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

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Philadelphia Delegation praises coordinated response of the city on the arrival of first migrant bus sent from Texas

(Nov 17, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 17 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, chair of the House Philadelphia Democratic Delegation, along with fellow members, today thanked city officials for the immediate response and support provided to an estimated 30 immigrants sent to Philadelphia from Texas on a bus that arrived outside the 30th Street Station Wednesday morning. The delegation said its top concern and priority is the welfare of the group of migrants and highlighted that the key words against the backdrop of migrations are collaboration and solidarity. “The most important aspect to take into consideration is to make this group of people feel safe. We all have the right to feel protected and respected; we are talking about a fundamental right.” The delegation applauded the city officials for the humane response and emphasized that once again Philadelphia has proved why it is referred to as the “City of Brotherly Love.’ “We are proud to say that Philadelphia is one of very few sanctuary cities in the country. The Texas officials did not even coordinate with the city, but we opened our doors to them, and we are ready to offer shelter, health care and essential resources.” The delegation also stressed that although Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has stated that he will continue sending buses to other cities, because he understands that the government keeps allowing illegal immigrants, this is far from that case. “The individuals we welcomed are not Read more

 

Cephas to step down as co-chair of the legislative Women’s Health Caucus

(Nov 16, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Nov. 16 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today announced that she will be stepping down from her position as co-chair of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus Cephas said this represents a sweet-and-sour moment in her career as a lawmaker because she is closing a chapter that allowed her to fight for women’s rights at all levels. “I’m proud to say that as the Women’s Health Caucus, we not only fought, but also won many battles together. I had the honor to support this work in Harrisburg and at home, in Philly co-sponsoring legislation aimed to ensure access. We also have made great strides for maternal health in the Commonwealth under the guidance of the WHC in the last two years.” Cephas emphasized the extensive list of the organization’s achievements includes close collaboration with the governor's administration and stakeholders from across the state, which has resulted in a $25 million investment into maternal health and the implementation of the Medical Assistance extension from six weeks to one-year postpartum. “The WHC has played a pivotal role in decisions made at the Capitol. We also worked on the creation of a pathway to certification for doulas through the launch of the Perinatal Doula Certification Program, and improvements in supports for our incarcerated population through the development of the Doula Pilot Program in SCI Cambridge Springs and SCI Muncy,” Cephas said. Read more

 

Burgos applauds $4.2 million in grant funding for local projects

(Oct 27, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 27 – State Rep. Danilo Burgos, D-Phila., announced today that five Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants totaling $4.2 million were awarded for projects that will greatly benefit hard-working families in his district. The grants include: Expansion of Esperanza Health Center-North 5th Street location - $ 5,000. This project will allow EHC to increase access to primary medical care; expand the medication-assisted treatment group medical model for those suffering from opioid-use disorder and substance use disorder; improve our capacity to respond to COVID with testing, vaccinations, treatment, and education; and add new services that address the results of social determinants of health screenings that are done with every patient. Island Caribbean Feast Restaurant - $ 750,000. This project includes comprehensive upgrades to the Caribbean Feast restaurant. All systems will be upgraded, including plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, and the physical expansion of the kitchen to upgrade all cooking equipment and surfaces to support multi-user and multi-event capabilities. Enhanced food storage and end-to-end tracking will be included, and all point-of-sale and remote point-of-sale software will be replaced and integrated. Rev. Leon H Sullivan Impact Center - $5,000. The vacant annex will be renovated in this project, including structural Read more

 

