September 29, 2025
West Chester, Pa (September 29, 2025) – Parents, expectant parents, grandparents, and families with babies and young children are invited to learn about the resources and programs available to them at a Community Baby Shower on Friday, October 24, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Oxford Presbyterian Church.
The free event, organized by State Senator Carolyn Comitta, the Maternal and Child Health Consortium, and the Maternity Care Coalition, will help connect children, parents, and guardians with more than 20 community organizations and the resources they offer to local families.
“Becoming a parent is one of the most rewarding experiences in life, but raising children isn’t without its challenges. Luckily, there are many organizations and people who can help make navigating parenthood a little easier,” said Comitta. “Whether you’re considering becoming a parent, have a baby on the way, or are already raising a family, I encourage you to stop by the Community Baby Shower on October 24 to check out the many resources and services available here in Chester County.”
The event will feature free activities for children, raffle prizes, and the distribution of complimentary diapers and other essential baby items.
“At MCHC, we believe every family deserves to feel supported and celebrated as they welcome a new baby,” said Milena Lanz, Executive Director of MCHC. “This collaborative Oxford Community Baby Shower is more than just an event, it’s a way to bring people together, connect parents with resources, and show families that they are not alone on this journey. Since 1991, MCHC has been serving our community, and our long-standing presence is a reassurance of the positive impact we have had on the lives of families over the years. These collaborations not only strengthen our mission to serve others but also reflect our continued commitment to expand partnerships that uplift and empower families.”
“Baby showers are a celebration! It’s an opportunity for us to shower families with joy, uplift them with support, and wrap them in love as they prepare for an incredible journey of parenthood,” said Samia Bristow, Vice President of Programs at the Maternity Care Coalition
Comitta, who serves on the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus, remains a strong supporter of protecting and investing in maternal health and the overall health, well-being, and growth of children and young people in the Commonwealth.
The Oxford Presbyterian Church is located at 6 Pine Street in Oxford Borough.
Watch Live Stream →
September 17, 2025
West Chester, Pa (September 17, 2025) – Twenty-six municipalities in the 19th District are expected to benefit from $5.6 million in federal grant funding that was provisionally approved to expand high-speed internet, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
The funding, recently announced by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, comes through the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program (BEAD). The program provides states with funding to deploy broadband infrastructure and connect remaining locations that lack high-speed internet.
In the 19th District, represented by Comitta, the funds will support the broadband providers Amazon Kuiper Satellite, Comcast, Verizon, IBT Group USA, and SpaceX Satellite in deploying and utilizing fiber, hybrid fiber, fixed wireless, and lower earth orbit satellite technology.
Residents in the following municipalities are expected to benefit from the investment: Coatesville, Downingtown, East Bradford, East Fallowfield, East Goshen, East Nottingham, Easttown , Elk, Highland, Londonderry, Lower Oxford, New London, Newlin, Penn, South Coatesville, Tredyffrin, Upper Oxford, Valley, West Bradford, West Fallowfield, West Goshen, West Marlborough, West Nottingham, West Whiteland, and Willistown.
“Reliable, high-speed internet is a necessity that can positively impact almost every aspect of our lives, including access to education, health care, and economic opportunity,” Comitta said. “We’re approaching the final step to access these investments and close the digital divide in communities across Pennsylvania.”
The funding comes as part of nearly $800 million in total federal investments provisionally approved for broadband upgrades across the Commonwealth. These grants are expected to generate over $1.3 billion in total infrastructure spending that will create jobs, fuel economic growth, and provide broadband to the 130,000 Pennsylvania homes and businesses that currently lack service.
Once fully approved by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), the federal funding will connect all remaining locations across the Commonwealth that currently lack high-speed internet service. Funds can be used for physical improvements; long-term leases; multi-family residential deployment; planning, design, and engineering; personnel costs; and network software upgrades.
The funding is matched by $650 in private sector investment – far more than the 25 percent requirement.
In addition to the BEAD program, the Commonwealth has awarded other grants for broadband expansion, including $45 million for community facilities and $204.1 million for projects to serve over 100,000 residents. An additional $20 million was awarded to provide technology devices such as laptops to organizations for distribution.
