Philadelphia House Delegation praises approval of increase in public transit funding

(Mar 20, 2024)

Today, members of the Philadelphia House Delegation were an integral part of the state House of Representatives’ approval of a proposed increase in recurring funds for public transportation in Pennsylvania. Read more

 

PA Legislative Latino Caucus slams efforts to impose a state fee on international remittances made by migrants

(Mar 15, 2024)

HARRISBURG, March 14 – Members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus today released the following statement on the announcement by state Rep. Mike Cabell, R-Luzerne, that he plans to introduce legislation that would impose a state fee on international remittances made by undocumented migrants. “The idea of imposing an additional 10% fee on money transfers made by immigrants can only be described as absurd and vicious. This proposal clearly discriminates against immigrants; it is targeting a vulnerable group. “This bill is aimed at penalizing people for sharing a marginal percentage of their hard-earned salary with relatives abroad. Where is the logic and humanity in that argument? “Representative Cabell emphasizes that Oklahoma and other states have enacted similar legislation. It doesn’t mean that this is right; he cannot use this as a pass to validate and encourage discrimination in Pennsylvania. “Representative Cabell is also pushing the idea that the revenue will be used to support the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. We have excellent news for Representative Cabell: Governor Josh Shapiro's expansion of the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program delivered the largest targeted tax cut for seniors in nearly two decades, expanding access to nearly 175,000 more Pennsylvanians and increasing maximum rebates from $650 to $1000. And not a single immigrant was sacrificed in the name of Read more

 

Pa. Legislative Latino Caucus highlights contributions of Dominican community in commonwealth

(Feb 27, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Feb. 27 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus today released the following statement on the occasion of the 180 th anniversary of Dominican independence: “As members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus, we stand in unity with our Dominican brothers and sisters, acknowledging their invaluable contribution to our commonwealth’s social, cultural and economic vitality. “We are proud to say that Pennsylvania is home to over 140,000 Dominicans with most hailing from Allentown, Reading and Philadelphia. “We want to use this opportunity to reflect on the triumphs and struggles that our community has faced and honor the efforts and impact of our contributions not only to the state, but to the entire nation. “We promise a renewed commitment to continue fighting for a better future and justice for all families across the state. We also want to ensure that generations to come in the commonwealth will learn about their heritage and culture. Happy Dominican Independence Day! The Latino Caucus stands for diversity, equity and inclusion.” The Dominican Independence Day is celebrated annually on Feb. 27, marking the island’s autonomy from Haiti. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation encouraged by Shapiro Budget Proposal

(Feb 07, 2024)

Today, leaders of the Philadelphia House Delegation said that they are pleased with the direction of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2024-25. Among the many positives, the delegation is excited about the proposed investment in SEPTA and mass transit, as well as equitable education funding for the School District of Philadelphia. Read more

 

Grants available as of Tuesday, Jan. 30

(Jan 30, 2024)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Environmental Protection: Small Business Advantage Grant Who May Apply: For-profit businesses registered to do business in Pennsylvania with 100 or fewer full time equivalent employees. Use: To install equipment/material resulting in energy efficiency improvements or pollution prevent, natural resource or energy conservation, reduction of environmental contamination from air emissions and water effluents, or to develop and apply environmental improvement technologies and methods. Funds: DEP expects to award approximately $1 million in grants. Application Deadline: March 22, 2024, or until program funds are exhausted. More information: DEP Website Department of Health: WalkWorks Grant Who May Apply: Municipalities and metropolitan and rural planning organizations. Use: Funds will be available to applicants to assist with the development of a plan, which will identify and prioritize projects related to modes of active transportation with an emphasis on walking, biking, using a wheelchair, and public transit. Funds: Funding will depend on the number of applications received and the amounts requested. Application Deadline: March 22, 2024 More information: DOH Website Liquor Control Board: Reducing Underage Drinking and Dangerous Drinking Grant Who May Apply: School districts, including trade and technical schools, institutions of higher education, municipal representatives, nonprofit and for-profit Read more

