News
A bill (H.B. 98) introduced by state representatives Donna Bullock, Melissa Shusterman and Jenn O’Mara, known as the Equal Pay Law, which would expand protections against wage discrimination, was approved by the Pennsylvania House Labor and Industry Committee.
"We could add a staggering $482 billion to the U.S. economy by ensuring equal pay for equal work. We're talking billions in lost wages for women that they could spend on basic necessities, like food and clothing for their families,” said Shusterman. “Simply by paying women what they've earned, we could reduce the number of working women and single mothers living in poverty by half. This bill is about valuing women, and it's long overdue.”
April 24, 2024 Chester County Press
Equal Pay Law approved by Pa. House Labor & Industry Committe
HARRISBURG, PA — In a legislative development aimed at improving the quality of care in nursing homes across Pennsylvania, the state House of Representatives has passed House Bill 1853 with a bipartisan vote of 125-76. The bill, co-sponsored by State Reps. Melissa Shusterman (D-Chester) and Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks), seeks to amend the Health Care Facilities Act to foster better communication and collaboration between the Department of Health and nursing home staff.
Rep. Shusterman emphasized the bill’s aim to improve the lives of seniors in Pennsylvania by promoting a unified effort to provide top-tier senior care. She highlighted the importance of the exchange of ideas and information between the Department of Health and nursing home staff as a means to achieve this goal.
April 16, 2024 My ChesCo
Pennsylvania House Passes Bill to Enhance Nursing Home Care Through Increased Collaboration
Pennsylvania House Passes Bill to Introduce Family Law Arbitration, Aiming for Quicker, Less Contentious Resolutions
HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has sent House Bill 917, the Uniform Family Law Arbitration Act, to Governor Josh Shapiro’s desk with unanimous bipartisan support. State Representatives Melissa Shusterman and Tina Davis, both Democrats, heralded the bill’s passage as a significant step forward in providing families with an alternative means to resolve disputes outside the traditional court system.
House Bill 917 seeks to amend Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by adopting the Uniform Family Law Arbitration Act. This legislation introduces a voluntary and private arbitration process for families embroiled in legal disputes, aiming to reduce the financial and emotional toll often associated with court proceedings.
April 11, 2024 My ChesCo
Your Easter Peeps still use Red Dye No. 3 for now. Pennsylvania legislation wants to prohibit it.
What to know about Red Dye No. 3, the new bipartisan state legislation trying to ban it, and what Peeps' manufacturer has said about using the additive in its Easter treats.
Your Easter 2024 Peeps marshmallow chicks and bunnies are about to become a relic.
Together with Rep. Melissa Shusterman (D., Chester), the bipartisan legislation package aims to prohibit the use of Red Dye No. 3, Red Dye No. 40, Yellow Dye No. 5, Yellow Dye No. 6, Blue Dye No. 1, and Blue Dye No. 2.
Shusterman said Pennsylvanians should be able to “trust that the food at the grocery store is safe.”
“Worrying about health risks contained in the additives in foods, and scouring the fine print of labels, should not be something consumers have to add to their grocery lists,” she said. “I hope these food safety bills will be ones that legislators can come together in a bipartisan manner to support.”
March 31, 2024 Phila Inq
Chester County Receives $843,000 Boost for Transportation and Safety Enhancements
PAOLI, PA — In a significant development for Chester County’s 157th Legislative District, State Rep. Melissa Shusterman announced this week that the area is set to receive $843,000 in grants for vital transportation projects. Aimed at enhancing community infrastructure, the funding promises to make streets safer and more accessible for both pedestrians and drivers.
The lion’s share of the funding, $500,000, has been awarded to Easttown Township for the Village of Berwyn Pedestrian Improvements Project. This initiative focuses on making the village more walkable and safe for residents, addressing long-standing concerns about pedestrian access and safety.
March 29, 2024 My ChesCo
Shusterman Launches “It Should Be a Law” Essay Contest for Fourth-Graders
PAOLI, PA — In an innovative approach to civic education, State Representative Melissa Shusterman, representing Pennsylvania’s 157th Legislative District, has unveiled the “It Should Be a Law” essay contest targeted at fourth-grade students. This contest invites young minds from Schuylkill, Tredyffrin, Easttown, and Willistown townships to engage directly with the legislative process by conceptualizing new state laws.
Open to students attending both private and public schools within the district, as well as those residing in the specified townships, the contest aims to foster a sense of civic responsibility and creativity among participants. Students are tasked with proposing a new law for Pennsylvania, articulating the problem it seeks to address, and explaining the importance of its enactment. Each submission, expected to be around 400 words, will be judged on clarity, presentation, and creativity.
March 28, 2024 My ChesCo
March 27, 2024
Simply by paying women what they've earned, we could reduce the number of working women and single mothers living in poverty by half. Pa. state Rep. Melissa Shusterman urges passage of the PA Equal Pay Act (HB98), introduced by Rep. Donna Bullock, Rep. Jen O'Mara, and herself. This act would help ensure women receive equal pay for equal work in PA.
Bullock, Shusterman, O’Mara Equal Pay Law approved by PA House Labor & Industry Committee
Rep. Donna Bullock, Rep. Melissa Shusterman, Rep. Jennifer M. O'Mara
HARRISBURG, March 27 – A bill (H.B. 98) introduced by state Reps. Donna Bullock, Melissa Shusterman and Jenn O’Mara, known as the Equal Pay Law, which would expand protections against wage discrimination, was approved by the Pennsylvania House Labor and Industry Committee today.
