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The Philadelphia Platform 2023-24

(Mar 16, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

Budget and Policy Priorities of the Philadelphia House Delegation for the 2023-24 Legislative Session. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation praises Shapiro’s budget priorities

(Mar 09, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, March 9 – Members of the Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed their endorsement of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s first budget proposal, which he provided during an address to the General Assembly. The delegation said the spending proposal, that will cover the fiscal year 2023-24, displays a solid approach to the most critical issues facing the commonwealth. “We are greatly satisfied in being assured by the governor that our core priorities as a delegation are included in his plan and that the voices of our city are being heard,” said the delegation’s chair, state Rep. Morgan Cephas. “Improving educational outcomes by investing in K-12 funding and school buildings and reducing gun violence through the Neighborhood Infrastructure Initiative are among the most crucial needs of Philadelphia. We are confident that this budget will allow us to work on more efficient ways to eradicate the inequities and deficiencies in our city,” Cephas continued. State Rep. Danilo Burgos, vice chair of the delegation, emphasized the fact that the governor’s budget has innovation and development as two of its key words. “Shapiro’s budget pitch is for the benefit of every Pennsylvanian,” he said. “We are excited to see a 50% increase for the Manufacturing PA Innovation Program, which connects colleges and universities, the Industrial Resource Center and Read more

 

Solomon appointed to chair of Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee

(Mar 08, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

"I will fill this role with an eye to making the veteran experience -- both during and after military service -- part of the Pennsylvania experience," Solomon said. Read more

 

New hope for Philly Dems and wary GOP optimism: Shapiro’s budget a rare sign of unity in Harrisburg

(Mar 08, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

Lawmakers say the proposal could pump much-needed money into Philadelphia’s economy. Read more

 

Kenyatta applauds Pa. Commission on Crime and Delinquency awarding grant to Temple University for $1.8 million

(Mar 08, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, March 8 – Today, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency held a meeting where the commission approved a $1.8 million grant to Temple University. State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., represents the 181 st Legislative District which includes Temple University. Kenyatta applauded the grant which he supported and said he believes it can help address gun violence around Temple’s campus. It will be used for gunshot detection, license plate readers, retention and recruitment bonuses, training and CCTV cameras. “Sergeant Fitz’s life was tragically taken by a senseless, cowardly act of gun violence. Today in the Pennsylvania Senate I was honored to join Sen. Street along with Sgt Fitzgerald’s family to honor his life and sacrifice. Gun violence has been a problem around Temple’s campus for far too long and left families in the area grieving the loss of loved ones,” Kenyatta said. “I thank the PCCD and Lt. Governor Davis for awarding this grant to Temple University to increase public safety. Gun violence is at an all-time high in the city of Philadelphia, and it is my hope that this funding can help in some way keep Temple University students, staff and those living around the campus safe from this outrageous violence that’s already taken far too many lives.” Read more

 

Solomon introduces Women’s Reproductive Health Care Compact legislation

(Mar 06, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, March 6 – As more states place restrictions on or ban abortions outright, state Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., has introduced legislation to preserve a woman’s right to choose in Pennsylvania. “No one should be denied the right to reproductive health care,” Solomon said. “The overturning of Roe v. Wade has left woman’s health care in peril; this legislation would seek to protect that right.” Solomon explained that the current Supreme Court’s decision to undo the 1973 Roe v. Wade precedent has had far-reaching consequences. Some of the resulting restrictions on the drug methotrexate – which can be used for medically assisted abortions – have also limited its use therapeutically for many other conditions. Solomon’s legislation would provide a framework to defend abortion rights and work with neighboring states to prevent investigations of reproductive health care services, disclosure of records, and negative licensing actions. “Under this legislation, Pennsylvania would be taking the ultimate steps in protecting women and preserving their right to choose health care that is right for them,” Solomon said. “Because that choice belongs between a woman and her doctor.” Read more

 

Khan Demands Change in PA Schools

(Mar 03, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

This week I helped introduce legislation that will help us make critical investments to help us fix and restore our crumbling public schools. Every child deserves to learn in a safe and healthy environment. I also want to thank Shawmont School parent Theresa Kehler for testifying on the vital need to invest in Philadelphia school facilities Read more

 

PA To Consider Adopting Significant Police Protection Measures

(Mar 03, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

No officer should have to patrol alone. The proposed legislation will ensure that this, along with the provision of additional resources, is prioritized. Protecting those who protect us is a must, not an option. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation celebrates the election of McClinton as new House Speaker

