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PLBC announces Crystal Bird Fauset Award honorees

(1 day ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 9 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus has announced four honorees for the 2026 Crystal Bird Fauset Award, which recognizes the contributions of Black women as leaders across Pennsylvania. This year’s honorees include: Ciera Dent , Mayor of Steelton Borough Marita Garrett , former Mayor of Wilkinsburg Borough and current CEO, Civically Inc. La Tasha Williams , Judge of the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas Jamila Winder , Montgomery County Board of Commissioners Chair “These phenomenal leaders embody the spirit of service, resilience and dedication to justice and opportunity for all,” said state Rep. Napoleon Nelson, D-Montgomery, Chair of the PLBC. “Their work continues to inspire the next generation of changemakers and reflects the powerful legacy of public leadership in our communities.” The award is named for former Rep. Crystal Bird Fauset, who was the first Black female state legislator elected in the United States. The award honorees will be recognized online on March 26. The event will be streamed on the PLBC Facebook account . Read more

 

PA House Democratic leaders' statement on PSP trooper death

(1 day ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, MARCH 9 – Pennsylvania House Democratic Leaders today issued the following statement on the tragic death in the line of duty of Pennsylvania State Police Cpl. Timothy O’Connor: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Pennsylvania State Police Cpl. Timothy O'Connor, who was killed during a traffic stop in Chester County. Our hearts are with his wife, child and loved ones, and all PA State Police troopers. We are eternally grateful for the service of our law enforcement, who put their lives at risk every day to keep us safe.” ### Read more

 

Venkat and Powell to introduce legislation to create exemption for state ID renewal fees

(1 day ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 9 – Many older Pennsylvanians face health conditions that make it unsafe for them to continue driving, which often leads them to surrender their driver’s licenses and receive a free state photo identification card. However, subsequent renewals of these cards include a fee, which state Reps. Arvind Venkat and Lindsay Powell , both D-Allegheny, intend to remedy. The Pittsburgh-area legislators plan to introduce legislation that would exempt Pennsylvanians age 65 or older that have surrendered their driver’s license for medical reasons from the fees associated with renewing their state photo ID. “Giving up a driver’s license can be difficult, especially when it is due to a medical condition,” said Venkat. “We do not need to add an extra cost for seniors during this challenging situation. This legislation will allow older Pennsylvanians to make the responsible decision to surrender their license without the burden of additional financial hardship.” “When many of our older neighbors live on fixed incomes, we should not be charging them unreasonable fees that could go toward health care, groceries, transportation, or any other costs they may have,” said Powell. The current fee to renew a photo ID, as of July 2025 , is $44.50. Over 20% of Pennsylvanians — nearly 2.6 million people — are aged 65 or older, one of the highest shares in the Read more

 

House Energy Committee advances two bills strengthening transparency and community protections related to data centers

(Mar 06, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 6 - On Monday, the House Energy Committee, chaired by state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., advanced H.B. 2150 and H.B. 2151. If enacted, these bills would strengthen transparency and protections for communities navigating nearby data center proposals.Fiedler said major tech companies have ushered in the explosive growth of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and video streaming within the last five years, resulting in a data center development boom. Communities across Pennsylvania are now grappling with proposals from developers to site data centers, which require a tremendous amount of energy and water. Read more

 

Ciresi & Haddock call for gas price hike investigations

(Mar 05, 2026) Rep. Joseph Ciresi, Rep. Jim Haddock

“As soon as the first bomb struck in Iran, gas stations across our state hiked up their prices, not even batting an eye to the fact that the gas in their tanks were already bought and paid for. Now, Pennsylvanians will have to figure out not only how to put food on the table, but how to get to the grocery store in the first place – and this is after costs have been rising faster than worker pay. Read more

 

Krueger: $20,000 to address food insecurity at Neumann University

(Mar 05, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

BROOKHAVEN, March 5 – The Pennsylvania Department of Education has awarded a $20,000 grant to combat student hunger at Neumann University in Aston, state Rep. Leanne Krueger, D-Delaware, announced today. Krueger said the grant will be used to expand access to food options, create food insecurity awareness initiatives, and upgrade facilities. “Too often, students facing food insecurity keep their struggle private, or don’t know where to turn when they’re trying to balance hunger with the demands – and costs – of their studies,” said Krueger. “When college campuses offer easy-access programs and resources to address food insecurity, these students can get the support they need without worrying about the stigma sometimes associated with it.” Neumann University is one of 30 institutions receiving a grant through the PA Hunger-Free Campus program. All of the recipients are members of the Hunger-Free Campus Initiative, a coalition of Pennsylvania institutions of higher education working to address student hunger and other basic needs. The PA Hunger-Free Campus program is part of PDE’s PA EmpowerU , a statewide student-success and basic needs initiative built around eight keystones that represent the full spectrum of what students need to succeed, including financial stability, housing security, food access, transportation support, mental Read more