This legislation would prohibit employers from discriminating and paying workers less because of their gender, race or ethnicity. It would also add protections for retaliation and increase monetary penalties from $50-$200 to $2,500-$5,000 in cases where employers discharge or discriminate against an employee for filing a complaint.
“It’s well known that women and people of color, and especially women of color, have been insufficiently paid in the workplace. This is despite doing the same tasks, performing the same jobs, and sometimes doing them much better than our counterparts,” said Bullock, D-Phila. “Enough is enough. The time for economic justice is now. We must move forward and ensure all Pennsylvania workers receive equal pay for equal work and eradicate wage disparity once and for all.”
PA Democrats
Pennsylvania lawmaker ‘in a war with my daughter’ over ingredients wants to ban color food dyes
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — How hard is it to keep your kids from eating ingredients you don’t want them to eat?
Very hard, says Rep. Natalie Mihalek (R-Allegheny/Washington), who began paying close attention to food labels a few years ago.
So a bill Mihalek is sponsoring would ban several kinds of red, yellow and blue food dyes in Pennsylvania; a companion bill sponsored by Rep. Melissa Shusterman (D-Chester) would ban three other ingredients, including brominated vegetable oil.
“This is a bipartisan effort to clean up our diets,” Mihalek said, citing evidence the ingredients pose health risks and have “no nutritional value.”
March 21, 2024 abc27.com
Mar 19, 2024
Pa. state Rep. Melissa Shusterman is touting a bicameral legislative package with state Rep. Natalie Mihalek and state Sen. Devlin Robinson that would prohibit the use of dangerous chemicals from being used in foods produced and sold in Pennsylvania. The group of legislators introduced the package at a news conference in the state Capitol on Tuesday.
Same Job? Same Pay. It’s That Simple.
March 12 is Women’s Equal Pay Day – and it’s how far into 2024 a woman has to work to earn the same money a man did by the end of 2023 when they both started counting on New Year’s Day 2023.
Written by PA State Representatives Donna Bullock, Jennifer O’Mara, and Melissa Shusterman
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal” – The Declaration of Independence
Two hundred and forty-eight years after those words were written, equality in America is still an illusion in so many ways – most notably on payday.
Sixty-one years after the federal government passed the Equal Pay Act of 1963, women in America are still left behind on payday – even after the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 tried to make things more equitable, we’re still fighting for a simple issue of fairness for all women
March 11, 2024 Bucks County Beacon
February 21, 2024
During a recent House Labor & Industry Committee meeting, Pa. state Rep. Melissa Shusterman encouraged colleagues to vote for her resolution to acknowledge March 21, 2024 as Rosie the Riveter Day in the Commonwealth. Rosie the Riveter is a cultural symbol of the woman who worked in factories and shipyards to help produce munitions and war supplies during World War II.
Penn alum, Pa. state Rep. Tarik Khan proposes legislation to expand abortion access
On Jan. 22, Pennsylvania state representatives announced legislation aimed at reforming statewide abortion access.
The bill, which was introduced on the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, seeks to overturn Act 122 of 2011 — which is also known as a Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers law. Under TRAP laws, abortion facilities are required to adhere to the same regulations as ambulatory surgical centers, including mandates on parking lot designs, hallway widths, recovery room structures, and plumbing and ventilation systems.
“When I knock on their door throughout the 157th [District], people want the government out of their bedrooms, out of their medical decisions,” co-sponsor and state Rep. Melissa Shusterman (D-Chester) told the DP. “They want their daughters, sisters, and wives to be able to access health care. And abortion is health care.”
February 5, 2024 The Daily Pennsylvanian
Chester County Celebrates $4M Windfall: State Grants Bolster Local Projects
PAOLI, PA — In a significant fiscal win for Chester County, State Rep. Melissa Shusterman this week announced the awarding of over $4 million in state grants to various organizations within the 157th Legislative District in 2023. The funds aim to support projects ranging from stormwater management to arts and culture recovery.
The more than $4 million awarded to the 157th Legislative District in 2023 is more than just a financial windfall. It represents an investment in the diverse needs of the community, strengthening infrastructure, education, transportation, senior services, and the arts. These grants not only address immediate needs but also contribute to long-term growth and development, reinforcing the importance of such funding in shaping the future of local communities.
As Rep. Shusterman noted, “All aspects of our community will see improvements… Infrastructure, local businesses, parks, schools, seniors, and the people of the 157th Legislative District and Pennsylvania will benefit from this great use of state funds.” It’s a testament to the transformative power of such grants and a hopeful sign of continued investment in the years to come.
January 26, 2024 My ChesCo
5 gun control bills advance in Pa. House with GOP, Dems fully divided on each proposal
HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania House Democrats on Wednesday advanced five measures regulating firearms toward a potential floor vote including a proposed ban on the sale of assault weapons.
The vote split on each proposal by members of the House Judiciary Committee was 14-11 with all Democrats in favor and all Republicans opposed. Should the measures be successfully voted out of the House behind Democrats’ one-seat majority in the full chamber, the initiatives would advance to the state Senate which is in the control of Republicans.
A separate bill from Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, would classify 3D-printed guns within state law the same as standard firearms and all the accompanying requirements.
