Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus | News Center

News Center

House passes bill to protect disability accommodations under Right-to-Know Law

(Mar 25, 2026) Rep. Liz Hanbidge

“This legislation closes a gap in the law and protects individuals who rely on assistive tools to perform their duties,” Hanbidge said. “No one should have to worry that using a device or accommodation to participate fully in public service could expose sensitive or personal information.” Read more

 

Advocates speak out in support of Smith-Wade-El, Neilson’s Legionnaires’ disease legislation

(Mar 25, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 25 – Patient advocates, disease experts, and water management officials joined state Reps. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, and Ed Neilson, D-Phila., at a news conference Monday at the Capitol in support of the legislators’ H.B. 2085, which is aimed at stopping the spread of a severe type of pneumonia, Legionnaires’ disease, that is on the rise in Pennsylvania. The disease is caused by Legionella bacteria, which are found in freshwater, including water that supplies public water systems. Disease symptoms include high fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, headaches, and diarrhea. Smokers, the elderly, those with asthma, and those with chronic lung disease or suppressed immune systems are particularly vulnerable to the disease. “Pennsylvania has one of the highest rates of Legionnaires’ infection and illness in the country, with case rates increasing over 65% over a five-year period and claiming 10% of the lives of those infected, according to the CDC,” Smith-Wade-El said. “It’s time for Pennsylvania to step up to protect its residents’ water sources, so we’ve introduced legislation that would require government agencies, public water systems and some building owners to maintain new minimum standards to better prevent, detect, and control cases of Legionnaires’ disease.” At the press conference, Neilson spoke about his personal experience contracting the disease and Gwen Read more

 

Bill would tie Pennsylvania lawmakers’ salaries to minimum wage

(Mar 25, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — Each year, no matter what they’ve accomplished in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania lawmakers get a raise.State law has required a yearly increase since 1995 as a way to prevent lawmakers from enriching themselves. The increase is based on an annual cost-of-living-adjustment that matches the federal consumer inflation figure for mid-Atlantic urban areas.Last year, that meant a 3.25% increase — making the $113,500 annual salary the highest in the nation for full-time lawmakers.Pennsylvania’s minimum wage, which has sat at $7.25 since 2009, is the lowest in the nation.Rep. Emilky Kinkead (D-Allegheny) and Rep. G. Roni Green (D-Philadelphia) want to change that by tying lawmakers’ salaries to the state’s lowest-paid workers. The two proposed a bill this week that would require the state’s minimum wage to rise at the same rate as salaries in the General Assembly. Read more

 

Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus Launched in Harrisburg

(Mar 25, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Republican and Democratic lawmakers launched the Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus today in Harrisburg.Pennsylvania ranks 11th in the nation for most reported cases on the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Shared Hope International, an anti-sex trafficking advocacy group, gave the commonwealth an “F” on their 2025 reportcard.“Government is chaotic right now. Everywhere, including here, let’s be honest. But when we can focus on a singular goal to ensure that we are working towards reestablishing that dignity and humanity– It shows up like this,” said Rep. Regina Young, a Democrat for parts of Philadelphia and Delaware counties. Read more

 

Pa. lawmakers announce caucus to fight human trafficking

(Mar 25, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

State lawmakers have launched a bipartisan caucus focused on combatting human trafficking. The goal is to facilitate passing legislation to address the issue, according to a statement issued following a news conference to promote the eight-person panel. Read more

 

Pennsylvania lawmakers launch first Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus

(Mar 25, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — Pennsylvania ranks as one of the top states for human trafficking, and a new bipartisan caucus looks to squash the crime. Lawmakers from both the House and Senate gather Tuesday in Harrisburg to launch the Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus, the first of its kind in the United States. Battling human trafficking has brought Republicans and Democrats, House and Senate, together. It’s an uncomfortable topic that most in society avoid, lawmakers fear, which helps bad actors get away with an estimated $150 billion a year worldwide crime.“From my perspective on this, trying to avoid another Epstein situation,” said Rep. Danilo Burgos (D-Philadelphia).“The more we work together, the better the outcome for people, “said State Rep. Regina Young (D-Philadelphia/Delaware). “Because once again, regardless of the titles, we are all people serving people.” Read more

