Dear Neighbor,

I’d like to share with you the work that I’m doing in Harrisburg and locally to ensure we Thrive in the 185. Keep reading for more details, follow my social media for updates, and please contact one of my offices to find out how we can help you with state and local programs and resources. #InformationIsPower

Follow me on social media and check out my website!

#GetInvolved and #JoinTheConversation!

I was privileged this week to serve as the interim Chair for the House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing in Chester focused on improving birth outcomes and survival rates for mothers and infants in Pennsylvania. Our state, and our region in particular, has a disturbing rate of maternal mortality and morbidity. Testifiers presented data showing that 31% of maternal deaths occur during pregnancy, compared to 52% that occur postpartum, proving that maternal health care is vital even after birth. Data also shows that Black women in Pennsylvania die at more than double the rate of white women from pregnancy-related causes. Meanwhile, Black infants die at more than twice the rate of white infants.

My colleagues in the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus have been working to improving birthing outcomes with their PA MOMNIBUS package of legislation, which I fully support.

You can watch our hearing below and check in with my office for more information about how we’re working to protect mothers and infants in the 185^th.

Improving Mental Health Services in PA

This week I toured the Norristown State Hospital with the House Democratic Policy Committee to learn how they are helping folks in need. Norristown is one of only two forensic psychiatric hospitals in the state, so we also learned about the need for additional investment in facilities and resources like this across the state to help with mental health services, particularly for those involved in the criminal justice system.

Changes Likely Coming to Pennie

Due to changes in federal law, and the expectation that the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits will not be renewed before the Sept. 30 deadline, health insurance costs are expected to rise significantly for Pennie enrollees in 2026. If the EPTC expire, health insurance costs would increase by a minimum of 82% - some folks may see a doubled or even quadrupled increase. You should be receiving communications from Pennie about these changes if you are currently enrolled. For now, make sure that your information is up to date with Pennie, including your income. You can also begin shopping around for other plans to see if there are cost-effective solutions for you. The 2026 open enrollment period will begin on Nov. 1 for health insurance plans for 2026.

Click the graphic above to visit the Pennie website created to explain what is happening, why it is happening, and how you can prepare for these changes.

You can also go to pennie.com/connect to find Pennie-certified assisters and brokers by your ZIP code. Some offer virtual, over-the-phone, and in-person appointments. My offices are also here to guide you through the process.

PHDC Housing Fair

PHDC is hosting its third annual Housing Fair presented by Temple University and NBC10. It will take place on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Temple University’s Aramark Student Training and Recreation (STAR) Complex, 1816 N. 15th St.

The fair will provide resources for current homeowners, small landlords, first-time home buyers, renters, landlords and others who are interested in learning more about homeownership, maintaining and repairing a home, development opportunities, and much more.

City-funded housing counselors, mortgage lenders, realtors, insurance agents, representatives from housing-related City departments, local legal organizations, and other professionals in the housing industry will be in attendance. Attendees can learn about the housing programs and services available, helping create generational wealth through homeownership and living in and owning a healthy home.

If you benefit from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) there are new work requirements to continue receiving those benefits. Under the new federal guidelines, certain recipients will need to report that they are working, volunteering, or participating in an education or training program for at least 20 hours a week (or 80 hours each month). The requirements will continue to expand throughout the fall of 2025. You should have received a letter from the PA Dept. of Human Services if you are effected, however you can learn more on the DHS website. These changes are due to a new law recently passed by congress and signed into law by President Trump. These cuts disproportionately harm Philadelphia children, seniors, and working families. We’re fortunate in Philadelphia and Delco to have so many organizations and nonprofits that can assist in times of need, but it’s hard to replace or supplement these federal benefits for the long-term. Please reach out to my office if you need food assistance and we can connect you with options.

Did you know that seniors ride for free on SEPTA? A SEPTA Senior Fare Card allows seniors 65 and older to ride for free, but those cards do expire after three years. My office can help you get or renew your card. As we continue to work on a State Budget solution for mass transit, senior fare cards still allow you to ride for free to your medical appointments, your job, visiting family and friends, or anything you need to do in our region.

