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Cephas announces grants to renovate Overbrook High School

Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

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Philadelphia House Delegation calls for thorough investigation on teen fatally shot by state trooper and prevention of more tragedies

(Jun 07, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, June 7 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today stated that the group is closely following the death of a teenager killed in the city Sunday by a state trooper during a drag race on I-95. The organization expressed concern about issues involved in this incident as they could develop into more tragedies. Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas indicated that it is essential that the state police and the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office collaborate hand-in-hand for transparent scrutiny. The delegation also hopes for accountability and answers to many of the critical questions surrounding the deadly shooting. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim, and we are looking forward to seeing all the facts that resulted in this death,” Cephas said. “As a delegation, we see two sides of this tragedy -- the first one is a family mourning in our city, the second is an unfortunate series of issues that are prompting us to take bold action and work fast on prevention. “It is alarming to see more and more illegal drag racings on city streets and interstates, car meetups and large unregulated gatherings all over the city. The aftermath of these scenarios is always the same: property damage, assault and participants throwing objects at the police. “As we head into the summer, we need to take control of these Read more

 

Cephas celebrates third edition of Overbrook Night Market

(May 24, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, May 24 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas,D-Phila., celebrated the third year of The Overbrook Night Market in her district last Thursday. Over 10,000 people joined Cephas for “Rep.’s Night Out” along Lancaster Avenue, between 61st and 63rd streets featuring 37 food truck vendors, a curated family zone with activities for children and families and two DJ entertainment zones, among other attractions. For Cephas the event not only offered an opportunity to enjoy food and entertainment; it also submerged residents into an authentic sense of community. “I am proud to see the way this event brings people together. The people came out again this year and I am truly excited about the future of this annual event,” Cephas said about the festival that registered a series of health and community resources. “The Night Market is an outstanding way to help local small-business owners and advance our economy, but also a fantastic platform to praise our culture while honoring the historic Overbrook and Overbrook Farms neighborhoods of West Philadelphia. This year’s event was a memorable experience for our district and visitors as well,” Cephas added. Cephas was joined by community partner Overbrook West Neighbors and a series of event sponsors including Keystone First, PECO and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, among other organizations. The event was Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation lauds passing of gun safety bills

(May 24, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, May 24 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed satisfaction on the passing of two pieces of legislation aimed at implementing extreme risk protection orders and regulating universal background checks. The firearm safety bills were approved by the House and sent to the Senate. The state House passed H.B. 714 which would expand background checks for firearm purchases. It was introduced by state Rep. Perry Warren. The second bill H.B. 1018 would provide emergency protection for gun owners who are at risk of harming themselves or others. Rep. Jennifer O’Mara is prime sponsor of this legislation. ERPO, or “red flag,” laws temporarily disarm people in crisis to disrupt spontaneous acts of violence against themselves or others. Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas said that the passing of the bills represents a major step forward in the delegation’s quest for public safety. “Having two gun reform bills pass this House is certainly cause for celebration, however we know there is much more work to be done. Our city, as well as the whole commonwealth, is in crisis and we need the General Assembly to recognize there are commonsense ways to help all Pennsylvanians while not infringing on their rights. “We will continue to work in the House for passage of safe storage and lost-and-stolen reporting -- two of the biggest priorities of our delegation Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation regrets fatal shooting of man canvassing for the city’s primary election

(May 09, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, May 9 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed their condolences to the family grieving the loss of a loved one after one man opened fire at another while both men were canvassing for the city’s upcoming primary election. Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas described the incident as a senseless loss and said that the shooting is also a sad reminder of the ongoing gun violence crisis impacting the city. “We don’t know yet what led up to this tragedy. Further details on this have not been released, but we do know that a family is mourning one of their own,” Cephas said. “We do know that someone lost their life due to gun violence in our city and it is heartbreaking. As of today, there have been 142 homicides in our city this year. This needs to stop,” Cephas added. Rep. Danilo Burgos, vice chair of the delegation, indicated that the institution urges the community to be part of a collective effort to spread awareness and combat gun violence. “My heart goes out to the victim’s family; I extend my condolences during this difficult time. As a community we must focus on prevention measures and bold regulations. Our delegation is determined to improve public safety and protect our families because our families deserve better, we need peace,” Burgos said. Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, delegation treasurer, shared thoughts of sympathy for the victim’s family. “I Read more