Cephas secures nearly $6 million in grants awarded for local projects

(Oct 26, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 26 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today announced that three projects in the 192 nd Legislative District will receive grants from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program totaling nearly $6 million. The grants include: Cobbs Creek Foundation, $ 3.5 million. Cobbs Creek Foundation will restore areas along Cobbs Creek, Indian Creek and five unnamed tributaries. The project includes the restoration of degraded stream channel in a predominantly urban watershed. The ultimate purpose of this project is to provide comprehensive aquatic resource restoration. Pennrose Management Company, $1 million. The Good Shepherd Senior II project will construct a residential development for seniors in the Overbrook neighborhood of Philadelphia. Building amenities include a fitness room, management suite and a community room for residents. Shepard Recreation Center, $1.4 million. This project will renovate the Shepard Recreation Center and make improvements to the outdoor site. The recreation building will undergo significant interior improvements, including the installation of an elevator and construction of a new lobby, in addition to improvements to the building's exterior envelope. Improvements will also be made to the sidewalks, playground, basketball courts and tree coverage. “I’m grateful for these much-needed funds that will improve the Read more

 

Fiedler hosts rally for abortion rights on Capitol steps

(Oct 24, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Oct. 24 – Parents, union members, advocates and elected officials from across the Commonwealth gathered in Harrisburg today to rally for abortion rights. The event, called “Abortion Freedom for All,” drew hundreds of people to the Capitol steps just as the General Assembly was about to reconvene for session. The rally was organized by state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., Lancaster Stands Up, Planned Parenthood, PA Stands Up, Working Families Party, DSA, Make the Road, We The People and more groups from across the state. Fiedler hosted the event. She said the goal of the event was to join forces and show up in big numbers and make clear that the people of Pennsylvania do not want the General Assembly to tear away their rights. “For 50 years Roe v. Wade was the law of the land,” Fiedler said. “Women like me grew up knowing that my right to control what happened in my body was enshrined in federal law. Now that’s uncertain. We are here today because we believe that each of us should have the freedom to decide what’s best for our families, for ourselves, for our bodies.” "As a Black obstetrician and gynecologist, I feel unquieted by the attack on reproductive rights and reproductive justice,” said Dr. Sharee Livingston, Lancaster area OB/GYN and board member of the advocacy group Patients R Waiting. “Abortion is essential health care, it is safe, and barriers to abortion Read more

 

Dawkins comments on dismissal of charges against former Philly police officer in 2017 killing of David Jones

(Oct 12, 2022) Rep. Jason Dawkins

Such a ruling by the judiciary undermines constituents’ faith in our system of government and results in them holding the perception that their votes are those of second-class citizens and will make no difference. Perceptions of this nature are dangerous as they undermine our democratic system, creating an endless cycle of hopelessness and fear of the authorities. Fear eliminates the belief that justice is blind and elicits a view that lady justice herself is willing to turn a blind eye to the plight of those seeking justice in particular zip codes. Read more

 

Roxborough alum Malcolm Kenyatta: ‘We are failing our kids’

(Oct 04, 2022) Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta

State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta walked the halls of his alma mater, Roxborough High School, the day after a 14-year-old football player was killed following a scrimmage. Read more

 

Burgos and Guzman call on President Biden to waive a federal law to allow essential fuel shipments to Puerto Rico

(Sep 29, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Sept. 29 – State Reps. Danilo Burgos, D-Phila, and Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, today sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting to waive the maritime shipment restrictions stated in the Jones Act to help restore power in Puerto Rico. In the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, the island is struggling to get the necessary loads of fuel to move forward. The Jones Act requires that ships transporting goods between United States ports be made in America and owned by American companies. The lawmakers, who lead the Pennsylvania Latino Caucus, emphasized that this Act, also known as Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is narrowing the survival chances of victims of Fiona. “The Jones Act is one of the core factors limiting the recovery of the island against the backdrop of Hurricane Fiona. A clock is ticking for all the people impacted by this natural disaster,” Burgos said. “We urge President Biden to ease the burden for Puerto Ricans, regardless of political or statehood status, and manage this situation with the same urgency that would involve any of the 50 states in the country. This is a matter of survival and empathy.” Guzman explained that the island-wide power outrage has left an estimated 320,232 homes and business without power, relying on generators on a daily basis, which has worsened the living conditions of residents of the Caribbean Island. “As of today, according to LUMA Energy which operates Puerto Rico’s Read more

