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Cephas asks utilities to delay billing consumers during government shutdown

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Pa. House passes bill protecting construction contractors from being held liable for negligence of others

(16 hours ago) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, April 15 – Today, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed legislation ( H.B. 1541 ) introduced by state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., that would protect construction contractors from being held liable for the negligence of others. Hohenstein said many construction contractors are forced to accept liability for another party’s negligence when entering into construction contracts under current law. His legislation would void any provision in new construction contracts in which a party is indemnified, or excused from being held liable, for damages resulting from that party's negligence. “Being held liable for the negligence of others is unfair to contractors and can also enforce a negative reputation on the contractor’s business,” Hohenstein said. “My legislation would help protect Pennsylvania construction contractors from being forced to accept liability for someone else’s negligence. This will promote fairness, better work production, and better business for contractors.” The bill now heads to the Pennsylvania Senate for consideration. Read more

 

Lawmakers, advocates call on Pa. to follow federal directive and stop intercepting benefits from foster youth

(Apr 13, 2026) Rep. Rick Krajewski

HARRISBURG, April 13 – Following new federal directives, advocates gathered from across the state to demand the passage of H.B. 151, bipartisan legislation that would end the practice intercepting benefits intended for foster youth and conserve benefits in a savings account for when a foster youth exits care . "This is about fairness, and following federal law,” said state Rep. Rick Krajewski, the lead sponsor of the bill. “What makes up a fraction of the state’s spending could make a huge difference in the lives of foster youth, who face high rates of homelessness, addiction and depression. Just as other foster children do not pay for their own costs of care or other county services, children who receive public benefits shouldn’t either. Instead of fighting over paperwork and bureaucracy, let’s fight for the future of these children.” This December, the Office of Administration for Children and Families demanded that states no longer intercept foster youth's social security. Ten states across the country have barred the interception of these benefits so far. “These are funds that for many that could mean the difference between homelessness and stable housing, between needing to work multiple jobs and having time to attend college, between lacking healthcare and receiving necessary treatment. These youth are not asking for handouts, they’re asking for what’s already Read more

 

State officials invest $2.3 million to revive fountain area in West Philadelphia

(Apr 13, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

State and local officials on Friday announced a $2.3 million investment to restore and reimagine the historic John Welsh Memorial Fountain and its surrounding landscape in West Fairmount Park, a long-dormant site just across from the Please Touch Museum.The funding, awarded through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development Multimodal Transportation Fund, will support major improvements to pedestrian and cyclist access at the site, addressing longstanding safety concerns while advancing plans to bring the fountain back into use. Read more

 

Gallagher issues statement on Wednesday plane crash in Torresdale

(Apr 02, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, April 2 – State Rep. Pat Gallagher, D-Phila., issued the following statement regarding the plane crash that occurred in the Torresdale neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia late yesterday afternoon: “I want to thank our firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel and all first responders for their swift and coordinated response in Torresdale yesterday afternoon. Their professionalism and quick action helped secure the scene and prevent what could have been a far more serious situation. “Preliminary information indicates that injuries and property damage appear to be minor, and we are relieved that no more severe outcomes have been reported at this time. Our office remains in close contact with emergency officials and will continue to monitor developments as more details become available. “We are keeping those involved in our thoughts and are grateful for the dedication and service of the men and women who responded so effectively.” More about this crash can be read here . Read more

 

Cephas & Dougherty announce extension of Senior Ride Program with Uber

(Mar 31, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, March 31 – State Reps. Morgan Cephas and Sean Dougherty, both D-Phila., announced today that Uber has extended its Senior Ride Program for West Philadelphia in partnership with ACHIEVEability and is expanding the program to serve Northeast Philadelphia in partnership with KleinLife.Cephas initiated a pilot program with Uber for free rides during SEPTA service cuts in the summer of 2025 to ensure that area seniors who rely on public transportation would be able to reach their doctor appointments, do their grocery shopping, pick up medication, or meet other critical needs.That pilot program was highly successful, facilitating over 1,000 total rides while empowering older adults with confidence and independence by effectively utilizing smartphone technology. Read more

 

Senator Anthony H. Williams, Alongside Representative Morgan Cephas, Introduces Legislation to Combat Hit-and-Run Incidents in Philadelphia

(Mar 30, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Philadelphia, PA – March 27, 2026 – Senator Anthony Williams (SD-8) and Rep. Morgan Cephas (HD-192) recently introduced legislation that would require the City of Philadelphia to establish a pilot program to address hit-and-run accidents. The bill would provide for a registry of licensed vehicle repair shops and require notifications to be made to help more quickly identify individuals who have fled the scene of a crime. Read more

 