(Feb 28, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, Feb. 28 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed their satisfaction for the election of Majority Leader Joanna McClinton as the new speaker of the House, a role previously held this session by state Rep. Mark Rozzi. “We are overwhelmed with joy; McClinton has started a new chapter in history. What a way to wrap up the festivities in honor of Black History Month! McClinton is an unwavering force who works with passion and integrity for the people of Pennsylvania,” said the delegation’s chair, state Rep. Morgan Cephas. “We know we will reach new heights under her brilliant leadership. We are confident that she will help us address the most critical issues affecting our people. The Philadelphia House Delegation is honored to see that one of us is now holding the gavel in the House. We are ready to fight along with her on behalf of all underserved communities of the state,” Cephas continued. “As a woman I also want to emphasize that McClinton continues being an inspiration to all women of the nation struggling to break barriers and stereotypes. This is a resounding reminder that it is possible to win, regardless the color of your skin or background, it is possible to succeed against all odds.” Rep. Danilo Burgos, vice-chair of the Delegation, trusts that McClinton’s work will help advance a transformational agenda in key sectors. Read more

 

Brown introduces package of laws to protect law enforcement

(Feb 28, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 28 – After Temple University Police Officer Christopher Fitzgerald was slain in the line of duty, state Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., will introduce a package of bills that seeks to protect police officers from violence while they perform their duty to protect and serve throughout the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. “Officer Fitzgerald was bravely serving his community by patrolling a high crime area when he was gunned down with no clear motive,” Brown said. “We cannot sit idly by and watch those who put on the badge and uniform to protect us, placing themselves between us and danger, die at the hands of those who would do them harm.” Brown said that the responsibility lies with elected officials to make sure police officers are operating in the safest ways possible. There are four bills in Brown’s proposed package: The first bill would require that officers be accompanied by a partner whenever working in a critical crime area, as defined by the attorney general. It would ensure officers are better protected from those who would do them harm. The second bill would require that all officers wear at minimum non-expired level IIIA body armor while on duty to better protect them from firearms. The third bill would create a grant program to provide funding to municipalities to install audible gunshot detection technology in areas with high rates of firearm violence. The fourth bill Read more

 

Joanna McClinton elected first female speaker of the Pa. House as Mark Rozzi steps down

(Feb 28, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

“There’s going to have to be compromises on all legislation because of how tight the numbers are,” Rozzi said. “So I think that [McClinton is] the right person to lead this House right now.” Read more

 

Kenyatta leads rally for Temple University Graduate Students Association

(Feb 15, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 15 -- State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., on Tuesday lead a rally under the Bell Tower on Temple University’s campus in support of the Temple University Graduate Students’ Association and the university’s hardworking graduate students. TUGSA members are currently on strike to receive a living wage, and the rally was to support their fight in the face of Temple's "union-busting” tactics, which include revoking student aid for the striking members. Kenyatta was joined by Philadelphia House Delegation Vice-Chair Rep. Danilo Burgos and other members of the PA House Democratic Caucus, as well as the American Federation of Teachers of PA, United Food & Commercial Workers, Coalition of Labor Union Women, and Service Employees International Union. Kenyatta is a Temple alum and has consistently worked as a state representative to provide fair and living wages to working people. He said the unfair wages and union busting happening to TUGSA hits close to home for him. “I love Temple University, the folks gathered here today love Temple University. What we don’t love is union busting, and working people not being able to pay their bills,” Kenyatta said. “This is a shameful day for Temple University. Temple can do better and must do better by providing TUGSA workers dignified and worthy wages.” Video from the rally can be found on Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds court ruling for fair school funding

(Feb 09, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 9 – The Philadelphia House Delegation applauded the ruling in PA Commonwealth Court that Pennsylvania’s school funding system is unconstitutional. The ruling is a result of the 2014 case William Penn School District v. PA Department of Education, which was filed on behalf of parents, school districts, and statewide organizations arguing that the commonwealth’s funding of K-12 public education is inadequate and violates the Pennsylvania Constitution. The petitioners argued that because the bulk of public education funding comes from local property taxes, school districts in areas with low incomes and property values have been underfunded compared to school districts in areas with high incomes and property values. Leaders of the Philadelphia House Delegation -- Chairwoman Morgan Cephas, Vice Chairman Danilo Burgos and Secretary Malcolm Kenyatta -- issued the following statements about the historic ruling. “Philadelphia schools have been the victims of underfunding for decades and it shows in the conditions they’re in today,” Cephas said. “This ruling is historic and should set us on the right track to get schools in Philadelphia and across the commonwealth the funding they need.” “For far too long, PA schools in low-income areas have been massively underfunded, and it has hurt the children attending these schools and the community as a whole,” Read more

 