January 17, 2024 CNHI News
January 5, 2024
Pa. State Rep. Melissa Shusterman joined Governor Josh Shapiro and the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry to announce the recent expansion of the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit for over 210,000 Pennsylvania families at the Upper Main Line YMCA in Berwyn. Shusterman says quality childcare is crucial for working families. Rep. Shusterman co-sponsored this legislation with Rep. Tina Davis.
Governor Shapiro Kicks Off “GSD Tour” in Chester County, Highlighting Bipartisan Efforts to Cut Costs by Dramatically Expanding Pennsylvania’s Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
Last month, Governor Shapiro signed into law a major, bipartisan expansion of the childcare tax credit – putting more money back into the pockets of 210,000 working Pennsylvania families. 11,000 families in Chester County will now receive a higher state tax credit, with the maximum credit increasing from $630 to $2,100.
January 05, 2024
PRESS RELEASE
Berwyn, PA – Today, Governor Josh Shapiro joined legislative leaders and the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry to highlight the recent expansion of the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit for over 210,000 Pennsylvania families at the Upper Main Line YMCA in Chester County.
As a working mother who relied on the YMCA’s early childhood education centers, I am grateful that the Child and Dependent Tax Credit bill, which Rep. Davis and I proposed, became part of the fiscal code,” said Representative Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester. “The Commonwealth of PA is saying to working mothers – we see you and we value you. This tax credit means real money for working parents and that can be a game-changer.”
Gov. Shapiro Hails Childcare Tax Credit Law At YMCA In Berwyn
The new law provides an increase in tax credits to working families and employers
BERWYN, PA – In a daycare room filled with youngsters, parents, and lawmakers at the Upper Main Line YMCA in Berwyn Friday morning, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro described a new law intended to help parents with childcare costs.
The new law signed on Dec. 13 expands the tax credit to support both working families and employers. Under the law, a family with two kids in childcare who previously received $630 a year will now be eligible to receive $2,100 a year.
January 5, 2024 Patch
Tredyffrin Township Secures $2.2 Million in State Funding for Key Stormwater Projects
BERWYN, PA — In an effort to combat the effects of stormwater runoff and flooding, Tredyffrin Township has been awarded over $2.2 million in grant funding from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The funds, allotted as part of the 2022 H2O PA Commonwealth Stormwater Grants, will be directed towards two critical stormwater management and improvement projects located in Trout Creek.
Tredyffrin Township expressed gratitude to Senator Comitta and Representative Shusterman for their continued advocacy for the township’s stormwater management initiatives. The pair have been instrumental in securing backing for the Gregory Lane and Willis/Woodcrest/Upper Weadley Road projects, which aim to address longstanding community concerns around water quality and flood mitigation.
January 1, 2024 MyChesCo
Chesco Chamber Hails Childcare Tax Credit Law
The new law provides an increase in tax credits to working families and employers.
MALVERN, PA – The Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry partnered with over 50 other business organizations, the state General Assembly, and Governor Shapiro's administration in support of the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit.
The new law signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro on Dec. 13, expands the tax credit to support both working families and employers.
A family with two kids in childcare who previously received $630 will now be eligible to receive $2100, under the new law.
“As a soon-to-be mom of two, I'd like to thank Representative Melissa Shusterman and her colleagues in the General Assembly for their work on ensuring the Childcare Tax Credit was part of the budget code bills finalized last week.” Laura Manion, president of the Chesco Chamber of Business, said Monday.
December 26, 2023 Patch
Pennsylvania Legislature Passes Bill to Triple Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
PENNSYLVANIA — State Representative Melissa Shusterman, a Democrat from Chester County, has co-sponsored a major legislative victory for working families in Pennsylvania. House Bill 1259, which Shusterman co-prime sponsored, significantly expands the state’s Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit. The legislation was included in the state Fiscal Code, passed by the legislature and signed into law as Act 34 of 2023 by Governor Josh Shapiro.
Quality childcare in the Commonwealth averages over $12,000 per child annually, and costs can be even higher in many parts of the state. “Employers need workers, and working families need affordable child care,” said Shusterman, who has been a staunch advocate for the tax credit. She applauded the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry’s President & CEO, Laura Manion, who championed the cause for 2023.
December 15, 2023 MyChesCo
Chester Lawmaker Applauds Passage Of $45 Billion PA Budget
Melissa Shusterman co-sponsored a bill that is included in the budget to provide tax credits for child and dependent care.
PAOLI, PA —State Rep. Melissa Shusterman on Friday applauded lawmakers of both parties for working together to agree on a $45 billion budget that benefits families in Pennsylvania.
Gov. Josh Shapiro Wednesday night signed a package of bills in the budget that includes a major expansion of the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit program, which is sponsored by Shusterman, a Chester County Democrat.
December 15, 2023 Patch
Advocates highlight youth homelessness in Pennsylvania
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – When you think about homelessness, you may not think as much about all the children who have nowhere to live. The problem often goes unnoticed.
“I was homeless between the ages of 9 and 10, at the age of 15, and for the last time at the age of 19,” said Nikki Johnson-Huston, lawyer and former Ms. Pennsylvania.
Rep. Shusterman introduced a bill to create a pilot program at six schools that would assist students experiencing homelessness.
“To make sure that we’re acknowledging their needs for food, shelter, and transportation and for a place to land that is a community,” said Rep. Shusterman.
