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!

Human trafficking is a people issue. It can affect any region, but it hits ours hard because of our international airport, plus two major interstates and other major transportation infrastructure running through our area. One of my top priorities as a legislator has been to increase awareness about human trafficking in our area and how to prevent it. It is an insidious evil that we can prevent today with proper training for folks in the lodging industry who are often caught in the middle.

This week, I hosted the House Tourism, Recreation & Economic Development Committee in Essington for a public hearing on my bill that would require mandatory training for people who work in the lodging industry to recognize the signs of human trafficking and how to report it. The hearing was an informative and emotionally stirring discussion on the evils of human trafficking and how we can put an end to it in Pennsylvania. Read more about my bill and our hearing and take some time to listen to the testimony of the folks working with us to end human trafficking by clicking below to watch the hearing.

Civic Conversations

I’m kicking off this fall with a return of my Civic Conversations series. I’m partnering with Philadelphia City Commissioner Chairman Omar Sabir to present these gatherings to help you learn about how your government works for YOU and the importance of getting involved and ensuring your make your voice heard with your vote.

The first event is this Thursday evening, Oct. 9 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. We’ll be done in plenty of time for you to get home to watch our Eagles on Thursday Night Football! Go Birds!

All events will be located at the 2nd Council District Satellite Election Office located at Woodland Plaza, 6100 Woodland Ave. in Southwest Philadelphia. These are always informative and exciting discussions so I hope you can join us!

You can’t grow if you don’t know! #JoinTheConversation

Changes Likely Coming to Pennie

Due to changes in federal law, and since the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits were not renewed by Congress, health insurance costs are expected to rise significantly for Pennie enrollees in 2026. Health insurance costs are likely to 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.

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.

Shredding your outdated and unneeded paperwork is the best way to protect your identity and personal information. Bring your old documents like credit card statements, tax paperwork, financial records and any other papers that contain sensitive information and we’ll shred and dispose of it on-site.

We’ll be at the Turner/Motivation Parking Lot at 5900 Baltimore Ave. beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25. See you there!

I’m joining Speaker Joanna McClinton to honor veterans from our area for their service and sacrifice. If you or your loved one served our country, we want to give you the recognition you deserve! Contact my office to register for our event happening on Thursday, Nov. 6 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the PAL Center, 5900 Elmwood Ave. in Southwest Philadelphia.

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 was honored to speak at this year’s PHL Annual Business Opportunity Forum, along with PHL Chief of Staff Tiffany Thurman, Phila. City Council President Kenyatta Johnson and Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, and Dr. Monica Taylor.

Our unclaimed property was a terrific success! Thanks to everyone who came out to my Delco office to search for any property or money that the state Treasury might be holding onto in your name, and you don’t even know! Did you find anything?

Coffee with Cops is always a great opportunity for the community to interact with our local police officers over a good cup of coffee at our local McDonalds!

It was a pleasure to attend the Delaware County Council Legislative Breakfast with Senator Kearney. This important gathering offers an opportunity for community leaders, elected officials, and stakeholders to connect, share updates, and discuss key legislative priorities impacting Delaware County communities.

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