October 11, 2024
October 11, 2024 − We’re happy to announce that the PA Broadband Development Authority has approved grants from the Multipurpose Community Facilities Program during their recent meeting. This program provided $45 million in competitive grants to support community anchor institutions and local government units for projects aimed at improving public facilities that enhance education, job training, health monitoring, and more.
In our district, the following grant was awarded:
United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA – CEDAR Center
$1,242,251 Grant
The approved funding will redevelop a historic commercial building into the Community Education Development and Revitalization (CEDAR) Center—a regional hub offering expanded services in education, job readiness, workforce development, community health, and immigrant integration. This initiative will be a transformative asset for our community!
We are excited to celebrate this investment in our district’s future!
October 4, 2024
Luzerne County, PA − October 4, 2024 − Senator Flynn has called for the immediate reinstatement of mail ballot drop boxes in Luzerne County following a response from the Attorney General’s office. In the letter, the Attorney General clearly stated that only the Luzerne County Board of Elections has the legal authority to make decisions about ballot drop boxes, not county officials acting alone.
“This response from the Attorney General is clear: only the Luzerne County Board of Elections has the authority to make decisions about the election,” said Senator Flynn. “The Attorney General emphasized that going around this process not only threatens fair voting access but could also lead to legal consequences. This confirms that the County Manager’s decision to remove the drop boxes went beyond her legal power.”
The Attorney General’s letter outlined that if the County Manager doesn’t comply with the Board of Elections’ lawful orders, there could be civil or criminal consequences. This message highlights the importance of following election laws to ensure fair voting access.
“Ensuring public confidence in voting is essential. I’m urging Luzerne County officials to work directly with the Board of Elections to bring back these drop boxes so that our election remains accessible and fair,” said Senator Flynn. “The people of Luzerne County deserve easy and legal access to vote.”
Senator Flynn will be closely watching this issue to make sure that Luzerne County officials follow the Attorney General’s directive, supporting accessible and fair voting for all.
For more information, please contact Senator Flynn’s office at 570-207-2881.
August 1, 2024
Scranton, PA − August 1, 2024 − Senator Marty Flynn and IACOS are proud to announce a free clinic, hosted by the Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps, which will take place on August 3 and 4 at Scranton High School, located at 63 Munchak Way, Scranton.
The clinic will offer a variety of essential services including dental care (cleanings, fillings, extractions, x-rays), vision care (exams and prescription eyeglasses made on site), and medical services (physical exams, prescription consultations, women’s health, and more).
This event operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and no ID is required to receive care. Over 25 area doctors will be in attendance, ready to provide treatment to hundreds of individuals in need.
Senator Flynn emphasizes the importance of accessible healthcare and expresses his gratitude to all the medical professionals who are donating their time for this critical event. “This free clinic is a fantastic opportunity for those in need to receive quality medical care without the barrier of cost or identification requirements,” said Senator Flynn. “I am honored to support such a vital initiative and deeply grateful to the dedicated medical professionals making this possible.”
Senator Flynn will be available to speak with the press on Saturday during the event at 1 PM.
For more information about the clinic, please contact Senator Flynn’s office at 570-207-2881
July 11, 2024
Harrisburg, PA − July 11, 2024 − Senator Marty Flynn is excited to announce the creation of a tax credit for employer contributions to 529 tuition savings accounts. This initiative aims to incentivize employers to support their employees’ educational goals, thereby alleviating the financial burden of education for both employees and their families.
Addressing the Student Loan Debt Crisis: Student loan debt in the United States has reached unprecedented levels, with an estimated 45 million borrowers collectively owing over $1.5 trillion. This crisis has far-reaching consequences for students, recent graduates, and the broader economy.
Expanding the 529 Tuition Account Program: A Tuition Account Program 529 account, or a “qualified tuition plan,” is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to encourage saving for future educational expenses. Initially created in 1996 to cover higher education expenses, the program has expanded to include K-12 education costs and apprenticeship-related expenses.
Key Features of the Proposed Legislation:
- Employers making contributions towards an employee’s 529 account will be eligible to claim a tax credit towards their state tax liability.
- This tax credit aims to incentivize employers to support their employees’ educational goals.
- The initiative promotes a skilled and educated workforce in Pennsylvania by making education more accessible and affordable.
Senator Marty Flynn Statement:
“We must work to continue to make education, in all forms, as accessible and affordable as possible for the citizens of the Commonwealth. By introducing a tax credit for employer contributions to 529 tuition savings accounts, we are taking a significant step towards reducing the financial burden of education. This initiative will not only support employees and their families but also promote a more skilled and educated workforce in Pennsylvania. This is truly a win-win opportunity for employers and employees.”
Senator Flynn encourages all eligible employers in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties, and across the Commonwealth, to participate in this new tax credit opportunity.
For more information, please contact Senator Flynn’s office.
July 11, 2024
Harrisburg, PA – July 11, 2024 – Senator Marty Flynn is proud to announce the passage of a historic budget that delivers significant investments in education, economic development, public safety, and support for vulnerable populations in Pennsylvania. This budget reflects our commitment to creating opportunities for all Pennsylvanians without imposing new taxes.
Key Achievements of the New Budget:
Education:
- Over $1 billion increase for Pre-K to 12 education funding:
- $526 million increase for Ready to Learn
- $285 million increase for Basic Education Funding
- $100 million increase for Special Education
- $100 million in new funding for Cyber Charter Transition
- Over $35 million increase for PASSHE schools, a 6% rise from last year.
- Over $140 million allocated for grants, scholarships, and programs to make higher education more affordable.
- A new $3 million investment to provide menstrual products in schools, addressing period poverty.
Housing and Community Development:
- $70 million for affordable housing through the PHARE Housing Program, with a $10 million increase this year and further increases planned.
- $20 million for student teacher stipends, doubling last year’s funding.
- Over $550 million in economic development programs via the Department of Community and Economic Development.
- Millions for new programs supporting economic opportunities and job creation, including PA SITES, Main Street Matters, and Agricultural Innovation Development.
Public Safety:
- $16.5 million increase for anti-violence investments in community and after-school programs.
- $75 million for skilled nursing facilities to meet staffing requirements and maintain services.
- Over $25 million to support state parks, forests, and environmental protection.
Senator Marty Flynn Statement:
“This budget marks a pivotal moment for Pennsylvania, investing significantly in education, public safety, and economic growth while avoiding new taxes. These investments provide a strong foundation for our families, businesses, and communities to thrive. Education remains a top priority, with over $1 billion in new funding to support our students from Pre-K to higher education. We are addressing essential needs in public safety and making strides in economic development to ensure Pennsylvania remains a beacon of opportunity.”
Education Highlights:
- The substantial increase in Pre-K to 12 funding will help address disparities in low-income school districts, enhance student support services, and improve school facilities.
- Investments in higher education will make college more accessible and affordable, continuing our fight to reduce student debt.
Economic and Public Safety Initiatives:
- The budget supports innovative programs to attract new businesses and foster entrepreneurship, ensuring a dynamic economy with better-paying jobs.
- Increased funding for community safety programs will address the root causes of violence and support effective grassroots intervention strategies.
Looking Ahead:
“While we celebrate these wins, we recognize the work ahead. This budget is a down payment on our commitment to fully funding education and supporting all Pennsylvanians. We will continue to advocate for increased investment in infrastructure, fair wages, and comprehensive support for vulnerable populations.”
Senator Marty Flynn invites constituents to review the detailed budget and join in the ongoing efforts to build a stronger, more equitable Pennsylvania.
