Register for My Back to School Event!

Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El May 9, 2025 | 4:02 PM

Dear Neighbor,

My Eviction Sealing Bill Heads to the House Floor

This week, my legislation that would seal eviction records for the millions of Pennsylvanians whose records prevent them from being able to secure adequate housing was reported out of committee with overwhelming bipartisan support, 23-3.

The bill would protect communities and ensure fair housing access by instituting a statewide policy that would establish procedures to limit access to eviction records in certain cases, such as no-fault evictions. In cases where the tenant has been determined to be at fault by a judge, the records would remain accessible to the public for seven years, bringing them into line with policies related to bankruptcies and foreclosures.

Raise Student Teacher Wages!

At the state Capitol this week, I stood with Teach Plus USA and PSEA to rally to get our student teachers paid the wage they deserve. We need more teachers like Thaddeus in our schools—let’s get it done!

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to the amazing educators of District 49 and across the commonwealth!

Click on the image below for my remarks.

Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit

This week, my PA House Democratic colleagues and I cut costs for working Pennsylvanians by creating and passing the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit (HB 820), a 30% refundable state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit would help nearly a million people who already claim the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit and give them up to $2,300 back – it’s a big win that gets even bigger for working people facing tariffs, corporate price gouging and supply chain disruptions.

Primary Election Mail-In/Absentee Ballot Deadline: May 13, 2025

You can still vote in the primary election if you are out of town or want to avoid Primary Election Day lines at the polls if you apply for an absentee or mail-in ballot.

Click here to apply for a mail-in/absentee ballot.

Note: Your completed application must be received by your county election office by 5 p.m. on May 13. The deadline to return your completed mail-in or absentee ballot is 8 p.m. on May 20.

African American Cultural Fair

From May 28 to June 1, the African American Cultural Fair will offer a fantastic array of activities, including thrilling carnival rides, live wrestling matches, a special celebrity guest appearance, a showcase of local talent in the talent show, and delicious food vendors. It's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate community and culture! The office team will have a table on Wednesday 5/28 from 6-9 p.m.; please stop by to say hello!

Mark your calendar for my FREE Shred event!

My FREE Shred and E-Cycling Event is May 31 from 9 a.m. – noon at New Life Christian Fellowship Parking Lot.

Registration is required. You can register by calling our office at (717) 283-4218 or by emailing RepIzzy@pahouse.net.

Register for My Back to School Event!

The 14^th Annual Back to School Event is BACK & Pre-registration is LIVE through August 4! This event serves students grades K-8 from schools within the 96^th and 49^th Legislative Districts within the School District of Lancaster, Manheim Township School District, Hempfield School District and Penn Manor School District. Students will receive FREE clothing, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, reading books, haircuts and MORE! My staff will also be available onsite to answer questions about state-related matters. You can register at Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El | Homepage

If you are interested in volunteering at the event, visit the following link to sign up: 14th Annual Back to School Event: Volunteer Sign Up