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Philadelphia House Delegation praises approval of increase in public transit funding

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Kenyatta promotes Philadelphia Health Department Monkeypox Vaccine Interest Form

(Sep 09, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., today announced his support and gratitude for the Philadelphia Department of Health’s new Monkeypox Vaccine Interest Form. Read more

 

Solomon celebrates construction of new park at vacant lot

(Aug 25, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., today cut the ribbon for the celebration of the new WeLoveU Park on the corner of Loretto and Cranford Avenues in Northeast Philadelphia.   Read more

 

Cephas to introduce a bill that would protect homeowners and address racial bias in real estate appraisals

(Aug 23, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Aug. 23 – In an effort to help Pennsylvania homeowners to get a fair appraisal of their properties, state Rep. Morgan Cephas said she plans to introduce legislation that would address discrimination in housing and ensure equity in the real estate appraisal process. “Current laws do not prevent home appraisers from discriminating against people of color, or other marginalized communities for that matter. With little regulation or oversight, appraisals can make or break the value of a home,” Cephas said. “My legislation would require real estate appraisers to complete training regarding bias and discrimination prior to receiving their certification or license or prior to renewing their certification or license.” Cephas’ legislation would also forbid a licensed or certified real estate appraiser from incorporating bias or discrimination into their appraisal of real estate. “It is important that we put training in place that make appraisers aware of the presence of bias or discrimination in housing and ensure that they are conducting themselves with equity and fairness,” Cephas said. “Every family deserves a fair shot at their dream home.” Bound by the federal Fair Housing Act, home appraisers are prohibited from discriminating against homeowners based on their race, religion, national origin, or gender. In addition, Title XI of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 Read more

 

Cephas condemns shooting outside of Shepard Recreation Center, stands with local leaders to encourage community cooperation

(Aug 19, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 19 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today released the following statement in the wake of the recent shooting near a playground in West Philadelphia where five individuals were wounded. “This is a horrifying incident. Nearly 100 shots were fired. It is heart wrenching to know that at the time of this shooting, there were children and families gathered at the center. No child should have to be a witness to such a horrific incident and families should be able to enjoy activities in their communities in peace,” Cephas said. Cephas stood last Wednesday with Philadelphia leaders including District Attorney Larry Krasner, Mayor Jim Kenney, Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw, City Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr., other area elected, community members and more to host a press conference at Shepard Recreation Center in response to the shooting that took place Tuesday night. “We can’t live in fear, and we can’t continue to allow our children to live in a culture of violence. I will keep fighting to make sure that we do all we can to put a halt on this gun violence epidemic including allocating resources to communities who need it most,” she added. The shooting took place only one day after Cephas co-hosted a public policy hearing on safe and healthy spaces at the Kingsessing Recreation Center, just a few miles away from Shepard. Monday’s discussion included talk about Read more

 

Cephas applauds $500,000 funding provided by City of Philadelphia to the Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania

(Aug 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 8 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today commended the announcement made by Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney of a 500,000 investment by the city to the Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania. Cephas, who is co-chair of the legislative Women’s Health Caucus, indicated that she is appreciative of the city’s effort because the funds heading to ALF-PA will help to remove barriers for people in need of abortion that cannot afford insurance or pay out-of-pocket for services. “These funds will expand the current capacity of the Abortion Liberation Fund of PA to address critical needs. As co-chair of the Women’s Health Caucus, this is a proud moment. It’s uplifting to know that our voices are being heard and that this issue is being prioritized in Philadelphia”, Cephas said. Cephas also reaffirmed her commitment to strengthen reproductive health care and maintain access to abortion and other reproductive services in the state of Pennsylvania. “Philly has taken a step forward, but much more is needed; we have to keep in mind not only residents of the commonwealth, but also people traveling from other states to Pennsylvania in search of care. I will continue championing for safety and sustained access to the procedure. I hope this investment could also serve as a call to action Read more

 

