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Philadelphia House Delegation lauds passage of equitable school funding

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Majority Policy Committee examines affordable housing crisis

(Mar 28, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

“Rising prices for rent and construction costs continue to displace people,” said Rep. Danilo Burgos, who is the Policy Subcommittee chairman of Progressive Policies for Working People. “But this hearing helped illustrate that the housing crisis also has a negative impact on equity and environmental issues – forcing workers to commute great distances since acquiring housing near available jobs is not always possible.” Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation looking ahead to protect tap water safety

(Mar 27, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

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

 

Representatives, testifiers advocate to Raise the Wage

(Mar 27, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

“We are here to fight on behalf of workers, and – I think I can speak for my colleagues here today – we will not stop until we get it done,” said hearing host Rep. Roni Green from Philadelphia. “The old cliché holds true, a happy worker is a productive worker. We can do better, we must do better.” 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) Philadelphia House Delegation

The Philadelphia House Delegation today characterized Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed spending plan for 2023-24 as an ideal blueprint that can accelerate the pace at which the City of Brotherly Love could reach new levels of progress. Read more

 

The Philadelphia Platform 2023-24

(Mar 16, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

Budget and Policy Priorities of the Philadelphia House Delegation for the 2023-24 Legislative Session. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation praises Shapiro’s budget priorities

(Mar 09, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

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

 

Solomon appointed to chair of Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee

(Mar 08, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

"I will fill this role with an eye to making the veteran experience -- both during and after military service -- part of the Pennsylvania experience," Solomon said. Read more

 

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

Lawmakers say the proposal could pump much-needed money into Philadelphia’s economy. Read more

 

Kenyatta applauds Pa. Commission on Crime and Delinquency awarding grant to Temple University for $1.8 million

(Mar 08, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, March 8 – Today, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency held a meeting where the commission approved a $1.8 million grant to Temple University. State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., represents the 181 st Legislative District which includes Temple University. Kenyatta applauded the grant which he supported and said he believes it can help address gun violence around Temple’s campus. It will be used for gunshot detection, license plate readers, retention and recruitment bonuses, training and CCTV cameras. “Sergeant Fitz’s life was tragically taken by a senseless, cowardly act of gun violence. Today in the Pennsylvania Senate I was honored to join Sen. Street along with Sgt Fitzgerald’s family to honor his life and sacrifice. Gun violence has been a problem around Temple’s campus for far too long and left families in the area grieving the loss of loved ones,” Kenyatta said. “I thank the PCCD and Lt. Governor Davis for awarding this grant to Temple University to increase public safety. Gun violence is at an all-time high in the city of Philadelphia, and it is my hope that this funding can help in some way keep Temple University students, staff and those living around the campus safe from this outrageous violence that’s already taken far too many lives.” Read more

 

Solomon introduces Women’s Reproductive Health Care Compact legislation

(Mar 06, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, March 6 – As more states place restrictions on or ban abortions outright, state Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., has introduced legislation to preserve a woman’s right to choose in Pennsylvania. “No one should be denied the right to reproductive health care,” Solomon said. “The overturning of Roe v. Wade has left woman’s health care in peril; this legislation would seek to protect that right.” Solomon explained that the current Supreme Court’s decision to undo the 1973 Roe v. Wade precedent has had far-reaching consequences. Some of the resulting restrictions on the drug methotrexate – which can be used for medically assisted abortions – have also limited its use therapeutically for many other conditions. Solomon’s legislation would provide a framework to defend abortion rights and work with neighboring states to prevent investigations of reproductive health care services, disclosure of records, and negative licensing actions. “Under this legislation, Pennsylvania would be taking the ultimate steps in protecting women and preserving their right to choose health care that is right for them,” Solomon said. “Because that choice belongs between a woman and her doctor.” Read more

 

