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Philadelphia House Delegation announces school facilities improvement grants to clean up toxic schools

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Brown introduces package of laws to protect law enforcement

(Feb 28, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 28 – After Temple University Police Officer Christopher Fitzgerald was slain in the line of duty, state Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., will introduce a package of bills that seeks to protect police officers from violence while they perform their duty to protect and serve throughout the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. “Officer Fitzgerald was bravely serving his community by patrolling a high crime area when he was gunned down with no clear motive,” Brown said. “We cannot sit idly by and watch those who put on the badge and uniform to protect us, placing themselves between us and danger, die at the hands of those who would do them harm.” Brown said that the responsibility lies with elected officials to make sure police officers are operating in the safest ways possible. There are four bills in Brown’s proposed package: The first bill would require that officers be accompanied by a partner whenever working in a critical crime area, as defined by the attorney general. It would ensure officers are better protected from those who would do them harm. The second bill would require that all officers wear at minimum non-expired level IIIA body armor while on duty to better protect them from firearms. The third bill would create a grant program to provide funding to municipalities to install audible gunshot detection technology in areas with high rates of firearm violence. The fourth bill Read more

 

Joanna McClinton elected first female speaker of the Pa. House as Mark Rozzi steps down

(Feb 28, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

“There’s going to have to be compromises on all legislation because of how tight the numbers are,” Rozzi said. “So I think that [McClinton is] the right person to lead this House right now.” Read more

 

Kenyatta leads rally for Temple University Graduate Students Association

(Feb 15, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 15 -- State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., on Tuesday lead a rally under the Bell Tower on Temple University’s campus in support of the Temple University Graduate Students’ Association and the university’s hardworking graduate students. TUGSA members are currently on strike to receive a living wage, and the rally was to support their fight in the face of Temple's "union-busting” tactics, which include revoking student aid for the striking members. Kenyatta was joined by Philadelphia House Delegation Vice-Chair Rep. Danilo Burgos and other members of the PA House Democratic Caucus, as well as the American Federation of Teachers of PA, United Food & Commercial Workers, Coalition of Labor Union Women, and Service Employees International Union. Kenyatta is a Temple alum and has consistently worked as a state representative to provide fair and living wages to working people. He said the unfair wages and union busting happening to TUGSA hits close to home for him. “I love Temple University, the folks gathered here today love Temple University. What we don’t love is union busting, and working people not being able to pay their bills,” Kenyatta said. “This is a shameful day for Temple University. Temple can do better and must do better by providing TUGSA workers dignified and worthy wages.” Video from the rally can be found on Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds court ruling for fair school funding

(Feb 09, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 9 – The Philadelphia House Delegation applauded the ruling in PA Commonwealth Court that Pennsylvania’s school funding system is unconstitutional. The ruling is a result of the 2014 case William Penn School District v. PA Department of Education, which was filed on behalf of parents, school districts, and statewide organizations arguing that the commonwealth’s funding of K-12 public education is inadequate and violates the Pennsylvania Constitution. The petitioners argued that because the bulk of public education funding comes from local property taxes, school districts in areas with low incomes and property values have been underfunded compared to school districts in areas with high incomes and property values. Leaders of the Philadelphia House Delegation -- Chairwoman Morgan Cephas, Vice Chairman Danilo Burgos and Secretary Malcolm Kenyatta -- issued the following statements about the historic ruling. “Philadelphia schools have been the victims of underfunding for decades and it shows in the conditions they’re in today,” Cephas said. “This ruling is historic and should set us on the right track to get schools in Philadelphia and across the commonwealth the funding they need.” “For far too long, PA schools in low-income areas have been massively underfunded, and it has hurt the children attending these schools and the community as a whole,” Read more

 