 

Grants available as of Tuesday, Jan. 16

(Jan 16, 2024)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commission on Crime and Delinquency: School Safety and Security Grant Program Who May Apply: School districts, intermediate units, area career and technical schools, charter schools, cyber charter schools, regional charter schools, approved private schools, chartered school for the education of the deaf or the blind, private residential rehabilitative institutions, municipalities, law enforcement agencies, and approved vendors. Use: Municipalities, law enforcement and approved vendors are limited to apply to provide school security personnel services within schools. Schools can apply for programs that address safety and security, including but not limited to, safety and security assessments, conflict resolution or dispute management strategies, school-wide positive behavior support, school-based diversion programs, peer help programs, classroom management, training, and more. Funds: A total of $32,179,000, which includes $26,345,000 from the $50 million allocated for the School Safety and Security Grant Fund and $5,834,000 allocated from the FY23-24 Targeted School Safety Grant Program, is being announced to support this initiative. Application Deadline: February 29, 2024 More information: PCCD Website Commission on Crime and Delinquency: School Mental Health Grants Who May Apply: School Districts, Intermediate Units, Area Career and Technical Schools, Charter Schools, Regional Charter Schools, and Cyber Charter Schools. Use: Read more

 

PA Legislative Latino Caucus to join forces with Make the Road PA on behalf of immigrants across Pennsylvania

(Jan 12, 2024)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 12 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus today announced that the group will be joining ‘Pennsylvania Welcomes Immigrants,’ a pro-immigrant rally organized by Make the Road Pennsylvania. The rally, supported by the Woori Center, Free Migration Project and Pennsylvania Policy Center, is set for noon Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 144 N. Seventh St., Allentown , and is expected to be attended by community leaders, state officials and local advocacy groups. State Rep. Danilo Burgos, chairman of the Latino Caucus, explained that the group will take a stand against the recent introduction of an anti-immigrant legislative package by state Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh). “We are determined to put a halt to any actions aimed at terrorizing and harming immigrants in Pennsylvania. We wholeheartedly condemn the promotion of these and any other anti-immigration bills. We want to expose the damaging effects of manipulative rhetoric like the one that Representative Mackenzie has sadly embraced,” Burgos said. “It is time to recognize the numerous contributions of all immigrants to our economy and culture; it’s time to acknowledge their rights,” Burgos added. “We are glad to have found in Make the Road a solid ally in our crusade to welcome and protect immigrants’ families in the state. We are looking forward to continuing Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation commends appointment of Pedro Rosario, first ever Latino deputy police commissioner in the city

(Jan 12, 2024)

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 12 – Members of the Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed their satisfaction for the appointment of Pedro Rosario, a 29-year veteran of the Philadelphia Police Department who will serve as deputy commissioner of the department’s Kensington Initiative. “Winds of change keep blowing in Philadelphia and we cannot be more excited about the outcome,” said Rep. Morgan Cephas, chairwoman of the delegation. “Mayor Cherelle Parker started strong. She is not only vowing to fight the overdose crisis and the drug market in Kensington; Parker is taking the bull by the horns. The designation of Rosario to work on specific duties in Kensington is a bold action that has our wholehearted support,” she added. Rep. Jose Giral, who represents the180 th Legislative District in the Kensington area, is confident that Rosario will be an effective commissioner, based on Rosario’s expertise and solid credentials. Giral witnessed his work firsthand while Rosario was assigned to the 24 th Police District. “I have known Pedro Rosario for a long time. I met him while I was a member of the Police Advisory Commission and this conferred me the opportunity to work hand in hand with him and the 24 th Police District,” Giral said. “Rosario is boots on the ground from day one because he knows exactly all the particulars of the issues impacting our Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation congratulates new city leaders

(Jan 03, 2024)

Today, leaders of the Philadelphia House Delegation expressed their excitement for the inauguration of Cherelle Parker as the first woman and 100th Philadelphian to serve as mayor of Philadelphia. Read more