Solomon presents check to NEPCA to promote diversity in his community

(Feb 07, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., continued his investment in diversity by presenting $30,000 in state funding to the Northeast Philadelphia Chinese Association. “The Northeast is powered by the diversity of our neighborhood, which makes it an amazing part of the city,” Solomon said. “We need to continue supporting diversity in our neighborhood by investing in organizations like NEPCA, which will help connect people with community, bridge cultural gaps, connect to city services and so much more.” Solomon said these funds will be used to help bridge cultural gaps by providing interpreters and connections to city services and more. “I am so grateful for you helping NEPCA get this $30,000 grant.” Pearl Hunh, leader at NEPCA, said to Solomon. “We want to just love and care, so this generation will grow up and take care of our community. Not only the Chinese, but for all the people that need help.” Councilman Anthony Phillips, state Rep. Anthony Bellmon and Former Councilwoman Maria Quiones-Sanchez joined Solomon in awarding the funding to the volunteers of NEPCA. Solomon said that Northeast Philadelphia is the fastest growing Chinese community in the entire city, and he is honored that they choose to call the Northeast home. Read more

 

Neilson reintroduces legislation to curb speeding through school zones

(Jan 31, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 30 -- State Rep. Ed Neilson, D-Phila., has reintroduced legislation designed to save children’s lives by requiring automated speed cameras in school zones to “Give our kids a break.” “The city is plagued by being unable to hire police and bus drivers, and it has reduced the number of bus routes and crossing guards in our neighborhoods,” Neilson said. “The calls about these dangerous situations keep coming to my office and if the city isn’t able to fix it, as public servants, it’s our duty to introduce legislation that protects and enhances the life of our constituents, and that’s exactly what this legislation would do.” Former Gov. Tom Wolf invested $14.5 million to install these cameras along Roosevelt Boulevard, a main corridor in Neilson’s district – Neilson said he wants to have the program expanded into the neighborhood because the death of just one child from carelessness is too many. “Every day, we see people speeding through school zones, endangering the lives of children and the crossing guards in a place where they are supposed to be safe,” Neilson said. “We need to give our kids a break.” Neilson said he wants to see the same automated speed cameras in school zones across the commonwealth. This is not the first kind of legislation introduced in the country that puts speed cameras in school zones. Neilson said that similar sized cities Read more

 

Pa. lawmakers propose medical debt relief bill

(Jan 23, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 23 – Seeking to ease the burden of medical debt on working families, a plan to create the Pennsylvania Medical Debt Repayment Program was unveiled today by state Reps. Arvind Venkat and Nick Pisciottano, both D-Allegheny; Bridget Kosierowski, D-Lackawanna; and Tarik Khan and Donna Bullock, both D-Phila. “As a physician, I have seen firsthand how problems with our nation’s healthcare system – including medical debt – have hurt families and prevented people from getting the care they need,” said Venkat, the first physician to serve in the General Assembly in nearly 60 years. “While there are many issues that we need to address, including the systemic problems that lead to spiraling medical debt, this bill is an important first step toward helping people across Pennsylvania get the assistance and the care they need – and not phone calls from collection agencies.” “When my son was diagnosed with childhood leukemia, the last thing I wanted to worry about was the stress of medical costs. No family in Pennsylvania should ever need to think twice before seeking care for chronic or other serious conditions for fear of going into medical debt,” Kosierowski said. “We must do whatever we can at the state level to ensure that families don’t need to choose between going to the doctor or putting food on their table or buying clothes for their children.” The lawmakers likened the newly Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation salutes Mayor Kenney’s critical priorities for the city as his mandate comes to an end this year

(Jan 11, 2023) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 11 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed their endorsement for Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney’s core priorities in his final year as mayor. The delegation also highlighted their concerns and hopes for the city. “The plan introduced today by Mayor Kenney gave us optimism. I’m pleased to see that reducing gun violence and strengthening public safety are an important part of this agenda. I also laud the commitment to diversity, to improving access to quality education and to expanding affordable housing” said the delegation’s chair, state Rep. Morgan Cephas. “These goals might not be entirely achieved by the end of the year, but we are going in the right direction, there’s a strong approach from the administration to address the major issues affecting our city”, Cephas said. The mayor’s goals are explained in a report titled “Equity and Opportunity for All: Moving Philadelphia Forward.” In it, Kenney revealed four critical focus areas of the administration in an effort to guarantee Philadelphia’s immediate and long-term future success. The mayor promised to reinforce his commitment to enhancing public safety, improve quality of life and build thriving neighborhoods. His other goal will be investing in Philadelphia’s youth. Driving inclusive growth and economic opportunity while building a thriving Read more

 