November 15, 2023 abc27.com
Nov 17, 2023
Pa. state Rep. Melissa Shusterman urges the Pa. Senate Judiciary Committee to pass her legislation HB 917, the Universal Family Arbitration Act, which would give Pennsylvanians another option for resolving family disputes. This law would level the legal playing field, saving families time and money while reducing stress on our court system and our children.
November 16, 2023
Pa. state Rep. Melissa Shusterman speaks in favor of HB 1786, which she co-sponsored with state Rep. Mary Jo Daley. This legislation will shield reproductive health providers and doctors from out-of-state prosecution. Following a successful bipartisan House vote, the bill now moves to the state Senate for approval.
Pa. House passes bill to protect people seeking abortions in Pennsylvania from prosecution by other states
A bill that would prohibit Pennsylvania courts from cooperating with other states’ prosecutions of people who violate their anti-abortion laws passed the state House 117-86 on Wednesday.
House Bill 1786, co-sponsored by state Reps. Mary Jo Daley (D-Montgomery), and Melissa Shusterman (D-Chester), would codify an executive order issued by then-Gov. Tom Wolf in 2022 that protects people who come to Pennsylvania seeking reproductive health care from being penalized by their home states.
“Since the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization, an alarming number of states have enacted total or near total bans on abortion because of this decision,” Shusterman said. “While we cannot prevent other states from criminalizing abortion, what we can do is protect individuals seeking and providing reproductive healthcare services here in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”
November 15, 2023 Pennsylvania Capital-Star
October 31, 2023
During a press conference with PennEnvironment, Pa. state Rep. Melissa Shusterman proposes a taskforce that will work with lawncare industry stakeholders and scientists to develop financial incentives to phase out gas-powered equipment without impacting businesses and jobs.
‘Overburdened and underfunded’: Shapiro signs bill to save Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement
Gov. Josh Shapiro signed the Dog Law Modernization Act into law on Monday, gradually increasing the cost of a dog license from $5 to $7 in its first year. The fee will increase another $2 in the second year to a total of $9, with a final increase of $1 in 2027 regardless of the animal’s spay or neuter status.
October 23, 2023 Pennsylvania Capital-Star
Pa. bill to hike dog license fee after 27 years heads to governor’s desk
A bill increasing the cost of dog licenses in Pennsylvania for the first time in over a quarter century is heading to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s desk for enactment.
The House on Wednesday, with no debate, voted 143-60 to approve the bill that passed the Senate in June, aimed at shoring up the bureau tasked with enforcing the state dog law and strenghtening consumer protection.
“This legislation will finally stabilize the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, which for too long has been overburdened and underfunded. It modernizes the dog licensing process and provides more support for the overwhelmed agency, while ensuring those who break the law are properly punished.” said Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester County, a co-chair of the General Assembly’s Animal Protection Caucus.
October 19, 2023 PennLive
PA Jewish Legislative Caucus Stands With Israel: Statement
HARRISBURG, PA – The Pennsylvania Jewish Legislative Caucus issued a public statement Sunday in response to the terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel.
"Saturday was Shemini Atzeret, a holiday meant to be a day of joyous celebration for the Jewish people, " according to the statement.
"Instead, we are heartbroken to learn that Hamas orchestrated a terrorist attack deliberately murdering and abducting civilians, marring this holy day as one of the most heinous acts of terrorism in Israel's history.
October 9, 2023 PATCH
Pennsylvania House Approves Tax Reduction Bill, Includes Davis-Shusterman Provision for Childcare Relief
PENNSYLVANIA — The Pennsylvania House of Representatives this week passed a tax code bill that includes a provision to expand the state’s Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit. The provision, championed by State Reps. Tina Davis, D-Bucks, and Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, aims to increase the percentage taxpayers can claim as well as raise the allowable expenses.
The provision comes in response to the end of pandemic-era federal aid to childcare providers on September 30. With nearly 3,000 Pennsylvania childcare programs expected to close, impacting over 152,000 children according to The Century Foundation, Davis and Shusterman believe their provision will help address this looming childcare crisis.
October 5, 2023 MyChesco
State Rep. Shusterman touts Elmwood Park Zoo animal rescue efforts
PAOLI — State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, and her staff recently visited Elmwood Park Zoo to learn about their animal hospital opening in May 2024 and other zoo efforts to rehabilitate wildlife and educate visitors.
“Over 80% of the animals at Elmwood Zoo were rescued and would not survive on their own,” Shusterman said. “These exhibits are valuable tools for education and species survival. The next generation of veterinarians might be inspired by Elmwood today. That’s why I am proud that the legislative Animal Protection Caucus works with these organizations that focus on rescue and rehabilitation to ensure they have resources to continue their important work.”
August 15, 2023 Daily Local News
Shusterman Visits Diamond Rock Wildlife Rehab: Supporting PA Wildlife Care
MALVERN, PA — State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, and her summer interns, Suzie Ahn and Alexander Hallam, recently visited Diamond Rock Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic to support the nonprofit located in the 157th district that provides quality care for orphaned, injured, and sick native PA wildlife.
Deb Welter is a passionate animal advocate and has been a licensed rehabilitator for more than 20 years. She founded Diamond Rock to release rehabilitated wildlife back into their natural habitat and educate the public through programs emphasizing harmonious coexistence with nature.
August 9, 2023 My ChesCo
Shusterman Applauds Termination of Real Alternatives Contract, Opens Doors for Women’s Health Care Providers Statewide
PAOLI, PA — State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, reacted to Thursday’s announcement by PA Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh that the state’s contract with a crisis pregnancy center organization will expire by the end of 2023. In addition, DHS will begin accepting applications from women’s health care providers to provide women’s health care across the state.