 

Representatives host Delta Day at state Capitol

(May 03, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, May 3 – State Reps. Gina H. Curry, D-Delaware, La’Tasha D. Mayes, D-Allegheny, and Morgan Cephas, D-Philadelphia, said that they were proud to host Delta Day at the state Capitol on Tuesday. Delta Day is celebrated by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, which was founded in 1913 by 22 collegiate women on the campus of Howard University. Today, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated is one of the preeminent service-based sororities, with predominantly more than 300,000 Black members and more than 1,000 chapters worldwide. The sorority has maintained a commitment to social activism, academic excellence and civic engagement. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated has 29 chapters in Pennsylvania. On Delta Day, members from throughout the commonwealth come to the Capitol to connect with elected officials, advance legislation and serve as a voice for others. “The women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated continue to be magnificent examples of servant-leaders with their commitment to their communities,” Curry said. “That is why I introduced H.R. 100 to recognize and honor the members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated on Delta Day.” “This was the first year back after three years of meeting virtually for Delta Days in Harrisburg,” Mayes said. “It was a great opportunity for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated members to come to our Capitol to lead the conversations Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation meets with members of Philadelphia City Council Committee on Education to discuss school facilities

(May 01, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, May 1 – In light of yet another school closing due to environmental hazards, the Philadelphia House Delegation today announced that the institution held a discussion with the Philadelphia City Council Committee on Education to help address the school closings impacting hundreds of students. The meeting was prompted after a sixth school building, Universal Vare Charter School, closed Friday after asbestos was found in the building. All affected schools have shifted to virtual learning. The finding comes as the result of a districtwide inspection prompted by the discovery of asbestos in Building 21, located in West Oak Lake. That building was shut down March 1. Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas said the delegation is concerned about the ongoing situation of schools having to close, and said the delegation considered the reunion the first step in evaluating strategies and prevention measures with the school district and the board of education. “ Years of disinvested in the schools has led to this upsetting situation; underfunding has taken a toll on these buildings. This is disruptive and frustrating for the parents and students that now have been thrown into a state of disarray,” Cephas said. “We are proposing solutions, but we also have questions and concerns that we need to clarify before we go into budget negotiations. We must wonder, are there other schools slated Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds win on gun safety

(Apr 26, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, APRIL 26 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced that an important set of firearm safety bills was approved by the PA House Judiciary Committee today and is on its way to consideration by the full House. The package of legislation, which cleared its first key committee, is aimed at securing prompt reporting of theft or loss of firearms, keeping guns secure around children, regulating background checks, and repealing provisions relating to the sale or transfer of firearms, among other regulations. Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas explained that this is a remarkable day for the delegation as another hurdle in efforts to deflate gun violence has been cleared. “This victory is long overdue. We are finally moving gun violence bills out of the Judiciary Committee. We have relentlessly fought for these bills”, Cephas said. “In a republican majority there was no chance for any kind of gun reform, but the time has come, and we couldn’t be more optimistic about this process. State Rep. Darisha Parker indicated that the bill on Safe Storage (H.B. 731) would help to save lives. Parker proposed consolidating statutes for firearms and other dangerous articles, providing for locking device for firearms. "There is no reason that anyone should lose a loved one because of a mishandled firearm," Parker said. "My legislation would Read more

 

Ban on shackling pregnant women, solitary confinement in prison advances in Pa. House

(Apr 19, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

The House Judiciary Committee unanimously reported out House Bill 900, which, in addition to bans on shackling expectant mothers, includes a host of measures to implement best practices, some of which are already in place in federal prisons. Read more

 

Cephas, Davis and Jones resume their fight for incarcerated women

(Apr 18, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, April 18 – State Reps. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., Tina Davis, D-Bucks, and Mike Jones, R-York, praised the passage of their Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act today in the Judiciary Committee. The bill, which would stabilize how pregnant people are treated in Pennsylvania’s jails and prisons, is now on its way to be heard on the House floor. The Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act (H.B.900), a bipartisan effort that passed unanimously, would prohibit the shackling of pregnant women, solitary confinement of pregnant women and provides for trauma informed care training of corrections officers interacting with pregnant and postpartum women. “While we believe in supporting a system that serves justice, women who are incarcerated face a number of unique issues regarding their heath and the health of their children,” Cephas said. “We have identified a number of best practices, many of which are already in place, that we believe will not only benefit incarcerated women, but their children, family and society as a whole. “Specifically, our bill would provide well vetted provisions at both the state and county levels, with necessary oversight from children and youth services, and limited exceptions where extenuating circumstances and/or capacity constraints prevent safe practice and enforcement, along other requirements.” Cephas explained that the bill would also include three days of post-delivery bonding time between Read more

