“Families shouldn’t have to choose between going to work and having quality care for a loved one, or have to work just to pay for care,” said Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas. “We fought and won for working families prioritizing this significant increase in the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit. I’m elated to know that so many families across Philadelphia will greatly benefit from this increase.” Read more
PHOENIXVILLE, Feb. 25 -- The co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus (WHC) hosted a press conference today at Tower Health in Phoenixville to applaud the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services’ decision to opt in our Medicaid program for postpartum individuals. “As a public health expert, it is important that we prioritize our resources in ways that will ensure better health outcomes for all Pennsylvanians,” said Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-17 Montgomery/Delaware) and co-chair of the Women’s Health Caucus. “Birthing individuals can experience health complications up to one year postpartum and beyond. By extending Medicaid coverage to one year, we are improving maternal mortality and morbidity, improving childhood health outcomes, and ensuring a healthy start for Pennsylvania families.” As part of President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, this provides a federal option for states to extend Medicaid coverage for postpartum individuals from 60 days to one year. The program will start on April 1, 2022 and be available for five years in Pennsylvania. "It's clear that 60 days of postpartum coverage is not only insufficient, it's also dangerous,” said Senator Judy Schwank (D-11 Berks) and co-chair of the Women’s Health Caucus. “By extending postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to 12 months, Pennsylvania is seizing a major opportunity to address the shocking rate of postpartum Read more
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 22 – Rep. Morgan Cephas saw more than 3,000 constituents in the 192nd Legislative District engage with her at a series of events last week to discuss state government and community priorities. Cephas said that the number of people who joined her telephone Town Hall, in-person Town Hall, and district office grand opening broke previous records for turnout, suggesting that people are expecting more from their government now more than ever. On Tuesday, Feb. 15, Cephas hosted nearly 3,000 people for a telephone Town Hall event to get district updates and ask questions directly to the representative. Questions ranged from gun violence reduction strategies to housing assistance. On Thursday, Feb. 17, 30 community members and stakeholders joined Cephas and guests at BOOST CDC for the State of the 192nd Town Hall. Cephas was joined by Philadelphia Register of Wills Tracy Gordon, Community Legal Services, and the Philadelphia Department of Revenue to talk about resources for renters and homeowners. To close out the week, Cephas hosted more than 70 attendees at her new district office grand opening at 7538 Haverford Ave. on Saturday, Feb. 19. She was joined by colleagues Rep. Amen Brown, Rep. Mary Jo Daley, and Rep. Danilo Burgos; Congressman Dwight Evans; Sen. Vincent Hughes; Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr.; Judge Tamika Lane and Commissioner Omar Sabir. “Neighbors of the 192nd are eager to be and stay Read more
If you weren't able to join the call, listen to what our friends & neighbors in the 192nd had to say about the issues that matter. Read more
I’m hosting a Telephone Town Hall tonight, Tuesday, Feb. 15. I’ll dial constituents at 7 p.m. tonight – all you have to do is stay on your phone line to be connected to our live discussion. You’ll be able to ask questions and participate in polls live on the call. Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 14 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas joined First Lady Frances Wolf and the Departments of Human Services and Corrections to announce a new partnership that is bringing doula services to women who are pregnant while incarcerated. Doula services have been found to ease the pregnancy and labor process and improve birth outcomes for both mother and child, according to many studies. Funded through the Tuttleman Foundation, the doula pilot at State Correctional Institute Muncy will expand pregnancy and parenting supports for women who are incarcerated, a key goal of Cephas’s. Wolf said that the goal of the program is to support mothers through a difficult and vulnerable period and empower them as they prepare to re-enter their communities. “I'm glad – and proud – to see that the Department of Corrections is recognizing the importance of doulas in the fight to reduce maternal mortality among incarcerated women and improve birthing outcomes for birthing people and children,” Cephas said. “We now have an opportunity to capitalize on this momentum to pass legislation in the House or Senate to include Medicaid coverage for doulas for all birthing people, and the full Dignity for Incarcerated Women bill to show compassion for the unique circumstances that these women face.” Cephas was previously joined by Dream Corps JUSTICE, the American Conservative Union and Ardella’s House, along with other stakeholders, Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 8 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., released the following statement in response to Gov. Tom Wolf’s budget address today. “First, I want to echo the sentiment of our governor that ‘we're ready to build.’ Coming off two years of life-changing events, with a budget surplus, we have the opportunity to pay our bills and make lasting investments for Pennsylvanians. “At its heart, we all know that a state budget is a financial plan that reflects our priorities – we must ensure that those priorities align with what the public values and helps us care for the most vulnerable.” In addition to the Wolf administration's historic investments in school funding, Cephas stated the following priorities for the 192nd Legislative District this budget season: Investments in gun violence prevention. Building an equitable education system. Increasing health equity. Access to housing and rental assistance. Small business investments. “I am glad to see a budget that reflects these priorities and will work this legislative session to support these investments,” she said. “Prioritizing these areas helps us to recover from the enduring impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic turmoil we experienced over the last two years while looking beyond recovery and into the future of our communities and our commonwealth.” Read more
The Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund, or PAHAF, is a housing-related program funded by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to assist Pennsylvania homeowners facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic that began after January 21, 2020, (including a hardship that began before January 21, 2020, and continued after that date). Read more
PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 20 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas issued the following statement regarding a hostage incident that took place on Jan. 19 in the Overbrook neighborhood, which is in her legislative district. “First and foremost, I’m grateful to everyone who helped resolve this hostage situation without any injury or loss of life. While law enforcement and others work to investigate the full scope of this incident, my thoughts are with the families involved. Though we don’t have all the details regarding this incident at this time, I remain committed to doing everything in my power as a state legislator and a member of the Philadelphia community to combat gun violence. Governor Tom Wolf visited Philadelphia today to focus on that very issue that is plaguing our city, and I want him to know that I look forward to continued collaborative efforts to work on reducing gun violence in our communities.” Read more
HARRISBURG, Jan. 19 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., will soon be introducing legislation to help seniors who might otherwise become victim to potential pitfalls of reverse mortgages to help them better understand the process and be able to take advantage of the benefits of the option. “Reverse mortgages can help some seniors navigate financial struggles,” Cephas said. “But for some seniors and their families, reverse mortgages can be confusing financial tools that are costly, even costing some their homes. These contracts can be difficult to navigate, especially for our most vulnerable populations. Understanding how a reverse mortgage works is key, which is why I will be introducing legislation to ensure that seniors be educated about reverse mortgages before they get one.” Cephas’ legislation would require face-to-face counseling for a senior with an approved financial counselor before one begins a reverse mortgage. If the meeting is unable to take place face-to-face, the potential borrower could also meet with a counselor over the phone or through video teleconference. “I want seniors in my district and across the commonwealth to get the support they need as they make life-changing decisions,” Cephas said. “This legislation will help ensure they are provided the support they deserve.” Read more
HARRISBURG, Jan. 11 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas issued the following statement about the school funding trial today. "Our children are our future," Cephas said. "That statement is more than just a platitude, it's a reality. We have a responsibility to provide our children with all the tools they need to build a better future for us all. For too long, the opportunities for children in some public schools far exceed the opportunities for children in other public schools, despite our state constitution requiring that the General Assembly provide for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of public education to serve the needs of the commonwealth. Some of our children are falling through the cracks because of our failures. “Philadelphia students are short on average $5,583 per student based on how we fund our schools. Over the years we’ve lost guidance counselors, principals and essential programming for our students. Since taking office, my colleagues and I have been fighting for fair funding for students across our commonwealth. Today, the School District of Philadelphia and Dr. Hite take the stand to testify on behalf of the SDP to speak to the reality of the state of education in Philadelphia and to offer insight on the needs of our students and families. It is my sincere hope that they will be heard. “It is time to right the wrongs of our inequitable school funding system and ensure that children Read more
Happy New Year to you and yours! I hope that you’re starting 2022 out healthy, happy and optimistic about the new year. Read more
HARRISBURG, Dec. 10 – State Reps. Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, and Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., have announced that Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia is the recipient of $23,593 through the It’s On Us grant program. The funds aim to support Pennsylvania college campuses in combatting instances of sexual assault. “A safe environment is key in helping students thrive in furthering their education,” said Daley. “This grant will help St. Joe’s create a safer campus and community free from sexual violence.” "Every student who sets out to get an education to create a life and livelihood for themselves ought to be able to walk about a college campus without being assaulted, harassed or abused," Cephas said. "This grant awarded to St. Joe's will help make strides in the direction of creating a campus culture free from such threats. This is great news for the entire community, on campus and beyond." Since 2016, the Wolf administration has awarded over 190 It’s On Us PA grants totaling nearly $4 million to more than 75 postsecondary institutions, including public and private two-year and four-year colleges and universities. Learn more about It’s On Us here . Read more
HARRISBURG, Dec. 8 – State Reps. Morgan Cephas and Joanna McClinton, both D-Phila., applauded the maternal mortality and morbidity call to action issued by Vice President Kamala Harris this week , citing legislation that can be enacted in Pennsylvania to improve health outcomes and save lives. “The issue of maternal health and the devastatingly high rates of maternal mortality and maternal morbidity in Pennsylvania and across the country have been and continue to be a top priority of mine,” Cephas said. “I’m grateful that Vice President Harris has issued this call to action, elevating this issue in front of the entire country.” “Maternal health is at the core of family wellness,” House Democratic Leader McClinton said. “Despite our nation’s strengths, the fact that we have one of the highest maternal mortality rates is a stain on our country. “I applaud Vice President Harris’ actions to bring visibility to this issue that impacts so many women in our communities.” According to the call to action issued by Harris, the maternal mortality rates in the United States are among the highest in the