Waxman sworn in for first term

(Jan 04, 2023) Rep. Ben Waxman

HARRISBURG, Jan. 4 – State Rep. Ben Waxman took the oath of office in the state Capitol Tuesday to begin his first term representing the 182nd Legislative District in Philadelphia. The noon swearing-in ceremony marked the beginning of the 2023-24 session of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Waxman also has been appointed chair of the Philadelphia Delegation’s Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee. As the head of this subcommittee, Waxman said he plans to use his expertise in government communications to facilitate partnerships with city hall, city government organizations and nongovernmental organizations throughout Philadelphia. The subcommittee also will work with state departments and other state-related organizations to develop and analyze legislation for the benefit of the city of Philadelphia, as well as the Commonwealth. “I’m honored and looking forward to taking on the duties of being a new member of the Pennsylvania House,” Waxman said. “I know that I still have much to learn, but I plan to make sure every one of my neighbors feels represented and heard. It’s time to get to work.” Waxman’s office can help with a variety of state-related services, including home heating assistance, children’s health insurance, and prescription drug and Property Tax/Rent Rebate assistance. Residents can find out more by going to RepBenWaxman.com . Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation announces $7 million awarded to the city to improve traffic safety

(Jan 04, 2023) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 4 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced that $7 million in grants has been awarded to the city. The funds, distributed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, are aimed to improve safety at signalized intersections by providing automated enforcement at locations where data shows red-light running has been a concern. The funds will be used for the following four programs: Citywide Intersection Modifications, Modern Roundabouts, Bike Network Curb Separation and Citywide Traffic Calming. “These state grants are a wise investment and essential to improving traffic safety in the city. This money will make our communities safer for drivers and pedestrians alike by preventing fatalities and improving the flow of traffic. It is always rewarding to see that our critical priorities are getting addressed, and that our voices are being heard,” said Rep. Morgan Cephas, chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation. “We adamantly support these programs; and we must foster equity and inclusion in order to help improve the safety and quality of life in underserved communities of color. This is only part of our ongoing and integral effort to uplift traditionally disenfranchised and ignored areas of Philly. “Another aspect that we need to highlight is that the Automated Red-Light Enforcement funding is generated by Philadelphia red-light violations. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation unveils three new subcommittees

(Dec 21, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 21 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced the launch of a new subcommittee structure aimed to amplify the efforts and mission of the delegation in three specific areas of work. The delegation now includes as part of its components The Philadelphia House Delegation Labor Subcommittee, the Philadelphia House Delegation Policy Subcommittee and the Philadelphia House Delegation Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee. Delegation Chair Rep. Morgan Cephas explains that the organization is experiencing a crucial reform that will translate to a boost across a broad spectrum of focus areas of their work. “We are all very excited and looking forward to the agendas of these subcommittees. It has never been more urgent to fulfill our mission as a delegation, as the voice of Philadelphia in the House,” Cephas said. “I must highlight that these groups are strategically led by an impeccable team of lawmakers who have made great strides in each of these territories.” Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler and Rep.-elect Roni Green have been designated chair and vice chair, respectively, of the Philadelphia House Delegation Labor Subcommittee. This group will evaluate legislation related to unions, the right to form a union, worker power, union membership and other matters relating to organized labor in the commonwealth. Fiedler has been a champion for labor Read more

 

The Philadelphia Platform 2023-24
Mar 16, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation praises Shapiro’s budget priorities
Mar 09, 2023

Solomon appointed to chair of Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee
Mar 08, 2023

New hope for Philly Dems and wary GOP optimism: Shapiro’s budget a rare sign of unity in Harrisburg
Mar 08, 2023

Kenyatta applauds Pa. Commission on Crime and Delinquency awarding grant to Temple University for $1.8 million
Mar 08, 2023

Solomon introduces Women’s Reproductive Health Care Compact legislation
Mar 06, 2023

Khan Demands Change in PA Schools
Mar 03, 2023

PA To Consider Adopting Significant Police Protection Measures
Mar 03, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation celebrates the election of McClinton as new House Speaker
Feb 28, 2023

Brown introduces package of laws to protect law enforcement
Feb 28, 2023

Joanna McClinton elected first female speaker of the Pa. House as Mark Rozzi steps down
Feb 28, 2023

Kenyatta leads rally for Temple University Graduate Students Association
Feb 15, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds court ruling for fair school funding
Feb 09, 2023

Solomon presents check to NEPCA to promote diversity in his community
Feb 07, 2023

Neilson reintroduces legislation to curb speeding through school zones
Jan 31, 2023

Pa. lawmakers propose medical debt relief bill
Jan 23, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation salutes Mayor Kenney’s critical priorities for the city as his mandate comes to an end this year
Jan 11, 2023

Waxman sworn in for first term
Jan 04, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation announces $7 million awarded to the city to improve traffic safety
Jan 04, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation unveils three new subcommittees
Dec 21, 2022