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Philadelphia House Delegation lauds passage of equitable school funding

Philadelphia House Delegation

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Dawkins comments on dismissal of charges against former Philly police officer in 2017 killing of David Jones

(Oct 12, 2022) Rep. Jason Dawkins

Such a ruling by the judiciary undermines constituents’ faith in our system of government and results in them holding the perception that their votes are those of second-class citizens and will make no difference. Perceptions of this nature are dangerous as they undermine our democratic system, creating an endless cycle of hopelessness and fear of the authorities. Fear eliminates the belief that justice is blind and elicits a view that lady justice herself is willing to turn a blind eye to the plight of those seeking justice in particular zip codes. Read more

 

Roxborough alum Malcolm Kenyatta: ‘We are failing our kids’

(Oct 04, 2022) Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta

State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta walked the halls of his alma mater, Roxborough High School, the day after a 14-year-old football player was killed following a scrimmage. Read more

 

Burgos and Guzman call on President Biden to waive a federal law to allow essential fuel shipments to Puerto Rico

(Sep 29, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Sept. 29 – State Reps. Danilo Burgos, D-Phila, and Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, today sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting to waive the maritime shipment restrictions stated in the Jones Act to help restore power in Puerto Rico. In the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, the island is struggling to get the necessary loads of fuel to move forward. The Jones Act requires that ships transporting goods between United States ports be made in America and owned by American companies. The lawmakers, who lead the Pennsylvania Latino Caucus, emphasized that this Act, also known as Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is narrowing the survival chances of victims of Fiona. “The Jones Act is one of the core factors limiting the recovery of the island against the backdrop of Hurricane Fiona. A clock is ticking for all the people impacted by this natural disaster,” Burgos said. “We urge President Biden to ease the burden for Puerto Ricans, regardless of political or statehood status, and manage this situation with the same urgency that would involve any of the 50 states in the country. This is a matter of survival and empathy.” Guzman explained that the island-wide power outrage has left an estimated 320,232 homes and business without power, relying on generators on a daily basis, which has worsened the living conditions of residents of the Caribbean Island. “As of today, according to LUMA Energy which operates Puerto Rico’s Read more

 

Burgos and Guzman: Joint letter to President Biden calling for immediate action to rescue Puerto Rico

(Sep 29, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

Thanks to your immediate federal response and subsequent aids of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security, Puerto Rico has been able to get on the path to recovery from the disastrous impact of Hurricane Fiona. However, much more needs to be done. Read more

 

Isaacson announces legislation on menstrual education in schools

(Sep 28, 2022) Rep. Mary Isaacson

According to reports, 79% of teenage students feel they need more education on menstruation. Many young students report that their first period was “embarrassing, traumatic, scary and confusing” and that they felt dirty during their period. Read more

 

Dawkins discusses GOP hypocrisy in Krasner impeachment probe

(Sep 26, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 26 – Chairman Jason Dawkins of the Philadelphia Delegation of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives issued the following statement after meeting with Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner today in Center City. “Today’s meeting was about something the Republican Majority that has controlled state government for decades never did – get the facts and have an honest conversation,” Dawkins said. “Instead, the GOP has gone back to the same tired playbook - stirring fear in their base about the state’s largest city and biggest economic driver – combined with their newest obsession of overturning a free and fair election when the results don’t go their way. “If the Republican majority is so concerned with crime in Philadelphia, then why do they oppose funding for our children and why do they deny the city’s elected officials the right to write their own gun safety laws like banning assault weapons? “We’ll welcome them when they are ready to work toward real solutions that don’t involve using the victims of gun violence as political pawns.” According to Dawkins, the hyper partisan, so-called House Select Committee on Restoring Law and Order that is “investigating” Krasner is scheduled to meet in Philadelphia later this week. Read more

 

Guzman and Burgos join efforts to aid people affected by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic

