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

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Dawkins applauds education funding increase in state budget, says more could have been done for gun safety

(Jul 07, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, July 7– Today state Rep. Jason Dawkins, chairman of the House Democratic Philadelphia Delegation, issued the following statement upon passage of the state budget. “I am happy that we were able to come to an agreement so that our schools and services could be funded and not threatened by a protracted and partisan impasse,” Dawkins said. “I am very excited about the historic height in K-12 public education funding. We are talking about a nearly billion-dollar investment of new dollars that goes back to the kids of the commonwealth.” Dawkins applauded that the budget includes a 14% basic education increase for the School District of Philadelphia and an 8% increase for special education. However, he was disappointed that more was not done for gun violence prevention, taking in consideration the large, more than $7 billion surplus on the table at beginning of budget negotiations. “With our large surplus of state tax dollars, more funds should have been allocated to combat the gun violence problem in the city. The funding provided for school safety and mental health in schools is essential, but it’s only a drop in the bucket of what’s truly needed to address the root causes of violence and poverty.” Dawkins also highlighted the fact that the budget approved a childcare tax credit and support for homeowners. “With this state budget investment, people Read more

 

State Rep. Amen Brown calls on Mayor Kenney to step down

(Jul 05, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

After statements made by Mayor Jim Kenney regarding the shooting at the Welcome America festival, state Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., is demanding that the mayor step down because of dereliction of duty. “As someone who made the decision to run for office and be elected by the people, it is his responsibility to do all he can to address the issues plaguing our communities.” Brown said. In an interview after the shooting at the Welcome America festival, Kenney stated that he “can’t wait until he’s not mayor anymore.” Brown said that if the mayor feels that way, he should step down immediately. “Philadelphia is in a state of chaos and lawlessness,” Brown said. “Not everyone has the luxury or privilege to just pick up and leave and go enjoy some stuff. His statement was beyond tone deaf and a slap in the face to the families and communities that have been impacted by gun violence. And, if Mayor Kenney doesn’t want to do his job and lead this city, then he should resign and let someone take the lead that actually cares about what’s happening to our people and wants to see and be a part of change.” Brown maintained that no matter how little time Kenney has left in his term, he should remain dedicated until the end of it. “We need a leader who cares about us, not one who is checked out and lacking empathy.” Brown said. “He Read more

 

Solomon’s PICA renewal legislation passes Senate

(Jul 01, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, July 1 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., said today he worked closely with state Rep. Martina White, R-Phila., and House Minority Leader Joanna McClinton to pass bipartisan legislation to renew the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority Act for Philadelphia. The bill passed the Senate on Thursday and is headed to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk for his signature. Solomon said PICA has been effective in stabilizing the economic health of Philadelphia that led to balanced budgets for 25 years. It borrows funds on the city’s behalf and in exchange, oversees Philadelphia’s finances. “Economic conditions in Philadelphia affect the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Solomon said. “We must renew PICA in order to keep Philadelphia fiscally sound and, as a result, the entire commonwealth will benefit. Today, we all worked together to ensure not only the financial health of Philadelphia but, through transparency, establish trust in the city’s financial decisions from taxpayers and legislators alike.” “This is important legislation that will help the city as it continues to face financial uncertainty with its budget projects and limited choices,” White said. “Philadelphia is an economic engine for our commonwealth, and by renewing the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority, we can ensure that the city continues on the path of economic viability benefitting our residents Read more

 

Solomon's legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of US passes Senate

(Jun 30, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 30 -- The PA Senate has passed legislation introduced by state Reps. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., and Wendi Thomas, R-Bucks, that would set up legacy infrastructure projects for all regions of the commonwealth in anticipation of the 250th birthday of the U.S. in 2026. “We on the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semi quincentennial -- America250PA -- want to both preserve the legacy of our heritage and invest in the commonwealth’s future by repairing, restoring and revitalizing historic state landmarks that do exactly that,” Solomon said. “This legislation would seek to provide the framework and identify valuable projects for all 67 counties in Pennsylvania to celebrate 250 years of excellence.” House Bill 1952 would set the foundation for projects throughout the commonwealth, such as monuments, trails, and veterans memorials that need revitalization, which would both improve our state and commemorate our heritage. “This legislation will engage all the citizens of the Commonwealth, from all 67 counties, in the celebration of America250PA,” Thomas said. “Pennsylvanians will be involved in selecting a lasting project for their region, and in this way be a part of the national celebration while celebrating Pennsylvania’s contribution to the past and the future.” The bill passed the Senate on Thursday and is headed to the governor’s desk to be signed. Read more