 

First-ever data center regulations in Pennsylvania history pass House

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 24 – On Tuesday, the PA House passed H.B. 1834, legislation that would create the first-ever regulatory framework for data centers in Pennsylvania. The bill is a multifaceted response that would protect ratepayers from even higher utility bills, increase the construction of renewable energy, and fund low-income energy assistance programs. The bill was introduced by state Rep. Robert Matzie, D-Beaver.Pennsylvania has become a site of interest for widespread data center development, yet the Commonwealth currently has no statewide standards for data centers and lacks oversight of these facilities.As a result, ratepayers are often left footing the bill for upgrades to grid infrastructure required by large-load projects like data centers. The immense amount of energy needed to power data centers is also a major driver of rising energy prices, which have increased faster than inflation over the past six years. Consequently, one in six Pennsylvania families are struggling to keep up with their bills, and utility shutoffs rose 38% in 2025. Read more

 

PA House passes Dawkins' bill to raise minimum wage

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 24 – Today, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives voted to pass comprehensive legislation to raise the minimum wage for workers across the state. House Bill 2189 , sponsored by state Rep. Jason Dawkins, would increase the statewide minimum wage from $7.25 per hour to $11 per hour, effective Jan. 1, 2027. The minimum wage would then increase to $13 per hour in 2028 and $15 per hour in 2029, followed by annual cost-of-living adjustments. In addition, the bill would give counties the option to implement a $15-per-hour wage sooner and set the minimum wage for tipped employees at 60% of the statewide minimum wage. “It’s been my mission to provide a living wage for all working Pennsylvanians, and this bill passing the House is a huge step forward in that mission,” Dawkins said. “If you work hard, you shouldn’t have to worry about your next meal or having a roof over your head. Pennsylvania needs a minimum wage suitable for everyone, not just to survive, but to thrive in our state.” The last time Pennsylvania raised its minimum wage was in 2009, when the federal minimum wage increased to $7.25 per hour. Since that time, all neighboring states have raised their wages and inflation has increased more than 50%, all while Pennsylvania has remained stagnant. “Research shows that increasing the minimum wage does not lead to job losses or business Read more

 

Pa. House OK’s Probst plan to extend veterans tax exemption

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Tarah Probst

"This is a vital step in expanding access to property tax relief and ensuring no eligible veteran or surviving spouse is left behind,” Probst said. Read more

 

Burns’ American-made flag bill advances in House

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

A bipartisan bill sponsored by state Rep. Frank Burns that would require all American flags purchased and displayed by the commonwealth to be made in America cleared a key legislative hurdle today. Read more

 

Pennsylvania House passes Matzie bill to protect utility consumers from data center-driven rate hikes

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 24 – With the commonwealth seeing a sharp rise in data center development, the Pennsylvania House today passed legislation introduced by state Rep. Rob Matzie that would ensure the centers’ massive energy demands do not drive up Pennsylvanians’ electricity bills. Matzie, who is chair of the House Majority Caucus, said he introduced H.B. 1834 so the state can get the right regulatory framework in place now, as proposals for new data centers continue to mount. “Normally, if an electric company adds poles and wires or equipment, we all share in the costs. That’s because it’s making the delivery system better for all of us,” Matzie said. “That’s not the case with data centers. No one’s electric bill should ever go up because a data center has located in Pennsylvania, but we need to plan ahead to make sure that doesn’t happen. “It’s possible to protect ratepayers while still allowing the commonwealth to reap the tremendous economic benefits data centers can bring. Those goals are not mutually exclusive – as long as we get the right regulatory framework in place. My bill would do that.” Matzie said his bill would: Make sure that all costs incurred by data centers to get their electricity is paid for by them – not households and small businesses. Require data centers to contribute to universal service programs and supplement Read more