 

Democrats draw line on dynamic pricing for essential goods

(Mar 04, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“When working families are counting every dollar, unpredictable prices are not innovation – they’re instability,” said Rep. Mary Isaacson, who co-hosted the hearing and represents portions of Philadelphia. “AI-enabled pricing puts consumers and working families at an extreme disadvantage, all in the name of corporate greed.” Read more

 

Rep. Venkat concerned about Point giving financial inducements for testimony

(Mar 04, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 4 – During a House Commerce Committee hearing today on bipartisan legislation that would regulate Shared Appreciation Agreements, state Rep. Arvind Venkat, D-Allegheny, expressed outrage over the solicitation of testimony against the legislation through financial inducements. Point, a company that markets Shared Appreciation Agreements, emailed customers before the meeting with the promise of $50 Amazon gift cards if they submitted a testimonial in opposition to H.B. 2120 , introduced by Venkat to regulate these agreements. This solicitation and the subsequent testimonials submitted by Point came without notice to the Commerce Committee. “These actions by Point are intended to mislead the members of this committee and the people of Pennsylvania by incentivizing a particular viewpoint for financial gain,” said Venkat. “This is an outrageous corruption of the legislative process. House Bill 2120 serves to provide consumer protections for homeowners to preserve and understand the value of their most valuable asset—their home. “What Point has done raises significant questions about its credibility as a company, as a participant in the deliberations on this legislation, and about the nature and quality of its product. If it is not transparent with lawmakers, how can we believe it is transparent with its customers? I will continue to use my authority as a legislator to ensure homeowners are Read more

 

Grant Memo: School Bus Safety, Recreation Facilities, Recycling, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Mar 04, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Learn more about the most recent grant programs that are open for applications. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El, Rivera announce job fair, record-clearing session

(Mar 03, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

LANCASTER, March 3 – Building on their commitment to expanding opportunity for justice--involved residents, state Reps. Ismail Smith-Wade-El and Nikki Rivera, both D-Lancaster, today announced two upcoming community events to connect Lancaster County residents with fair-chance employers and provide guidance on record-clearing processes. The first event, a Community Job Event , will take place Tuesday, March 24, at the Lancaster Public Library. The job fair will bring together local employers and support organizations committed to second-chance hiring, creating a welcoming space for individuals seeking employment despite prior court involvement. In addition to job opportunities, attendees will be able to connect with community partners offering resources to support long-term career success. Date: Tuesday, March 24 Time: 2 to 6 p.m. Location: Lancaster Public Library, 151 N. Queen St. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to rebuild their lives,” Smith-Wade-El said. “By connecting people to employers who recognize the value of second chances, we can help strengthen families and our community.” Rivera emphasized the importance of accessibility and awareness: “This event demonstrates our shared commitment to breaking down barriers and expanding economic opportunities for all residents of Lancaster. We want to ensure that justice-involved Read more

 

Krueger: Let’s end the demand for trafficked animal parts in PA

(Mar 03, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

BROOKHAVEN, March. 3 – In observance of World Wildlife Day, state Rep. Leanne Krueger today offered the following statement on the trafficking of wild animal parts and her legislation, H.B. 994, which would prohibit the purchase and sale of animal parts from imperiled species in Pennsylvania: “When we hear that over 15,000 elephants are poached in Africa each year for their ivory, or that all five species of rhino are endangered because of demand for their horns, we want to be part of the solution, not the problem. “Internationally and nationally, wildlife advocates have worked for decades to end the demand for wild animal parts from imperiled species, most notably ivory from elephant tusks and rhino horns. The creation and sale of these products exist solely to make money; there is no ‘pro’ argument when it comes to the slaughter of protected species. “Unfortunately, existing national and state laws don’t do enough to curb the demand for trafficked animal parts. Under the Federal Endangered Species Act and current Pennsylvania state law, the sale of animal parts from endangered or threatened species is illegal, but there are loopholes that allow some sellers to trade legally. Compared to other states, Pennsylvania’s current regulations are weak. We have a duty to protect at-risk species from poaching, and we have a duty to protect our residents from unknowingly Read more

 

Krueger and colleagues unveil new fully accessible restroom in Pa. State Capitol Complex

