Rep. Jordan Harris' Biography
Jordan A. Harris, a dedicated advocate and seasoned legislator, serves the Commonwealth as the House Majority Appropriations Chairman, and serves his community in the 186th Legislative District of South and Southwest Philadelphia since his election in 2012. Rising through the ranks, his career includes two historic milestones: being elected Democratic Caucus Whip in 2018 and, several years later, Democratic Appropriations Chair for the 2023-24 session, making him the first African American in Pennsylvania history to hold both prestigious positions. Today, as Chairman of the powerful Appropriations Committee, he plays a pivotal role in negotiating the state budget and determining how taxpayer dollars are invested across the Commonwealth, further solidifying his influence in shaping Pennsylvania’s future.
Harris, a native of South Philadelphia, earned his bachelor’s degree in Government and Political Affairs from Millersville University, a master's degree in Education from Cabrini College, and pursued a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership at Neumann University. Before his political career, he dedicated himself to the advancement of children and youth in the Philadelphia School District as an educator and led Philadelphia's Youth Commission as Executive Director.
Renowned for his national leadership in criminal justice reform, Harris co-authored Pennsylvania’s Clean Slate Law — a groundbreaking achievement recognized as the nation’s first automatic record-sealing model for certain criminal records.
In December of 2023, the latest expansion to Pennsylvania’s Clean Slate 3.0 Law was signed into law after passing both chambers of the legislature on a bipartisan basis. The expansion includes sealing details in certain low-level, nonviolent felony drug crimes after 10 years without another misdemeanor or felony conviction. This groundbreaking legislation, enacted in 2018, has since sealed over 55 million records in Pennsylvania and has become a national model, helping to remove barriers to employment, housing, and education for millions of Pennsylvanians who have served their time and are striving to move forward.
Recognized for his impactful work, Harris has received numerous accolades, including being named among Philadelphia Magazine's “Philadelphia’s 150 Most Influential Philadelphians” and City & State Pennsylvania’s “The 2025 Pennsylvania Power 100”. He continues to be honored for his contributions, receiving awards such as the Odunde365 Community Service Award and the Allegheny College Prize for Civility in Public Life, and most recently received an honorary doctorate in Political Science from Harcum College.
Beyond his legislative duties, Harris remains actively involved in community organizations, serving on various boards.
A proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Nu Sigma Chapter, and Cephas Lodge #98 of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Harris exemplifies dedication to public service and commitment to improving the lives of others.