 

Rep. Burgos's 2024 Capitol calendar

(Jan 02, 2024)

State Rep. Danilo Burgos's 2024 Capitol calendar. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation celebrates infrastructure grants

(Dec 19, 2023)

Delegation Vice Chair, Rep. Danilo Burgos, D-Phila., said that the arts are an integral part of life in Philadelphia. Read more

 

Nearing the end of its first year, the Pa. Legislative Latino Caucus sees more work ahead

(Dec 11, 2023)

As the Pennsylvania House prepares for its final session days of the 2023 calendar year, the Latino Caucus closes out its first year with many of the bills put forth by its members still awaiting action. But even though many of its priorities haven’t moved forward so far during this legislative session, Rep. Manuel Guzman (D-Reading), vice chair of the Latino Caucus, said they’re in it for the long haul. Read more

 

Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus announces the addition of new members to the group

(Nov 21, 2023)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 21 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus announced today the addition of three new members. Chairman Danilo Burgos explained that the new members, Reps. Lindsay Powell, D-Allegheny, and Heather Boyd and Carol Kazeem, both D-Delaware, will bring a wealth of experience, passion and dedication to the Latino Caucus. “Their diverse backgrounds and perspectives will contribute significantly to our ongoing efforts to advocate for the interests and well-being of Pennsylvania's Latino community,” Burgos said. "Their commitment to fostering inclusivity and addressing the unique challenges faced by the Latino community will undoubtedly enhance the impact of our collective advocacy. We are building a more inclusive and equitable future for all Pennsylvanians," he added. Kazeem said that the only way to address issues relevant to the Latino population is to through a collective effort. “I believe the Latino Caucus understands the challenges and concerns of the community and is continually igniting changes,” Kazeem said. “I am glad to be part of this great force and I am looking forward to engaging in advocacy of policies that would ensure the progress of all Latinos in the commonwealth.” Boyd expressed similar sentiments and highlighted her excitement on becoming an active member of the PA Latino Caucus. “It is an honor to join the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Read more

 

Newly Opened Grant Programs Available as of Tuesday, Nov. 14

(Nov 14, 2023)

NEWLY OPENED PROGRAMS Council on the Arts: Arts Organizations and Arts Programs Who May Apply: Nonprofit organizations and municipalities with at least two years of consistent arts programming in Pennsylvania and an average arts revenue over $200,000. School districts providing arts programming/services are also eligible. Use: Eligible uses of funds include, but are not limited to, operating, programming or project expenditures. Application Deadline: Jan. 17, 2024 More information: Arts Website Historical & Museum Commission: Empowered History Micro-Grant Program Who May Apply: Any community group or member of a community with historical materials located in Pennsylvania. Highest priority is given to organizations with demonstrated financial need and historical material from communities that are underrepresented in the historical record. Use: Enable communities to preserve and share their history through purchases that capture, preserve or disseminate community history, such as but not limited to, archival boxes, digital projects, educational materials, equipment to improve storage, and more. Funds: Grants will be awarded in amounts between $100 and $1,000 Application Deadline: Jan. 31, 2024 More information: PHMC Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Recruitment Incentives for Law Enforcement Who May Apply: Local law enforcement agencies, campus or university police, railroad or street Read more

 

State grant programs open for applications as of Monday, Oct. 23

(Oct 23, 2023)

PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Historical & Museum Commission: Cultural and Historical Support Grant Program Who May Apply: Museums that are in Pennsylvania with annual operating budgets exceeding $100,000 (excluding capital and in-kind services) and at least one full-time professional staff person and that are not supported by other state agency funding programs and official County Historical Societies designated as the official historical society for the county. Use: The goal of this program is to strengthen Pennsylvania’s museums and allow applicants to determine how to use funds for operating expenses. Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to, salaries, benefits, insurance, food service, travel, professional development, marketing, and equipment. Funds: Grant awards range from $2,500 to $65,000. Application Deadline: November 7, 2023 More information: PHMC Website Department of Community and Economic Development: Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites (PA SITES) Program Who May Apply: Municipality, Economic Development Organization, Redevelopment Authorities, Municipal Authorities, Industrial Development Agencies. For-profit businesses are not eligible to apply for the PA SITES Program. However, an eligible applicant may apply for a site owned and controlled by the eligible applicant or may apply in partnership with a private Read more