All projects remain subject to NTIA approval and acceptance by the applicants. Adjustments may be required during NTIA’s review of the Final Proposal, and applicants may also choose not to move forward with certain projects or project areas. In such cases, selections may shift to the next-ranked applicant/project. As a result, provisional selections – and the overall BEAD investment – are subject to change.
The NTIA has committed to approving and disbursing the BEAD funds by the end of this year.
The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program was established under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021.
###
September 11, 2025
West Chester, Pa (September 10, 2025) – To help prevent scammers from accessing sensitive information on documents and other papers, State Senator Carolyn Comitta and State Representative Melissa Shusterman are holding a free document shredding event at Valley Forge Middle School on Saturday, October 4th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“With many of us getting fall cleaning done around the house, it’s important to properly and securely dispose of documents that contain personal information.” Comitta said. “I encourage all of our community members to take advantage of this free event to safely and securely destroy your documents and help prevent identity theft.”
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 for shredding.
- The event is first come, first serve, and will end at 1 p.m. or until the trucks are full.
“I am excited to see everyone at our free shredding event. This is such a fun event to host because our community really loves it and is always willing to participate in our donation drives,” Shusterman said. “This year we’ll be collecting basic needs items for Mitzvah Circle to help replenish what they lost in a devastating fire in late August. I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Senator Comitta and her office to provide these services to our constituents. It’s really going to be a great day! I can’t wait to see you all there!”
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.
In addition, basic needs products such as menstrual hygiene products, toothbrushes and toothpaste, flushable wipes, and deodorant will be collected and donated to Mitzvah Circle.
Valley Forge Middle School is located at 105 W. Walker Road in Wayne.
For more information contact Senator Comitta’s district office at (610) 692-2112.
September 10, 2025
HARRISBURG, PA (September 10, 2025) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta and State Representative Joe Ciresi this week introduced companion legislation, Senate Bill 994 and House Bill 1852, which would increase support for the Tourism Promotion Fund to promote and market Pennsylvania’s desirability as a vacation location to out-of-state tourists.
“Increasing Pennsylvania’s tourism outreach is about more than just attracting visitors – it will help uplift our local economy, support our small businesses, and showcase the unique character of communities across the commonwealth,” Comitta said. “With our legislation, we will be able to expand our tourism efforts, help create good-paying jobs, and show people across the nation that Pennsylvania’s attractions and destinations plus our arts and cultural sites have something for everyone to enjoy.”
The legislation would redirect state Hotel Occupancy Tax revenue collected by booking agents on behalf of unlicensed hotels (such as Airbnbs and other homestays) from the General Fund to the Tourism Promotion Fund, which already receives money from booking agent accommodation fees.
A long-time supporter of legislative initiatives to increase Pennsylvania’s visibility as a tourist destination, Ciresi said, “Investing in our tourism industry is a win-win for Pennsylvania. As one of our largest industries, tourism drives economies both big and small, creating family-supporting jobs throughout the state. The money from our tourism industry also goes back into the economy, supporting our festivals, performances, cultural events, and cultural and historical sites — in addition to our restaurants, our hotels and more. When Pennsylvania’s tourism thrives, so does every aspect of life in the commonwealth, from corner to corner.
“As Pennsylvania is at the center of America250’s celebrations, we should seize the moment to expand our tourism efforts and maximize on the economic opportunities it will offer the commonwealth.”
The Pennsylvania Tourism Office released a report last year showing that Pennsylvania welcomed 192.4 million visitors in 2022, generating $76.7 billion in economic impact, supporting 486,871 jobs, and contributing $4.7 billion in state and local taxes.
“By expanding our support for marketing Pennsylvania as a destination while also investing in our historical, cultural, and artistic attractions and institutions, we can use this potential to draw tourists, grow our economy and create jobs,” Ciresi said.
Revenue collected would be allocated to the Department of Community and Economic Development to promote and market Pennsylvania to out-of-state visitors, and to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and Pennsylvania Council on the Arts to expand state grant programs that support the historical, cultural and artistic attractions tourists come to see.
###
September 10, 2025
September 9, 2025
State Senator Carolyn Comitta released the following statement following SEPTA’s request and approval to use capital and infrastructure funds to temporarily support its operations:
The cuts to SEPTA have been devastating to workers, students, seniors, and anyone who depends on transit to get where they need to go.