Solomon presents check to NEPCA to promote diversity in his community

(Feb 07, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., continued his investment in diversity by presenting $30,000 in state funding to the Northeast Philadelphia Chinese Association. “The Northeast is powered by the diversity of our neighborhood, which makes it an amazing part of the city,” Solomon said. “We need to continue supporting diversity in our neighborhood by investing in organizations like NEPCA, which will help connect people with community, bridge cultural gaps, connect to city services and so much more.” Solomon said these funds will be used to help bridge cultural gaps by providing interpreters and connections to city services and more. “I am so grateful for you helping NEPCA get this $30,000 grant.” Pearl Hunh, leader at NEPCA, said to Solomon. “We want to just love and care, so this generation will grow up and take care of our community. Not only the Chinese, but for all the people that need help.” Councilman Anthony Phillips, state Rep. Anthony Bellmon and Former Councilwoman Maria Quiones-Sanchez joined Solomon in awarding the funding to the volunteers of NEPCA. Solomon said that Northeast Philadelphia is the fastest growing Chinese community in the entire city, and he is honored that they choose to call the Northeast home. Read more

 

Neilson reintroduces legislation to curb speeding through school zones

(Jan 31, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 30 -- State Rep. Ed Neilson, D-Phila., has reintroduced legislation designed to save children’s lives by requiring automated speed cameras in school zones to “Give our kids a break.” “The city is plagued by being unable to hire police and bus drivers, and it has reduced the number of bus routes and crossing guards in our neighborhoods,” Neilson said. “The calls about these dangerous situations keep coming to my office and if the city isn’t able to fix it, as public servants, it’s our duty to introduce legislation that protects and enhances the life of our constituents, and that’s exactly what this legislation would do.” Former Gov. Tom Wolf invested $14.5 million to install these cameras along Roosevelt Boulevard, a main corridor in Neilson’s district – Neilson said he wants to have the program expanded into the neighborhood because the death of just one child from carelessness is too many. “Every day, we see people speeding through school zones, endangering the lives of children and the crossing guards in a place where they are supposed to be safe,” Neilson said. “We need to give our kids a break.” Neilson said he wants to see the same automated speed cameras in school zones across the commonwealth. This is not the first kind of legislation introduced in the country that puts speed cameras in school zones. Neilson said that similar sized cities Read more

 

Pa. lawmakers propose medical debt relief bill

(Jan 23, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 23 – Seeking to ease the burden of medical debt on working families, a plan to create the Pennsylvania Medical Debt Repayment Program was unveiled today by state Reps. Arvind Venkat and Nick Pisciottano, both D-Allegheny; Bridget Kosierowski, D-Lackawanna; and Tarik Khan and Donna Bullock, both D-Phila. “As a physician, I have seen firsthand how problems with our nation’s healthcare system – including medical debt – have hurt families and prevented people from getting the care they need,” said Venkat, the first physician to serve in the General Assembly in nearly 60 years. “While there are many issues that we need to address, including the systemic problems that lead to spiraling medical debt, this bill is an important first step toward helping people across Pennsylvania get the assistance and the care they need – and not phone calls from collection agencies.” “When my son was diagnosed with childhood leukemia, the last thing I wanted to worry about was the stress of medical costs. No family in Pennsylvania should ever need to think twice before seeking care for chronic or other serious conditions for fear of going into medical debt,” Kosierowski said. “We must do whatever we can at the state level to ensure that families don’t need to choose between going to the doctor or putting food on their table or buying clothes for their children.” The lawmakers likened the newly Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation salutes Mayor Kenney’s critical priorities for the city as his mandate comes to an end this year

(Jan 11, 2023) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 11 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed their endorsement for Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney’s core priorities in his final year as mayor. The delegation also highlighted their concerns and hopes for the city. “The plan introduced today by Mayor Kenney gave us optimism. I’m pleased to see that reducing gun violence and strengthening public safety are an important part of this agenda. I also laud the commitment to diversity, to improving access to quality education and to expanding affordable housing” said the delegation’s chair, state Rep. Morgan Cephas. “These goals might not be entirely achieved by the end of the year, but we are going in the right direction, there’s a strong approach from the administration to address the major issues affecting our city”, Cephas said. The mayor’s goals are explained in a report titled “Equity and Opportunity for All: Moving Philadelphia Forward.” In it, Kenney revealed four critical focus areas of the administration in an effort to guarantee Philadelphia’s immediate and long-term future success. The mayor promised to reinforce his commitment to enhancing public safety, improve quality of life and build thriving neighborhoods. His other goal will be investing in Philadelphia’s youth. Driving inclusive growth and economic opportunity while building a thriving Read more

 