 

Dawkins calls on legislature to focus on budget, not personal politics

(Jun 29, 2022) Rep. Jason Dawkins

“We have a state budget due in one day. Let’s focus on that. Let’s focus on getting money to our schools and to our communities. We must end this absurd political theater that’s meant to distract from the real issue – which is that the legislature must do something about gun proliferation and gun violence and not tie the hands of cities like Philadelphia when it comes to enacting sensible gun reforms.” Read more

 

Cephas to introduce bill to help low-income homeowners repair their properties

(Jun 29, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, June 29 – In an effort to support Pennsylvania homeowners who struggle to make expensive property repairs, state Reps. Morgan Cephas and Jordan Harris, both D-Phila., plan to introduce legislation that would address the issue and reduce financial distress for many households. “The state must partner with and empower municipalities to create neighborhood infrastructure repair programs to support the people we serve,” Cephas said. “Our legislation would do that with an investment of state funding and a match in municipality funding.” According to the lawmakers, homeowners are often left responsible for alleyways, sidewalks and other community infrastructure that the public uses, and the repairs and maintenance to these pathways can be overwhelming. They said the legislation would allow applicants whose income falls below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines to have their repair projects fully funded. Those above the threshold could have their portion of the costs spread out over 15 years and applied to their tax bill without interest. “Since the public is using this infrastructure, we can help homeowners make these spaces safe, accessible and built better for future generations.” Read more

 

Brown demands mandatory ID requirement at gun shows to curb unregulated ghost gun sales

(Jun 27, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 27 -- State Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., has called for all attendees to present valid government-issued identification to enter gun shows in Pennsylvania. Brown has proposed this change in the wake of recent mass shootings and the proliferation of unregulated “ghost guns,” such as the one used in the mass shooting on South Street on June 4. The proposal also comes in response to the nonstop gun violence happening in Philadelphia that has been ravaging communities. “I have attended these gun shows, and all the components are available to leave and assemble an unregistered firearm,” Brown stated after attending last week’s gun show in Allentown. “Contrary to what vendors of ghosts gun kits at guns shows say, these are not adult Legos. These ghost guns have a deadly impact on our community, and something needs to be done.” According to Brown, unlike normal handguns, ghost gun kits are unregistered, and can be sold to anyone without any ID. Purchasers assemble the parts themselves. Brown has introduced legislation that would require all attendees at Pennsylvania gun shows to provide ID prior to entry and to require show operators to maintain records of attendees for at least five years. Under Brown’s bill, the records would be made available for review to the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office, as well as to any country prosecutor or municipal police department upon request of the Read more

 

State Rep. Amen Brown decries vandalism at Historic Shofuso House in Fairmount Park and calls for restoration of police district in Fairmount Park

(Jun 20, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., has called for Mayor Kenney to immediately work with Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw to restore the 90th and 92nd Police Districts in East and West Fairmount Park. According to Brown, these districts were eliminated as part of a package of severe budget cuts during the financial crisis of 2008 by then-Mayor Michael Nutter, which also included eliminating libraries and recreation centers. Brown said the time has come for these districts to be restored. "Fairmount Park had dedicated policing and security since the original Park Guard was created in 1868 and consolidated into the Philadelphia Police Department in 1972," Brown said. "These dedicated police patrolled the largest urban park in America and maintained it as an urban oasis for all Philadelphians until severe budget cuts forced the elimination of these Park Police Districts. “The time has come to restore them,” Brown said. Brown said that police were consolidated into neighboring high crime districts, including the 16th and 19th in West Philadelphia, and the 22nd, 23rd and 39th in North Philadelphia, which have no officers to spare for park patrols. This has left the park without any police. "With the elimination of the Park Police Districts, I am not surprised that even after they called to report a $2 million vandalism and burglary, there was no police response,” Brown said. Read more

 