 

Reps. Cephas, Harris host roundtable to examine repairs of alleyways, driveways, sidewalks

(Apr 17, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

“While we witnessed some of the needs of my community firsthand today, I’m working in Harrisburg to create a program to empower all municipalities throughout the state to create a neighborhood infrastructure repair programs to support working people and working families,” said roundtable and tour host Rep. Morgan Cephas, who represents portions of Philadelphia – including the Overbrook section. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds appointment of JoAnne Epps as acting president of Temple University

(Apr 12, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, April 12 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced that the organization praises the election of JoAnne Epps as acting president of Temple University and that it remains closely monitoring the transformative efforts of the Special Committee of the Board. “We are pleased with the appointment of Epps as acting president. The board of trustees made this election by unanimous vote, and it is certainly a clever decision,” said the delegation’s chair, state Rep. Morgan Cephas. “Epps has a proven track record of excellency, unparalleled leadership and expertise. We are looking forward to our collaboration. “We are celebrating this appointment, and we are taking action in favor of the university. Our goal is to help protect the stability of the institution.” On the same note, state Rep. Joseph C. Hohenstein, delegation secretary, highlighted some of the qualities that makes Epps an exceptional choice. "JoAnne Epps has my full support as the new interim president of Temple University," Hohenstein said. "She's spent over half of her life there teaching and making a true difference in young individuals’ lives right here at Temple. We're grateful that she has chosen to put her retirement on hold while the university finds its feet." Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, delegation treasurer, pointed out that he has known JoAnn Read more

 

Cephas and Kenyatta bill would protect residents from ‘ghost guns’

(Mar 31, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, March 31 – In an effort to protect the safety of all Pennsylvanians and provide the commonwealth’s law enforcement officials the tools that they need to protect residents, state Reps. Morgan Cephas and Malcom Kenyatta, both D-Phila., introduced House Bill 777, that would ban the manufacturing, sale, and possession of ‘ghost gun’ parts in the commonwealth. “Without necessary regulations of these firearms, individuals ineligible to possess firearms under state and federal law would easily be able to get their hands on these deadly weapons,” Cephas said. “We urge support for this Gun Ghost legislation in order to ensure the safety of our friends, families and neighbors. We must ban the production and distribution of these firearms.” Kenyatta explained that while these devices should already be illegal under current federal law, it falls on members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to act and protect Pennsylvanians from the danger these firearms pose to public safety. “Ghost guns are one of the main drives of gun crimes in our city — they are unaccountable and too frustratingly simple to obtain,” Kenyatta said. “Putting an end to the gun violence crisis in our city means getting serious about ghost guns. Ending the runaway gun crimes on our streets is my number one priority. Now is the time to get these weapons out of our community.” Rep. Cephas has also Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation amplifying tactical pressure on gun safety reforms

(Mar 30, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, March 30 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced that the organization is aggressively working on key actions that will boost prevention efforts and regulate reckless gun access in the commonwealth as part of a strategic plan to put a halt on the gun violence crisis that is assaulting the city. Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas, who was not able to attend today’s news conference, explained earlier that the delegation was implementing a strategic plan to put a halt on the gun violence crisis that is assaulting the city. “Ending gun violence is a top priority for us. We're approaching this with a multi-pronged strategy, working closely with our state and city stakeholders. We cannot wait any longer to take action. Gun violence is preventable,” Cephas said. Rep. Danilo Burgos, vice chair of the delegation, explained that the institution has also formed a strong alliance with gun control advocacy groups in order to amplify efforts to combat gun violence. “Gun violence is not a responsibility that pertains to one person or one organization, this is a task for all of us,” Burgos said. “Public safety is everyone's responsibility. We are grateful to count on the powerful input of organizations like CeaseFire PA and Every Murder is Real, but also families of victims and survivors of gun violence who are incessantly raising awareness about this issue,” Burgos said. On Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation looking ahead to protect tap water safety