Waxman sworn in for first term

(Jan 04, 2023) Rep. Ben Waxman

HARRISBURG, Jan. 4 – State Rep. Ben Waxman took the oath of office in the state Capitol Tuesday to begin his first term representing the 182nd Legislative District in Philadelphia. The noon swearing-in ceremony marked the beginning of the 2023-24 session of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Waxman also has been appointed chair of the Philadelphia Delegation’s Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee. As the head of this subcommittee, Waxman said he plans to use his expertise in government communications to facilitate partnerships with city hall, city government organizations and nongovernmental organizations throughout Philadelphia. The subcommittee also will work with state departments and other state-related organizations to develop and analyze legislation for the benefit of the city of Philadelphia, as well as the Commonwealth. “I’m honored and looking forward to taking on the duties of being a new member of the Pennsylvania House,” Waxman said. “I know that I still have much to learn, but I plan to make sure every one of my neighbors feels represented and heard. It’s time to get to work.” Waxman’s office can help with a variety of state-related services, including home heating assistance, children’s health insurance, and prescription drug and Property Tax/Rent Rebate assistance. Residents can find out more by going to RepBenWaxman.com . Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation announces $7 million awarded to the city to improve traffic safety

(Jan 04, 2023) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 4 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced that $7 million in grants has been awarded to the city. The funds, distributed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, are aimed to improve safety at signalized intersections by providing automated enforcement at locations where data shows red-light running has been a concern. The funds will be used for the following four programs: Citywide Intersection Modifications, Modern Roundabouts, Bike Network Curb Separation and Citywide Traffic Calming. “These state grants are a wise investment and essential to improving traffic safety in the city. This money will make our communities safer for drivers and pedestrians alike by preventing fatalities and improving the flow of traffic. It is always rewarding to see that our critical priorities are getting addressed, and that our voices are being heard,” said Rep. Morgan Cephas, chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation. “We adamantly support these programs; and we must foster equity and inclusion in order to help improve the safety and quality of life in underserved communities of color. This is only part of our ongoing and integral effort to uplift traditionally disenfranchised and ignored areas of Philly. “Another aspect that we need to highlight is that the Automated Red-Light Enforcement funding is generated by Philadelphia red-light violations. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation unveils three new subcommittees

(Dec 21, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 21 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced the launch of a new subcommittee structure aimed to amplify the efforts and mission of the delegation in three specific areas of work. The delegation now includes as part of its components The Philadelphia House Delegation Labor Subcommittee, the Philadelphia House Delegation Policy Subcommittee and the Philadelphia House Delegation Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee. Delegation Chair Rep. Morgan Cephas explains that the organization is experiencing a crucial reform that will translate to a boost across a broad spectrum of focus areas of their work. “We are all very excited and looking forward to the agendas of these subcommittees. It has never been more urgent to fulfill our mission as a delegation, as the voice of Philadelphia in the House,” Cephas said. “I must highlight that these groups are strategically led by an impeccable team of lawmakers who have made great strides in each of these territories.” Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler and Rep.-elect Roni Green have been designated chair and vice chair, respectively, of the Philadelphia House Delegation Labor Subcommittee. This group will evaluate legislation related to unions, the right to form a union, worker power, union membership and other matters relating to organized labor in the commonwealth. Fiedler has been a champion for labor Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation welcomes $54 million awarded to the city for bolstering law enforcement and services

(Dec 14, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 14 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced that $54,293,730 has been awarded to the city in grants. The funds, approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, are destined to enhance law enforcement, gun violence investigation and prosecution, services offered to victims of crime and more. The grants are: Criminal Justice Advisory Committee Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds - Local Law Enforcement Support Grant Program Philadelphia City Treasurer, PPD Local Law Enforcement Support Grant, $ 25 million. Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds - Gun Violence Investigation & Prosecution Grant Program Philadelphia City Treasurer, Phila. DAO Gun Violence Investigation & Prosecution, $20 million. Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, SEPTA ZeroEyes Technology Pilot Project, $4,993,639. State Funds - Women’s Reentry Services Initiative Maternity Care Coalition, MOMobile Rapid Engagement, $82,352. Prevention Point Philadelphia Inc., Trauma-Informed Wholistic Reentry Program for Women, $99,998. Why Not Prosper Inc., The Why Not Prosper Women's Reentry Program, $100,000. Children's Advocacy Center Advisory Committee State Children's Advocacy Center Funds Philadelphia Children's Alliance, PCA Program Maintenance and Read more