While SEPTA will begin to scale back its service cuts, for now, dipping into maintenance and capital funds to support SEPTA’s operations is unsustainable and not a permanent solution to the transit crisis.
Capital and maintenance projects are not a luxury. They are necessary to ensure that tracks, transit cars, and stations are safe, reliable, and efficient for riders.
Without further action, SEPTA and transit agencies will still be in a funding crisis two years from now and will have significantly less money to make critical infrastructure improvements that keep our trains and buses operating.
We must find a permanent funding solution for transit in Pennsylvania and ensure agencies have the necessary funds to keep our tracks, cars, and stations safe and operating efficiently.
The House Democrats have sent over five bills, supported by the Governor, that provide funding solutions for transit agencies serving all 67 counties in Pennsylvania, including SEPTA.
I am one of 23 Senate Democrats ready to vote on this legislation.
It is time for the Senate Republicans to stop ignoring transit in their communities, come to the table, and work to find a permanent solution to fund transit and keep our communities and our economy moving.
September 4, 2025
NOTE: The following guest column appeared in the Opinion Section of the Daily Local News online on September 4, 2025.
By Carolyn Comitta, Josh Maxwell, and Colin Hanna
What would the region’s daily commute like look with thousands of additional drivers on Route 202, Interstate 95, and the Schuylkill Expressway? What would happen to businesses, large and small, without buses and trains to take people to work and school? And what would Philadelphia’s Main Line suburbs be without rail service on the Main Line?
As a state senator serving Chester County, the chair of the Chester County commissioners and Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and a former Chester County Commissioner and DVRPC chair, we know that our transportation system operates as a whole. Roads, bridges, buses, trains and trolleys all work together to get people where they need to go.
If you don’t take SEPTA and think you’re immune from the transit crisis, think again. Not only will our roads in Southeastern Pennsylvania have significantly more traffic (275,000 additional vehicles or roughly the population of Pittsburgh every day), but all those tires will take a big toll on our transportation infrastructure. And if the idea of longer trips, slower travel, and more potholes isn’t bad enough, imagine the impact of an estimated 2 million additional vehicle miles on our air quality.
Think SEPTA should have better accountability and oversight over taxpayer dollars? We do, too. That’s why the most recent bills to come out of both the Democratic-controlled state House and Republican-controlled Senate include more of both, as well as additional independent audits each year and criteria to improve performance and crack down on fare evasion.
Despite current political divisions, this shouldn’t be a partisan issue. Nor should it be a geographic one. Keep in mind, this isn’t just about SEPTA. Other transit agencies are facing similar challenges. The transit funding package that we’re talking about invests in 52 transit systems that serve nearly 1 million riders each day in rural, urban and suburban communities across the Pennsylvania. It also includes significant funding for road and bridge repairs, all without raising taxes.
That said, there is no question that SEPTA must be managed effectively and efficiently. And to continue to attract ridership, which is still rebounding from the pandemic, SEPTA service must be reliable, clean, safe, welcoming and affordable. However, let’s put to bed the myth that SEPTA should or could be self-sufficient. There is not a single mass transit agency in the world that runs without government support. The reality is less than a quarter of SEPTA’s budget comes from fares, which is in line with transit agencies across the nation. Meanwhile, over the past decade, SEPTA has seen roughly half as much public investment, on average, as its counterparts in other U.S. cities.
Still not convinced? Try getting to (and parking at) a Phillies, Eagles, Flyers or Sixers game with fewer trains and buses, no more special trips to the stadiums and an end to all SEPTA service at 9 p.m. Never mind the major events coming to Philadelphia in the next year such as America 250, the NCAA men’s basketball Tournament, the PGA Championship, the FIFA World Cup and the MLB All-Star Game. And how about taking Amtrak to Harrisburg or New York? Amtrak’s Keystone Line could be impacted by the cuts since SEPTA leases rail lines from Amtrak.
