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Cephas asks utilities to delay billing consumers during government shutdown

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Consumers saved from another rate hike during affordability crisis

(1 day ago) Philadelphia House Delegation

“Our responsibility is to ensure that utility rates are fair, justified and sustainable —because at the end of the day, these decisions impact every household and every employer in our communities,” said Rep. Morgan Cephas, who represents portions of Philadelphia and co-hosted the hearing. “We need transparency, accountability and a clear understanding of what’s driving these increases—and what can be done to protect workers, working families and seniors.” Read more

 

On 4/20, Pennsylvania Democrats hear testimony on marijuana legalization, clean slate laws

(1 day ago) Philadelphia House Delegation

Stephanie Shepard, executive director of the Last Prisoner Project, served nine years of a ten-year sentence, before returning to a community with a shifting attitude toward the substance at the heart of her conspiracy to distribute marijuana conviction.Cannabis, she said, has grown into a massive industry, though many of the people benefitting from it “really didn’t look like me or many of the people that I was incarcerated with.”And while she hailed lawmakers’ efforts to legalize or decriminalize recreational cannabis, she urged a panel of Democratic state House members Monday to stay focused on the people most affected by criminalization.Rep. Morgan Cephas (D-Philadelphia) was also in attendance, and described her journey from skeptic to supporter of cannabis legalization.“My colleagues know it took me a while to get here when it comes to cannabis,” she said. “What really brought me to the table was both Rep. Parker and Rep. Krajewski talking about the decriminalizing of cannabis, and what does that look like for those whose communities have been targeted, whose communities have been taken advantage of, have been overpoliced, which was something that was not a part of the original conversation when they were talking about legalization here in Pennsylvania.” Read more

 

Pennsylvania lawmakers continue push for cannabis legalization with clean slate provision

(1 day ago) Philadelphia House Delegation

Some lawmakers in Harrisburg continue to press for legal cannabis, while a bipartisan measure to legalize cannabis for adults is stalled in the Pennsylvania State Senate.State Representative Morgan Cephas is asking the key question regarding House Bill 20 with what's being called the clean slate provision when it comes to non-violent marijuana offenses."I don't want to see legalization unless there is some impact on those who've been arrested, whose lives have been changed," Rep. Cephas (D) said. Read more

 

Brewers, farmers would be helped by tax credit examined by Policy Committee

(Apr 21, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

“The Brews to Barns Act turns waste into opportunity,” Bizzarro said. “By connecting brewers with local farms, we reduce waste, strengthen our agricultural economy, and help local businesses lift each other up. This bill is an opportunity to help Pennsylvania brewers and farmers during a difficult economic time.” Read more

 

Cannabis clean slate would provide transformative legislation

(Apr 20, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

“When people can work, find housing, and strive to help their families realize a better life, our communities are safer and stronger,” said Rep. Andre D. Carroll, who represents portions of Philadelphia. Read more

 

Student-teacher stipend to help ease teacher shortage across Pa.

(Apr 20, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Education leaders and state lawmakers are encouraging more people to enter the teaching profession through a student-teacher stipend program aimed at easing financial barriers amid ongoing staffing shortages across Pennsylvania.State Rep. Morgan Cephas said those gaps underscore the importance of building a more diverse teacher pipeline. She recalled the influence of two Black teachers in her own life.“They reminded me of my father,” she said. “They were disciplined but also nurturing. They challenged and pushed me. When students see themselves in their teachers, they are able to thrive.” Cephas said financial barriers are also a key obstacle for aspiring educators.“The path to becoming a teacher has required more than just passion and purpose,” she said. “It has required sacrifice that not everyone can afford to make.”“The people who cannot afford it are often the ones we need most,” she added. “When they fall behind, we all fall behind. We lose talent at a time when we are already facing a teacher shortage, and we reinforce inequities in a system that should be rooted in opportunity and access.” Read more

 

Burgos applauds PECO for withdrawing proposed rate hikes

(Apr 16, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

In the wake of PECO’s decision to retract proposed rate hikes, state Rep. Danilo Burgos thanked Gov. Josh Shapiro, fellow legislators, and Pennsylvanians for speaking up and out. Read more

 

Fiedler reacts to PECO rate case withdrawal, calls out utility price gouging

(Apr 16, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, April 16 – State Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, chair of the Pennsylvania House Energy Committee, issued the following response to PECO’s rate case withdrawal Thursday: “People in my district are already struggling. They’re working multiple jobs, canceling doctors’ appointments, and putting groceries back on the shelf instead of in their cart. It’s painful to think about the choices that Pennsylvanians would face if their bills shot up by another $30 a month, but that was almost their reality. “I am relieved to hear the news that PECO customers will avoid another unnecessary rate hike. The withdrawal of the proposed rate increase will save 1.7 million ratepayers a total of $510 million on their utility bills. PECO’s requested hike would have increased some household bills by up to $34 a month. “This reversal makes evident that a rate hike was never necessary to maintain safe and reliable service. It shows us that utility companies are making extraordinary profits already, at a cost to working people and families. “PECO’s CEO made more than $15 million last year. Meanwhile, utility bills are up 10 to 20 percent. The war in Iran, reckless tariffs, and big tech have worsened the affordability crisis. Pennsylvanians are making impossibly painful choices just to pay their bills and stay afloat. They deserve to thrive – not just survive. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds withdraw of PECO rate hike proposal

