State lawmakers from Philadelphia are trying to pass new legislation that would help prevent rowhomes from being damaged by adjacent demolitions and reduce defects in newly built houses. Read more
State Rep. Joe Hohenstein is applauding his colleagues today for adopting his latest effort to help break down barriers and advocate for people living with a disability. Hohenstein's measure ( H.R. 1082 ) recognizes November as Assistive Technology Awareness Month across the commonwealth, raising awareness about the ongoing need to make quality tools -- like hearing aids, wheelchairs and orthotic devices -- affordable and readily accessible to every Pennsylvanian who needs them. "Since I was six years old, I have worn hearing aids, and I know first-hand how essential assistive technology is to helping people with everyday tasks like hearing, walking or speaking," explained Hohenstein, D-Phila. "These devices play a critical role in removing the often frustrating and stigmatizing challenges that can stand between those with a disability and their quality of life." During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hohenstein said the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation has provided $1.4 million in low-interest loans to people with increased needs in the disabled community for assistive technology, and he's stressing the importance of building on this progress in the state legislature. Hohenstein added, "No one should be defined by a disability. I will continue working in Harrisburg to ensure financial support is available, and individuals receive the services they deserve. Together, we can amplify the voices of those seeking help to reach Read more
In response to rising COVID-19 cases in Philadelphia, the City and Department of Public Health have announced changes to restrictions on businesses, events and gatherings, and other activities to help flatten the epidemic curve, prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed, and reduce the number of COVID-19 deaths. Read more
State Rep. Joe Hohenstein announced today that a $24,686 Safe Schools grant has been awarded to the Philadelphia Charter School for Arts and Sciences at H.R. Edmunds to purchase safety and security-related equipment. "Whether they're learning in the classroom or at home, our priority is still to ensure all students learn in a safe environment," said Hohenstein, D-Phila. "This funding will go a long way in strengthening safety measures at this school and allow them to continue offering young people a quality education." Along with equipment, the Pennsylvania Department of Education awards the competitive grants to prevent and reduce violent incidents and to provide training and compensation for school resource and police officers. For more information on Safe Schools grants, visit the state Department of Education website . Read more
After being tested for COVID-19, state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., said his results came back negative. He released the following statement: "Earlier this week I told you my wife and I were tested for COVID-19 after coming in close contact with a family member who later tested positive. I am glad to report that both of our results came back negative today. "Our family member who tested positive for the virus is in good spirits and recovering. I am grateful for the outpouring of support for me and my family. Our situation is another reminder that COVID-19 is a real danger. "With a record number of positive cases in Pennsylvania and across the nation being reported each day, we must all be vigilant and heed CDC guidelines by wearing a mask, social distancing and washing our hands frequently. "These steps are critical in stopping the spread and protecting ourselves and those around us, especially as we head into the colder months." Read more
State Rep. Joe Hohenstein joined Oak Street Health, the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and other advocates to discuss coping with mental health during COVID-19 and the resources available. Read more
Check out my latest update to read about a plan I voted against that would compromise our democracy and how to make sure your mail-in ballot is counted. Read more
My Fall 2020 Community and Legislative Update contains upcoming and previous community events along with information on state programs and resources available to you and your family. I also encourage you to make your plan now to vote in the Nov. 3 general election so that you can exercise your right to vote in the safest way possible. Read more