(Sep 19, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Sept. 19 – State Reps. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, and Danilo Burgos, D-Phila., today announced they are joining forces to help people affected by severe flooding and damages caused by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. The lawmakers, who lead the Pennsylvania Latino Caucus, thanked Governor Tom Wolf for deploying two members of PA Task Force 1 to Puerto Rico to support Hurricane Fiona response. They also urge Wolf to use the full force of his power to help the islands of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. “The flooding has already impacted the water system and many families are now homeless. Puerto Rico is still suffering from the lingering effects of Hurricane Maria and currently experiencing an island-wide black out,” Guzman said. Guzman and Burgos call on Gov. Wolf to use PEMA to immediately offer humanitarian assistance to these islands. Pennsylvania has the fourth largest population of Puerto Ricans outside the island. “A lot of people are suffering the effects of Hurricane Fiona. As a legislator I feel compelled to work diligently to provide resources and the necessary help to people impacted by this natural catastrophe. To help them is also to help the people that I represent in my district because they are concerned about the well-being of their relatives back home in the islands,” Guzman said. Burgos emphasized that it is crucial to receive the support of PEMA because it would Read more

 

Cephas and Davis move Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act to the Senate

(Sep 19, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Sept. 19 – State Reps. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., and Tina Davis, D-Bucks, applauded today’s House passage of their bill that would regulate how pregnant people are treated in Pennsylvania’s jails and prisons. The bill is now on its way to the Senate. The Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act, which passed unanimously, would improve visitation rights for incarcerated parents, ban shackling pregnant people and enhance restraint documentation, along with other provisions. “For years, my peers and I have been fighting to get prenatal, pregnancy and post-natal support to those incarcerated in the Commonwealth. The House passage of this act lifts my soul because it is an act of compassion,” Cephas said. “This legislation (H.B. 1419 ) would improve the quality of life for some of our most vulnerable constituents and their families. No one should be deprived of respect or be forced to risk their health or their health of their child -- and certainly not on our watch.” The lawmaker highlighted that the bill also would provide for free period and incontinence products for incarcerated individuals and would allow three days of post-delivery bonding time between mother and newborn child. “Policies need to be set on how pregnant women are treated in prison,” Davis said. “For far too long, incarcerated pregnant women have been subject to shackling, solitary confinement, full body searches by male guards and been Read more

 

Kenyatta promotes Philadelphia Health Department Monkeypox Vaccine Interest Form

(Sep 09, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phila., today announced his support and gratitude for the Philadelphia Department of Health’s new Monkeypox Vaccine Interest Form. Read more

 

Solomon celebrates construction of new park at vacant lot

(Aug 25, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., today cut the ribbon for the celebration of the new WeLoveU Park on the corner of Loretto and Cranford Avenues in Northeast Philadelphia.   Read more

 

Cephas to introduce a bill that would protect homeowners and address racial bias in real estate appraisals

(Aug 23, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, Aug. 23 – In an effort to help Pennsylvania homeowners to get a fair appraisal of their properties, state Rep. Morgan Cephas said she plans to introduce legislation that would address discrimination in housing and ensure equity in the real estate appraisal process. “Current laws do not prevent home appraisers from discriminating against people of color, or other marginalized communities for that matter. With little regulation or oversight, appraisals can make or break the value of a home,” Cephas said. “My legislation would require real estate appraisers to complete training regarding bias and discrimination prior to receiving their certification or license or prior to renewing their certification or license.” Cephas’ legislation would also forbid a licensed or certified real estate appraiser from incorporating bias or discrimination into their appraisal of real estate. “It is important that we put training in place that make appraisers aware of the presence of bias or discrimination in housing and ensure that they are conducting themselves with equity and fairness,” Cephas said. “Every family deserves a fair shot at their dream home.” Bound by the federal Fair Housing Act, home appraisers are prohibited from discriminating against homeowners based on their race, religion, national origin, or gender. In addition, Title XI of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 Read more

 

Cephas condemns shooting outside of Shepard Recreation Center, stands with local leaders to encourage community cooperation

