News Center

House lawmakers, families and advocates renew call for anti-bullying legislation in Pa.

(4 hours ago) Rep. Danilo Burgos

HARRISBURG, June 26 – House lawmakers, families and advocates this week renewed their call to pass legislation that addresses anti-bullying policies in Pennsylvania schools. At a Capitol news conference on Monday, the family of Sammy Teusch, a child who was bullied at his school in Indiana and died by suicide on May 5, joined state Reps. Danilo Burgos and Joe Hohenstein, both D-Phila.; Jennifer O’Mara, D-Delaware; Kiria Cora, executive director of the Cora Foundation; and others to call upon the legislature to act on anti-bullying legislation. The legislation includes O’Mara’s House Bill 1293 , which would require schools to notify parents and legal guardians when their child is involved in or experiences bullying, and a comprehensive series of bills known as the Rights and Protections for All Students package, introduced by Hohenstein and others. The urgent plea follows a series of meetings with advocates and the families of victims of bulling – including the Teusch family. The lawmakers said increased bullying incidents have profound impacts on students’ mental health, academic performance and overall well-being. Burgos, who chairs the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus, urged for the passage these bills. “ Passing anti-bullying legislation to address and prevent bullying in schools is not about punishment but about prevention, Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Technology, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Jun 20, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Broadband Development Authority: COVID-19 ARPA Capital Projects Fund Digital Connectivity Technology Program Who May Apply: Libraries, community schools, municipalities, workforce training organizations, not-for-profit organizations, and other community anchor institutions. Use: Acquisition of digital connectivity technology that facilitates broadband internet access and promotes digital literacy and skills training. Funds: $20 million in federal ARP money is available for this program. Application Deadline: August 19, 2024 More information: DCED Website Department of Agriculture: Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Program Who May Apply: Applicants must meet the federal definition of a very small meat and poultry processing operation and currently be operating under a grant of inspection or planning to get a grant of inspection upon completion of project. Use: Grant reimbursement is available for eligible costs associated with meeting the requirements to obtain a grant of inspection, opening a new very small meat and poultry processing operation, expanding the capacity of a current very small meat and poultry operation, or a combination of those purposes. Funds: Funding is limited to no more than $100,000 per applicant. Application Deadline: August 2, 2024 More information: PDA Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Read more

 

Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus praises Biden administration executive order on immigration

(Jun 18, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

HARRISBURG, June 18 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus today applauded the Biden administration’s executive action allowing certain undocumented spouses and children of United States’ citizens to apply for lawful permanent residency without leaving the country. The action will provide legal status and protections for about 500,000 American families and roughly 50,000 noncitizen children of immigrants under the age of 21 whose parent is married to a U.S. citizen. Under current federal law, an undocumented person who enters the U.S. and marries a U.S. citizen must first request parole before applying for legal residency. That process might require them to leave the country, upending their careers and families and creating uncertainty about whether they would be authorized to reenter. PLLC members said today’s action allows those spouses to apply for residency without needing to leave the U.S., bringing hope and relief to hundreds of thousands in the country and here in Pennsylvania. PLLC Chair Danilo Burgos, D-Phila., praised President Joe Biden for his action. “Today’s executive action represents a significant step forward in the fight for a more fair and equitable immigration system. By protecting hundreds of thousands of our immigrant neighbors and their families, the president is reinforcing the principles of humanity and fairness,” Burgos said. PLLC Read more

 

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Jun 14, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Labor and Industry: PAsmart Pathway Innovations to Registered Apprenticeships Grant Program Who May Apply: Organizations that serve as sponsors or intermediaries of new Registered Apprenticeships including businesses, community-based organizations, economic development organizations, industry associations, labor organizations, local education agencies, local workforce development boards, nonprofit organizations, post-secondary institutions, public libraries, and STEM ecosystems. Use: To support the creation and expansion of registered apprenticeship programs that offer earn-as-you-learn opportunities. Funds: $5,000,000 in funding is available. Application Deadline: July 12, 2024 More information: L&I Website Historical and Museum Commission: Historical and Archival Records Care Grant Who May Apply: Nonprofits and local government entities that have been in existence for two years prior to grant request submission. Use: To assist with preservation of historically valuable original documents. Funds: Single organizations can apply for up to $5,000. Projects with multiple organizations involved can apply for up to $5,000 for each organization (2 organizations can apply for $10,000, 3 organizations can apply for $15,000, etc.). Application Deadline: July 8, 2024 More information: PHMC Website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Act Read more