“The Shapiro administration is taking a huge step forward today by ending the Real Alternatives contract after 30 years. Every woman seeking reproductive health care has the right to unbiased, medically accurate care and counsel,” said Arkoosh. “The Department of Human Services has an obligation to ensure our contractors and partners are acting in line with these values and being good stewards of taxpayer resources, and we will not relent on this commitment.
August 5, 2023 My ChesCo
PA Lawmaker Thanks Gov. Shapiro For Supporting Abortion Resources
Shapiro ended a contract with an organization that does not support abortions.
PAOLI, PA — Pennsylvania Rep. Melissa L. Shusterman Friday praised Gov. Shapiro’s decision to end the practice of funding organizations that do not provide information to women about abortions.
Shusterman, a Chester County Democrat, said in May of 2022 that she was working to end the practice of funding organizations that do not provide information to women about abortion.
“I am grateful to Governor Shapiro and Secretary Arkoosh for working to ensure taxpayer funds are used for women’s health care in the commonwealth,” Shusterman said. “I have been concerned for some time about the deceptive practices of these crisis pregnancy centers and alarmed even more so that taxpayer dollars were being utilized to mislead women.
August 4, 2023 The Patch
Antisemitic Signs Waved On Valley Forge Road In Tredyffrin: Officials
Officials alert the community that adults waved antisemitic symbols on Valley Forge Road last weekend
TREDYFFRIN, PA — Several adults waved antisemitic signs over a bridge last weekend along Valley Forge Road near Valley Forge National Historic Park, officials said.
State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, who represents Tredyffrin, Easttown, Willistown and Schuylkill townships, alerted constituents in an online newsletter Friday about the incident.
“Nazis shamefully attempted to intimidate and harass residents in Tredyffrin Township near Valley Forge National Historical Park,” Shusterman wrote. “It's disturbing that in recent months, we have seen an uptick of similar activity in both Chesco and Delco - hateful leaflets, flags, and graffiti polluting our neighborhoods."
July 21, 2023 The Patch
Help For Childcare Bill Backed By Chesco Lawmaker
State Rep. Melissa Shusterman backs increasing tax credits for childcare costs.
WASHINGTON, D.C. —State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, a Chester County Democrat, said Thursday she was honored to join legislators from around the country at the White House to discuss the childcare crisis.
July 20, 2023 The Patch
Comitta, Shusterman introduce legislation to empower student journalists
HARRISBURG — Legislation calling for stronger protections for student journalists was supported by students from Conestoga High School and others at a press conference in Pennsylvania State Capitol.
The legislation, Senate Bill 622 introduced by state Sen. Carolyn Comitta and House Bill 1309 by state Rep. Melissa Shusterman, calls for school districts to implement policies that place administrative review of student publications and communications in the hands of student editors to help ensure journalistic integrity.
“I have a lot of hope for the next generation of young people. They are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in, and we need their energy and leadership in our communities. Their voices also need to be heard, so passing this legislation to guarantee freedom of speech for student journalists is vital. We can’t take away their voice just as these young people are defining themselves and becoming passionate about the world around them,” said Shusterman.
June 23, 2023 Daily Local News
Protections for pets in domestic violence, divorce cases pass Pa. House panel
Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, said the bill is endorsed by the bipartisan Animal Protection Caucus, which has members from both chambers of the General Assembly.
‘Frequently, when a protection from abuse order is issued, the animal becomes a target and … we have some absolutely horrific stories of this type of abuse,’ Rep. Christina Sappey said...
June 14, 2023 Pennsylvania Capital-Star
House Passes Bill Easing Childcare Burdens
In a day of rising costs for childcare, Democratic state Reps. Tina Davis (D-Bucks) and Melissa Shusterman (D-Chester) shepherded a bill through the Pennsylvania House to help working parents.
House Bill 1259 passed through the chamber with bipartisan support, 141-62, and now heads to the state Senate for concurrence.
June 13, 2023 PoliticsPA
Pa. House committee passes bill striking court gun locker law
Democrats on the state House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday passed a bill eliminating the requirement for courts to provide gun storage to visitors, a move recommended in a judicial task force report to address courthouse security concerns.
This is a particular issue for Magisterial District Justices’ offices, said the bill’s prime sponsor, Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester County. These local courts are often located in office buildings or even strip malls, and the 2020 report noted that many MDJs do not have the space or staff to securely operate a firearms locker, particularly in high-conflict court cases.
June 7, 2023 PennLive
Shusterman Leads Charge for Job Creation with Modernized Second Stage Loan Program
HARRISBURG, PA — The House of Representatives in Pennsylvania yesterday approved H.B. 922, a bill proposed by State Rep. Melissa Shusterman to modernize the Second Stage Loan Program. The bill aims to provide support to businesses in the manufacturing and life sciences sectors, promoting job creation and sustainability across the state. The bill is currently awaiting approval by the Senate.
May 26, 2023 MyChesCo
Chesco Lawmaker Shusterman's Bill To Help Families Moves Ahead
HARRISBURG, PA —State Rep. Melissa Shusterman announced Monday that a bill to help families settle disputes with an arbitrator has passed the House with bipartisan support.
Shusterman, a Chester County Democrat, introduced the Uniform Family Law Arbitration Act, which would provide families with a voluntary and private process for resolving disputes with the help of an arbitrator.