(Aug 19, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 19 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today released the following statement in the wake of the recent shooting near a playground in West Philadelphia where five individuals were wounded. “This is a horrifying incident. Nearly 100 shots were fired. It is heart wrenching to know that at the time of this shooting, there were children and families gathered at the center. No child should have to be a witness to such a horrific incident and families should be able to enjoy activities in their communities in peace,” Cephas said. Cephas stood last Wednesday with Philadelphia leaders including District Attorney Larry Krasner, Mayor Jim Kenney, Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw, City Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr., other area elected, community members and more to host a press conference at Shepard Recreation Center in response to the shooting that took place Tuesday night. “We can’t live in fear, and we can’t continue to allow our children to live in a culture of violence. I will keep fighting to make sure that we do all we can to put a halt on this gun violence epidemic including allocating resources to communities who need it most,” she added. The shooting took place only one day after Cephas co-hosted a public policy hearing on safe and healthy spaces at the Kingsessing Recreation Center, just a few miles away from Shepard. Monday’s discussion included talk about Read more

 

Cephas applauds $500,000 funding provided by City of Philadelphia to the Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania

(Aug 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 8 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today commended the announcement made by Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney of a 500,000 investment by the city to the Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania. Cephas, who is co-chair of the legislative Women’s Health Caucus, indicated that she is appreciative of the city’s effort because the funds heading to ALF-PA will help to remove barriers for people in need of abortion that cannot afford insurance or pay out-of-pocket for services. “These funds will expand the current capacity of the Abortion Liberation Fund of PA to address critical needs. As co-chair of the Women’s Health Caucus, this is a proud moment. It’s uplifting to know that our voices are being heard and that this issue is being prioritized in Philadelphia”, Cephas said. Cephas also reaffirmed her commitment to strengthen reproductive health care and maintain access to abortion and other reproductive services in the state of Pennsylvania. “Philly has taken a step forward, but much more is needed; we have to keep in mind not only residents of the commonwealth, but also people traveling from other states to Pennsylvania in search of care. I will continue championing for safety and sustained access to the procedure. I hope this investment could also serve as a call to action Read more

 

Dawkins applauds grants for Pre-K Counts and Head Start

(Aug 02, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Jason Dawkins, D-Phila., applauded Gov. Tom Wolf today for maintaining his promise to invest in education in the commonwealth by awarding more than $384 million to Pre-K and Head Start Programs in Pennsylvania. The money allotted to these programs will deliver funding to two child learning centers in Dawkins’ legislative district. Amazing Kidz Academy LLC received $800,000 and Heavenly Daycare and Learning Center Inc. was awarded $200,000 to help more children receive quality education. The funding was made available through the PA Department of Education’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning and will open up 2,960 additional Pre-K Counts slots and provide Head Start with funding to cover the costs of operation. Dawkins said the funding for these programs will go a long way to help reduce quality-of-life issues that plague Philadelphia and the entire commonwealth. " Reducing gun violence, poverty and addiction in our communities begins with a good education before children even get into school, so I'm happy to see this funding for our local Pre-K schools and the opening of additional slots for Head Start through the School District of Philadelphia. The importance of early education is clear, and I appreciate Governor Wolf's administration investing in our children and families," Dawkins said. The funding will assist 37,213 children in accessing affordable Read more

 

State Rep. Regina Young’s Statement on Pa. Budget

(Jul 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

State Rep. Regina Young, D-Phila./Delaware said she is satisfied that the budget includes a large increase in education funding, for the school districts in her legislative district and throughout the commonwealth. William Penn School District received an increase of $4.8 million, a 19% increase from last year’s budget, while Southeast Delco School District gained a $5.6 million increase, which is a 29% increase from the previous year. Philadelphia School District received an increase of $189.3 million, a 14% increase from last year. “I’m happy to see that the budget prioritized education as a fundamental part of our budget,” Young said. “Education is the building block to a sound future, and I’m thankful of my colleagues who helped pass this budget – taking children’s needs into account.” The General Appropriations budget bill must now be passed in the Senate before going to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk for his signature. Read more