(Mar 03, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 3 – Individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities visiting the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex now have access to an accommodating restroom in the building’s East Wing, state Rep. Leanne Krueger, D-Delaware, announced this morning. “I’m proud to be here with my colleagues, with members of our leadership staff and with the advocates who fought from day one to officially cut the ribbon,” said Krueger. “Our Capitol is not only a workplace but also a landmark full of art, architecture, and history. With the addition of this restroom, more people, of all abilities, will be able to find ease and comfort in visiting.” Accessibility advocates initiated the project with former state Rep. Dan Miller, who resigned his position in December when he was elected to serve as a county judge. Krueger, the PA House Democratic Caucus, and advocacy groups continued the work after his departure. The new restroom is located near 2 East Wing and the Capitol Media Center on the ground floor of the building and includes the following equipment: A lift track system and hoist. An adult-rated changing table with adjustable height. An easy-raise, assisted-lift toilet seat. A height adjustable sink. Krueger was joined at the ceremony by House colleagues Reps. Abigail Salisbury and Joe Hohenstein; Read more

 

Universal Pre-K helps economy, children and parents

(Mar 03, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“Universal pre-K is one of the smartest investments Pennsylvania can make,” said state Rep. Tarik Khan, who represents part of Philadelphia and co-hosted the hearing. “In Philadelphia, we’ve already seen that high-quality pre-K improves children’s focus, self-control and early literacy. And we know pre-K boosts graduation rates, expands access to better-paying careers, reduces involvement in the criminal justice system and helps parents stay in the workforce. We intend to do more smart things in Pennsylvania, like investing early, where the returns are strongest. The benefits won’t just help kids next year. They will strengthen our commonwealth for decades.” Read more

 

PA House committees hold meeting on protecting local governments from cyberthreats

(Feb 26, 2026) Rep. Joseph Ciresi, Rep. Robert L. Freeman

The goal of the meeting was for the two committees to gain a broad understanding of the increasing prevalence of cyber incidents and the threats they pose to American government and society from the federal to the local level, recent attacks on critical infrastructure, the ownership landscape of national infrastructure, the changing technology of cybersecurity including artificial intelligence (AI) and post-quantum cryptography, the unique cybersecurity needs of local governmental entities of various types and sizes, and recommended best practices. Read more

 

Violence Prevention, Recreation Facilities, Mental Health, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Feb 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Learn more about the latest grant programs. Read more

 

Matzie applauds Zerfuss, PUC action on rail safety

(Feb 23, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Feb. 23 – State Rep. Rob Matzie today praised the Pennsylvania Utility Commission’s decision to review its rail safety regulations, saying the commission will consider some of the same safety measures in Matzie’s own rail safety bill that passed the House. The PUC’s action on Friday granting a motion for proposed rulemaking , offered by Commissioner Kathryn Zerfuss, mirrors Matzie’s call for stronger state regulation of rail safety, a move he says is needed in the absence of better federal oversight. “I applaud Commissioner Zerfuss and the PUC for taking the reins on rail safety, and I’m glad the commission plans to focus on some of the same reporting, oversight and equipment issues I call for in my rail safety legislation,” said Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus. “With thousands of miles of rail running through our region and federal regulations falling short, time is of the essence. We can’t afford to wait for another East Palestine.” Matzie said that PUC’s experts will review rail safety regulations with respect to five areas, including the proper functioning of wayside detectors – trackside sensors that warn when train cars are overheating because of problems that can cause derailment. That equipment is one focus of Matzie’s H.B. 1191 , which was adopted by the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Read more

 

Matzie: PIAA board made ‘the right decision’ in moving Aliquippa Football to Class 3A for next two years

(Feb 19, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Feb. 19 – State Rep. Rob Matzie issued the following statement regarding yesterday’s vote by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association board to reclassify the Aliquippa High School football program: “I’ve just been informed that the PIAA Board has voted to move Aliquippa Football to Class 3A for the next two years. “While the specifics of the determination haven’t been released, I’m pleased the board made the right decision after several attempts pleading the case. “I have shared the opinion of the Aliquippa School District that decisions related to the competitive balance formula should use actual enrollment and view each transfer on a case-by-case basis rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. “The study that I requested the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to perform of the PIAA and its competitive balance formula is expected to be released this spring. “I will always stand up for kids in my district and students all across Pennsylvania. The results of this ruling have always been about fairness and the health and safety of the kids.” Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El celebrates release of Pa.’s first comprehensive housing plan