 

Burgos and Guzman: Joint letter to President Biden calling for immediate action to rescue Puerto Rico

(Sep 29, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

Thanks to your immediate federal response and subsequent aids of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security, Puerto Rico has been able to get on the path to recovery from the disastrous impact of Hurricane Fiona. However, much more needs to be done. Read more

 

Isaacson announces legislation on menstrual education in schools

(Sep 28, 2022) Rep. Mary Isaacson

According to reports, 79% of teenage students feel they need more education on menstruation. Many young students report that their first period was “embarrassing, traumatic, scary and confusing” and that they felt dirty during their period. Read more

 

Dawkins discusses GOP hypocrisy in Krasner impeachment probe

(Sep 26, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 26 – Chairman Jason Dawkins of the Philadelphia Delegation of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives issued the following statement after meeting with Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner today in Center City. “Today’s meeting was about something the Republican Majority that has controlled state government for decades never did – get the facts and have an honest conversation,” Dawkins said. “Instead, the GOP has gone back to the same tired playbook - stirring fear in their base about the state’s largest city and biggest economic driver – combined with their newest obsession of overturning a free and fair election when the results don’t go their way. “If the Republican majority is so concerned with crime in Philadelphia, then why do they oppose funding for our children and why do they deny the city’s elected officials the right to write their own gun safety laws like banning assault weapons? “We’ll welcome them when they are ready to work toward real solutions that don’t involve using the victims of gun violence as political pawns.” According to Dawkins, the hyper partisan, so-called House Select Committee on Restoring Law and Order that is “investigating” Krasner is scheduled to meet in Philadelphia later this week. Read more

 

Guzman and Burgos join efforts to aid people affected by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic

(Sep 19, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Sept. 19 – State Reps. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, and Danilo Burgos, D-Phila., today announced they are joining forces to help people affected by severe flooding and damages caused by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. The lawmakers, who lead the Pennsylvania Latino Caucus, thanked Governor Tom Wolf for deploying two members of PA Task Force 1 to Puerto Rico to support Hurricane Fiona response. They also urge Wolf to use the full force of his power to help the islands of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. “The flooding has already impacted the water system and many families are now homeless. Puerto Rico is still suffering from the lingering effects of Hurricane Maria and currently experiencing an island-wide black out,” Guzman said. Guzman and Burgos call on Gov. Wolf to use PEMA to immediately offer humanitarian assistance to these islands. Pennsylvania has the fourth largest population of Puerto Ricans outside the island. “A lot of people are suffering the effects of Hurricane Fiona. As a legislator I feel compelled to work diligently to provide resources and the necessary help to people impacted by this natural catastrophe. To help them is also to help the people that I represent in my district because they are concerned about the well-being of their relatives back home in the islands,” Guzman said. Burgos emphasized that it is crucial to receive the support of PEMA because it would Read more

 

Kenyatta promotes Philadelphia Health Department Monkeypox Vaccine Interest Form

(Sep 09, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., today announced his support and gratitude for the Philadelphia Department of Health’s new Monkeypox Vaccine Interest Form. Read more

 

Solomon celebrates construction of new park at vacant lot

(Aug 25, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., today cut the ribbon for the celebration of the new WeLoveU Park on the corner of Loretto and Cranford Avenues in Northeast Philadelphia.   Read more

 

Cephas to introduce a bill that would protect homeowners and address racial bias in real estate appraisals