Dawkins applauds grants for Pre-K Counts and Head Start

(Aug 02, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Jason Dawkins, D-Phila., applauded Gov. Tom Wolf today for maintaining his promise to invest in education in the commonwealth by awarding more than $384 million to Pre-K and Head Start Programs in Pennsylvania. The money allotted to these programs will deliver funding to two child learning centers in Dawkins’ legislative district. Amazing Kidz Academy LLC received $800,000 and Heavenly Daycare and Learning Center Inc. was awarded $200,000 to help more children receive quality education. The funding was made available through the PA Department of Education’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning and will open up 2,960 additional Pre-K Counts slots and provide Head Start with funding to cover the costs of operation. Dawkins said the funding for these programs will go a long way to help reduce quality-of-life issues that plague Philadelphia and the entire commonwealth. " Reducing gun violence, poverty and addiction in our communities begins with a good education before children even get into school, so I'm happy to see this funding for our local Pre-K schools and the opening of additional slots for Head Start through the School District of Philadelphia. The importance of early education is clear, and I appreciate Governor Wolf's administration investing in our children and families," Dawkins said. The funding will assist 37,213 children in accessing affordable Read more

 

State Rep. Regina Young’s Statement on Pa. Budget

(Jul 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Regina Young, D-Phila./Delaware said she is satisfied that the budget includes a large increase in education funding, for the school districts in her legislative district and throughout the commonwealth. William Penn School District received an increase of $4.8 million, a 19% increase from last year’s budget, while Southeast Delco School District gained a $5.6 million increase, which is a 29% increase from the previous year. Philadelphia School District received an increase of $189.3 million, a 14% increase from last year. “I’m happy to see that the budget prioritized education as a fundamental part of our budget,” Young said. “Education is the building block to a sound future, and I’m thankful of my colleagues who helped pass this budget – taking children’s needs into account.” The General Appropriations budget bill must now be passed in the Senate before going to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk for his signature. Read more

 

Solomon passes affordable housing legislation

(Jul 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, July 8 -- This week, the House passed H.B. 581 allowing local taxing authorities to expand access to affordable housing in an unprecedented way, according to state Rep. Jared Solomon, the bill’s sponsor. It was already approved by the Senate on a 50-0 vote. It now goes to the governor for his signature. “For every 100 people who need affordable housing in Pennsylvania, only 42 people will get it,” said Solomon, D-Phila. “In extreme cases, in counties like York and Monroe, only 28 people out of 100 will get the affordable housing they need. In Lancaster, only 19 people. “This is unacceptable. I’m thrilled to have sponsored and passed the affordable housing bill this week. This is a step in the right direction to ensuring every resident of Pennsylvania can have the housing they need to raise their families and comfortably live and work in every one of our 67 counties.” Solomon said the bill benefits residents across the commonwealth because developers will be incentivized to build affordable housing across the state. He said everyone deserves a home they are proud of, and the affordable housing bill creates more access to that. The bill gives local authorities a menu of options to pass tax abatements or exemptions for the creation or improvements of affordable housing, be they for homeownership or rentals. Use of these abatements is entirely up to local policymakers, and in some cases, offers various Read more

 

Dawkins applauds education funding increase in state budget, says more could have been done for gun safety

(Jul 07, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, July 7– Today state Rep. Jason Dawkins, chairman of the House Democratic Philadelphia Delegation, issued the following statement upon passage of the state budget. “I am happy that we were able to come to an agreement so that our schools and services could be funded and not threatened by a protracted and partisan impasse,” Dawkins said. “I am very excited about the historic height in K-12 public education funding. We are talking about a nearly billion-dollar investment of new dollars that goes back to the kids of the commonwealth.” Dawkins applauded that the budget includes a 14% basic education increase for the School District of Philadelphia and an 8% increase for special education. However, he was disappointed that more was not done for gun violence prevention, taking in consideration the large, more than $7 billion surplus on the table at beginning of budget negotiations. “With our large surplus of state tax dollars, more funds should have been allocated to combat the gun violence problem in the city. The funding provided for school safety and mental health in schools is essential, but it’s only a drop in the bucket of what’s truly needed to address the root causes of violence and poverty.” Dawkins also highlighted the fact that the budget approved a childcare tax credit and support for homeowners. “With this state budget investment, people Read more

 

