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Hohenstein on Increasing Funding for Direct Service Professionals

(Mar 26, 2025) Rep. Joseph C. Hohenstein

Pa. state Rep. Joe Hohenstein joined colleagues and advocates to urge further support for increasing funding for disability and human service programs. Hohenstein says that those with disabilities often show us what it truly means to be human & those that care for them deserve to be paid a livable wage in order to continue their care for our disabled community. Read more

 

Bills aimed at helping businesses, people impacted by Northeast Philly jet crash advance in PA House

(Mar 25, 2025) Rep. Jared G. Solomon

HARRISBURG, March 25 - Two bills that would help people and businesses impacted by the medical jet crash in Northeast Philadelphia cleared the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee today, according to the bills’ sponsor, state Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila. On Jan. 31, Med Jets Flight 056 crashed in and around the Castor Gardens neighborhood, immediately reshaping the lives of many residents. Solomon, who serves as the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee’s chairman, introduced legislation ( H.B. 1001 and H.B. 877 ) in response to the tragic crash. House Bill 877 would provide targeted grants and loans to businesses impacted by the crash. Under the bill, the Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority would issue grants to community development financial institutions to provide technical assistance, training and other support to affected businesses. CDFIs would also be able to provide loans to those businesses to help them repair and reopen. “As we look to rebuild a thriving thoroughfare of our city, we are focused on many recovery efforts, including ensuring our businesses can reclaim their footing and reopen as quickly as possible,” Solomon said. Additionally, H.B. 1001 would exclude recovery payments related to the Med Jets Flight 056 crash from state income for tax purposes. “It’s important that impacted residents Read more

 

House approves measure to double penalties for child labor law violations

(Mar 25, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

Today, the PA House of Representatives approved legislation introduced by state Rep. Regina Young, D-Phila./Delaware, that would increase the fines for violations of the state child labor law. As state legislatures nationwide are weakening their child labor laws, H.B. 118 would ensure that Pennsylvania employers are held accountable for exploiting children by doubling the penalties for a first offense to $1,000, and $3,000 for each subsequent offense. “Our highest duty as legislators should be to protect our most vulnerable people who are unable to protect themselves, especially our children,” said Young following the vote. “Child labor violations are still too common in our state, with too many employers chalking it up to ‘the cost of doing business.’ That is straight up exploitation and unacceptable as we should work to guide and mentor our young people toward gainful employment. These fines have remained unchanged for over a decade as violations increase, so it’s clear they are an insufficient disincentive. Exploitation of children in any circumstance should be abhorrent to all Pennsylvanians. I’m hopeful that these doubled penalties will act as a stronger deterrent to the illegal employment of Pennsylvania’s children.” The bill was approved in the House by a 117-85 vote and now heads to the state Senate for its consideration. The 185th Legislative District is comprised of communities in South and Southwest Philadelphia, along with Tinicum Township and Colwyn Borough... Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El, legislators hold news conference to highlight reintroduction of legislation to create Office of New Pennsylvanians

(Mar 20, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, March 20 – In the face of the Trump administration’s vilification of immigrants and unlawful deportations of immigrants , state Reps. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., and Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks, held a news conference on Wednesday to highlight the reintroduction of their legislation to create an Office of New Pennsylvanians to support, attract and retain immigrants in the commonwealth. “Pennsylvania welcomed William Penn from religious persecution in the 17 th century, Blacks fleeing slavery in the 19 th century, and today Afghans, Bhutanese, Ukrainians and others that are fleeing persecution, ethnic cleansing and war,” Smith-Wade-El said. “Instead of keeping to its values, Pennsylvania is scapegoating immigrant communities with punitive policies that are driving them out of the state. “Economically, we can’t afford to lose them as they make up over 8% of our state’s workforce and pay $3.3 billion yearly in state and local taxes. As our population ages and many residents leave our state for other opportunities, we need skilled workers, entrepreneurs, consumers and community leaders to make sure that Pennsylvania continues to grow and thrive economically, culturally and socially and retains its electoral power at the federal level. But even more than that, we can’t afford to betray the values on which our commonwealth was founded. Read more

