Philadelphia House Delegation unveils three new subcommittees
Rep. Ben Waxman December 21, 2022 | 9:24 AM
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 21 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced the launch of a new subcommittee structure aimed to amplify the efforts and mission of the delegation in three specific areas of work.
The delegation now includes as part of its components The Philadelphia House Delegation Labor Subcommittee, the Philadelphia House Delegation Policy Subcommittee and the Philadelphia House Delegation Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee.
Delegation Chair Rep. Morgan Cephas explains that the organization is experiencing a crucial reform that will translate to a boost across a broad spectrum of focus areas of their work.
“We are all very excited and looking forward to the agendas of these subcommittees. It has never been more urgent to fulfill our mission as a delegation, as the voice of Philadelphia in the House,” Cephas said. “I must highlight that these groups are strategically led by an impeccable team of lawmakers who have made great strides in each of these territories.”
Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler and Rep.-elect Roni Green have been designated chair and vice chair, respectively, of the Philadelphia House Delegation Labor Subcommittee. This group will evaluate legislation related to unions, the right to form a union, worker power, union membership and other matters relating to organized labor in the commonwealth.
Fiedler has been a champion for labor issues through her tenure in the House and is always out front for labor organizations and worker rights.
“Unions built the middle class and fought for important policies that benefit workers, including minimum wage, overtime pay, pension benefits, the weekend, parental leave, health benefits, unemployment insurance workplace protections and much more,” Fiedler said. “I am excited to work as chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation Labor Subcommittee to increase communication between our delegation and organized labor in our city and state. Everyone’s life is better when unions are strong.”
Green has been long involved with the Service Employees International Union is a champion for a living wage for all Pennsylvanians.
“I am thankful to have been appointed to be Vice Chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation Labor Subcommittee,” Green said. “I will bring over 30 years of experience as a community organizer and labor organizer, strong union ties and boundless energy to the role. And I will continue to champion a living wage and fair compensation for all Pennsylvanians”, Green said.
Rep. Jared Solomon will be chairing the Philadelphia House Delegation Policy Subcommittee. This team will examine and discuss legislation that relates to the policy goals and initiatives of the delegation using the platform as a guide.
Solomon was instrumental in helping to develop the initial Philadelphia Platform for the delegation back in 2019 and will continue to work with Cephas and delegation members on updating this vital document outlining the group’s priorities.
"I am honored to be part of the Policy Subcommittee of the Philadelphia House Delegation," Solomon said. "I look forward to working with Chair Morgan Cephas and the other delegation members in keeping up-to-date with policy matters that affect Philadelphians the most.”
The third pillar of the restructuring is the Philadelphia House Delegation Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee that will be guided by Rep.-elect Ben Waxman. This subcommittee will facilitate communications with partners in city hall, city government organizations and NGOs while it develops and analyzes legislation for the benefit of Philadelphia as well as the commonwealth.
Waxman comes to the delegation with a wealth of experience as a staff member in city and state government offices.
“I am beyond honored to be appointed to this role as a new member,” Waxman said. “I plan to work diligently to ensure all Philadelphians have the resources and connections they need to get the most out of their state government. It’s time Philadelphians saw their priorities fully represented in the Pa. House.”