 

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(May 29, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: PA Statewide Drug and Alcohol Toll-Free Call Center Who May Apply: Applicant must be able to manage a statewide 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year Drug and Alcohol (D&A) Toll-Free Call Center. Use: DDAP will enter into a grant agreement with one entity to manage and oversee all aspects of the D&A Call Center to provide confidential referral services to consumers and their families seeking drug and alcohol treatment and who are experiencing difficulty as a result of substance use disorder (SUD). Funds: Up to $6,788,000 for five years for one grantee through DDAP’s Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant federal funding. Application Deadline: June 18, 2024 More information: DDAP Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Agriculture: Farm Vitality Planning Grant Who May Apply: Farmers, prospective farmers, and others may apply. Use: Strategic business planning to expand or diversify farms or support transition of ownership. Funds: $500,000 in funding is available. Grants shall not exceed $7,500. Application Deadline: Applications will be received until funds are exhausted. More information: Pennsylvania Bulletin Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Recruitment Incentives for Law Enforcement Who May Apply: Read more

 

Successful roundtable highlights the impact of immigration in Pa.

(May 23, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

GETTYSBURG, May 23 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus today convened a roundtable discussion on the multifaceted impact of immigration in Pennsylvania – particularly in rural communities. The event brought together policymakers, community leaders and experts to explore the significant challenges associated with immigration with a particular focus on the social and economic impacts. "Immigrants are an integral part of Pennsylvania's identity and economic strength. Today's discussion reaffirms our commitment to policies that support and uplift our immigrant communities," said Rep. Danilo Burgos, chair of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus. "Today, we have been reminded that behind every statistic, there is a human story. A story of courage in leaving behind a homeland, of determination to build a better life, and of hope for future generations, added Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, secretary of Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus. “These stories are woven into the very fabric of Pennsylvania, enriching our communities with diversity, culture, and new perspectives." The roundtable concluded with a call to action for continued dialogue and collaborative efforts to address the challenges and benefits of immigration in Pennsylvania. Burgos said the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus is committed to working with stakeholders to develop and implement policies Read more

 

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Educational, Environmental, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(May 14, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: Wild Resource Conservation Program Who May Apply: Counties, municipalities, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, conservation districts, and municipal authorities. Individuals, state government agencies, and for-profit businesses may be eligible depending on the project. Use: Grant applications will be accepted for species surveys, conservation, and management. Funds: Funding comes through the Wil Resource Conservation Fund and a portion of the Environmental Stewardship Fund. Grant size varies, but the average grant award is $30,000. Application Deadline: July 1, 2024 More information: DCNR website Department of Community and Economic Development: Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) The NAP is broken down into five components: The Neighborhood Assistance Program Tax Credit, the Special Program Priorities, the Neighborhood Partnership Program, the Charitable Food Program, and the Enterprise Zone Program Tax Credit. Please visit the link below for specific information on each component. Who May Apply: Depending on the program, eligible applicants include neighborhood organizations that hold a ruling from the IRS as nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organizations, and organizations operating as food banks, food pantries, or emergency food providers. Use: Use varies by program, but priorities for this funding Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation leadership reacts to PSP trooper now off force

(May 10, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

PHILADELPHIA, May 10 – Members of the Philadelphia House Delegation today said they were grateful to the Pennsylvania State Police for conducting a thorough investigation into the State Police traffic stop and arrest of Celena Morrison and Darius McLean on I-76 in March and reiterated the need for transparency in community policing. The unnamed PSP trooper involved in the incident was placed on administrative leave two months ago pending an internal investigation and is now no longer employed with the State Police, according to a PSP spokesperson. Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas said that while the investigation likely remains ongoing, she is grateful that Pennsylvania State Police officials took the matter seriously and handled the matter swiftly and professionally. "As chair of the delegation, I'm glad that the State Police have heard our concerns and took the time to hold a fair and impartial internal investigation into this matter, which has led to the officer involved no longer being employed by them,” Cephas said. “I also commend the State Police for speeding up their commitment to make sure all officers working in Philadelphia have active body cameras. This will go a long way in protecting the citizens of Philadelphia as well as the hardworking members of the Pennsylvania State Police who serve and protect us day in and day out. This kind of transparency is critical when incidents like the Read more