Solomon legislation for PICA Renewal passed by PA House

(Jun 14, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 14 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., said he worked closely with state Rep. Martina White, R-Phila., and House Minority Leader Joanna McClinton to pass bipartisan legislation to renew the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority Act for Philadelphia. PICA was effective in stabilizing the economic health of Philadelphia, which led to balanced budgets for 25 years. “Economic conditions in Philadelphia affect the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Solomon said. “We must renew PICA in order to keep Philadelphia fiscally sound and, as a result, the entire commonwealth will benefit. Today we all worked together to ensure the financial health of Philadelphia.” “Philadelphia is an economic engine for our commonwealth, and by renewing the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority, we can ensure that the city continues on the path of economic viability benefitting our residents and our state,” McClinton said. The bill passed the House on Monday and now moves to the PA Senate for its consideration. Read more

 

Solomon introduces legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of PA

(Jun 13, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 13 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., along with state Rep. Wendi Thomas, R-Bucks, have introduced bipartisan legislation that would set up legacy infrastructure projects for all regions of the commonwealth in anticipation of the 250th birthday of the U.S. in 2026. “We on the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial -- America250PA -- want to both preserve the legacy of our heritage and invest in the commonwealth’s future by repairing, restoring and revitalizing historic state landmarks that do exactly that,” Solomon said. “This legislation would seek to provide the framework and identify valuable projects for all 67 counties in Pennsylvania to celebrate 250 years of excellence.” House Bill 1952 would establish a foundation for projects throughout the commonwealth such as monuments, trails and veteran memorials that need revitalization to both improve the state and commemorate our heritage. “Our 250th birthday celebration will be an important opportunity to show the world the many historic treasures of our Commonwealth as well as our commitment to investing in our future,” Thomas said. “Celebrating by completing these merit-worthy infrastructure projects will engage each region of our Commonwealth in an effort to chart a lasting legacy of our 250th celebration in all 67 counties.” Read more

 

State Rep. Jared Solomon introduces bill to address staff shortages in Philadelphia Police Department

(Jun 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 8 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., introduced legislation that would seek to address the lack of Philadelphia Police Department officers. In 2015, the Philadelphia Police Department had 6,600 sworn officers and 800 civilian personnel, but this year the department is operating with just 5,900 sworn officers and 600 civilian personnel, Solomon said. “Seniors are scared about being in their homes, parents do not feel comfortable having their kids walk to school, and neighbors are frightened to gather at our recreation centers. We must do better, and this is a step in the right direction,” Solomon said. This legislation would create the Retired Police Officer Program, which would allow retired officers to return to work. The requirements would include that the retired officers have exemplary records and be mandated to take a training course. “The reality is we need to be combating gun violence and address community safety on a local level and that starts with protecting our community,” Solomon said. Read more

 

State Rep. Boyle plans June senior fair, free shredding event

(Jun 01, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, June 1 – State Rep. Kevin Boyle, D-Phila./Montgomery, will host a senior fair and a free shredding event in June. The senior fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, June 24 at the Fox Chase Recreation Center, 7901 Ridgeway St., Philadelphia. A variety of constituent services will be available, including help with local and state government programs, and a free lunch will be provided. The shredding event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 25 at Boyle’s district office, 7801 Hasbrook Ave., Philadelphia. Residents of Boyle’s district can help prevent identity theft by bringing their unwanted and outdated documents to be securely shredded. Boyle’s staff will be on hand to answer questions about state government-related services. Residents with questions about either event or who need help with a state government-related service or program may contact Boyle’s office by phone at 215-695-1016. Read more

 

Statement on behalf of PA House Philadelphia Delegation on mass shooting in Texas

(May 25, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

Let us be very clear: the senseless violence we have seen unfold in Texas and Buffalo is the direct result of years of inaction by the government when it comes to commonsense gun reform. While mass shootings are occurring at an extremely alarming rate, some of those in government continue to prevent any gun reform legislation from seeing the light of day. How many families need to be destroyed, how many children’s bodies do we have to step over to see gun reform happen? Representative Rob Kauffman, chair of the House Judiciary Committee, has flat-out stated that if he is in charge, the gun laws in Pennsylvania will never change. Our question for Representative Kauffman is: Why are we as Americans so afraid of having to submit to a background check? Does the right to own a gun trump the right for our children to live happy and safe lives? At what point do we say enough is enough? Read more