(Mar 27, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, March 27 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today expressed its position on the challenges faced by the city following the Delaware River pollution incident occurred Friday when 81,000 gallons of acrylic latex polymer were spilled in the river by a chemical processing plant. “We are relieved to say that Philadelphia’s water remains safe to drink -- that it has not been impacted by the chemical spill caused as a result of equipment failure at a Trinseo PlC plant,” said the delegation’s chair, state Rep. Morgan Cephas. “This opens a door to adjustments and an exhaustive reevaluation of our emergency plan when it comes to critical situations like the one we experienced this past weekend. “The Pennsylvania Constitution guarantees the right to pure water for all Pennsylvanians. While it appears we may have avoided an environmental catastrophe in this situation, our city and state must be prepared for potential disasters in the future,” Cephas said about the spill that happened Friday in Bucks County. Danilo Burgos, vice chair of the delegation, emphasized that as the city moves forward, the Philadelphia House Delegation will diligently collaborate with city officials to improve the emergency response to similar health threats. “We have been closely monitoring the situation and we know that that this incident has raised concerns with our residents. We want to make sure that they know that public Read more

 

Cephas Working to Ensure Basic Needs are Met

(Mar 22, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

Pa. state Rep. Morgan Cephas and her colleagues on the House Appropriations Committee met with Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding to discuss how his department can use its portion of the budget to best serve the people of Pennsylvania. Cephas points out that with federal COVID assistance running out, many seniors and other food-insecure Pennsylvanians could see a significant loss in necessary benefits. She says making critical investments in the agencies and organizations that keep people fed is more important now than ever. Read more

 

The Philly region has a lot more power in Harrisburg now that Dems control the House. Here’s why.

(Mar 22, 2023) Philadelphia Inquirer

Rep. Morgan Cephas, the Philadelphia delegation chair, hopes the number of House Democrats from the region should make it possible to make “big transformations” for the city. “This puts us in a position to deliver,” Cephas added. “We’re all laser-focused on our agenda to help move the needle.” Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation appraises impact of Shapiro budget plan on city

(Mar 17, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

As we head into budget negotiations, we want to make sure that all Philadelphians are aware that this is an equitable proposal that will benefit our city. You can count on the delegation to bring adequate funds to the city; to invest in the most pressing issues affecting us as community. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation praises Shapiro’s budget priorities

(Mar 09, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

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

 

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

(Mar 08, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG — Gov. Josh Shapiro openly aimed for bipartisan appeal when he unveiled his first state budget Tuesday. At least initially, he got the response he wanted. Read more

 

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

(Feb 28, 2023) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

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

 

Philadelphia House Delegation calls for thorough investigation on teen fatally shot by state trooper and prevention of more tragedies
Jun 07, 2023

Cephas celebrates third edition of Overbrook Night Market
May 24, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation lauds passing of gun safety bills
May 24, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation regrets fatal shooting of man canvassing for the city’s primary election
May 09, 2023

Representatives host Delta Day at state Capitol
May 03, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation meets with members of Philadelphia City Council Committee on Education to discuss school facilities
May 01, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds win on gun safety
Apr 26, 2023

Ban on shackling pregnant women, solitary confinement in prison advances in Pa. House
Apr 19, 2023

Cephas, Davis and Jones resume their fight for incarcerated women
Apr 18, 2023

Reps. Cephas, Harris host roundtable to examine repairs of alleyways, driveways, sidewalks
Apr 17, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds appointment of JoAnne Epps as acting president of Temple University
Apr 12, 2023

Cephas and Kenyatta bill would protect residents from ‘ghost guns’
Mar 31, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation amplifying tactical pressure on gun safety reforms
Mar 30, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation looking ahead to protect tap water safety
Mar 27, 2023

Cephas Working to Ensure Basic Needs are Met
Mar 22, 2023

The Philly region has a lot more power in Harrisburg now that Dems control the House. Here’s why.
Mar 22, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation appraises impact of Shapiro budget plan on city
Mar 17, 2023

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

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