 

Burgos Calls on GOP Lawmakers to #FundPASchools

(May 01, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

Chairman of the PA Legislative Latino Caucus Rep. Danilo Burgos stands with Make the Road PA and Democratic colleagues from the House and Senate to urge Republican state lawmakers to back Governor Josh Shapiro’s education funding proposal. Burgos says that when we don’t adequately fund our schools, we’re failing our kids and hurting the future of our entire commonwealth. Read more

 

Agricultural, Educational, Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(May 01, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Indigent Defense Grant Program Who May Apply: Counties Use: Salaries and benefits for staff, recruiting efforts to find/retain staff, training and development courses for staff, efforts to improve data collection, and any cost associated with gaps or needs in providing indigent defense, among other things. Funds: A total of $6,750,000 is expected to fund up to 67 grants (one in each county). Application Deadline: , May 23, 202d4 More information: PCCD Website Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (via Department of Homeland Security): Nonprofit Security Grant Program Who May Apply: Non-profit organizations may apply as a sub applicant through PEMA. PEMA is the direct applicant to the Department of Homeland Security. Use: Funds are to be used to enhance the protection of soft targets/crowded places. Funds: $274,500,000 in federal funds are available for this national funding opportunity. $3,277,500 in funding is targeted toward Pennsylvania. Application Deadline: May 29, 2024, at 5 p.m. More information: PEMA Website Historical and Museum Commission: Historical & Archival Records Care Grant Who May Apply: Local government entities and nonprofit organizations Use: Projects must relate to some aspect of Pennsylvania’s history and funds may be used for preservation of Read more

 

New Agricultural, Educational, Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(May 01, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

Below are multiple state grant programs that are currenctly open for application. Please contact my office if you have questions. NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commission on Crime and Delinquency: National Incident-Based Reporting System Compliance Efforts Who May Apply: Local law enforcement agencies, campus or university police, railroad or street railway police, airport authority police, and county park police. Use: Funds for the proposed program shall be used to improve reporting of crime statistics by upgrading technology infrastructure to report incident-based crime data to the FBI’s NIBRS. Funds: $10 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funding is available. PCCD expects to fund approximately 50 grants with budgets not to exceed $200,000 over the two-year project period. Application Deadline: June 13. 2024 More information: PCCD Website Department of Environmental Protection: Growing Greener (Watershed Restoration and Protection) Plus Program Who May Apply: Incorporated watershed associations, counties, county conservation districts, council of governments, tax-exempt corporations under 501(c)(3) of the IRS code, educational institutions, or municipal authorities. Use: Projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution—especially nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment pollution from agricultural and stormwater runoff. The Department is particularly interested in design and Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation praises approval of increase in public transit funding

(Mar 20, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

Today, members of the Philadelphia House Delegation were an integral part of the state House of Representatives’ approval of a proposed increase in recurring funds for public transportation in Pennsylvania. Read more

 

PA Legislative Latino Caucus slams efforts to impose a state fee on international remittances made by migrants

(Mar 15, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

HARRISBURG, March 14 – Members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus today released the following statement on the announcement by state Rep. Mike Cabell, R-Luzerne, that he plans to introduce legislation that would impose a state fee on international remittances made by undocumented migrants. “The idea of imposing an additional 10% fee on money transfers made by immigrants can only be described as absurd and vicious. This proposal clearly discriminates against immigrants; it is targeting a vulnerable group. “This bill is aimed at penalizing people for sharing a marginal percentage of their hard-earned salary with relatives abroad. Where is the logic and humanity in that argument? “Representative Cabell emphasizes that Oklahoma and other states have enacted similar legislation. It doesn’t mean that this is right; he cannot use this as a pass to validate and encourage discrimination in Pennsylvania. “Representative Cabell is also pushing the idea that the revenue will be used to support the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. We have excellent news for Representative Cabell: Governor Josh Shapiro's expansion of the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program delivered the largest targeted tax cut for seniors in nearly two decades, expanding access to nearly 175,000 more Pennsylvanians and increasing maximum rebates from $650 to $1000. And not a single immigrant was sacrificed in the name of Read more