State Rep. Amen Brown calls on Mayor Kenney to step down

(Jul 05, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

After statements made by Mayor Jim Kenney regarding the shooting at the Welcome America festival, state Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., is demanding that the mayor step down because of dereliction of duty. “As someone who made the decision to run for office and be elected by the people, it is his responsibility to do all he can to address the issues plaguing our communities.” Brown said. In an interview after the shooting at the Welcome America festival, Kenney stated that he “can’t wait until he’s not mayor anymore.” Brown said that if the mayor feels that way, he should step down immediately. “Philadelphia is in a state of chaos and lawlessness,” Brown said. “Not everyone has the luxury or privilege to just pick up and leave and go enjoy some stuff. His statement was beyond tone deaf and a slap in the face to the families and communities that have been impacted by gun violence. And, if Mayor Kenney doesn’t want to do his job and lead this city, then he should resign and let someone take the lead that actually cares about what’s happening to our people and wants to see and be a part of change.” Brown maintained that no matter how little time Kenney has left in his term, he should remain dedicated until the end of it. “We need a leader who cares about us, not one who is checked out and lacking empathy.” Brown said. “He Read more

 

Solomon’s PICA renewal legislation passes Senate

(Jul 01, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, July 1 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., said today he worked closely with state Rep. Martina White, R-Phila., and House Minority Leader Joanna McClinton to pass bipartisan legislation to renew the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority Act for Philadelphia. The bill passed the Senate on Thursday and is headed to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk for his signature. Solomon said PICA has been effective in stabilizing the economic health of Philadelphia that led to balanced budgets for 25 years. It borrows funds on the city’s behalf and in exchange, oversees Philadelphia’s finances. “Economic conditions in Philadelphia affect the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Solomon said. “We must renew PICA in order to keep Philadelphia fiscally sound and, as a result, the entire commonwealth will benefit. Today, we all worked together to ensure not only the financial health of Philadelphia but, through transparency, establish trust in the city’s financial decisions from taxpayers and legislators alike.” “This is important legislation that will help the city as it continues to face financial uncertainty with its budget projects and limited choices,” White said. “Philadelphia is an economic engine for our commonwealth, and by renewing the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority, we can ensure that the city continues on the path of economic viability benefitting our residents Read more

 

Solomon's legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of US passes Senate

(Jun 30, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 30 -- The PA Senate has passed legislation introduced by state Reps. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., and Wendi Thomas, R-Bucks, that would set up legacy infrastructure projects for all regions of the commonwealth in anticipation of the 250th birthday of the U.S. in 2026. “We on the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semi quincentennial -- America250PA -- want to both preserve the legacy of our heritage and invest in the commonwealth’s future by repairing, restoring and revitalizing historic state landmarks that do exactly that,” Solomon said. “This legislation would seek to provide the framework and identify valuable projects for all 67 counties in Pennsylvania to celebrate 250 years of excellence.” House Bill 1952 would set the foundation for projects throughout the commonwealth, such as monuments, trails, and veterans memorials that need revitalization, which would both improve our state and commemorate our heritage. “This legislation will engage all the citizens of the Commonwealth, from all 67 counties, in the celebration of America250PA,” Thomas said. “Pennsylvanians will be involved in selecting a lasting project for their region, and in this way be a part of the national celebration while celebrating Pennsylvania’s contribution to the past and the future.” The bill passed the Senate on Thursday and is headed to the governor’s desk to be signed. Read more

 

Dawkins calls on legislature to focus on budget, not personal politics

(Jun 29, 2022) Rep. Jason Dawkins

“We have a state budget due in one day. Let’s focus on that. Let’s focus on getting money to our schools and to our communities. We must end this absurd political theater that’s meant to distract from the real issue – which is that the legislature must do something about gun proliferation and gun violence and not tie the hands of cities like Philadelphia when it comes to enacting sensible gun reforms.” Read more

 