 

Transportation Committee OKs Freeman bill to allow roadside assistance vehicles to use blue safety lights

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Robert L. Freeman

"It is important that roadside assistance vehicles be provided the same opportunity to operate blue safety lights as they carry out their often-hazardous duties in aiding stranded motorists along Pennsylvania roads and highways,” Freeman said. Read more

 

Shusterman, Davis honor Mae Krier, Rosie the Riveter Day

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 24 – State Reps. Melissa Shusterman and Tina Davis honored Bristol resident Mae Krier, a trailblazing member of the “Rosie the Riveter” generation, in celebration of her 100th birthday and her lifelong advocacy on behalf of women who supported the nation during World War II. The recognition took place in conjunction with H.R. 385, which designated March 21, 2026, as “Rosie the Riveter Day” in Pennsylvania. The resolution commemorated the millions of American women who entered the workforce during World War II to support the war effort, filling critical roles in manufacturing, industry, and military support services. These women, many of whom lived and worked across Pennsylvania, played a vital role in securing victory and reshaping the nation’s workforce. “It is my honor to recognize Rosie the Riveter Day here in Pennsylvania,” Shusterman said. “Mae Krier's tireless advocacy for the Rosies to receive the accolades they deserve has always been inspiring to me. At a time when some people are attempting to erase our shared history, it is more important than ever to elevate all the trailblazers and women who have come before us.” Davis emphasized the importance of recognizing both Krier’s legacy and the broader impact of the Rosie the Riveter generation. “Mae Krier represents the very best of this Read more

 

Williams’ bill ensuring juvenile protections on federal property unanimously passes PA House

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Legislation introduced by state Rep. Dan Williams to ensure juveniles on military bases are handled through the appropriate state juvenile justice systems unanimously passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today. Read more

 

Matzie: Newly released study recommends changes to PIAA policies

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 24 – The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association should update its policies to better protect student athletes participating in competitions, according to the newly released findings of a legislative study requested by state Rep. Rob Matzie. Matzie, who is chair of the House Majority Caucus and the longest-serving member of the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee, called on the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct the study based on concerns that PIAA’s system of classifying schools for competition puts student athletes at risk by forcing them to compete against wealthier schools with bigger budgets and larger rosters. “The study’s findings and recommendations demonstrate the need for updated PIAA policies relative to how transfers are monitored and adjudicated, where and how certain private, charter, and co-op schools get their student athletes, and how championship sites are determined,” Matzie said. “This vindicates the questions I’ve raised over the past several years, especially in regard to the treatment of the Aliquippa School District.” Matzie said the report recommends that PIAA: establish a statewide body to independently record, monitor and adjudicate student-athlete transfers among member schools. revise its policy for feeder schools, which pipeline Read more

 

Salisbury bill to preserve tree canopy advances from committee

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Abigail Salisbury

HARRISBURG, March 24 – Legislation introduced by state Rep. Abigail Salisbury to help preserve a healthy tree canopy for Pennsylvania’s communities has advanced from committee, sending the bill to the full House for consideration. Salisbury’s H.B. 2161 , which was approved by the House Environmental and Natural Resource Protection Committee, would require utility companies to plant a new tree for each one they cut down. “I introduced this bill after residents and environmental advocates in our district expressed concerns that trees were being removed entirely, instead of simply being pruned or trimmed,” Salisbury said. “Maintaining a healthy tree canopy is essential for communities because it reduces stormwater runoff and air pollution, provides shade that lowers energy costs, raises property values and increases pedestrian traffic for local businesses, among other benefits. “Monday’s committee action moved us a step closer to making sure those benefits continue.” Salisbury’s legislation would require electric utilities that cut down a tree to offer to plant a new one within two years in a location of the municipality’s choice. Salisbury said that the bill would align tree removal by utility companies with existing regulations that require utilities to repair damage caused by work that requires excavation or other projects that involve Read more