 

House OKs Neilson resolution to honor transit workers

(Mar 19, 2025) Rep. Ed Neilson

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives today adopted a resolution recognizing March 18 as National Transit Worker Appreciation Day in Pennsylvania, according to author House Transportation Committee Chair Rep. Ed Neilson. Read more

 

Kenyatta calls for heightened protections for municipal workers

(Mar 19, 2025) Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta

“Every person deserves to be safe on the job, particularly the public workers that do the critical work of keeping the water running in our homes, making sure our electricity is on, keeping our kids safe when they walk to school and more,” Kenyatta said. “There is a constant threat that is hanging over the heads of these public workers as they do their jobs. It’s time to give them the protections they need and deserve.” Read more

 

Rabb, Flick call for bipartisan study of problem-solving courts in PA

(Mar 19, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

Study would look at problem-solving court usage across the commonwealth Read more

 

Rabb calls on House, Senate to move Juvenile Justice Reform bills

(Mar 19, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

Bills proposed to protect children in the juvenile justice system, save taxpayer dollars Read more

 

Cephas releases statement on DOGE cuts to West Philly nonprofit

(Mar 13, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., issued the following statement on the recent cancellation of federal funding for the nonprofit Overbrook Environmental Education Center by the Department of Government Efficiency. Read more

 

From the streets to the airwaves, Rep. Brown brings ‘Resource Radio’ to 107.9

(Mar 12, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

Program will focus on state programs and resources for families Read more

 

Rabb reintroduces bill to remove DUI penalties for legal cannabis use

(Mar 12, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

Bill would protect hundreds of thousands of unimpaired drivers Read more

 

We need hard conversations, even if they make people uncomfortable

(Mar 11, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

By: State Rep. Darisha Parker Vice Chair of Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus Recently, I was honored to stand in solidarity with students, teachers represented by the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, Service Employees International Union, Teamsters from the Commonwealth of School Administration and their dedicated President, Dr. Robin Cooper, for a Day of Action to protect Philadelphia students and their constitutional right to a free and efficient education. I’m disheartened by the injustices looming over our children’s future. I’m overwhelmed from seeing the strides and progress we have made struck down with the vindictive stroke of pen, but at the same time, it’s reassuring to see people across the country standing up to make their voices heard. The Day of Action, facilitated by the American Federation of Teachers, was a national movement where leaders all over the country stood up and made our point clear: We won’t step down, there’s too much at stake for apathy and inaction. These movements show our strength and resilience, but the most profound effect of collective action is igniting a spark that motivates spectators to stand with us. Many people are walking on eggshells because of the uncertainty we face as a country and while it’s imperative to be informed and engaged with the political sphere, we have to act strategically. If you haven’t already, register to vote. Remember that Read more

 

Cephas, Policy Committee focus on moving PA economy forward

(Mar 05, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

“With the continued uncertainty in Washington, it’s more important than ever for us to ensure our state’s economy is strong,” said Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila. “Today's hearing was a great opportunity to hear from the voices of our communities – to give them a seat at the table to discuss their needs for an economically strong Pennsylvania. From SEPTA, to our teachers, health care workers and more. We heard loud and clear that we must find ways to ensure economic protections and relief for hardworking Philadelphians, as well as our small businesses and the public services that keep our economy moving.” Read more

 

Elected officials, union leaders join national day of action against proposed federal education cuts

(Mar 05, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

One day after the U.S. Senate confirmed former wrestling executive Linda McMahon to head the U.S. Department of Education, Philadelphia activists rallied against the Trump administration's proposed cuts in federal education funding. Read more

 

Rabb, Webster introduce bill to increase transparency in electric supply

(Mar 04, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

Bill would eliminate secret voting on regional energy policies Read more

 

Roundtable discusses importance of PA’s connection to cities

(Mar 04, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

“The planning has already begun for the international events scheduled for Philadelphia during the next two years and it continues to adapt as it learns from hosting other premier events,” said Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas, who represents portions of West Philadelphia. “Philadelphia will host the sesquicentennial of the U.S. Navy and Marines, MLB All-Star games, NCAA men’s basketball tournament games, FIFA World Cup games and America’s 250th birthday during the next two years. Beyond these signature events, infrastructure across Pennsylvania needs continued investment in order for the commonwealth to thrive.” Read more