“I am extremely grateful to have the full support of my colleagues from both sides of the House,” Shusterman said.
May 22, 2023 Patch
PA Legislators Introduce Dog and Cat Protection Act to Safeguard Animals Against Abuse
WEST CHESTER, PA — On Thursday, State Senator Carolyn Comitta announced the Dog and Cat Protection Act (also known as the Pennsylvania Beagle Bills). Joined by Senators Katie Muth and John Kane, as well as Representatives Melissa Shusterman and Chris Pielli, Comitta presented the package of legislation – introduced as Senate Bills 701, 702, and 703 – which would ban the sale of dogs and cats from breeders who violate certain provisions of the Animal Welfare Act. The bills would also ensure that dogs and cats used for testing are available for adoption, and restrict exemptions for animal cruelty. The legislation extends whistleblower protection to employees reporting violations of the Dog Law.
May 20, 2023 MyChesCo
Most Chester County representatives support LGBTQ bill
…Three of the Chester County Democrats who voted in favor of the bill — state Rep. Danielle Friel-Otten, D-155th, of Uwchlan, state Rep. Christina Sappey, D-158th, of East Marlborough, and state Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-157th, of Schuylkill — issued a statement about their support on Thursday.
“In the year 2023, it is still legal in Pennsylvania for LGBTQ+ individuals to be denied housing, education, and employment based on their sexual orientation or gender identity,” the trio stated. “The work to pass this legislation in our commonwealth began 22 years ago, and Pennsylvania is now the only state in the Northeast without LGBTQ+ anti-discrimination laws on the books.
“We co-sponsored and voted in support of this bill because nobody should lose out on a job, apartment, access to education, or any other opportunity because of who they are or whom they love,” the representatives stated.
May 5, 2023 Daily Local News
Chesco Lawmaker Shusterman's Bill To Help Families Moves Ahead
A bill that would allow arbitrators to settle family disputes has passed the House Judiciary Committee.
HARRISBURG, PA —State Rep. Melissa Shusterman announced Tuesday that a bill to help families settle disputes with an arbitrator has passed the state House Judiciary Committee with bipartisan support.
Shusterman, a Chester County Democrat, introduced the Uniform Family Law Arbitration Act, which would provide families with a voluntary and private process for resolving disputes with the help of an arbitrator.
April 25, 2023 Patch
Editorial: Pa. Youth Service Corps deserves bipartisan support
Legislation proposed by two House Democrats would create a Pennsylvania Youth Service Corps, providing jobs to clean up the environment and undertake other public service. It merits approval by the state House and Senate. This worthwhile proposal, advanced in a memo of intent by Josh Siegel of Lehigh County and Melissa Shusterman of Chester County, should reflect not only successful youth service corps in other states, but also the particular needs of Pennsylvania’s young people and public spaces.
April 25, 2023 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
5 Major New Law Proposals In PA: Social Media, Abortions, Solar Power
From changing the abortion law to holding social media platforms responsible, lawmakers are considering several new sweeping measures.
April 17, 2023 The Patch
Shusterman Announces Grant for Local Development Projects
WEST CHESTER, PA — State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, announced grants that will fund local development and infrastructure projects.
The projects involve sidewalk and crosswalk construction near Devon Station in Easttown Township and renovations to the Timothy School in Tredyffrin Township.
March 18, 2023 MyChesCo
Shusterman introduces bill for tax credits for childcare costs
“...A parent should never have to choose between taking care of their child and going to work,” Shusterman said. “This legislation will help more Pennsylvanians afford childcare and in turn, allow them the freedom to work and better provide for their families.”
The proposed legislation will build off of the childcare tax credit that was passed as part of Pennsylvania’s 2022 budget. Davis and Shusterman are proposing a tax credit for families whose daycare costs exceed 10 percent of their taxable income, capped at 20 percent of daycare costs or $5,000, whichever is lower. Specifically, the legislation would increase the credit that can be claimed off PA taxes each year from the current 30 percent of the federal filing credit to 50 percent.”
March 11, 2023 Daily Local News
Pa. House Passes Child Sex Abuse Bills That the GOP-Controlled Senate May Not Even Consider
After years of delays and administrative mistakes, legislation giving victims of childhood sexual abuse legal recourse against their abusers passed the House Friday. The measure, championed by House Speaker Mark Rozzi, now heads to the Senate where it faces pushback from Republicans.
February 24, 2023 The Keystone
Scam Prevention Town Hall: State Rep. Shusterman, Chesco Democrat
Residents are invited to a virtual town hall at 6 p.m. to learn how to avoid financial scams.
"HARRISBURG, Feb. 21 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, a Chester County Democrat, invites the public to a virtual scam-prevention town hall at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23.
February 21, 2023 Patch
Recount battle continues in Chester County
"The legal battle over demands for recounts of Chester County results in last November’s midterm election is continuing.
...All but one of the petitions focused on the election for governor, in which state Attorney General Josh Shapiro and his running mate for lieutenant governor, state Rep. Austin Davis, won the state and the county by a significant margin. The other petition sought a recount in the races for U.S. Senate, the 6th Congressional District, and the 157th Legislative District in Tredyffrin’s Middle-4th precinct."
February 18, 2023 Daily Local News
New funding will improve local watersheds in West Chester area
WEST CHESTER — The Willistown Conservation Trust will receive $127,000 in funding to improve local watersheds, state Sen. Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Melissa Shusterman recently announced.