SEPTA keeps our communities moving and economy thriving – and a senior fare card helps your wallet by saving on transportation costs! Contact my office today for more information on getting or renewing your SEPTA Senior Fare Card.

The PA House Fellowship Program is open for applications

College students, come work in Harrisburg with legislators like me! You’ll have an opportunity to work at the beautiful Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex in Harrisburg either on a committee or in the leadership offices. Don’t miss out on this opportunity.

Applications are due by Oct. 1

Qualified applicants will be:

1. College undergraduate juniors or seniors, graduate students, or law school students.

2. Enrolled in a Pennsylvania college/university, or a Pennsylvania resident enrolled in an out-of-state institution; and

3. Pursuing any major with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

If you know of any college students who would benefit from our Fellowship Program, please feel free to invite them to visit the website at: www.pahousefellowship.us. Applications can be submitted via email at: pahousefellowship@pabmc.net.

The state Treasury has millions of dollars in unclaimed property in its vault—some of it could belong to you! This could include anything from a lost paycheck to jewelry or coins. Join me at my Essington office on Friday, Sept. 26, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. We’ll check if there’s anything in your name and guide you through the process of claiming it!

Join me and Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton every Thursday at 7 a.m. for an hour of self-care. Join the Glow Together Walkers and start your morning with intention and community as we walk through the gorgeous community spaces in our area. Walking, getting outside, and engaging with your community are ideal self-care strategies that get you moving and into a social space with likeminded community members.

We’ll either be at Heinz National Wildlife Refuge or Bartram’s Garden – check the graphic above for our weekly schedule.

The hour is free and for all ages. You can click above to RSVP or just show up!

The actions that are happening right now with the federal government in Washington, D.C. have been very overwhelming with what seems like daily attacks on our neighbors, our freedoms and basic rights. Just remember that there are always people to help. If you are concerned about the actions being taken on immigration, I encourage you to contact these local organizations listed in this document below. Additionally, while my office is here to assist you with state and local services, your concerns on these federal actions need to be heard by your federal officials. Check out the list of our federal representatives and senators and contact their offices for assistance or to let them know about your concerns. We’ve seen recently how advocacy and loud objections can lead to a course reversal or reevaluation by the president and his administration.

Don’t give up and don’t give in.
Know your rights and stay vigilant for your family and your community.

I’m excited about all the connections we were able to make this week for folks at my Job Fair! People looking for a job, searching for a career change, seeking out new skills, everyone found something at the Job Fair with so many employers on-site and looking to connect with our residents in Philly and Delco.

I was happy to join the conversation this week at the Community College of Philadelphia for their "Sharp Minds Start Here" Power Hour discussion on mental health.

Great to connect with all the students and their parents at the Southwest Leadership Academy Back to School Night this week!

My staff took a very cool tour of Xiente’s Mobile Preschool Program. It was an opportunity to learn more about how mobile early learning and family support services can help meet the needs of families in Delaware County, and to explore potential opportunities for expansion in our communities.

It’s always great to visit with the seniors at Saint Edmonds!

Did you already apply for your Property Tax or Rent Rebate? Rebates are now being distributed so you should receive yours soon – track your refund online! If you haven’t applied yet, my office is here to help you find out if you qualify and help you apply. Contact one of my offices today - don’t wait!

These rebates have made it easier for older and disabled folks to stay in their homes while affording groceries, medicine, and so much more.

The application period is now open to get a rebate on your 2024 taxes or rent paid. Thanks to changes PA House Democrats fought for, more people are eligible, and the rebates are bigger than ever!

My office helps city officials and local organizations connect to state grants available to help them do their important work to improve our communities and the lives of residents. You can find a list of state grant programs that are currently open for application on my website. We update this list as new programs come online so check back often.

In service and in action,

Rep. Regina Young