Cephas to introduce bill to help low-income homeowners repair their properties

(Jun 29, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, June 29 – In an effort to support Pennsylvania homeowners who struggle to make expensive property repairs, state Reps. Morgan Cephas and Jordan Harris, both D-Phila., plan to introduce legislation that would address the issue and reduce financial distress for many households. “The state must partner with and empower municipalities to create neighborhood infrastructure repair programs to support the people we serve,” Cephas said. “Our legislation would do that with an investment of state funding and a match in municipality funding.” According to the lawmakers, homeowners are often left responsible for alleyways, sidewalks and other community infrastructure that the public uses, and the repairs and maintenance to these pathways can be overwhelming. They said the legislation would allow applicants whose income falls below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines to have their repair projects fully funded. Those above the threshold could have their portion of the costs spread out over 15 years and applied to their tax bill without interest. “Since the public is using this infrastructure, we can help homeowners make these spaces safe, accessible and built better for future generations.” Read more

 

Brown demands mandatory ID requirement at gun shows to curb unregulated ghost gun sales

(Jun 27, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 27 -- State Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., has called for all attendees to present valid government-issued identification to enter gun shows in Pennsylvania. Brown has proposed this change in the wake of recent mass shootings and the proliferation of unregulated “ghost guns,” such as the one used in the mass shooting on South Street on June 4. The proposal also comes in response to the nonstop gun violence happening in Philadelphia that has been ravaging communities. “I have attended these gun shows, and all the components are available to leave and assemble an unregistered firearm,” Brown stated after attending last week’s gun show in Allentown. “Contrary to what vendors of ghosts gun kits at guns shows say, these are not adult Legos. These ghost guns have a deadly impact on our community, and something needs to be done.” According to Brown, unlike normal handguns, ghost gun kits are unregistered, and can be sold to anyone without any ID. Purchasers assemble the parts themselves. Brown has introduced legislation that would require all attendees at Pennsylvania gun shows to provide ID prior to entry and to require show operators to maintain records of attendees for at least five years. Under Brown’s bill, the records would be made available for review to the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office, as well as to any country prosecutor or municipal police department upon request of the Read more

 

State Rep. Amen Brown decries vandalism at Historic Shofuso House in Fairmount Park and calls for restoration of police district in Fairmount Park

(Jun 20, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., has called for Mayor Kenney to immediately work with Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw to restore the 90th and 92nd Police Districts in East and West Fairmount Park. According to Brown, these districts were eliminated as part of a package of severe budget cuts during the financial crisis of 2008 by then-Mayor Michael Nutter, which also included eliminating libraries and recreation centers. Brown said the time has come for these districts to be restored. "Fairmount Park had dedicated policing and security since the original Park Guard was created in 1868 and consolidated into the Philadelphia Police Department in 1972," Brown said. "These dedicated police patrolled the largest urban park in America and maintained it as an urban oasis for all Philadelphians until severe budget cuts forced the elimination of these Park Police Districts. “The time has come to restore them,” Brown said. Brown said that police were consolidated into neighboring high crime districts, including the 16th and 19th in West Philadelphia, and the 22nd, 23rd and 39th in North Philadelphia, which have no officers to spare for park patrols. This has left the park without any police. "With the elimination of the Park Police Districts, I am not surprised that even after they called to report a $2 million vandalism and burglary, there was no police response,” Brown said. Read more

 

Solomon legislation for PICA Renewal passed by PA House

(Jun 14, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 14 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., said he worked closely with state Rep. Martina White, R-Phila., and House Minority Leader Joanna McClinton to pass bipartisan legislation to renew the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority Act for Philadelphia. PICA was effective in stabilizing the economic health of Philadelphia, which led to balanced budgets for 25 years. “Economic conditions in Philadelphia affect the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Solomon said. “We must renew PICA in order to keep Philadelphia fiscally sound and, as a result, the entire commonwealth will benefit. Today we all worked together to ensure the financial health of Philadelphia.” “Philadelphia is an economic engine for our commonwealth, and by renewing the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority, we can ensure that the city continues on the path of economic viability benefitting our residents and our state,” McClinton said. The bill passed the House on Monday and now moves to the PA Senate for its consideration. Read more

 