 

Solomon passes affordable housing legislation

(Jul 08, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, July 8 -- This week, the House passed H.B. 581 allowing local taxing authorities to expand access to affordable housing in an unprecedented way, according to state Rep. Jared Solomon, the bill’s sponsor. It was already approved by the Senate on a 50-0 vote. It now goes to the governor for his signature. “For every 100 people who need affordable housing in Pennsylvania, only 42 people will get it,” said Solomon, D-Phila. “In extreme cases, in counties like York and Monroe, only 28 people out of 100 will get the affordable housing they need. In Lancaster, only 19 people. “This is unacceptable. I’m thrilled to have sponsored and passed the affordable housing bill this week. This is a step in the right direction to ensuring every resident of Pennsylvania can have the housing they need to raise their families and comfortably live and work in every one of our 67 counties.” Solomon said the bill benefits residents across the commonwealth because developers will be incentivized to build affordable housing across the state. He said everyone deserves a home they are proud of, and the affordable housing bill creates more access to that. The bill gives local authorities a menu of options to pass tax abatements or exemptions for the creation or improvements of affordable housing, be they for homeownership or rentals. Use of these abatements is entirely up to local policymakers, and in some cases, offers various Read more

 

Dawkins applauds education funding increase in state budget, says more could have been done for gun safety

(Jul 07, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, July 7– Today state Rep. Jason Dawkins, chairman of the House Democratic Philadelphia Delegation, issued the following statement upon passage of the state budget. “I am happy that we were able to come to an agreement so that our schools and services could be funded and not threatened by a protracted and partisan impasse,” Dawkins said. “I am very excited about the historic height in K-12 public education funding. We are talking about a nearly billion-dollar investment of new dollars that goes back to the kids of the commonwealth.” Dawkins applauded that the budget includes a 14% basic education increase for the School District of Philadelphia and an 8% increase for special education. However, he was disappointed that more was not done for gun violence prevention, taking in consideration the large, more than $7 billion surplus on the table at beginning of budget negotiations. “With our large surplus of state tax dollars, more funds should have been allocated to combat the gun violence problem in the city. The funding provided for school safety and mental health in schools is essential, but it’s only a drop in the bucket of what’s truly needed to address the root causes of violence and poverty.” Dawkins also highlighted the fact that the budget approved a childcare tax credit and support for homeowners. “With this state budget investment, people Read more

 

State Rep. Amen Brown calls on Mayor Kenney to step down

(Jul 05, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

After statements made by Mayor Jim Kenney regarding the shooting at the Welcome America festival, state Rep. Amen Brown, D-Phila., is demanding that the mayor step down because of dereliction of duty. “As someone who made the decision to run for office and be elected by the people, it is his responsibility to do all he can to address the issues plaguing our communities.” Brown said. In an interview after the shooting at the Welcome America festival, Kenney stated that he “can’t wait until he’s not mayor anymore.” Brown said that if the mayor feels that way, he should step down immediately. “Philadelphia is in a state of chaos and lawlessness,” Brown said. “Not everyone has the luxury or privilege to just pick up and leave and go enjoy some stuff. His statement was beyond tone deaf and a slap in the face to the families and communities that have been impacted by gun violence. And, if Mayor Kenney doesn’t want to do his job and lead this city, then he should resign and let someone take the lead that actually cares about what’s happening to our people and wants to see and be a part of change.” Brown maintained that no matter how little time Kenney has left in his term, he should remain dedicated until the end of it. “We need a leader who cares about us, not one who is checked out and lacking empathy.” Brown said. “He Read more

 