 

Grants available as of Tuesday, Oct. 17

(Oct 19, 2023)

PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Department of Education Nita M. Lowey 21 st Century Community Learning Centers Cohort 12 Who May Apply: P ublic school districts, charter schools, private schools, nonprofit agencies, city or county government agencies, faith-based organizations, institutions of higher education, Indian tribes or tribal organizations and for-profit corporations. Applicants must target students in the lowest 5% to 10% of Title I schools or those listed as focus and priority schools. To be eligible for this grant, at least 85% of the students an applicant is proposing to serve must attend: schools that are Title 1, TSI, ATSI or CSI. Use: The primary goal of these centers is to assist students with meeting state and local standards for core subjects such as reading and mathematics, by providing students with academic enrichment opportunities. In addition to academics, centers may also offer participants a broad array of other services and programs, such as art, music, service learning, character education, drug and violence prevention programming, recreation activities and technology education. Funds: Approximately $25 million in federal funding is available. Applicants may request funds ranging from $50,000 to $600,000. Requests for funding should be based on a maximum per pupil-seat cost of $2,100—$2,548, which includes administrative and transportation costs. Application Deadline : Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation praises tentative agreement between Unite Here Local 634 and the Philadelphia School District

(Sep 29, 2023)

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 29 – Following a tense conflict concerning the Philadelphia School District and city school workers, Unite Here Local 634 announced today that the union reached a preliminary contract agreement Thursday night that would benefit its nearly 2,000 members. The tentative four-year contract, that includes raises, a $500 signing bonus and basic equipment like walkie-talkies, was arranged two days before the current collective bargaining agreement expires Saturday. Philadelphia House Delegation Chairwoman Rep. Morgan Cephas, who participated in a rally held earlier this month by the school workers, said this is great news not only for the union but for the whole community as parents and students are also key in the conflict. “We are pleased to learn this tentative agreement would guarantee raises during the contract period. This is not just an exclusive victory of the union, or the school district, it is also a win for the entire community,” Cephas said. “The demands of the student climate staff and food service workers are elementary. They need livable wages to offset expenses. Our delegation will continue advancing legislation that would protect worker’s rights as well as promoting and supporting every single resource that would help us amplify the voices of all workers of the commonwealth.” Members of Unite Here Local 634 who earn about $15.50 Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation members seek justice for unfair Eddie Irizarry ruling and condemn looting in city

(Sep 27, 2023)

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 27 – In the wake of a disruptive wave of looting that hit Philadelphia Tuesday night, Philadelphia House Delegation members condemned the episode and emphasized that seeking justice in the Irizarry case must be separate from the looting. The chaos unfolded shortly after the announcement that a judge had dropped all charges against former Philadelphia police Officer Mark Dial, who fatally shot Eddie Irizarry. The deadly incident involving Irizarry occurred after a traffic stop. “What we saw last night is a pure and simple act of vandalism. Under no circumstances can we correlate protesters and looters. There is no possible excuse for destroying public property,” said delegation chairwoman Morgan Cephas. “We express our solidarity to the victim’s family, and we will keep monitoring the Irizarry case. This needs to be resolved in court, not on the streets of Philadelphia. We would also like to extend our support to the business owners impacted by this unfortunate episode,” Cephas added. Rep. Jose Giral, who represents the180 th Legislative District where the deadly incident took place on Aug. 14, highlighted that he is deeply concerned about the way the Irizarry investigation was conducted. “It is absolutely outrageous that those charges were dismissed. We need accountability to right the wrongs that occurred today and provide Read more

 

PLBC, PLLC say criminal justice system failed Irizarry family; encouraged by charges being refiled