 

Parker: Health Equity Funding is Long Overdue

(May 16, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

Pa. state Rep. Darisha Parker joined legislative leaders and healthcare officials to announce state funding to address health equity, including $1 Million for the Black Doctors Consortium Dr. Ala Stanford Center for Health Equity in North Philadelphia. The pandemic laid bare the vast inequities in healthcare for Black and brown communities, which the Black Doctors Consortium worked hard to alleviate. Read more

 

Cephas welcomes return of The Overbrook Night Market along Lancaster Avenue

(May 13, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, May 13?– ? State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D- Phila ., ? joined partners at the return of The Overbrook Night Market in west Philadelphia. Close to ? 10,000 ?area residents and visitors enjoyed an evening of food, fun, family-friendly entertainment, and community resources including a line-up of 30 food truck vendors, a live segment of ? The Realest Podcast Ever , and ? a number of ?health and community resources from partners including Main Line Health, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), Philadelphia Commerce, Independence Blue Cross, Keystone First, Penn Medicine, AETNA and Xfinity. Some local businesses opened their doors to the crowd including many along both the Lancaster Avenue and the 63 rd ?Street business corridors. ? ? The event takes place at the edge of the Overbrook and Overbrook Farms communities, which sit in Cephas’ 192 nd Legislative District and returns to the area after a successful run in 2019 that was followed by two years of shutdowns and restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic. With a focus on supporting community engagement, community and economic development and community health in Read more

 

House passes state Rep. Ed Neilson’s Constable William Davidson Reward Fund legislation

(Apr 26, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, April 26 -- State Rep. Ed Neilson introduced legislation passed by the House today that would establish the Constable William Davidson Reward Fund, which would provide rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals who commit criminal homicide against a law enforcement officer. “There was a 36% increase in law enforcement homicides from the previous year,” Neilson said. “This legislation will serve as a stern warning to anyone who wants to engage in violence against the men and women who protect us daily.” Constable William Davidson was the first law enforcement officer to be killed at a criminal’s hands in Pennsylvania, when he went to serve a warrant and was ambushed by a second man who had intentions of killing the man named on the warrant. Davidson was killed when he encountered the second man, who was subsequently found not guilty by reason of insanity. Neilson said this fund will serve to honor Davidson’s memory and the memory of all law enforcement officers lost in the line of duty. The bill (H.B. 1123) will now move to the Senate for consideration. Read more

 

State Rep. Amen Brown applauds state funding for Arch Street Presbyterian Church

(Apr 26, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., lent his support for a $1 million grant awarded to Arch Street Presbyterian Church and applauds Gov. Tom Wolf for awarding this historical landmark with funding for much needed restoration. “Arch Street Presbyterian Church is a historic landmark – many important people throughout its history have prayed at this church, and I am proud to lend my support for the restoration of this institution that has done so many great things for Philadelphia,” Brown said. The funding will be used for needed renovation and repairs throughout the building including repairs on the dome that graces the top of the building. The funds were awarded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program , a commonwealth grant program overseen by the Office of the Budget to assist with regional cultural, economic, civic and historical projects that improve a community’s economic growth by creating jobs and opportunities. Read more

 

Isaacson announces nearly $6M in state funding for area improvements

(Apr 26, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, April 26 – State grant funding for $5.81 million will help build improvements throughout the river wards and historic Philadelphia, state Rep. Mary Isaacson, D-Philadelphia, said today. The funding, through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, will support critical expansion projects, provide opportunities for job creation and employment training, and community development and revitalization. “Congratulations to all of the projects awarded in the latest round of state funding,” Isaacson said. “The work these organizations put in to their projects reflects so highly on our community – it’s an honor and a privilege to announce their awards. “On behalf of the recipients, I thank Governor Tom Wolf and the administration for seeing the value and wisdom in investing here in our neighborhoods.” The six projects in her 175 th Legislative District are: $815,000 for restoring Pennsylvania's Birthplace: Carpenters' Hall Renovations and Phase 2 Upgrades, awarded to the Carpenters' Company of City and County of Philadelphia. It includes a new perimeter drainage system, new HVAC systems, new utility connections, replacement pavers and roof tiles, new lightning protection, new gutters and flashing, and comprehensive masonry and millwork repairs. Together, these improvements will extend the life expectancy of Carpenters' Hall for another century of service. Read more