Rabb: Let’s finish the job on felony murder reform

(Mar 26, 2026) Rep. Christopher M. Rabb

Justice reform lawmaker eager to build legal framework following state Supreme Court ruling Read more

 

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

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

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

 

‘You can vote no’: From a first grader to public officials, dozens tell Philly’s school board to reject 18 planned school closings

(Mar 17, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

State Rep. Morgan Cephas (D., Phila.) cast doubt on the district’s current blueprint.“I’m here to express deep concern about a facilities plan that took years to create, when you’re giving families weeks to digest,” Cephas said. “Which is not equity, and not what we fight for. Read more

 

‘More than a school to us. It’s our home’: Philadelphia students and advocates speak out against closures at town hall

(Mar 17, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Pennsylvania state Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-West Philadelphia, said that while the Facilities Master Plan took years to develop, the district is giving families and school staff just weeks to understand a decision that will determine their future.Cephas said the school closures will have an effect not just this year but for generations to come.“We have been blindsided by this process being rushed in a way that is a shock to our system, a shock to Philadelphia, a shock to our families,” Cephas said. Read more

 

Dems to Pa. GOP lawmakers: Raise revenue or show how to cut budget proposal

(Mar 16, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Shapiro has sought legislation enacting legal marijuana, skills game regulation, a minimum wage increase and closing a tax loophole that allows out-of-state corporations to avoid higher payments in each of his four budget proposals, said Rep. Regina Young, D-Delaware/Philadelphia.Young asked Reber how much collective revenue the four initiatives would generate if they were in place. Reber’s answer: $3 billion.“So, if we would have enacted these proposals when the governor first called for them, we would have profited $3 billion to date?” Young asked, an unmistakable nod to opponents who bemoan the lack of new revenue streams.“That’s correct,” Reber replied. Read more

 

Weeks of budget hearings end in Harrisburg with little agreement

(Mar 16, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Democrats counter that Shapiro keeps proposing new revenue streams such as taxing skill games, legalizing cannabis and closing the Delaware loophole that allows big businesses to avoid paying state corporate taxes by establishing holding companies in Delaware.“How different would our budget picture look today if the legislature had enacted these proposals when the governor first called for them?” said Rep. Regina Young (D-Delaware/Philadelphia), an appropriations committee member.Zachary Reber, secretary of the governor’s budget office, estimates the state would have pulled in an additional $3 billion.Lawmakers could previously ignore new revenue streams because they didn’t need extra cash, but much of the budget goes toward schools and human services. Read more

 

President Fry makes the case for Temple during Harrisburg visit

(Mar 16, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

The 2026 House Appropriations Committee hearing for state-related institutions came just six weeks after Temple unveiled its strategic plan, Forward with Purpose, which will serve as the university’s compass over the next decade. The initiatives that will support one of the plan’s key priorities, Place-based Impact, garnered attention throughout the hearing, first when Rep. Regina Young brought forth the topic of public safety. “It’s important that we are creating spaces where the families of students can feel comfortable,” said Young, who represents the 185th District located in Delaware and Philadelphia counties. “With the rise of so many concerns around student safety on campuses, can you tell us some of the efforts you’re doing to ensure that students are safe on your campus?” In response, President Fry mentioned the work pursued since 21CP Solutions completed its audit of Temple’s Department of Public Safety, citing that 98% of the recommendations are complete or ongoing with the final two to be finished later this year. He also referenced the recently completed independent staffing study for the Department of Public Safety and the plans to hire 29 patrol officers, one detective, six sergeants and one lieutenant over the next five years. But he made it clear that the university’s strategy goes beyond that. Read more

 

Mayor Parker highlights $9 million investment aimed at restoring Cobbs Creek wetlands

(Mar 11, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Overlooking the driving range and golf course at Cobbs Creek, state Rep. Morgan Cephas recalled when the area across Lansdowne Avenue was known for illegal activity. New city investment, she said, will help restore nature to the creek bed.Mayor Cherelle Parker and other officials announced Monday that more than $9 million in city funds will be used to restore 25 acres of floodplains and wetlands along a three-mile stretch of Cobbs Creek. The project will include planting more than 49,000 trees and other native vegetation to help return the area to a more natural state.Cephas, who represents the neighborhood in the Pennsylvania House, spoke about the land’s troubled past and the long-standing lack of investment. She thanked Parker, state Sen. Vincent Hughes and Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr. for their work. Efforts to revitalize the area date back to former Mayor Michael Nutter’s administration. Read more

 

Rally at City Hall pushes for increased SEPTA funding

(Mar 09, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

State Rep. Morgan Cephas said investing in mass transit is essential to statewide economic success.“One of our top priorities is mass transit,” she said. “We understand early and often that when we invest, we win.” Read more

 