Solomon’s PICA renewal legislation passes Senate

(Jul 01, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, July 1 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., said today he worked closely with state Rep. Martina White, R-Phila., and House Minority Leader Joanna McClinton to pass bipartisan legislation to renew the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority Act for Philadelphia. The bill passed the Senate on Thursday and is headed to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk for his signature. Solomon said PICA has been effective in stabilizing the economic health of Philadelphia that led to balanced budgets for 25 years. It borrows funds on the city’s behalf and in exchange, oversees Philadelphia’s finances. “Economic conditions in Philadelphia affect the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Solomon said. “We must renew PICA in order to keep Philadelphia fiscally sound and, as a result, the entire commonwealth will benefit. Today, we all worked together to ensure not only the financial health of Philadelphia but, through transparency, establish trust in the city’s financial decisions from taxpayers and legislators alike.” “This is important legislation that will help the city as it continues to face financial uncertainty with its budget projects and limited choices,” White said. “Philadelphia is an economic engine for our commonwealth, and by renewing the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority, we can ensure that the city continues on the path of economic viability benefitting our residents Read more

 

Solomon's legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of US passes Senate

(Jun 30, 2022) Philadelphia County Delegation

HARRISBURG, June 30 -- The PA Senate has passed legislation introduced by state Reps. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., and Wendi Thomas, R-Bucks, that would set up legacy infrastructure projects for all regions of the commonwealth in anticipation of the 250th birthday of the U.S. in 2026. “We on the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semi quincentennial -- America250PA -- want to both preserve the legacy of our heritage and invest in the commonwealth’s future by repairing, restoring and revitalizing historic state landmarks that do exactly that,” Solomon said. “This legislation would seek to provide the framework and identify valuable projects for all 67 counties in Pennsylvania to celebrate 250 years of excellence.” House Bill 1952 would set the foundation for projects throughout the commonwealth, such as monuments, trails, and veterans memorials that need revitalization, which would both improve our state and commemorate our heritage. “This legislation will engage all the citizens of the Commonwealth, from all 67 counties, in the celebration of America250PA,” Thomas said. “Pennsylvanians will be involved in selecting a lasting project for their region, and in this way be a part of the national celebration while celebrating Pennsylvania’s contribution to the past and the future.” The bill passed the Senate on Thursday and is headed to the governor’s desk to be signed. Read more

 

Dawkins comments on dismissal of charges against former Philly police officer in 2017 killing of David Jones
Oct 12, 2022

Roxborough alum Malcolm Kenyatta: ‘We are failing our kids’
Oct 04, 2022

Burgos and Guzman call on President Biden to waive a federal law to allow essential fuel shipments to Puerto Rico
Sep 29, 2022

Burgos and Guzman: Joint letter to President Biden calling for immediate action to rescue Puerto Rico
Sep 29, 2022

Isaacson announces legislation on menstrual education in schools
Sep 28, 2022

Dawkins discusses GOP hypocrisy in Krasner impeachment probe
Sep 26, 2022

Guzman and Burgos join efforts to aid people affected by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic
Sep 19, 2022

Cephas and Davis move Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act to the Senate
Sep 19, 2022

Kenyatta promotes Philadelphia Health Department Monkeypox Vaccine Interest Form
Sep 09, 2022

Solomon celebrates construction of new park at vacant lot
Aug 25, 2022

Cephas to introduce a bill that would protect homeowners and address racial bias in real estate appraisals
Aug 23, 2022

Cephas condemns shooting outside of Shepard Recreation Center, stands with local leaders to encourage community cooperation
Aug 19, 2022

Cephas applauds $500,000 funding provided by City of Philadelphia to the Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania
Aug 08, 2022

Dawkins applauds grants for Pre-K Counts and Head Start
Aug 02, 2022

State Rep. Regina Young’s Statement on Pa. Budget
Jul 08, 2022

Solomon passes affordable housing legislation
Jul 08, 2022

Dawkins applauds education funding increase in state budget, says more could have been done for gun safety
Jul 07, 2022

State Rep. Amen Brown calls on Mayor Kenney to step down
Jul 05, 2022

Solomon’s PICA renewal legislation passes Senate
Jul 01, 2022

Solomon's legislation to establish framework for celebration of 250th birthday of US passes Senate
Jun 30, 2022