(Apr 16, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, APRIL 16 – Today, the Philadelphia House Delegation thanked Gov. Josh Shapiro, legislators, and PA residents for speaking out against PECO’s proposed rate hike. Shapiro announced today that PECO will withdraw its recently proposed rate increase that would have added over $34 per month for customers beginning in 2027. Due to the engagement of Pennsylvanians and PECO’s acknowledgement that many families are facing affordability issues, PECO withdrew its request and prevented an unreasonable rate hike for 1.7 million Pennsylvanians. After PECO initially announced its intention to pursue the increase, Philadelphia House Delegation members created a petition opposing the rate hike, which received a resounding response from the public that the proposal should not be approved. “I appreciate every single one of you who took the time to sign our petition and speak up about this issue,” Delegation Chair state Rep. Morgan Cephas said. “Our neighbors are fighting economic battles on so many fronts nowadays, and unnecessary increases to electricity and natural gas bills could very well have been a breaking point for families across Philadelphia. Due to your voice and your engagement, we’ve told PECO that we will not be taken advantage of.” PA House Energy Committee Chair state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler also thanked everyone who voiced their disapproval of PECO’s proposal. “The loud and unified response from Read more

 

Pa. House passes bill protecting construction contractors from being held liable for negligence of others

(Apr 15, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, April 15 – Today, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed legislation ( H.B. 1541 ) introduced by state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., that would protect construction contractors from being held liable for the negligence of others. Hohenstein said many construction contractors are forced to accept liability for another party’s negligence when entering into construction contracts under current law. His legislation would void any provision in new construction contracts in which a party is indemnified, or excused from being held liable, for damages resulting from that party's negligence. “Being held liable for the negligence of others is unfair to contractors and can also enforce a negative reputation on the contractor’s business,” Hohenstein said. “My legislation would help protect Pennsylvania construction contractors from being forced to accept liability for someone else’s negligence. This will promote fairness, better work production, and better business for contractors.” The bill now heads to the Pennsylvania Senate for consideration. Read more

 

Lawmakers, advocates call on Pa. to follow federal directive and stop intercepting benefits from foster youth

(Apr 13, 2026) Rep. Rick Krajewski

HARRISBURG, April 13 – Following new federal directives, advocates gathered from across the state to demand the passage of H.B. 151, bipartisan legislation that would end the practice intercepting benefits intended for foster youth and conserve benefits in a savings account for when a foster youth exits care . "This is about fairness, and following federal law,” said state Rep. Rick Krajewski, the lead sponsor of the bill. “What makes up a fraction of the state’s spending could make a huge difference in the lives of foster youth, who face high rates of homelessness, addiction and depression. Just as other foster children do not pay for their own costs of care or other county services, children who receive public benefits shouldn’t either. Instead of fighting over paperwork and bureaucracy, let’s fight for the future of these children.” This December, the Office of Administration for Children and Families demanded that states no longer intercept foster youth's social security. Ten states across the country have barred the interception of these benefits so far. “These are funds that for many that could mean the difference between homelessness and stable housing, between needing to work multiple jobs and having time to attend college, between lacking healthcare and receiving necessary treatment. These youth are not asking for handouts, they’re asking for what’s already Read more

 

State officials invest $2.3 million to revive fountain area in West Philadelphia

(Apr 13, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

State and local officials on Friday announced a $2.3 million investment to restore and reimagine the historic John Welsh Memorial Fountain and its surrounding landscape in West Fairmount Park, a long-dormant site just across from the Please Touch Museum.The funding, awarded through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development Multimodal Transportation Fund, will support major improvements to pedestrian and cyclist access at the site, addressing longstanding safety concerns while advancing plans to bring the fountain back into use. Read more

 

Gallagher issues statement on Wednesday plane crash in Torresdale

(Apr 02, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, April 2 – State Rep. Pat Gallagher, D-Phila., issued the following statement regarding the plane crash that occurred in the Torresdale neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia late yesterday afternoon: “I want to thank our firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel and all first responders for their swift and coordinated response in Torresdale yesterday afternoon. Their professionalism and quick action helped secure the scene and prevent what could have been a far more serious situation. “Preliminary information indicates that injuries and property damage appear to be minor, and we are relieved that no more severe outcomes have been reported at this time. Our office remains in close contact with emergency officials and will continue to monitor developments as more details become available. “We are keeping those involved in our thoughts and are grateful for the dedication and service of the men and women who responded so effectively.” More about this crash can be read here . Read more

 

