology, materials, and/or supplies.
Ready to Learn Block Grants support pre-k and elementary school educational programming in public schools. Last year’s state budget allocated $295 million to Ready to Learn Block Grants throughout the Commonwealth. The grants are awarded to school districts using a formula established by the fiscal code. Under that formula, CASD received $1.1 million in funding. With the additional support secured by Comitta, the district received a total of $1.75 million through the program.
Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee, worked diligently to secure the added resources.
“All children deserve a strong foundation for success in school, work, and life,” she said.
CASD offers full-day, no-cost kindergarten at all five of its elementary schools. Rolling admission is available throughout the year. Incoming kindergartners and their families are invited to attend the upcoming kindergarten carnival on the evening of Wednesday, March 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Rainbow Elementary School.
February 22, 2024
West Chester, PA (February 22, 2024) – Chester County residents 65 and older can ride the SEPTA system for free with a Senior Key Card. To help seniors apply for or renew their Senior Key Card, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Melissa Shusterman are hosting a sign-up event at the Tredyffrin Public Library on Wednesday, March 6th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“Whether traveling for work, getting to a doctor’s appointment, or visiting family and loved ones, the SEPTA system helps get our residents where they need to go,” Comitta said. “I encourage all eligible residents to take advantage of this great service and apply for their free senior fare card.”
The SEPTA Senior Key card is available to all seniors aged 65 and older. With the card, seniors can ride all SEPTA buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail lines for free within Pennsylvania. Trains to and from New Jersey and Delaware using the senior card are charged at half fare.
“Our SEPTA sign-up events are incredibly popular among our senior community,” Shusterman said. “This is a great benefit for them, and I want to ensure that they can easily take advantage of it. I am delighted that my office can help streamline the SEPTA application process and make it more accessible to everyone.”
To apply, seniors must bring a form of identification that verifies their age. This includes a driver’s license, photo identification card, birth certificate, passport, or Social Security statement of age.
For more information on the SEPTA Senior Key Card, visit septa.org/senior or contact Senator Comitta’s office at 610-692-2112 or Representative Shusterman’s office at 484-200-8256.
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February 20, 2024
West Chester, PA (February 20, 2024) – The Easttown Library will be able to make important facility upgrades thanks to new state grant funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
“Our libraries are centers for education, exploration, entertainment, opportunity, and advancement for all community members,” Comitta said. “This investment in Easttown Library’s physical infrastructure helps ensure that residents, children, and families in the Berwyn area continue to have access to a great place to learn and expand their horizons.”
The $45,000 grant award will be used to replace two of the library’s heat pumps.
“One of our core services in fulfilling our mission is a library building that is a comfortable and well-maintained destination for the community,” said Amber Osborne, Easttown Library Director. “This project will upgrade infrastructure that is past its useful life, prevent service disruption, provide a more comfortable environment for our users, improve management and operation of the HVAC system, and result in greater energy savings in the long term. We are extremely grateful to the Pennsylvania Department of Education and Office of Commonwealth Libraries for providing us with this opportunity.”
The funding was awarded through the Pennsylvania Department of Education Office of Commonwealth Libraries’ Keystone Grants for Public Library Facilities program. This competitive grant assists public libraries to improve their operations, install equipment, and upgrade security systems.
Easttown Library was one of 17 libraries across Pennsylvania awarded nearly $4.5 million in funding through this year’s program.
February 16, 2024
West Chester, PA (February 16, 2024) – A new program at the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) was awarded state funding to help connect veterans with career and educational opportunities.
The program, Heroes Rising: Empowering Veterans Through Education and Employment, was one of three initiatives statewide to receive funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry’s Veterans Employment Program.
The CCIU will receive nearly $200,000 in state funding to support the program, which aims to equip veterans with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful civilian integration, fostering a seamless transition from military service to meaningful careers.
“Pennsylvania is home to more than 700,000 veterans, including about 25,000 in Chester County. They have a lot to offer to our communities and our economy and this funding will go a long way in helping them move on to successful careers,” Comitta said. “I thank the Chester County Intermediate Unit for making this program a reality and I appreciate all of the organizations, staff, and volunteers who work to support our veterans.”
“We are immensely grateful for the trust and support given through this grant,” said Dr. George F. Fiore, Executive Director of the CCIU. “With this funding, we will expand the reach and impact of Heroes Rising, empowering veterans to realize their full potential and achieve their goals of employment in the civilian workforce.”
The Veterans Employment Program initiative is designed to help veterans, members of all Reserve units and the Pennsylvania National Guard, and spouses of veterans and service members translate their military skills to civilian life, with a focus on counties with high unemployment rates for veterans.
“This funding is an investment in Pennsylvania’s veteran community and their families, while simultaneously unlocking an untapped labor pool for employers,” Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker said. “The ripple effect will fortify Pennsylvania communities and bolster the state’s economy.”
“We are grateful to the Department of Labor and Industry for awarding grants that fund programs to help veterans and their spouses,” said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Veterans return to civilian life with unique job skills that easily transfer to meaningful employment in the civilian sector. They and their families sacrifice a great deal serving our country. It is important that Pennsylvania not only welcomes them home but shows our gratitude by providing them important resources to begin their new career.”
In addition to the CCIU program, nearly $200,000 in state funding was awarded to NuPaths to expand accessibility to entry-level technology career training and support for veterans across the Commonwealth. The statewide program will give veterans an opportunity to enroll in training programs to become an associate website developer, digital marketing assistant, IT security analyst, network technician, project analyst, software testing analyst, or technical support specialist.
The Chester County Intermediate Unit is a dynamic educational service agency providing quality, innovative and cost-effective programs and services to enhance the lives of students, educators and members of our communities.
For more information about the CCIU and its programs, visit cciu.org.
February 14, 2024
WEST CHESTER, PA (February 14, 2024) – Chester County residents 65 and older can ride the SEPTA system for free with a Senior Key Card. To help seniors apply for or renew their Senior Key Card, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Melissa Shusterman are hosting a sign-up event at the Tredyffrin Public Library on Wednesday, March 6th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“Whether traveling for work, getting to a doctor’s appointment, or visiting family and loved ones, the SEPTA system helps get our residents where they need to go,” Comitta said. “I encourage all eligible residents to take advantage of this great service and apply for their free senior fare card.”
The SEPTA Senior Key card is available to all seniors aged 65 and older. With the card, seniors can ride all SEPTA buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail lines for free within Pennsylvania. Trains to and from New Jersey and Delaware using the senior card are charged at half fare.
“Our SEPTA sign-up events are incredibly popular among our senior community,” Shusterman said. “This is a great benefit for them, and I want to ensure that they can easily take advantage of it. I am delighted that my office can help streamline the SEPTA application process and make it more accessible to everyone.”
To apply, seniors must bring a form of identification that verifies their age. This includes a driver’s license, photo identification card, birth certificate, passport, or Social Security statement of age.
For more information on the SEPTA Senior Key Card, visit septa.org/senior or contact Senator Comitta’s office at 610-692-2112 or Representative Shusterman’s office at 484-200-8256.
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