 

Young secures $7 million for FDR Park, Navy Yard projects

(Apr 25, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, April 25 – State Rep. Regina Young, D-Phila./Delaware, today announced that her district will receive $7 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants. “I’m ready to put your tax dollars back to work on redevelopment projects that matter deeply to you,” Young said. “I’m most excited about the improvements coming to FDR Park, and with this funding, we are sure to get a state-of-the-art welcome center and over 30 acres of majestic wetlands. In addition, Navy Yard and Philly Shipyard workers should see safety and training facility upgrades to help them feel protected on the job. These improvements will drastically improve many of our daily lives.” The program grants will be distributed to: Fairmount Park Conservancy for Phase II of the Welcome Center at FDR Park. This $2 million project will convert a historic stable and guardhouse into a public-facing welcome center. The 5,500-square-foot guardhouse will be renovated into shared co-working space for community organizations that deliver park programming; the 3,600-square-foot courtyard into a one-stop shop for park users with restrooms, a staffed information center, and equipment rentals; and the 4,000- square-foot stables restored into a cafe and 6,700-square-foot event space overlooking Pattison Lagoon. These include utilities, such as new water, wastewater, electric, and data lines. The City of Read more

 

Young announces $500,000 for Philadelphia International Airport

(Apr 25, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, April 25 – State Rep. Regina Young, D-Phila./Delaware, today announced that the Philadelphia International Airport will receive $500,000 from the PA Department of Transportation for rehabilitation of baggage tug tunnels for safer, timely and streamlined baggage operations. “PHL is among the very best airports in the United States, and I’m working to keep it that way,” Young said. “Any way that we can help make sure everyone saves time at the airport means we are saving money as well. These upgrades will provide efficiencies to make sure everyone receives the correct baggage on time, giving employees and customers less headaches.” The project is part of $10 million awarded from the Aviation Transportation Assistance Program. Pennsylvania has 121 public-use aviation facilities including airports, heliports and seaplane bases, and these new investments will expand aviation-related operational and economic opportunities statewide. More information is available by contacting Young’s district office at 215-952-3376 or visit the PennDOT website : https://www.penndot.pa.gov/Doing-Business/Aviation/Pages/default.aspx . ### Read more

 

Dawkins applauds education funding increase in state budget, says more could have been done for gun safety
Jul 07, 2022

State Rep. Amen Brown calls on Mayor Kenney to step down
Jul 05, 2022

Solomon’s PICA renewal legislation passes Senate
Jul 01, 2022

Solomon's legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of US passes Senate
Jun 30, 2022

Dawkins calls on legislature to focus on budget, not personal politics
Jun 29, 2022

Cephas to introduce bill to help low-income homeowners repair their properties
Jun 29, 2022

Brown demands mandatory ID requirement at gun shows to curb unregulated ghost gun sales
Jun 27, 2022

State Rep. Amen Brown decries vandalism at Historic Shofuso House in Fairmount Park and calls for restoration of police district in Fairmount Park
Jun 20, 2022

Solomon legislation for PICA Renewal passed by PA House
Jun 14, 2022

Solomon introduces legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of PA
Jun 13, 2022

State Rep. Jared Solomon introduces bill to address staff shortages in Philadelphia Police Department
Jun 08, 2022

State Rep. Boyle plans June senior fair, free shredding event
Jun 01, 2022

Statement on behalf of PA House Philadelphia Delegation on mass shooting in Texas
May 25, 2022

Parker: Health Equity Funding is Long Overdue
May 16, 2022

Cephas welcomes return of The Overbrook Night Market along Lancaster Avenue
May 13, 2022

House passes state Rep. Ed Neilson’s Constable William Davidson Reward Fund legislation
Apr 26, 2022

State Rep. Amen Brown applauds state funding for Arch Street Presbyterian Church
Apr 26, 2022

Isaacson announces nearly $6M in state funding for area improvements
Apr 26, 2022

Young secures $7 million for FDR Park, Navy Yard projects
Apr 25, 2022

Young announces $500,000 for Philadelphia International Airport
Apr 25, 2022