 

Kinkead, Green unveil bill tying legislator COLA to minimum wage increases

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Emily Kinkead, Rep. Roni Green

Automatic, annual minimum wage bump at same rate of lawmaker pay raises Read more

 

House Majority Appropriations Chairman Jordan A. Harris Introduces 2026-27 State Budget Proposal Focused on Affordability and Accountability

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Jordan A. Harris

This budget reflects our commitment to making everyday life more affordable while also delivering on the promises we’ve made to our communities. It prioritizes investments in public education, workforce development, and the services that help people stay safe, healthy and financially stable. Read more

 

Conklin resolution calls on state to study feasibility of senior property tax exemption

(Mar 23, 2026) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, March 23 – State Rep. Scott Conklin today introduced a resolution calling on Pennsylvania’s Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to research the feasibility of providing a property tax exemption for seniors. Conklin said he introduced H.R. 457 to address a growing problem facing older Pennsylvanians. “Aging in place—in the homes and communities they love—should be a realistic expectation for Pennsylvania’s more than 2.5 million residents who are 65 or older,” Conklin said. “Yet that future is far from certain for the growing number of seniors on fixed incomes, who face the risk of losing their cherished homes as property taxes increase. “A number of other states currently offer some form of property tax exemption for qualifying seniors. Pennsylvania should investigate whether it would be feasible to do the same, which is why I am calling on the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to research the feasibility of providing such an exemption. “Our seniors have built our businesses, shaped our communities, and helped lay the groundwork for younger generations. They shouldn’t have to fear losing their homes because of the burden of property taxes if there is a way we can prevent that from happening.” Read more

 

Tiburcio sworn in to serve PA’s 22nd Legislative District after special election

(Mar 23, 2026) Rep. Ana Tiburcio

Tiburcio was elected to the office on Feb. 24 in a special election. She replaces Josh Siegel, who resigned at the end of 2025 to become Lehigh County executive. Read more

 

House passes bill to protect disability accommodations under Right-to-Know Law
Mar 25, 2026

Advocates speak out in support of Smith-Wade-El, Neilson’s Legionnaires’ disease legislation
Mar 25, 2026

Bill would tie Pennsylvania lawmakers’ salaries to minimum wage
Mar 25, 2026

Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus Launched in Harrisburg
Mar 25, 2026

Pa. lawmakers announce caucus to fight human trafficking
Mar 25, 2026

Pennsylvania lawmakers launch first Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus
Mar 25, 2026

First-ever data center regulations in Pennsylvania history pass House
Mar 24, 2026

PA House passes Dawkins' bill to raise minimum wage
Mar 24, 2026

Pa. House OK’s Probst plan to extend veterans tax exemption
Mar 24, 2026

Burns’ American-made flag bill advances in House
Mar 24, 2026

Pennsylvania House passes Matzie bill to protect utility consumers from data center-driven rate hikes
Mar 24, 2026

Transportation Committee OKs Freeman bill to allow roadside assistance vehicles to use blue safety lights
Mar 24, 2026

Shusterman, Davis honor Mae Krier, Rosie the Riveter Day
Mar 24, 2026

Williams’ bill ensuring juvenile protections on federal property unanimously passes PA House
Mar 24, 2026

Matzie: Newly released study recommends changes to PIAA policies
Mar 24, 2026

Salisbury bill to preserve tree canopy advances from committee
Mar 24, 2026

Kinkead, Green unveil bill tying legislator COLA to minimum wage increases
Mar 24, 2026

House Majority Appropriations Chairman Jordan A. Harris Introduces 2026-27 State Budget Proposal Focused on Affordability and Accountability
Mar 24, 2026

Conklin resolution calls on state to study feasibility of senior property tax exemption
Mar 23, 2026

Tiburcio sworn in to serve PA’s 22nd Legislative District after special election
Mar 23, 2026