 

Pa. Legislative Latino Caucus highlights contributions of Dominican community in commonwealth

(Feb 27, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

HARRISBURG, Feb. 27 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus today released the following statement on the occasion of the 180 th anniversary of Dominican independence: “As members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus, we stand in unity with our Dominican brothers and sisters, acknowledging their invaluable contribution to our commonwealth’s social, cultural and economic vitality. “We are proud to say that Pennsylvania is home to over 140,000 Dominicans with most hailing from Allentown, Reading and Philadelphia. “We want to use this opportunity to reflect on the triumphs and struggles that our community has faced and honor the efforts and impact of our contributions not only to the state, but to the entire nation. “We promise a renewed commitment to continue fighting for a better future and justice for all families across the state. We also want to ensure that generations to come in the commonwealth will learn about their heritage and culture. Happy Dominican Independence Day! The Latino Caucus stands for diversity, equity and inclusion.” The Dominican Independence Day is celebrated annually on Feb. 27, marking the island’s autonomy from Haiti. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation encouraged by Shapiro Budget Proposal

(Feb 07, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

Today, leaders of the Philadelphia House Delegation said that they are pleased with the direction of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2024-25. Among the many positives, the delegation is excited about the proposed investment in SEPTA and mass transit, as well as equitable education funding for the School District of Philadelphia. Read more

 

Grants available as of Tuesday, Jan. 30

(Jan 30, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Environmental Protection: Small Business Advantage Grant Who May Apply: For-profit businesses registered to do business in Pennsylvania with 100 or fewer full time equivalent employees. Use: To install equipment/material resulting in energy efficiency improvements or pollution prevent, natural resource or energy conservation, reduction of environmental contamination from air emissions and water effluents, or to develop and apply environmental improvement technologies and methods. Funds: DEP expects to award approximately $1 million in grants. Application Deadline: March 22, 2024, or until program funds are exhausted. More information: DEP Website Department of Health: WalkWorks Grant Who May Apply: Municipalities and metropolitan and rural planning organizations. Use: Funds will be available to applicants to assist with the development of a plan, which will identify and prioritize projects related to modes of active transportation with an emphasis on walking, biking, using a wheelchair, and public transit. Funds: Funding will depend on the number of applications received and the amounts requested. Application Deadline: March 22, 2024 More information: DOH Website Liquor Control Board: Reducing Underage Drinking and Dangerous Drinking Grant Who May Apply: School districts, including trade and technical schools, institutions of higher education, municipal representatives, nonprofit and for-profit Read more

 

Grants available as of Tuesday, Jan. 16

(Jan 16, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commission on Crime and Delinquency: School Safety and Security Grant Program Who May Apply: School districts, intermediate units, area career and technical schools, charter schools, cyber charter schools, regional charter schools, approved private schools, chartered school for the education of the deaf or the blind, private residential rehabilitative institutions, municipalities, law enforcement agencies, and approved vendors. Use: Municipalities, law enforcement and approved vendors are limited to apply to provide school security personnel services within schools. Schools can apply for programs that address safety and security, including but not limited to, safety and security assessments, conflict resolution or dispute management strategies, school-wide positive behavior support, school-based diversion programs, peer help programs, classroom management, training, and more. Funds: A total of $32,179,000, which includes $26,345,000 from the $50 million allocated for the School Safety and Security Grant Fund and $5,834,000 allocated from the FY23-24 Targeted School Safety Grant Program, is being announced to support this initiative. Application Deadline: February 29, 2024 More information: PCCD Website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: School Mental Health Grants Who May Apply: School Districts, Intermediate Units, Area Career and Technical Schools, Charter Schools, Regional Charter Schools, and Cyber Charter Schools. Use: Read more

 