 

Transportation, Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Mar 04, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commonwealth Financing Authority: Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF) Who May Apply: Municipalities, councils of government, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agency, ports (rail/freight) Use: The MTF provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure a safe and reliable system of transportation exists in Pennsylvania. The program is intended to provide financial assistance in order to improve public transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit revitalization. Funds: Requests must have a total eligible cost of $100,000 or more and no request shall exceed $3,000,000 for any project. Application Deadline: July 31, 2025 More information: DCED Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Community and Economic Development: PA SITES Who May Apply: Municipalities, economic development organizations, redevelopment authorities, municipal authorities, industrial development agencies, and for-profit organizations. Use: To develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within Pennsylvania. Funds: $400 million in funding is available. Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and approved on a quarterly basis More information: DCED Website Department of Agriculture: Farm Vitality Planning Grant Who May Apply: Farmers, prospective farmers, and others may apply. Use: Strategic business Read more

 

Young Fighting Federal Education Cuts

(Feb 27, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

Pa. state Rep. Regina Young joined colleagues of the House and Senate Appropriations committees to voice their support for advocacy to oppose the billions of dollars in drastic cuts proposed by the Trump administration to public education that will harm students, teachers, families, and communities across Pennsylvania. Read more

 

Young announces over $673,000 for transportation projects

(Feb 25, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

“Transportation is a priority in our area,” said Young. “As we continue to see the redevelopment of the Navy Yard area, traffic and safety improvements are required for the increased tourism and industry coming to South Broad Street. Safety and accessibility enhancements for the Philadelphia International Airport are always in order as air traffic and commerce fuels our economy. “I’m glad to see this funding awarded for these important high-traffic and active areas to ensure safety and access for travelers, commuters and our workforce.” Read more

 

Cephas announces grant for Cobbs Creek Golf Course

(Feb 24, 2025) Philadelphia House Delegation

State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., announced today that a $750,000 grant has been awarded to Cobbs Creek Community and Restoration Foundation to improve roadway safety on the Cardington Road access tunnel leading into the historic Cobbs Creek Golf Course in West Philadelphia. Read more

 

Hohenstein on Increasing Funding for Direct Service Professionals
Mar 26, 2025

Bills aimed at helping businesses, people impacted by Northeast Philly jet crash advance in PA House
Mar 25, 2025

House approves measure to double penalties for child labor law violations
Mar 25, 2025

Smith-Wade-El, legislators hold news conference to highlight reintroduction of legislation to create Office of New Pennsylvanians
Mar 20, 2025

House OKs Neilson resolution to honor transit workers
Mar 19, 2025

Kenyatta calls for heightened protections for municipal workers
Mar 19, 2025

Rabb, Flick call for bipartisan study of problem-solving courts in PA
Mar 19, 2025

Rabb calls on House, Senate to move Juvenile Justice Reform bills
Mar 19, 2025

Cephas releases statement on DOGE cuts to West Philly nonprofit
Mar 13, 2025

From the streets to the airwaves, Rep. Brown brings ‘Resource Radio’ to 107.9
Mar 12, 2025

Rabb reintroduces bill to remove DUI penalties for legal cannabis use
Mar 12, 2025

We need hard conversations, even if they make people uncomfortable
Mar 11, 2025

Cephas, Policy Committee focus on moving PA economy forward
Mar 05, 2025

Elected officials, union leaders join national day of action against proposed federal education cuts
Mar 05, 2025

Rabb, Webster introduce bill to increase transparency in electric supply
Mar 04, 2025

Roundtable discusses importance of PA’s connection to cities
Mar 04, 2025

Transportation, Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment and Additional Grant Opportunities
Mar 04, 2025

Young Fighting Federal Education Cuts
Feb 27, 2025

Young announces over $673,000 for transportation projects
Feb 25, 2025

Cephas announces grant for Cobbs Creek Golf Course
Feb 24, 2025