(Aug 23, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Aug. 23 – In an effort to help Pennsylvania homeowners to get a fair appraisal of their properties, state Rep. Morgan Cephas said she plans to introduce legislation that would address discrimination in housing and ensure equity in the real estate appraisal process. “Current laws do not prevent home appraisers from discriminating against people of color, or other marginalized communities for that matter. With little regulation or oversight, appraisals can make or break the value of a home,” Cephas said. “My legislation would require real estate appraisers to complete training regarding bias and discrimination prior to receiving their certification or license or prior to renewing their certification or license.” Cephas’ legislation would also forbid a licensed or certified real estate appraiser from incorporating bias or discrimination into their appraisal of real estate. “It is important that we put training in place that make appraisers aware of the presence of bias or discrimination in housing and ensure that they are conducting themselves with equity and fairness,” Cephas said. “Every family deserves a fair shot at their dream home.” Bound by the federal Fair Housing Act, home appraisers are prohibited from discriminating against homeowners based on their race, religion, national origin, or gender. In addition, Title XI of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 Read more

 

Cephas condemns shooting outside of Shepard Recreation Center, stands with local leaders to encourage community cooperation

(Aug 19, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 19 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today released the following statement in the wake of the recent shooting near a playground in West Philadelphia where five individuals were wounded. “This is a horrifying incident. Nearly 100 shots were fired. It is heart wrenching to know that at the time of this shooting, there were children and families gathered at the center. No child should have to be a witness to such a horrific incident and families should be able to enjoy activities in their communities in peace,” Cephas said. Cephas stood last Wednesday with Philadelphia leaders including District Attorney Larry Krasner, Mayor Jim Kenney, Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw, City Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr., other area elected, community members and more to host a press conference at Shepard Recreation Center in response to the shooting that took place Tuesday night. “We can’t live in fear, and we can’t continue to allow our children to live in a culture of violence. I will keep fighting to make sure that we do all we can to put a halt on this gun violence epidemic including allocating resources to communities who need it most,” she added. The shooting took place only one day after Cephas co-hosted a public policy hearing on safe and healthy spaces at the Kingsessing Recreation Center, just a few miles away from Shepard. Monday’s discussion included talk about Read more

 

Cephas applauds $500,000 funding provided by City of Philadelphia to the Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania

(Aug 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 8 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today commended the announcement made by Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney of a 500,000 investment by the city to the Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania. Cephas, who is co-chair of the legislative Women’s Health Caucus, indicated that she is appreciative of the city’s effort because the funds heading to ALF-PA will help to remove barriers for people in need of abortion that cannot afford insurance or pay out-of-pocket for services. “These funds will expand the current capacity of the Abortion Liberation Fund of PA to address critical needs. As co-chair of the Women’s Health Caucus, this is a proud moment. It’s uplifting to know that our voices are being heard and that this issue is being prioritized in Philadelphia”, Cephas said. Cephas also reaffirmed her commitment to strengthen reproductive health care and maintain access to abortion and other reproductive services in the state of Pennsylvania. “Philly has taken a step forward, but much more is needed; we have to keep in mind not only residents of the commonwealth, but also people traveling from other states to Pennsylvania in search of care. I will continue championing for safety and sustained access to the procedure. I hope this investment could also serve as a call to action Read more

 

Dawkins applauds grants for Pre-K Counts and Head Start

(Aug 02, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Jason Dawkins, D-Phila., applauded Gov. Tom Wolf today for maintaining his promise to invest in education in the commonwealth by awarding more than $384 million to Pre-K and Head Start Programs in Pennsylvania. The money allotted to these programs will deliver funding to two child learning centers in Dawkins’ legislative district. Amazing Kidz Academy LLC received $800,000 and Heavenly Daycare and Learning Center Inc. was awarded $200,000 to help more children receive quality education. The funding was made available through the PA Department of Education’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning and will open up 2,960 additional Pre-K Counts slots and provide Head Start with funding to cover the costs of operation. Dawkins said the funding for these programs will go a long way to help reduce quality-of-life issues that plague Philadelphia and the entire commonwealth. " Reducing gun violence, poverty and addiction in our communities begins with a good education before children even get into school, so I'm happy to see this funding for our local Pre-K schools and the opening of additional slots for Head Start through the School District of Philadelphia. The importance of early education is clear, and I appreciate Governor Wolf's administration investing in our children and families," Dawkins said. The funding will assist 37,213 children in accessing affordable Read more