PA Legislative Latino Caucus to join forces with Make the Road PA on behalf of immigrants across Pennsylvania

(Jan 12, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

HARRISBURG, Jan. 12 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus today announced that the group will be joining ‘Pennsylvania Welcomes Immigrants,’ a pro-immigrant rally organized by Make the Road Pennsylvania. The rally, supported by the Woori Center, Free Migration Project and Pennsylvania Policy Center, is set for noon Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 144 N. Seventh St., Allentown , and is expected to be attended by community leaders, state officials and local advocacy groups. State Rep. Danilo Burgos, chairman of the Latino Caucus, explained that the group will take a stand against the recent introduction of an anti-immigrant legislative package by state Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh). “We are determined to put a halt to any actions aimed at terrorizing and harming immigrants in Pennsylvania. We wholeheartedly condemn the promotion of these and any other anti-immigration bills. We want to expose the damaging effects of manipulative rhetoric like the one that Representative Mackenzie has sadly embraced,” Burgos said. “It is time to recognize the numerous contributions of all immigrants to our economy and culture; it’s time to acknowledge their rights,” Burgos added. “We are glad to have found in Make the Road a solid ally in our crusade to welcome and protect immigrants’ families in the state. We are looking forward to continuing Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation commends appointment of Pedro Rosario, first ever Latino deputy police commissioner in the city

(Jan 12, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 12 – Members of the Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed their satisfaction for the appointment of Pedro Rosario, a 29-year veteran of the Philadelphia Police Department who will serve as deputy commissioner of the department’s Kensington Initiative. “Winds of change keep blowing in Philadelphia and we cannot be more excited about the outcome,” said Rep. Morgan Cephas, chairwoman of the delegation. “Mayor Cherelle Parker started strong. She is not only vowing to fight the overdose crisis and the drug market in Kensington; Parker is taking the bull by the horns. The designation of Rosario to work on specific duties in Kensington is a bold action that has our wholehearted support,” she added. Rep. Jose Giral, who represents the180 th Legislative District in the Kensington area, is confident that Rosario will be an effective commissioner, based on Rosario’s expertise and solid credentials. Giral witnessed his work firsthand while Rosario was assigned to the 24 th Police District. “I have known Pedro Rosario for a long time. I met him while I was a member of the Police Advisory Commission and this conferred me the opportunity to work hand in hand with him and the 24 th Police District,” Giral said. “Rosario is boots on the ground from day one because he knows exactly all the particulars of the issues impacting our Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation congratulates new city leaders

(Jan 03, 2024) Rep. Danilo Burgos

Today, leaders of the Philadelphia House Delegation expressed their excitement for the inauguration of Cherelle Parker as the first woman and 100th Philadelphian to serve as mayor of Philadelphia. Read more

 

House lawmakers, families and advocates renew call for anti-bullying legislation in Pa.
4 hours ago

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Technology, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jun 20, 2024

Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus praises Biden administration executive order on immigration
Jun 18, 2024

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jun 14, 2024

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
May 29, 2024

Successful roundtable highlights the impact of immigration in Pa.
May 23, 2024

Grant Memo: Agricultural, Educational, Environmental, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
May 14, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation leadership reacts to PSP trooper now off force
May 10, 2024

Burgos Calls on GOP Lawmakers to #FundPASchools
May 01, 2024

Agricultural, Educational, Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
May 01, 2024

New Agricultural, Educational, Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
May 01, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation praises approval of increase in public transit funding
Mar 20, 2024

PA Legislative Latino Caucus slams efforts to impose a state fee on international remittances made by migrants
Mar 15, 2024

Pa. Legislative Latino Caucus highlights contributions of Dominican community in commonwealth
Feb 27, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation encouraged by Shapiro Budget Proposal
Feb 07, 2024

Grants available as of Tuesday, Jan. 30
Jan 30, 2024

Grants available as of Tuesday, Jan. 16
Jan 16, 2024

PA Legislative Latino Caucus to join forces with Make the Road PA on behalf of immigrants across Pennsylvania
Jan 12, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation commends appointment of Pedro Rosario, first ever Latino deputy police commissioner in the city
Jan 12, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation congratulates new city leaders
Jan 03, 2024