(Sep 26, 2023)

HARRISBURG, Sept. 26 – Members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus and Pennsylvania Latino Caucus said they are disappointed to learn that a Philadelphia judge on Tuesday dismissed all charges against former police officer Mark Dial for his involvement in the shooting death of Eddie Irizarry last month but are encouraged to see that charges have been re-filed by the District Attorney’s office. “Yet again, another crime victim, another child, another sibling, another human being let down by our criminal justice system. It is our duty to stand together and demand justice for the family of Eddie Irizarry; they deserve nothing less,” said state Rep. Danilo Burgos, D-Phila., chair of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus. “We are deeply disappointed by this decision. Dial, a former police officer, fired his gun six times at close range. The fact that all charges were dropped is enraging. We demand accountability and transparency in this process. This is not a closed case,” said state Rep. Jose Giral, D-Phila., who represents the district where the killing occurred. “We keep talking about the wrongful use of deadly force by the police, and this is an unfortunate example of that. We are on the victim’s family’s side; we are on the side of justice.” “Make no mistake, we are not surprised by this failure to deliver justice to the Irizarry family. Read more

 

PA Legislative Latino Caucus to host Hispanic Heritage Month celebration

(Sep 26, 2023)

HARRISBURG, Sept. 26 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus today announced that the organization will be hosting a celebration that will exalt the contributions of the Latino community to Pennsylvania. The event, open to the public, will take place from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2 at the state Capitol Main Rotunda. “We want to praise the valuable role of Latinos in Pennsylvania’s economic, cultural, and social progress. There’s an extraordinary asset that comes from embracing different cultures,” said Latino Caucus Chairman Rep. Danilo Burgos. “We want to highlight the achievements and impact of our growing community, but also promote diversity and inclusivity in the state, that is a core aspect of our mission.” Burgos will be joined by Reps. Manuel Guzman Jr., vice chair of the group, and Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, secretary, among other members of the Latino Caucus and community leaders and advocates. The lineup of speakers includes Harrisburg’s Deputy Director of Communications Melissa Mesones-Ortiz, and Anthony Orozco from Barrio Alegria, a troupe of local artists based in Reading. Media coverage is invited. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation praises approval of increase in public transit funding
Mar 20, 2024

PA Legislative Latino Caucus slams efforts to impose a state fee on international remittances made by migrants
Mar 15, 2024

Pa. Legislative Latino Caucus highlights contributions of Dominican community in commonwealth
Feb 27, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation encouraged by Shapiro Budget Proposal
Feb 07, 2024

Grants available as of Tuesday, Jan. 30
Jan 30, 2024

Grants available as of Tuesday, Jan. 16
Jan 16, 2024

PA Legislative Latino Caucus to join forces with Make the Road PA on behalf of immigrants across Pennsylvania
Jan 12, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation commends appointment of Pedro Rosario, first ever Latino deputy police commissioner in the city
Jan 12, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation congratulates new city leaders
Jan 03, 2024

Rep. Burgos's 2024 Capitol calendar
Jan 02, 2024

Philadelphia House Delegation celebrates infrastructure grants
Dec 19, 2023

Nearing the end of its first year, the Pa. Legislative Latino Caucus sees more work ahead
Dec 11, 2023

Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus announces the addition of new members to the group
Nov 21, 2023

Newly Opened Grant Programs Available as of Tuesday, Nov. 14
Nov 14, 2023

State grant programs open for applications as of Monday, Oct. 23
Oct 23, 2023

Grants available as of Tuesday, Oct. 17
Oct 19, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation praises tentative agreement between Unite Here Local 634 and the Philadelphia School District
Sep 29, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation members seek justice for unfair Eddie Irizarry ruling and condemn looting in city
Sep 27, 2023

PLBC, PLLC say criminal justice system failed Irizarry family; encouraged by charges being refiled
Sep 26, 2023

PA Legislative Latino Caucus to host Hispanic Heritage Month celebration
Sep 26, 2023