SEPTA riders rally at City Hall to preserve free-ride programs in new budget

(Mar 09, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Supporters of two SEPTA programs that offer free rides rallied at Philadelphia City Hall on Friday. Their concern is that the new city budget will cut funding for the programs.SEPTA has issued 68,000 Zero Fare cards to qualifying riders, though not all of them are used, according to the agency’s Andrew Busch. More than 20,000 Philadelphians currently benefit from the program, and about 13,000 city workers enjoy free rides via the Key Advantage program. Read more

 

Cephas calls for continued funding of mass transit programs

(Mar 06, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, March 6 – This morning outside of City Hall, state Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., spoke at a news conference highlighting the need for city and state investments in mass transit for Philadelphians.Cephas was joined by City Councilman At-Large Nicolas O’Rourke, as well as transit supporters and advocates calling for the protection of the Zero Fare program and the municipal SEPTA Key Advantage program in the city budget. Read more

 

PFT Members Urge Passage of Governor Shapiro’s Education Funding Package as Part of AFT’s National Day of Action

(Mar 04, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA (March 4, 2026) – Philly public school educators, city officials, and students and families on Wednesday rallied for Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed education funding package as part of a nationwide AFT Day of Action.Members of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT Local 3) at Lankenau Environmental Science Magnet High School welcomed Dr. Jermaine Dawson, Deputy Superintendent of Academic Services (representing Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington, Sr.); City Council Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson, Education Chair Isaiah Thomas, and At-Large Member Dr. Nina Ahmad; Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Rep. Morgan Cephas; and public education supporters to urge the Pennsylvania General Assembly to pass Governor Shapiro’s education funding package – of which $2.2 billion would be invested in the District. Shapiro’s proposed FY 2027 budget also includes $1 billion for public education infrastructure, including school buildings. Read more

 

Democrats draw line on dynamic pricing for essential goods

(Mar 04, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

“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

 

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

(Mar 04, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS PennDOT: Automated School Bus Enforcement Grant Program Who May Apply: School entities, independent school bus contractors, and municipal governments Use: To cover costs associated with the issuance of CDL licenses to operate school buses within the Commonwealth or to increase school bus safety, education, and training Funds: The total amount of funding available is $1.2 million. Grants can be awarded up to $100,000 per applicant Application Deadline: April 30, 2026 More information: PennDOT Website Department of Agriculture: Agricultural Product Promotion, Education and Export Promotion Matching Grant Program Who May Apply: Nonprofit organizations that can demonstrate engagement in market research, product development or promotion of agricultural products grown, raised or produced in the Commonwealth Use: To provide matching funds to nonprofit organizations engaged in market research, development or promotion of agricultural products Funds: Up to $381,810.50 is available for grants under the Program Application Deadline: April 10, 2026 More information: PDA Website Department of Environmental Protection: Recycling Program Development and Implementation Grant Program Who May Apply: Municipalities Use: To develop and implement recycling programs Funds: Grants are available up to $250,000. Application Read more

 

Pa. House passes bill protecting construction contractors from being held liable for negligence of others
16 hours ago

Lawmakers, advocates call on Pa. to follow federal directive and stop intercepting benefits from foster youth
Apr 13, 2026

State officials invest $2.3 million to revive fountain area in West Philadelphia
Apr 13, 2026

Gallagher issues statement on Wednesday plane crash in Torresdale
Apr 02, 2026

Cephas & Dougherty announce extension of Senior Ride Program with Uber
Mar 31, 2026

Senator Anthony H. Williams, Alongside Representative Morgan Cephas, Introduces Legislation to Combat Hit-and-Run Incidents in Philadelphia
Mar 30, 2026

Rabb: Let’s finish the job on felony murder reform
Mar 26, 2026

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

‘You can vote no’: From a first grader to public officials, dozens tell Philly’s school board to reject 18 planned school closings
Mar 17, 2026

‘More than a school to us. It’s our home’: Philadelphia students and advocates speak out against closures at town hall
Mar 17, 2026

Dems to Pa. GOP lawmakers: Raise revenue or show how to cut budget proposal
Mar 16, 2026

Weeks of budget hearings end in Harrisburg with little agreement
Mar 16, 2026

President Fry makes the case for Temple during Harrisburg visit
Mar 16, 2026

Mayor Parker highlights $9 million investment aimed at restoring Cobbs Creek wetlands
Mar 11, 2026

Rally at City Hall pushes for increased SEPTA funding
Mar 09, 2026

SEPTA riders rally at City Hall to preserve free-ride programs in new budget
Mar 09, 2026

Cephas calls for continued funding of mass transit programs
Mar 06, 2026

PFT Members Urge Passage of Governor Shapiro’s Education Funding Package as Part of AFT’s National Day of Action
Mar 04, 2026

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

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