developed world and are especially high among Black women and Native American women, regardless of income or education levels. As part of the call to action, $3 billion in Build Back Better funding will be invested in maternal health and states will be encouraged to extend Medicaid programs to 12 Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Substance Use Disorder Drop-In Centers (Funding Source: Federal Funding) Who Can Apply : Existing drop-in centers in Allegheny, Philadelphia, Bucks, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. Single County Authorities (SCAs) are not eligible to apply, nor are DDAP-licensed treatment providers. Use : To expand drop-in center services for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) in areas of the commonwealth experiencing high overdose deaths. Funds : Approximately two to three grants up to $650,000 each will be awarded. Application Deadline : December 13 More Information : Click on https://www.ddap.pa.gov/DDAPFunding/Pages/Funding-Opportunities.aspx . Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Pennsylvania Academic and Career/Technical Training (PACTT) Grants (Funding Source: General Fund) Who Can Apply : Residential facilities, community-based, and/or juvenile probation office providers that are PACTT Affiliates primarily serving adjudicated delinquent youth. Use : To advance academic and career/technical training among adjudicated youth receiving services while in residential facilities, from community-based providers, and through juvenile probation departments. Funds : Up to $75,000. Application Deadline : December 22 More Information Read more
PA House Democratic Leader Joanna McClinton and state Rep. Morgan Cephas announced today $138,581 is going to support efforts by two nonprofits to help jobseekers, local businesses, and residents in West Philadelphia amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more
The Women’s Health Caucus works to develop legislation and social policy that protect and respect women’s health. An updated list of legislation our caucus is proposing as of 10/26/21 regarding healthcare, childcare, and other issues is found here. Read more
The 2022 Open Enrollment Period for Pennsylvanians seeking health insurance coverage through Pennie is now open (as of Monday, Nov. 1) and will remain open through Jan. 15, 2022 . Pennie connects customers with financial aid and helps them shop for, compare and purchase health insurance. Nearly everyone qualifies for savings because of the American Rescue Plan. Pennie was created through legislation in 2019, moving Pennsylvania from the federal-based exchange to a state-based marketplace, which helped residents save hundreds – and, in some cases, thousands – of dollars on health insurance. Customers may see additional savings when enrolling in a 2022 Pennie plan because of the American Rescue Plan, according to state Rep. Tony DeLuca , Democratic Chairman of the House Insurance Committee. If you have questions, Pennie has answers via its FAQ page . Visit Pennie.com or call 1-844-844-8040 for more information. While open enrollment continues through Jan. 15, 2022, the last day to enroll for coverage starting Jan. 1 is Dec. 15, 2021 . Visit the Pennsylvania Insurance Department website for more information on how to get health insurance. Read more
Some of us may have seen the concerning headlines in the news about a little known virus called RSV, spreading through daycare centers and preschools, infecting our children and their families. "The little known virus" is called RSV and it is impacting children in Philadelphia. Yet again, parents and caregivers in my district have found themselves scrambling for information about a new virus making children sick across our city. Read more
HARRISBURG, Oct. 26 – Chairs of the Women’s Health Caucus today condemned the actions of taxpayer-funded crisis pregnancy centers following the release of a report detailing some of their deceptive anti-abortion practices in nine states, including Pennsylvania. The report , titled “Designed to Deceive: A Study of the Crisis Pregnancy Industry in Nine States,” was published today by the Women’s Law Project in collaboration with The Alliance and the California Women’s Law Center. The study highlights the deceptive practices used by CPCs to steer pregnant patients away from abortion. The report found almost two-thirds (63%) of CPCs promoted medical falsehoods and 95% offered no prenatal care. Women’s Health Caucus co-chairs Rep. Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., Sen. Amanda Cappelletti, D-Delaware/Montgomery, and Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, said CPCs serve no real medical purpose and taxpayer funds should only be used for evidence-based services. “Crisis Pregnancy Centers in Pennsylvania have long diverted money from a program that actually helps needy families in Pennsylvania,” Daley said. “CPCs often target low-income women and women of color by providing them with biased and false medical claims. Instead, we should be promoting science-based and safe family medicine practices across the Commonwealth.” In Pennsylvania, CPC’s outnumber abortion care clinics nine to Read more
PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 22 – Grant funding of $220,748 has been approved to renovate 330 streetlights on West Market Street between the intersections of 46 th and 63 rd streets, state Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., announced today. Cephas said the grant to the nonprofit ACHIEVEability – awarded from the Local Share Account (LSA) administered by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development – will support the installation of modern LED lights to create better visibility for all travelers along West Market Street. “These fixtures will increase and improve current lighting conditions along the area to create a safer environment for residents and passerby that utilize the major road. The corridor connects West Philadelphians to the rest of the city through public transportation routes, walking, biking, and driving,” Cephas said. “A large section of the project area has recently added bike paths and increased lighting will provide safer roads for drivers, bikers, and pedestrians alike.” LSA grant eligibility varies by county. In Philadelphia, funds are sourced from license fees for slot machines operating within the city and are eligible for use on economic development, neighborhood revitalization, community development, and public interest projects in the city. In Philadelphia, LSA grant amounts can fall anywhere between $10,000 and $500,000. Read more
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