Solomon introduces legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of PA

(Jun 13, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 13 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., along with state Rep. Wendi Thomas, R-Bucks, have introduced bipartisan legislation that would set up legacy infrastructure projects for all regions of the commonwealth in anticipation of the 250th birthday of the U.S. in 2026. “We on the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial -- America250PA -- want to both preserve the legacy of our heritage and invest in the commonwealth’s future by repairing, restoring and revitalizing historic state landmarks that do exactly that,” Solomon said. “This legislation would seek to provide the framework and identify valuable projects for all 67 counties in Pennsylvania to celebrate 250 years of excellence.” House Bill 1952 would establish a foundation for projects throughout the commonwealth such as monuments, trails and veteran memorials that need revitalization to both improve the state and commemorate our heritage. “Our 250th birthday celebration will be an important opportunity to show the world the many historic treasures of our Commonwealth as well as our commitment to investing in our future,” Thomas said. “Celebrating by completing these merit-worthy infrastructure projects will engage each region of our Commonwealth in an effort to chart a lasting legacy of our 250th celebration in all 67 counties.” Read more

 

State Rep. Jared Solomon introduces bill to address staff shortages in Philadelphia Police Department

(Jun 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 8 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., introduced legislation that would seek to address the lack of Philadelphia Police Department officers. In 2015, the Philadelphia Police Department had 6,600 sworn officers and 800 civilian personnel, but this year the department is operating with just 5,900 sworn officers and 600 civilian personnel, Solomon said. “Seniors are scared about being in their homes, parents do not feel comfortable having their kids walk to school, and neighbors are frightened to gather at our recreation centers. We must do better, and this is a step in the right direction,” Solomon said. This legislation would create the Retired Police Officer Program, which would allow retired officers to return to work. The requirements would include that the retired officers have exemplary records and be mandated to take a training course. “The reality is we need to be combating gun violence and address community safety on a local level and that starts with protecting our community,” Solomon said. Read more

 

State Rep. Boyle plans June senior fair, free shredding event

(Jun 01, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, June 1 – State Rep. Kevin Boyle, D-Phila./Montgomery, will host a senior fair and a free shredding event in June. The senior fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, June 24 at the Fox Chase Recreation Center, 7901 Ridgeway St., Philadelphia. A variety of constituent services will be available, including help with local and state government programs, and a free lunch will be provided. The shredding event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 25 at Boyle’s district office, 7801 Hasbrook Ave., Philadelphia. Residents of Boyle’s district can help prevent identity theft by bringing their unwanted and outdated documents to be securely shredded. Boyle’s staff will be on hand to answer questions about state government-related services. Residents with questions about either event or who need help with a state government-related service or program may contact Boyle’s office by phone at 215-695-1016. Read more

 

Kenyatta promotes Philadelphia Health Department Monkeypox Vaccine Interest Form
Sep 09, 2022

Solomon celebrates construction of new park at vacant lot
Aug 25, 2022

Cephas to introduce a bill that would protect homeowners and address racial bias in real estate appraisals
Aug 23, 2022

Cephas condemns shooting outside of Shepard Recreation Center, stands with local leaders to encourage community cooperation
Aug 19, 2022

Cephas applauds $500,000 funding provided by City of Philadelphia to the Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania
Aug 08, 2022

Dawkins applauds grants for Pre-K Counts and Head Start
Aug 02, 2022

State Rep. Regina Young’s Statement on Pa. Budget
Jul 08, 2022

Solomon passes affordable housing legislation
Jul 08, 2022

Dawkins applauds education funding increase in state budget, says more could have been done for gun safety
Jul 07, 2022

State Rep. Amen Brown calls on Mayor Kenney to step down
Jul 05, 2022

Solomon’s PICA renewal legislation passes Senate
Jul 01, 2022

Solomon's legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of US passes Senate
Jun 30, 2022

Dawkins calls on legislature to focus on budget, not personal politics
Jun 29, 2022

Cephas to introduce bill to help low-income homeowners repair their properties
Jun 29, 2022

Brown demands mandatory ID requirement at gun shows to curb unregulated ghost gun sales
Jun 27, 2022

State Rep. Amen Brown decries vandalism at Historic Shofuso House in Fairmount Park and calls for restoration of police district in Fairmount Park
Jun 20, 2022

Solomon legislation for PICA Renewal passed by PA House
Jun 14, 2022

Solomon introduces legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of PA
Jun 13, 2022

State Rep. Jared Solomon introduces bill to address staff shortages in Philadelphia Police Department
Jun 08, 2022

State Rep. Boyle plans June senior fair, free shredding event
Jun 01, 2022