The organization will use the funding for the Rushton Woods Preserve Okehocking Run Watershed Enhancement project to construct a bioretention basin and vegetated swale.
“The Okehocking Run watershed is vital to our native wildlife and also provides significant research and recreation opportunities,” said Shusterman. “This grant will allow Willistown to continue its efforts to preserve this unique ecosystem, enriching the lives of Pennsylvanians for generations to come.”
January 9, 2023 Daily Local News
McCarthy elected House speaker; local lawmakers say ‘we can’t continue on like this’
State Rep. Melissa Shusterman talked about disruption.
“What we are witnessing with the Speaker election in Congress is farcical, and our country deserves better,” Shusterman said. Kevin McCarthy is now reaping the chaos that he willingly sowed.
“The Republican Party embraces candidates who do not believe in governing or democracy – just disruption. While the GOP continues spreading misinformation and fostering distrust, our communities lose. It’s time for elected officials to get back to work serving the American people.”
January 7, 2023 Daily Local News
Sommer to election critics: ‘This fishing expedition must end’
…Sommer filed his order denying the request “with prejudice,” meaning the litigants are legally prohibited from re-filing their demands in Common Pleas Court.
“If the petitioners believe they have specific evidence of fraud and have a meritorious case, they can set the allegations forth and pursue them,” Sommer wrote in his decision, which was filed Friday after a reportedly raucous court hearing that took place at the county Justice Center on Monday.
“But they cannot enlist this court in their quest to conduct a free-wheeling audit of cherry-picked precincts in Chester County,” he wrote. Common Pleas courts, he said, are places where judges take testimony, make legal and credibility findings, determine facts, and resolve disputes. “(They) are not forums for the childhood game of ‘I know something you don’t know.’
“Nor is such gamesmanship the manner in which the practice of law is to be conducted,” he added. “This court will not condone such conduct nor will the court allow the judicial process to be abused in the manner. This fishing expedition must end here and now.”
December 10, 2022 Daily Local News
Judge should dismiss recount petitions, Chester County officials claim
WEST CHESTER—The effort by more than two dozen Chester County voters to obtain a recount of votes in their home precincts in recent statewide and local elections may be a case of the critics biting off more than they can chew, according to a filing by the county solicitor’s office.
All but one of the petitions — that were filed without the assistance of an attorney in boilerplate fashion, with “fill in the blank” sections for the specifics of the claims — asked for the recounts in the race for governor and lieutenant governor, races that were won in the state and county by Democrats Josh Shapiro and Austin Davis. The other petition, from a trio of Tredyffrin voters, asks for recounts of that race and those for U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, and the 157th state Legislative District — all also won by Democrats.
November 29, 2022 Daily Local News
Delaware Valley Friends School Awarded $2.5 Million
PAOLI, PA — State Rep. Melissa Shusterman announced that Delaware Valley Friends School, located in the 157th Legislative District, has been awarded $2.5 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program funds.
Phase One of the expansion and renovation project will include sitework, extensive stormwater management systems, a new building addition with more classrooms and offices, a new accessible school entrance, an outdoor café courtyard, renovations to the current cafeteria, and a full-size kitchen.
November 22, 2022 MyChesco
Mystery continues in Chester County political sign thefts
TREDYFFRIN — It won’t rank with the mysteries of who killed Jimmy Hoffa or the identity of Jack the Ripper, but the great Chester County sign theft case of 2022 has still gone unsolved.
On Wednesday, Tredyffrin Police Lt. Tyler Moyer said that no arrests had been made or charges filed in the matter of who stole more than 100 political signs from the front yards of residents of the Wayne area and public right-of-way locations of the township in October.
Moyer said that police had examined a surveillance video taken at a local shopping center where the signs, all from Democratic candidates or with progressive themes, were found, but that they were unable to identify anyone or any vehicle involved well enough to bring charges.
November 17, 2022 Daily Local News
Democrats win control of Pennsylvania state House after picking up 12 seats
HARRISBURG — Democrats have won control of the Pennsylvania state House for the first time in more than a decade, but it’s still unclear exactly how big their margin over Republicans will be.
November 16, 2022 Spotlight PA
Chester County Democrats see ‘strong voice’ in Harrisburg
SCHUYLKILL TWP. — State Rep. Melissa Shusterman was laid up at home over the weekend recuperating from minor surgery on her foot. But her mood was bright, and her recovery buoyed by the showing she and her fellow Chester County Democrats had last week in races for the state Legislature and their likely new roles as majority members of the House of Representatives.
November 12, 2022 Daily Local News
Op/Ed: SB 106 is too radical, too extreme
This past summer, Republicans in the Pennsylvania House and Senate rammed through a bill with several proposed constitutional amendments that would limit personal rights instead of protecting them. One of the amendments included in SB 106 would change the state constitution to say there is no constitutional right to an abortion in Pennsylvania. I spoke in opposition of the bill on the House floor the night it passed. If this proposed amendment were to succeed, it would create a pathway in our commonwealth to ban all abortions without any exceptions.
October 22, 2022 Op/Ed Rep Melissa Shusterman Times of Chester County
Apple AirTag Used To Find Over 100 Stolen Democratic Campaign Signs, Police Say
Shusterman, who is running for reelection for her seat in the state legislature, said in a Wednesday tweet: “We will not let the radical MAGA right intimidate us. Double the amount of signs taken down will go back up.”
