Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Cephas applauds budget for affordable housing, education, and

Cephas applauds budget for affordable housing, education, and

Philadelphia House Delegation    July 15, 2026

HARRISBURG, July 15 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., emphasized her support for the 2026-27 state budget, which invests more than $50 billion in Pennsylvanians without raising taxes.

Gov. Josh Shapiro signed the budget on Sunday, July 12.

“At a time when necessities like food, housing and utilities are becoming harder to afford, I am happy this budget will put money back in Pennsylvanians’ pockets,” Cephas said. “This budget increases affordable housing opportunities, making it easier to find and secure housing; establishes an Affordable Housing Database within the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency; and addresses rising energy costs so families can afford their monthly bills.

“This budget also provides a long-awaited cost-of-living adjustment to give more money to our retired teachers, police officers, firefighters and other public servants.”

Cephas continued: “As chairwoman of the Philadelphia Delegation, I must also acknowledge the positive impact this budget will have on the city. It supports smaller local businesses and invests in making our streets safer.

“The budget includes $157 million for the School District of Philadelphia, up more than $20 million, or 7.6%, from last year. Furthermore, it takes important measures to keep our kids safe from bullying, including a $121 million statewide investment in targeted school safety and mental health grants.

“This is a budget that protects and invests in our communities without raising taxes. That is why I was proud to vote yes. I want to thank Gov. Shapiro and my fellow legislators on both sides of the aisle for delivering solutions to the people of Pennsylvania.”