As SEPTA service cuts and fare increases take effect, we call on all legislators in the Senate to adequately fund SEPTA and stop the potential for logistical disruptions and economic devastation on a scale never seen. While we appreciate that the regional rail cuts are on hold due to a court order, we fear that if they take place, it will be an uphill battle to restore service and get back on track.
The legislature established SEPTA more than 60 years ago to replace fragmented and financially failing private transit providers with a unified, publicly funded regional system. Over the decades, it has become a staple of life in our region. Sure, SEPTA is not perfect, but on any given day, you’ll see workers, medical professionals, students, senior citizens, visitors, families, and more relying on it to get where they need to go.
Today, state lawmakers need to keep the promise and fund SEPTA. We need Democrats and Republicans to come together and work together. And we need them to do it now. After all, with Chester County continuing to lead the commonwealth in growth, a new train station in Paoli and design work complete in Downingtown, we need SEPTA more than ever.
Carolyn Comitta, a Chester County Democrat, represents the 19th District. Josh Maxwell, a Democrat, is chair of the Chester County commissioners and Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission. Colin Hanna, a Republican, is a former Chester County commissioner and DVRPC chair.
August 28, 2025
Exton, Pa (August 28, 2025) – Children, families, and residents are invited to sign up for a library card and explore the endless possibilities offered by our public libraries at the Chester County Library and State Senator Carolyn Comitta’s Library Card Sign Up Fest.
The 3rd annual event will take place Sunday, September 14, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Chester County Library in Exton and feature a variety of free, family-friendly activities and programs.
“From books to educational programs to job training workshops, there are endless possibilities for all ages at our Chester County libraries,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “If you need to apply for your library card, or even if you already have one, I encourage you to stop by our event and experience all the fun, informative, and programming available at our free, public libraries.”
“Libraries are more than just books—they are dynamic spaces that shape lives, foster connections, and provide opportunities for all,” says Michael Skay, Chester County Library Board President. “Whether through early literacy programs, job-seeker support, or lifelong learning initiatives, our libraries remain a cornerstone of community engagement and personal growth.”
The event coincides with Library Card Sign-Up Month, celebrated each September since 1987 by the American Library Association (ALA). During the month, the ALA and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for a library card.
In addition to applying for a library card, attendees can interact with the YMCA of Greater Brandywine’s Zoo & STEM on Wheels, enjoy free Maggie Moo’s ice cream, create a bookmark with Miss Pennsylvania Victoria Vespico, meet local first responders and touch-a-truck, listen to a story time, and so much more.
Donations of new or gently used books for children will also be collected at the event for local non-profits.
Since the main library parking lot will be transformed into our event space, it will be temporarily closed to vehicles. Convenient parking is available in the garage across the street or at any of the Exton Square Mall lots—just a short walk away!
The mission of the Chester County and Henrietta Hankin Branch Libraries is to provide informational, educational, and cultural services to the residents of Chester County so that they may be lifelong learners. Chester County Library & District Center is located at 450 Exton Square Parkway, Exton, PA. For hours or more information, visit our website at https://chescolibraries.org/
August 26, 2025
August 22, 2025
West Chester, Pa (August 22, 2025) – After a devastating fire destroyed truckloads of donated basic needs supplies collected by the local nonprofit Mitzvah Circle Foundation, State Senator Carolyn Comitta is organizing a collection drive to help recover the destroyed supplies.
The fire, which occurred Tuesday afternoon at the foundation’s Montgomery Township facility, damaged part of their building and destroyed a tractor-trailer containing donated goods.
“Mitzvah Circle is always there for our neighbors in their time of need. As the organization recovers from a crisis of its own, our community is here to support them and help continue their mission,” said Comitta. “If you are able, please consider donating basic needs products to help restock the organization’s supply and support members of our community.”
Items being accepted include new sneakers and underwear, dental and menstrual hygiene products, deodorant, diapers, and other baby supplies.
Donations can be dropped off at Senator Comitta’s district office at 17 E. Gay Street in downtown West Chester or at her community Shred Event Saturday, October 4, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Valley Forge Middle School.
Mitzvah Circle serves individuals and families in Montgomery and Chester County facing poverty, serious illness, homelessness, and other crises with basic necessities. In the last 5 years, Mitzvah Circle has served over 300,000 families and donated over 19 million items to those in need.
###