“I think the county party has leaned in heavily to MAGA,” she told Forbes, referring to the wing of the party that supports former President Donald Trump. “And it's not reflective of the majority of Republicans in this area—but they’re quite loud.”
October 13, 2022 Forbes
Air Tag leads to dumpster filled with stolen political signs in Chester County
A spokeswoman for state Rep. Melissa Shusterman, the Schuylkill resident who is running for re-election to the 157th Legislative District seat, said police told a committeewoman that one of the sign owners had attached an Apple Air Tag digital tracker to one of the signs that had been taken from their yard. The homeowner was able to determine its location — behind a restaurant and brew pub on Swedesford Road in Berwyn — and told police where it was.
October 13, 2022 Daily Local News
Melissa Shusterman Runs For State House Term in D-157
CHESTER COUNTY, PA —Melissa Shusterman, a Democratic state representative, is running for a third, two-year term to represent four municipalities in District 157
September 16, 2022 The Patch
Democratic Lawmakers Discuss PA Crisis Pregnancy Centers At Hearing
State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, is the prime sponsor of legislation that would eliminate state funding for crisis pregnancy centers, which has been a contentious part of the state budget since the 1990s.
September 7, 2022 Levittown Now
How Easy Is It To Buy A Gun In Pennsylvania?
State lawmakers have proposed laws to restrict assault weapons. State Rep Melissa Shusterman, a Chester County Democrat, introduced three bills to restrict assault weapons.
August 27, 2022 The Patch
Berwyn Fire Co. gets $1.5 million to help fund new station
“I’ve had many conversations with Tredyffrin and Berwyn Fire Company since I took office in 2019 about funding for a new station. I am ecstatic that we will be bringing $1.5 million in taxpayer money back to the district,” said state Rep. Melissa Shusterman. “This allows Berwyn Fire Company to build a new station and continue to keep residents in the area safe. It is a huge win for the safety of Chester and Delaware County residents.”
April 25, 2022 Daily Local News
Child Care Tax Credit Proposed
Representatives Tina Davis, D-Bux, and Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery, have introduced House Bill 2737 to provide a tax credit for families whose day care costs exceed 10% of their taxable income. . The tax credit will be capped at 20% of the total day care cost or $5,000, whichever is less. According to the bill text, the total cost to the state would be $10 million.
August 1, 2022
Bill preventing domestic abusers from taking office gains traction
Co-sponsors of the Conklin legislation include state Reps. Malcolm Kenyatta, Ryan Bizzarro, Frank Burns, Joseph Hohenstein, Stephen Kinsey, Bridget Kosierowski, Maureen Madden, Steven Malagari, Ben Sanchez, Peter Schweyer, Melissa Shusterman, Regina Young and Michael Sturla.
July 28, 2022 abc27WHTM
Phoenixville Area Senior Center secures $125,000 in state funding
“This grant will help the Phoenixville Area Senior Center use the upstairs part of their building through HVAC renovations,” said state Rep. Melissa Shusterman. “This means the center will have more space to provide additional services. I’m glad to see our tax dollars invested in a community center helping seniors stay healthy, active and connected.”
August 11, 2022 Daily Local News
Introducing Young Women to the Electrical Trade: $394,383 Awarded to “Rosie’s Girls” Program
HARRISBURG, PA — State Reps. Jennifer O’Mara and Melissa Shusterman this week announced Apprentice Training for the Electrical Industry was awarded $394,383 for a program introducing young women to the electrical trade.
“This program is a great way to give the young women in Southeastern Pennsylvania hands-on training in a career field once dominated by men,” Shusterman said. “I applaud the effort by Apprentice Training for the Electrical Industry to recruit women into the trades workforce. I am happy to see the state invest in a program that will help give young women more professional opportunities.”
July 16, 2022 ChesCo
Lawmakers move state abortion amendment closer to 2023 vote
In the lengthy House debate, Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, called the proposal “extreme and extremely cruel to women.”
“This takes away individual liberties, a woman’s right to control her life,” Shusterman said. “My right to control my life, my sister’s right to control her life. And it allows for political and religious leaders to insert their radical, uninformed beliefs in the doctor’s office.”
July 8, 2022 AP News
DelVal Lawmakers Weigh In on 2022-2023 State Budget
“As always, my top priorities for this budget season are families, education, and economic development,” Rep. Melissa Shusterman (D-Paoli). “Our state is currently sitting on an $8.5 billion dollar surplus. It’s time to start investing that money in hard-working Pennsylvanians, and Gov. Wolf has proposed a budget that will do just that. It includes a Child and Dependent Care tax credit, to reduce the financial burden of childcare on working families and would enable parents to rejoin the workforce without worrying about how to pay for expensive care.
“Additionally, the proposed budget includes increased investment in education, which will provide much-needed property tax relief for homeowners, as well as continuing to ensure our graduates are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow. Both priorities will holistically improve our state’s economic climate which will spur more business investment and create better-paying jobs,” said Shusterman.
June 28, 2022 DV Journal
Jan 14, 2020 USA Today
May 16, 2020 Unionville Times
Feb 28, 2020 Patch
VIOLENCE IN PENNSYLVANIA DISTRICT COURTS: WHAT'S BEING DONE TO KEEP THE PUBLIC SAFE
Feb 10, 2020CBS21
Sept 7, 2019 PA Post
Jan 1, 2018 Tredyffrin Patch