 

Krajewski elected as vice chair to Sentencing Commission

(Dec 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Dec. 8 – This morning during the Pennsylvania Sentencing Commission’s regularly scheduled meeting, state Rep. Rick Krajewski, D-Phila., was unanimously elected by the members to serve as vice chair. Per new by-laws adopted during the same business meeting, Krajewski will serve a one-year term until December 2023, when he will be up for reelection. Krajewski issued the following statement: “Over the past two years while serving on the Sentencing Commission, I have gained a deeper understanding of Pennsylvania’s criminal legal system and the Sentencing Commission’s important role. I appreciate the variety of perspectives that each of the commission members brings to the work of establishing Pennsylvania’s guidelines on sentencing, parole, and probation. “In this new role as vice chair, I hope to bring my experience as a community organizer to this role. I believe I offer an important and unique community perspective both from my experience as an organizer advocating in the criminal legal space, and as someone who has family who have been involved in this system. I look forward to continue working with the members of the commission to bring this community perspective into the work of the Sentencing Commission.” Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation praises the release of Brittney Griner from Russian prison

(Dec 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 8 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, Chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation, today released the following statement on the announcement that American basketball player Brittney Griner has been freed from a Russian prison. “The Philadelphia House Delegation is proud to join in welcoming Brittney Griner home from nine months of illegal and unjust detention in Russia. “The use of innocent people as political pawns by authoritarian governments is abjectly wrong and goes against everything we believe in as Americans. “I applaud President Biden and his administration for their diligent work on Brittney Griner’s behalf. We look forward to the approximately 50 other Americans, including Paul Whelan and others who are being unjustly detained overseas, to be released so they can come home to their loving families once and for all.” Read more

 

Unemployment Reforms Are Needed

(Nov 29, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

Pa. state Rep. Joe Hohenstein joined the Pennsylvania Unemployment Project and Keystone Research Center to call on the incoming Shapiro administration to address much needed reforms to Pennsylvania's unemployment service. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation expresses condolences after passing of Milton Street

(Nov 28, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 28 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today released the following statement regarding the passing of former state Sen. Milton Street. “We are deeply saddened by the death of Senator Milton Street, brother of former Philadelphia Mayor John Street and uncle to current state Sen. Sharif Street. Street always showcased an unwavering passion to serve our community, leaving behind a trail of countless contributions to our city. “Leadership and kindness were two of the main traits of former Sen. Street, who also was a tireless activist for the underprivileged. “We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, colleagues and friends. May his legacy be an inspiration for future generations.” Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation joined forces with Philabundance for day of service and solidarity

(Nov 23, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 23 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation, and a group of delegation members joined Philabundance Tuesday morning for a day of service and solidarity. The lawmakers helped pack boxes that will be provided to families for Thanksgiving. Cephas said their work at the food bank reaffirmed the commitment of the delegation to ensuring that unserved and underserved families in the city have access to food to celebrate the upcoming holidays. “Our delegation firmly believes that working together makes us stronger, and that aside from advancing important legislation in Harrisburg, it is crucial for us to work alongside residents and local organizations to support our community. “Philabundance has been doing amazing work in our community, and that is why we did not hesitate to join them today when Loree Jones, CEO of Philabundance, extended the invitation. Our delegation will continue partnering with institutions that can help us secure the welfare of our city,” Cephas said. Loree Jones said that the team at Philabundance is grateful to have the support of incredible donors and volunteers. "With over 550,000 people struggling to put food on their table we are working harder than ever to be able to do our part to meet the need.” “To have the support of our legislators will help us not only relieve hunger today but - as we Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation salutes warm welcome to second immigrant bus that arrived in the city from Texas