(Feb 13, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

LANCASTER, Feb. 13 – A longtime advocate for housing rights of Pennsylvanians, state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, issued the following statement about the release of Pennsylvania’s first comprehensive Housing Action Plan to address the commonwealth’s housing crisis. "Housing is a human right and a matter of justice, and the Shapiro administration’s housing action plan will help working Pennsylvanians achieve the American dream — a home of their own — by building more housing and cutting red tape to make housing more affordable. “The Housing Action Plan strongly supports renters’ rights, and I am grateful that it includes my legislative plan to seal eviction records for people who were not actually evicted. This step will ensure fair housing access for many and protect whole communities in Pennsylvania. “I am also glad that the Housing Action Plan addresses the legacies of racism in homeownership in Pennsylvania that is the primary driver for the racial wealth divide. While White homeownership was 72% in 2023 nationally, the homeownership rate for people of color was 45% . As homeownership is the biggest key to wealth accumulation , the Housing Action Plan to close the equity gap for minority homeownership by 25% will in turn also reduce the racial wealth divide in Pennsylvania. “Pennsylvania’s families deserve access to safe and affordable housing, and this Housing Action Plan Read more

 

Guzman to host annual Black History Month Celebration

(Feb 12, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

READING, Feb. 12 — State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, announced today that he will host his annual Black History Month Celebration at the WCR Center for the Arts from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18. This free event will honor the enduring legacy and significant contributions of the Black community while providing an opportunity for engagement, and community pride. “This annual event is growing in the heart of our community, and I could not be prouder,” said Guzman. “The event honors remarkable individuals across the district and provides a meaningful space for connection, reflection and empowerment,” he added. Guzman said that this year, he will honor 32 community leaders, including religious figures, government officials, educators, and business owners. “This celebration will be a vibrant event showcasing culture, history and pride, reminding us all of the power of dedication, resilience and shared progress.” A key component of the festivities is that Guzman’s staff will be available to provide information about state programs and services that support families across Reading and Berks County. For more information, residents may contact Guzman’s office at 610-376-1529. Read more

 

Pair of Briggs bills signed into law

(Feb 12, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Feb. 12– Legislation introduced by state Rep. Tim Briggs to strengthen Pennsylvania’s judicial system and shield Commonwealth agencies from burdensome federal litigation tactics was signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Josh Shapiro. House Bills 331 and 1934 are designed to improve the administration of justice, increase transparency and accountability, and ensure the responsible use of taxpayer resources. “Both bills tackle important challenges in our legal system,” Briggs said. “House Bill 331 enhances court operations and oversight of justice-related funding, while House Bill 1934 shields state agencies from unnecessary and costly legal burdens. Together, they promote fairness, efficiency, and accountability across the Commonwealth.” House Bill 331 (Act 1 of 2026) introduces targeted reforms to improve justice administration and oversight of judicial and legal aid funds. It includes three main provisions: Judicial training: Allows the court system to cover the $400 annual registration fee for special court judges. Court technology: Redirects local court fees to enhance statewide court technology, without reducing county funding, generating about $7.5 million through 2028. Access-to-justice funding transparency: Requires an independent audit of the Access to Justice Fund to verify proper use of funds and identify ways to expand legal services. Read more

 

PLBC announces Crystal Bird Fauset Award honorees
1 day ago

PA House Democratic leaders' statement on PSP trooper death
1 day ago

Venkat and Powell to introduce legislation to create exemption for state ID renewal fees
1 day ago

House Energy Committee advances two bills strengthening transparency and community protections related to data centers
Mar 06, 2026

Ciresi & Haddock call for gas price hike investigations
Mar 05, 2026

Krueger: $20,000 to address food insecurity at Neumann University
Mar 05, 2026

Democrats draw line on dynamic pricing for essential goods
Mar 04, 2026

Rep. Venkat concerned about Point giving financial inducements for testimony
Mar 04, 2026

Grant Memo: School Bus Safety, Recreation Facilities, Recycling, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Mar 04, 2026

Smith-Wade-El, Rivera announce job fair, record-clearing session
Mar 03, 2026

Krueger: Let’s end the demand for trafficked animal parts in PA
Mar 03, 2026

Krueger and colleagues unveil new fully accessible restroom in Pa. State Capitol Complex
Mar 03, 2026

Universal Pre-K helps economy, children and parents
Mar 03, 2026

PA House committees hold meeting on protecting local governments from cyberthreats
Feb 26, 2026

Violence Prevention, Recreation Facilities, Mental Health, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Feb 24, 2026

Matzie applauds Zerfuss, PUC action on rail safety
Feb 23, 2026

Matzie: PIAA board made ‘the right decision’ in moving Aliquippa Football to Class 3A for next two years
Feb 19, 2026

Smith-Wade-El celebrates release of Pa.’s first comprehensive housing plan
Feb 13, 2026

Guzman to host annual Black History Month Celebration
Feb 12, 2026

Pair of Briggs bills signed into law
Feb 12, 2026