Khan Demands Change in PA Schools

(Mar 03, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

This week I helped introduce legislation that will help us make critical investments to help us fix and restore our crumbling public schools. Every child deserves to learn in a safe and healthy environment. I also want to thank Shawmont School parent Theresa Kehler for testifying on the vital need to invest in Philadelphia school facilities Read more

 

PA To Consider Adopting Significant Police Protection Measures

(Mar 03, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

No officer should have to patrol alone. The proposed legislation will ensure that this, along with the provision of additional resources, is prioritized. Protecting those who protect us is a must, not an option. Read more

 

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

(Feb 28, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

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

 

Brown introduces package of laws to protect law enforcement

(Feb 28, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 28 – After Temple University Police Officer Christopher Fitzgerald was slain in the line of duty, state Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., will introduce a package of bills that seeks to protect police officers from violence while they perform their duty to protect and serve throughout the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. “Officer Fitzgerald was bravely serving his community by patrolling a high crime area when he was gunned down with no clear motive,” Brown said. “We cannot sit idly by and watch those who put on the badge and uniform to protect us, placing themselves between us and danger, die at the hands of those who would do them harm.” Brown said that the responsibility lies with elected officials to make sure police officers are operating in the safest ways possible. There are four bills in Brown’s proposed package: The first bill would require that officers be accompanied by a partner whenever working in a critical crime area, as defined by the attorney general. It would ensure officers are better protected from those who would do them harm. The second bill would require that all officers wear at minimum non-expired level IIIA body armor while on duty to better protect them from firearms. The third bill would create a grant program to provide funding to municipalities to install audible gunshot detection technology in areas with high rates of firearm violence. The fourth bill Read more

 

Joanna McClinton elected first female speaker of the Pa. House as Mark Rozzi steps down

(Feb 28, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

“There’s going to have to be compromises on all legislation because of how tight the numbers are,” Rozzi said. “So I think that [McClinton is] the right person to lead this House right now.” Read more

 

Kenyatta leads rally for Temple University Graduate Students Association

(Feb 15, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 15 -- State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., on Tuesday lead a rally under the Bell Tower on Temple University’s campus in support of the Temple University Graduate Students’ Association and the university’s hardworking graduate students. TUGSA members are currently on strike to receive a living wage, and the rally was to support their fight in the face of Temple's "union-busting” tactics, which include revoking student aid for the striking members. Kenyatta was joined by Philadelphia House Delegation Vice-Chair Rep. Danilo Burgos and other members of the PA House Democratic Caucus, as well as the American Federation of Teachers of PA, United Food & Commercial Workers, Coalition of Labor Union Women, and Service Employees International Union. Kenyatta is a Temple alum and has consistently worked as a state representative to provide fair and living wages to working people. He said the unfair wages and union busting happening to TUGSA hits close to home for him. “I love Temple University, the folks gathered here today love Temple University. What we don’t love is union busting, and working people not being able to pay their bills,” Kenyatta said. “This is a shameful day for Temple University. Temple can do better and must do better by providing TUGSA workers dignified and worthy wages.” Video from the rally can be found on Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds court ruling for fair school funding

(Feb 09, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 9 – The Philadelphia House Delegation applauded the ruling in PA Commonwealth Court that Pennsylvania’s school funding system is unconstitutional. The ruling is a result of the 2014 case William Penn School District v. PA Department of Education, which was filed on behalf of parents, school districts, and statewide organizations arguing that the commonwealth’s funding of K-12 public education is inadequate and violates the Pennsylvania Constitution. The petitioners argued that because the bulk of public education funding comes from local property taxes, school districts in areas with low incomes and property values have been underfunded compared to school districts in areas with high incomes and property values. Leaders of the Philadelphia House Delegation -- Chairwoman Morgan Cephas, Vice Chairman Danilo Burgos and Secretary Malcolm Kenyatta -- issued the following statements about the historic ruling. “Philadelphia schools have been the victims of underfunding for decades and it shows in the conditions they’re in today,” Cephas said. “This ruling is historic and should set us on the right track to get schools in Philadelphia and across the commonwealth the funding they need.” “For far too long, PA schools in low-income areas have been massively underfunded, and it has hurt the children attending these schools and the community as a whole,” Read more