(Nov 21, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 21 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation, today said the delegation stands behind the city’s continued efforts to welcome migrants. Cephas said the delegation is proud of the role that Philadelphia has played after a second group of migrants sent by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott arrived this morning in the city. “Governor Abbot sent another 48 passengers to our city for the purpose of a political stunt, and we are happy to open our arms and dedicate ourselves to their well-being and safety,” Cephas said. “As their harrowing journey comes to an end, we want to make sure everyone knows that innocent people trying to make better lives for themselves and their families will never be punished in Philadelphia.” City of Philadelphia’s Office of Immigrant Affairs and the Mayor’s Fund for Philadelphia have launched the Philadelphia Welcoming Fund to allow Philadelphia residents the opportunity to contribute to local efforts to welcome immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers arriving in Philadelphia. Funds collected by the Welcoming Fund will be provided to nonprofit organizations in the Philadelphia area that are supporting arriving immigrant communities. Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation participates in a day of service at Philabundance

(Nov 21, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 21 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, Chair of the House Philadelphia Democratic Delegation, joins members of the Delegation for a day of service at Philabundance tomorrow, Tuesday, Nov. 22. Members will help pack boxes that will be provided to families for Thanksgiving. Those who wish to volunteer must create an account with Philabundance at this link: https://philabundance.volunteerhub.com/vv2/lp/repcephas , signup for the event and sign a waiver form. What: Members of the Philadelphia Delegation will join the Philabundance team to pack boxes for families for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Where: 3616 S. Galloway St., Philadelphia When: 8:45 a.m. to Noon Tuesday, Nov. 22. ### EDITORS NOTE: Media coverage of Tuesday’s event is invited. Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation announces new leadership team

(Nov 18, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Nov. 18 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, former co-chair of the Legislative Women’s Health Caucus, has been elected chairperson of the Philadelphia Delegation of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for a two-year term starting in the 2023-24 legislative session. The delegation also elected Rep. Danilo Burgos as vice-chair and Rep. Malcom Kenyatta as secretary/treasurer. Cephas said that she is looking forward to working with fellow members in the delegation to advance a strategic agenda for the city of Philadelphia. “I feel honored to step into this new role, to be able to lead such a hardworking team. I’m ready to embrace the challenges that this position will bring,” Cephas said. “I can assure all Philadelphians that in this pivotal moment, we are aware of the complex issues impacting our communities, and we are going to keep furthering commonsense policy that can generate lasting impact for our city.” She highlights priorities for the delegation to address include overwhelming gun violence rates, ongoing levels of high poverty, affordable housing, aging infrastructure, education funding, and access to care. Burgos said he feels proud to assume his position in the delegation because it will help him amplify his voice on behalf of underserved residents of the community. “This is really a meaningful moment in Read more

 

Brown introduces package of laws to protect law enforcement
Feb 28, 2023

Joanna McClinton elected first female speaker of the Pa. House as Mark Rozzi steps down
Feb 28, 2023

Kenyatta leads rally for Temple University Graduate Students Association
Feb 15, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds court ruling for fair school funding
Feb 09, 2023

Solomon presents check to NEPCA to promote diversity in his community
Feb 07, 2023

Neilson reintroduces legislation to curb speeding through school zones
Jan 31, 2023

Pa. lawmakers propose medical debt relief bill
Jan 23, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation salutes Mayor Kenney’s critical priorities for the city as his mandate comes to an end this year
Jan 11, 2023

Waxman sworn in for first term
Jan 04, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation announces $7 million awarded to the city to improve traffic safety
Jan 04, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation unveils three new subcommittees
Dec 21, 2022

Philadelphia House Delegation welcomes $54 million awarded to the city for bolstering law enforcement and services
Dec 14, 2022

Krajewski elected as vice chair to Sentencing Commission
Dec 08, 2022

Philadelphia House Delegation praises the release of Brittney Griner from Russian prison
Dec 08, 2022

Unemployment Reforms Are Needed
Nov 29, 2022

Philadelphia House Delegation expresses condolences after passing of Milton Street
Nov 28, 2022

Philadelphia Delegation joined forces with Philabundance for day of service and solidarity
Nov 23, 2022

Philadelphia Delegation salutes warm welcome to second immigrant bus that arrived in the city from Texas
Nov 21, 2022

Philadelphia Delegation participates in a day of service at Philabundance
Nov 21, 2022

Philadelphia Delegation announces new leadership team
Nov 18, 2022