 

State Rep. Regina Young’s Statement on Pa. Budget

(Jul 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Regina Young, D-Phila./Delaware said she is satisfied that the budget includes a large increase in education funding, for the school districts in her legislative district and throughout the commonwealth. William Penn School District received an increase of $4.8 million, a 19% increase from last year’s budget, while Southeast Delco School District gained a $5.6 million increase, which is a 29% increase from the previous year. Philadelphia School District received an increase of $189.3 million, a 14% increase from last year. “I’m happy to see that the budget prioritized education as a fundamental part of our budget,” Young said. “Education is the building block to a sound future, and I’m thankful of my colleagues who helped pass this budget – taking children’s needs into account.” The General Appropriations budget bill must now be passed in the Senate before going to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk for his signature. Read more

 

Solomon passes affordable housing legislation

(Jul 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, July 8 -- This week, the House passed H.B. 581 allowing local taxing authorities to expand access to affordable housing in an unprecedented way, according to state Rep. Jared Solomon, the bill’s sponsor. It was already approved by the Senate on a 50-0 vote. It now goes to the governor for his signature. “For every 100 people who need affordable housing in Pennsylvania, only 42 people will get it,” said Solomon, D-Phila. “In extreme cases, in counties like York and Monroe, only 28 people out of 100 will get the affordable housing they need. In Lancaster, only 19 people. “This is unacceptable. I’m thrilled to have sponsored and passed the affordable housing bill this week. This is a step in the right direction to ensuring every resident of Pennsylvania can have the housing they need to raise their families and comfortably live and work in every one of our 67 counties.” Solomon said the bill benefits residents across the commonwealth because developers will be incentivized to build affordable housing across the state. He said everyone deserves a home they are proud of, and the affordable housing bill creates more access to that. The bill gives local authorities a menu of options to pass tax abatements or exemptions for the creation or improvements of affordable housing, be they for homeownership or rentals. Use of these abatements is entirely up to local policymakers, and in some cases, offers various Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation praises coordinated response of the city on the arrival of first migrant bus sent from Texas
Nov 17, 2022

Cephas to step down as co-chair of the legislative Women’s Health Caucus
Nov 16, 2022

Burgos applauds $4.2 million in grant funding for local projects
Oct 27, 2022

Cephas secures nearly $6 million in grants awarded for local projects
Oct 26, 2022

Fiedler hosts rally for abortion rights on Capitol steps
Oct 24, 2022

Dawkins comments on dismissal of charges against former Philly police officer in 2017 killing of David Jones
Oct 12, 2022

Roxborough alum Malcolm Kenyatta: ‘We are failing our kids’
Oct 04, 2022

Burgos and Guzman call on President Biden to waive a federal law to allow essential fuel shipments to Puerto Rico
Sep 29, 2022

Burgos and Guzman: Joint letter to President Biden calling for immediate action to rescue Puerto Rico
Sep 29, 2022

Isaacson announces legislation on menstrual education in schools
Sep 28, 2022

Dawkins discusses GOP hypocrisy in Krasner impeachment probe
Sep 26, 2022

Guzman and Burgos join efforts to aid people affected by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic
Sep 19, 2022

Kenyatta promotes Philadelphia Health Department Monkeypox Vaccine Interest Form
Sep 09, 2022

Solomon celebrates construction of new park at vacant lot
Aug 25, 2022

Cephas to introduce a bill that would protect homeowners and address racial bias in real estate appraisals
Aug 23, 2022

Cephas condemns shooting outside of Shepard Recreation Center, stands with local leaders to encourage community cooperation
Aug 19, 2022

Cephas applauds $500,000 funding provided by City of Philadelphia to the Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania
Aug 08, 2022

Dawkins applauds grants for Pre-K Counts and Head Start
Aug 02, 2022

State Rep. Regina Young’s Statement on Pa. Budget
Jul 08, 2022

Solomon passes affordable housing legislation
Jul 08, 2022