 

Solomon presents check to NEPCA to promote diversity in his community

(Feb 07, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., continued his investment in diversity by presenting $30,000 in state funding to the Northeast Philadelphia Chinese Association. “The Northeast is powered by the diversity of our neighborhood, which makes it an amazing part of the city,” Solomon said. “We need to continue supporting diversity in our neighborhood by investing in organizations like NEPCA, which will help connect people with community, bridge cultural gaps, connect to city services and so much more.” Solomon said these funds will be used to help bridge cultural gaps by providing interpreters and connections to city services and more. “I am so grateful for you helping NEPCA get this $30,000 grant.” Pearl Hunh, leader at NEPCA, said to Solomon. “We want to just love and care, so this generation will grow up and take care of our community. Not only the Chinese, but for all the people that need help.” Councilman Anthony Phillips, state Rep. Anthony Bellmon and Former Councilwoman Maria Quiones-Sanchez joined Solomon in awarding the funding to the volunteers of NEPCA. Solomon said that Northeast Philadelphia is the fastest growing Chinese community in the entire city, and he is honored that they choose to call the Northeast home. Read more

 

Neilson reintroduces legislation to curb speeding through school zones

(Jan 31, 2023) Philadelphia House Delegation

HARRISBURG, Jan. 30 -- State Rep. Ed Neilson, D-Phila., has reintroduced legislation designed to save children’s lives by requiring automated speed cameras in school zones to “Give our kids a break.” “The city is plagued by being unable to hire police and bus drivers, and it has reduced the number of bus routes and crossing guards in our neighborhoods,” Neilson said. “The calls about these dangerous situations keep coming to my office and if the city isn’t able to fix it, as public servants, it’s our duty to introduce legislation that protects and enhances the life of our constituents, and that’s exactly what this legislation would do.” Former Gov. Tom Wolf invested $14.5 million to install these cameras along Roosevelt Boulevard, a main corridor in Neilson’s district – Neilson said he wants to have the program expanded into the neighborhood because the death of just one child from carelessness is too many. “Every day, we see people speeding through school zones, endangering the lives of children and the crossing guards in a place where they are supposed to be safe,” Neilson said. “We need to give our kids a break.” Neilson said he wants to see the same automated speed cameras in school zones across the commonwealth. This is not the first kind of legislation introduced in the country that puts speed cameras in school zones. Neilson said that similar sized cities Read more

 

Majority Policy Committee examines affordable housing crisis
Mar 28, 2023

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

Representatives, testifiers advocate to Raise the Wage
Mar 27, 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

The Philadelphia Platform 2023-24
Mar 16, 2023

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

Solomon appointed to chair of Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee
Mar 08, 2023

New hope for Philly Dems and wary GOP optimism: Shapiro’s budget a rare sign of unity in Harrisburg
Mar 08, 2023

Kenyatta applauds Pa. Commission on Crime and Delinquency awarding grant to Temple University for $1.8 million
Mar 08, 2023

Solomon introduces Women’s Reproductive Health Care Compact legislation
Mar 06, 2023

Khan Demands Change in PA Schools
Mar 03, 2023

PA To Consider Adopting Significant Police Protection Measures
Mar 03, 2023

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

Brown introduces package of laws to protect law enforcement
Feb 28, 2023

Joanna McClinton elected first female speaker of the Pa. House as Mark Rozzi steps down
Feb 28, 2023

Kenyatta leads rally for Temple University Graduate Students Association
Feb 15, 2023

Philadelphia House Delegation applauds court ruling for fair school funding
Feb 09, 2023

Solomon presents check to NEPCA to promote diversity in his community
Feb 07, 2023

Neilson reintroduces legislation to curb speeding through school zones
Jan 31, 2023