2012 January 25 | FYI by PLS

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January 25, 2012, 12:37 pm

Former Gov. Ed Rendell opposes SNAP asset tests

Former governor Ed Rendell joined House Democrats today in urging Governor Tom Corbett to abandon plans to require an asset test for determining eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), otherwise known as food stamps.

Gov. Rendell and Rep. Mike Gerber (D-Montgomery) advised they have both sent letters to Gov. Corbett conveying their concern about the tests, which would render ineligible anyone under the age of 60 who has more than $2,000 in savings and assets, or anyone over 60 or disabled with more than $3,250. Both contend that, among other things, the bureaucratic costs of administering the test outweighs any potential savings.

Rep. Gerber warned asset tests could also lead to higher unemployment and greater strain on already-struggling private charities and churches. Check the Capitol Toolbox later for the full story.

Senate Democrats Gather to Outline Budget Priorities

January 25, 2012, 11:52 am

The Senate Democratic Caucus held a press conference today to outline their budget priorities and called on the governor to make job creation, tax fairness, education funding, shale and the restoration of funds for safety net programs budget priorities. Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) stated “we need a budget that moves Pennsylvania forward, not one that puts us in reverse.” He said Senate Democrats have identified nearly one billion dollars in new revenues from smart policy changes, efficiencies and a responsible shale tax that can be used to pay for their agenda. Look for the full story in the Capitol Toolbox later this afternoon.

House Aging Committee Conducts Hearing on Elder Abuse

January 25, 2012, 11:25 am

The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee conducted an informational hearing on the role of government in addressing elder abuse and the Older Adults Protective Services Act. Legislators heard from a panel of experts including Secretary of Aging Brian Duke. The panel discussed current efforts to protect the elderly and suggested changes in the Act. All agreed that they have seen a large increase in cases involving financial exploitation. Check the Capitol Toolbox later today for the full story.

Eye Opener – January 25, 2012

January 25, 2012, 9:04 am

TURZAI NOT RUNNING FOR CONGRESS

According to an article in the Pittsburgh Tribune Review Mike Turzai’s off again, on again congressional bid is off again, he told the state House Republican caucus on Tuesday. The Republican House majority leader, who told party officials late last week that he was seriously weighing a bid for election in a newly drawn 12th Congressional District, said he will instead seek re-election to his state seat. Turzai, 52, of Bradford Woods, said he never made a concrete decision to run. He said Gov. Tom Corbett asked him recently to run, but he decided against it after his wife, Lidia, told him to consider the impact he’s making in his job. Click here to read the Pittsburgh Tribune Review article.

BICAMERAL DEMOCRATIC LEADERSHIP CALLS FOR FUNDING TO SAVE FINANCIALLY DISTRESSED SCHOOL DISTRICTS

A virtual bevy of both House and Senate Democratic leaders held a news conference yesterday to discuss funding for the financially distressed Chester Upland School District and other financially distressed school districts. House Minority Leader Frank Dermody (D-Allegheny) said the funding crisis in Chester Upland specifically has been caused by the current administration and has put a

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Rendell, House Dems urge reversal of SNAP asset testing plan

Senate Democrats Gather to Outline Budget Priorities

House Aging Committee Conducts Hearing on Elder Abuse

Eye Opener – January 25, 2012

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Rendell, House Dems urge reversal of SNAP asset testing plan

Senate Democrats Gather to Outline Budget Priorities

House Aging Committee Conducts Hearing on Elder Abuse

Eye Opener – January 25, 2012

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