Cephas & Dougherty announce extension of Senior Ride Program with Uber

(Mar 31, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, March 31 – State Reps. Morgan Cephas and Sean Dougherty, both D-Phila., announced today that Uber has extended its Senior Ride Program for West Philadelphia in partnership with ACHIEVEability and is expanding the program to serve Northeast Philadelphia in partnership with KleinLife.Cephas initiated a pilot program with Uber for free rides during SEPTA service cuts in the summer of 2025 to ensure that area seniors who rely on public transportation would be able to reach their doctor appointments, do their grocery shopping, pick up medication, or meet other critical needs.That pilot program was highly successful, facilitating over 1,000 total rides while empowering older adults with confidence and independence by effectively utilizing smartphone technology. Read more

 

Senator Anthony H. Williams, Alongside Representative Morgan Cephas, Introduces Legislation to Combat Hit-and-Run Incidents in Philadelphia

(Mar 30, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Philadelphia, PA – March 27, 2026 – Senator Anthony Williams (SD-8) and Rep. Morgan Cephas (HD-192) recently introduced legislation that would require the City of Philadelphia to establish a pilot program to address hit-and-run accidents. The bill would provide for a registry of licensed vehicle repair shops and require notifications to be made to help more quickly identify individuals who have fled the scene of a crime. Read more

 

Rabb: Let’s finish the job on felony murder reform

(Mar 26, 2026) Rep. Christopher M. Rabb

Justice reform lawmaker eager to build legal framework following state Supreme Court ruling Read more

 

Kinkead, Green unveil bill tying legislator COLA to minimum wage increases

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Roni Green, Rep. Emily Kinkead

Automatic, annual minimum wage bump at same rate of lawmaker pay raises Read more

 

‘You can vote no’: From a first grader to public officials, dozens tell Philly’s school board to reject 18 planned school closings

(Mar 17, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

State Rep. Morgan Cephas (D., Phila.) cast doubt on the district’s current blueprint.“I’m here to express deep concern about a facilities plan that took years to create, when you’re giving families weeks to digest,” Cephas said. “Which is not equity, and not what we fight for. Read more

 

‘More than a school to us. It’s our home’: Philadelphia students and advocates speak out against closures at town hall

(Mar 17, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Pennsylvania state Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-West Philadelphia, said that while the Facilities Master Plan took years to develop, the district is giving families and school staff just weeks to understand a decision that will determine their future.Cephas said the school closures will have an effect not just this year but for generations to come.“We have been blindsided by this process being rushed in a way that is a shock to our system, a shock to Philadelphia, a shock to our families,” Cephas said. Read more

 

Dems to Pa. GOP lawmakers: Raise revenue or show how to cut budget proposal

(Mar 16, 2026) Philadelphia House Delegation

Shapiro has sought legislation enacting legal marijuana, skills game regulation, a minimum wage increase and closing a tax loophole that allows out-of-state corporations to avoid higher payments in each of his four budget proposals, said Rep. Regina Young, D-Delaware/Philadelphia.Young asked Reber how much collective revenue the four initiatives would generate if they were in place. Reber’s answer: $3 billion.“So, if we would have enacted these proposals when the governor first called for them, we would have profited $3 billion to date?” Young asked, an unmistakable nod to opponents who bemoan the lack of new revenue streams.“That’s correct,” Reber replied. Read more

 

Consumers saved from another rate hike during affordability crisis
1 day ago

On 4/20, Pennsylvania Democrats hear testimony on marijuana legalization, clean slate laws
1 day ago

Pennsylvania lawmakers continue push for cannabis legalization with clean slate provision
1 day ago

Brewers, farmers would be helped by tax credit examined by Policy Committee
Apr 21, 2026

Cannabis clean slate would provide transformative legislation
Apr 20, 2026

Student-teacher stipend to help ease teacher shortage across Pa.
Apr 20, 2026

Burgos applauds PECO for withdrawing proposed rate hikes
Apr 16, 2026

Fiedler reacts to PECO rate case withdrawal, calls out utility price gouging
Apr 16, 2026

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds withdraw of PECO rate hike proposal
Apr 16, 2026

Pa. House passes bill protecting construction contractors from being held liable for negligence of others
Apr 15, 2026

Lawmakers, advocates call on Pa. to follow federal directive and stop intercepting benefits from foster youth
Apr 13, 2026

State officials invest $2.3 million to revive fountain area in West Philadelphia
Apr 13, 2026

Gallagher issues statement on Wednesday plane crash in Torresdale
Apr 02, 2026

Cephas & Dougherty announce extension of Senior Ride Program with Uber
Mar 31, 2026

Senator Anthony H. Williams, Alongside Representative Morgan Cephas, Introduces Legislation to Combat Hit-and-Run Incidents in Philadelphia
Mar 30, 2026

Rabb: Let’s finish the job on felony murder reform
Mar 26, 2026

Kinkead, Green unveil bill tying legislator COLA to minimum wage increases
Mar 24, 2026

‘You can vote no’: From a first grader to public officials, dozens tell Philly’s school board to reject 18 planned school closings
Mar 17, 2026

‘More than a school to us. It’s our home’: Philadelphia students and advocates speak out against closures at town hall
Mar 17, 2026

Dems to Pa. GOP lawmakers: Raise revenue or show how to cut budget proposal
Mar 16, 2026