HARRISBURG, Sept. 8 – State Rep. Danilo Burgos, along with state Reps. Joe Hohenstein, Mary Isaacson, all D-Phila., today joined the Driving PA Forward Coalition at the Saint Francis of Assisi Church to highlight their legislation to help undocumented individuals apply for a driver's license. “Our bill is about making Pennsylvania roads safer by requiring that all residents pass the mandatory written and vision examinations and road test to obtain a driver’s license,” Burgos said. “An additional benefit is that the revenue generated from application costs to PennDOT and purchases on car insurance policies would greatly benefit Pennsylvania’s economy -- a much needed relief as our economy struggles to gain stability in the wake of the pandemic.” Concurring with Burgos, Hohenstein pointed to immigrants comprising a substantial population of Pennsylvania’s workforce, especially as essential workers during the pandemic. "It’s not an exaggeration to say that immigrants have a large role in keeping our country running," Hohenstein said. "One in six people fulfilling essential roles during the pandemic is an immigrant. Many are our doctors, nurses and healthcare providers. Others are farm workers who sow, tend and harvest our food. Others prepare and serve us our food. All should have access to an official driver's license from the state in order to continue Read more
Important election dates and updates for my senior constituents Read more
My summer 2020 newsletter provides you an update on my work in Harrisburg, as well as programs and resources available to you and your family. Read more
Materials from a House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing held in the Capitol and co-chaired by State Rep. Joe Hohenstein. Read more
HARRISBURG, July 21 – State Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster, announced today that the House Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public hearing on Building Inclusive Disability Curriculum as part of Disability Pride Philadelphia’s Virtual PA 2020. The hearing will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 23, in Room G-50 Irvis Office Building in Harrisburg. The media and public are urged to watch the livestream at www.pahouse.com/live . The hearing was requested by State Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., to explore how educational curriculums can be more inclusive of the disability community. Testifiers and members will participate in person and remotely. Testifiers will include: Jamie Ray-Leonetti , Associate Director of Policy, Temple Institute on Disabilities Alan Holdsworth , Director, Disability Equality in Education Dr. Thomas Neuville , Professor and Disability Studies Advisor, Millersville University ShaVon Savage, Elementary School Principal , School District of Philadelphia Lisa Aquila, Home Care Worker and Disability Advocate Nadine Silber, Autistic Activist and Disability Educator Nancy Ostroff, Disability Advocate Shawn Aleong, Student, Temple University Following the hearing, testimonies and full hearing video will be posted at www.pahouse.com/policycommittee . ### Read more
HARRISBURG, July 14 – State Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., and state Sen. Larry Farnese announced today that Richmond Elementary School has been awarded a grant of $651,868 from the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Alternative and Clean Energy High Performance Building program to construct a two-story LEED certified addition to the school. “This grant will help Richmond Elementary school stand as an example to others of how our schools can be energy efficient when they have the resources they need,” Hohenstein said. “Our students and teachers deserve to work in buildings that are up-to-date, and I believe this will have a positive impact for everyone. Our children need to know that we are willing to invest in them and their future and providing them state-of-the-art facilities is one of the best ways to show them we care.” “Philadelphia lawmakers have been relentless in advocating for improvements to our school facilities and this grant is the kind of good news that fuels that effort,” Farnese added. “Fighting for equality for our kids is the most important thing we can do.” Richmond Elementary School plans to include LED lighting, low-flow plumbing, water and energy meters, CO2 censors, and water bottle filling stations in the addition. The CFA’s High Performance Building Program provides financial assistance in the form of grants and loan funds to Read more
HARRISBURG, July 14 – State Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster, announced today that the House Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public hearing on COVID-19 Plans for Long-Term Care Facilities as part of Disability Pride Philadelphia’s Virtual PA 2020. The hearing will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 16 in Room G-50 Irvis Office Building in Harrisburg. The media and public are invited to attend and watch the livestream at www.pahouse.com/live . The hearing was requested by state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., to explore how the disability community has been impacted by COVID-19 in long-term care facilities Testifiers and members will participate in person and remotely. Testifiers will include: Sarah Boateng , executive deputy secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Health Keara Klinepeter , special adviser to the secretary of Health, Pennsylvania Department of Health Kristin Ahrens , deputy secretary of the Office of Developmental Programs, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Matt Yarnell , president, SEIU Healthcare PA Emma Graham , certified nursing assistant Elyse Ford , vice president, District 1199C Misty Dixon , chief executive officer, Center for Independent Living of North Central PA Justin Bell , nursing home survivor For more information about the Policy Committee and testimonies, go to Read more
Hohenstein: Unlawful firework shows must stop My office has received dozens of complaints about nighttime fireworks that are adding even more stress to our already overwrought neighbors. For many people, fireworks are a fun and exciting way to celebrate Independence Day. In the words of one my constituents: “The near-constant barrage of M80s and professional-grade fireworks from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. is exacting a toll on this community. Pets are terrified. Essential employees can't sleep. People with PTSD are having flashbacks impacting their mental health. We cannot go on like this.” Fireworks are available for legal purchase by Philadelphia residents but there are regulations that limit where they can be used. State police guidelines say: You must be more than 150 feet away from any “occupied structure” — defined as “any structure, vehicle or place adapted for overnight accommodation” or business — whether or not any people are present there. You cannot set them off on public or private property without express permission of the owner. You cannot set them off from, within or toward a building or vehicle. You cannot set them off if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. And, keep in mind, local municipalities may have regulations that differ from state or federal guidelines. These rules mean that almost every Read more
Pa. state Rep. Joe Hohenstein reminds us of the important role that immigrant workers play in our daily lives and their need of a voice in Harrisburg. Hohenstein says immigrant workers have helped our families throughout the COVID-19 pandemic by providing everything from healthcare to food. Read more
Pa. state Rep. Joe Hohenstein is calling on his fellow Philadelphians to be good neighbors and consider the consequences of late night fireworks displays. He says the explosions are causing anxiety for many neighbors, including veterans suffering from PTSD, seniors, children and even pets. Read more
PHILADELPHIA, May 28 – Today, state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., released the following statement after Republican leadership had been notified one of their own members tested positive for COVID-19 and failed to alert the Democratic party, Capitol staff, and Capitol police about a positive Covid-19 test. “We all need to take care of each other to get through this pandemic. It is disappointing that common decency was pushed aside, and lives were put at risk,” Hohenstein said. “Republicans have been fighting to reopen the economy, claiming that businesses will stick to CDC guidelines to keep customers safe. How can we believe that when even elected legislators are ignoring the rules? “I work closely with some of the Republicans who have been self-isolating from their families over the past week. If I’d known about the potential exposure, I would not have spent the holiday weekend with my daughter close at my side. I also fear that my participation in Memorial Day ceremonies may have risked our veterans, after they have sacrificed so much for us. My trust is shattered. “One of the core testimonies of our Quaker heritage is to act with integrity. We should be whole and undivided during this time, but we are falling prey to more partisan thinking. I pray that God has mercy on all of us if this secrecy results in an outbreak at the Capitol.” Read more
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all of us, and though our immediate future remains unclear, one thing is for certain — we are all in this together. It saddens me to witness the politicization of this crisis. What should be a joint struggle for the greater good has become a contentious debate pitting lives against livelihoods. For some, the public health impact is the priority. For others, the social and economic impacts take precedence. But regardless of how we each feel, we must all recognize that we all have a stake in how we move forward. T hose of us in government have a duty to serve the public as best as we can, and to ensure that the cure – social distancing and stay-at-home orders – does not cause more harm than the disease itself. Our best policies moving forward must include input from our workers who are operating on the frontlines of this crisis: nurses, EMTs, doctors, police, firefighters, delivery and postal workers, grocery store clerks, pharmacists, transit workers, in-home and nursing home caregivers, and maintenance and sanitation workers, among others. But of all the legislation that has been up for vote in Harrisburg, almost none of it has directly addressed worker safety – and by extension public safety. The voices of frontline workers have been ignored. Instead, since Pennsylvania’s state of emergency began, our docket has been dominated by special interests whose sole focus is Read more
Pa. state Rep. Joe Hohenstein continued his efforts to combat COVID-19 and protect Pennsylvanians by voting against legislation that would unnecessarily put lives at risk. Read more
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