“Families shouldn’t have to choose between going to work and having quality care for a loved one, or have to work just to pay for care,” said Philadelphia House Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas. “We fought and won for working families prioritizing this significant increase in the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit. I’m elated to know that so many families across Philadelphia will greatly benefit from this increase.” Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Loan Repayment Program (LRP) (Funding Source: Federal Funding) Who May Apply : Eligible practitioners with the capacity to provide SUD treatment or SCA-funded case management services at approved practice site(s) and can demonstrate a minimum of two prior years of experience in the SUD field as well as a service commitment of two additional years. Use : To support the supply, distribution and retention of individuals delivering SUD treatment and SCA funded case management services. Funds : Varies by award. Application Deadline : May 26, 2022 More Information : Click on https://www.ddap.pa.gov/Documents/Funding%20documents/GIFA%2022-02%20LoanRepayment_applicationguidance.pdf . Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Enhancing Services to Culturally Specific Populations Program (Funding Source: Federal Funding) Who May Apply : A nonprofit organization for which the primary purpose of the organization as a whole is to provide culturally specific services to one or more of the following racial and ethnic communities: 1) American Indians (including Alaska Natives, Eskimos, and Aleuts); 2) Asian Americans; 3) Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders; 4) Blacks; and 5) Hispanics. Use : To establish, expand, or Read more
PHILADELPHIA, April 18 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas joined state Sen. Tim Kearney and Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Acting Secretary Meg Snead today at the Maternity Care Coalition in Philadelphia to highlight the implementation of Opt In PA, an initiative extending Medicaid support for postpartum individuals from 60 days to one year across the state. President Joe Biden's American Rescue Plan Act included a provision that gives states an option to extend Medicaid coverage up to one year postpartum; the Pa. Department of Human Services made the decision to opt into this provision, extending that coverage from 60 days to one year. Implementation was effective April 1. “Constituents who use Medicaid should contact their providers to see how this impacts them and their care,” said Cephas, who co-chairs the General Assembly’s Women’s Health Caucus and serves on the Pennsylvania Commission for Women. Cephas also discussed a recently committed $25.6 million in American Rescue Plan funding for a new maternal and child health initiative in Pennsylvania called the COVID-19 Nurturing Maternal and Child Health Initiative. The initiative recognizes the impact the pandemic had on Pennsylvania communities and makes strategic investments to implement innovative and informed improvements into the public health continuum. NMCH will reach millions of more birthing parents and children through doula services, targeted services, healthy eating Read more
PHILADELPHIA, April 14 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas and state Sen. Christine Tartaglione, along with fellow lawmakers and the Wolf administration, today announced $25.6 million in American Rescue Plan funding to be allocated for a new maternal and child health initiative in Pennsylvania. The funding announcement also coincides with Black Maternal Health Week, April 11-17 . “With the promise in this funding, we are putting money into solving maternal mortality and working to address the social determinants of health that contribute to the crisis we are experiencing across Pennsylvania," Cephas said. “The administration’s opting Pennsylvania into extended Medicaid was a major move to start solving part of the crisis now, as well. That program began April 1, and the initiatives we’re announcing today are going to reach millions of more birthing parents and children through doula services, targeted services, healthy eating pilot programs and lead remediation.” “Our democratic counterparts in the US House and Senate sent Pennsylvania billions of dollars in the American Rescue Plan to reinvest to strengthen our commonwealth,” Tartaglione said. “We cannot let the historic opportunity afforded to us pass without making life-changing and crucially needed investments in historically disinvested communities. The allocation of this grant money will help Temple Woman’s and Infant’s Hospital finally open Read more
HARRISBURG, April 1 – As of today, birthing parents enrolled in Medicaid in Pennsylvania are eligible for one year of postpartum care thanks to a promise made by good public policy, state Rep. Morgan Cephas said. President Joe Biden's American Rescue Plan Act included a provision that gives states an option to extend Medicaid coverage up to one year postpartum; the Pa. Department of Human Services made the decision to opt into this provision, extending that coverage from 60 days to one year. The new option takes effect beginning today in Pennsylvania thanks to Gov. Tom Wolf and his administration opting the commonwealth into the initiative. The one year of care will be available to birthing parents over the next five years. “Constituents who use Medicaid should contact their providers to see how this impacts them and their care,” said Cephas, who chairs the General Assembly’s Women’s Health Caucus and serves on the Pennsylvania Commission for Women. “Medicaid opt-in sounds technical, but it means extra care for those who need it most. Many thanks to providers supporting birthing people and families, who understand that Medicaid opt-in can mean important changes in the lives of so many Pennsylvanians who need the care.” Cephas is an ardent fighter for health equity and improved maternal health care in Philadelphia and across the commonwealth. She has introduced a series of legislation (H.Bs. 1173-1176), which would also Read more
PHILADELPHIA, March 15 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., was named to the Lankenau Medical Center President’s Advisory Council. Lankenau Medical Center President Phillip D. Robinson established Lankenau’s President’s Advisory Council in 2013. It is comprised of a select group of community leaders whose knowledge, experience and insights qualify them to provide advice, feedback and guidance regarding Lankenau’s commitment to patient care, education and research. “It is an honor to be included on the President’s Advisory Council,” Cephas said. “A large number of my constituents in Philadelphia travel across the county line seeking and receiving care at Lankenau. I look forward to serving to help Lankenau deliver the very best care for its patients and our community. Access to quality health care consistently ranks among the top asks for many Americans, and Lankenau recognizes this. I look forward to working with them.” Cephas is also a member of the Pennsylvania Commission for Women and co-chairs the General Assembly’s Women’s Health Caucus. Read more
PHILADELPHIA, March 14 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas on Friday visited women’s re-entry homes Ardella’s House and Why Not Prosper with Pennsylvania First Lady Frances Wolf. The visits highlighted programs designed to meet the unique maternal and family needs of women reentrants. “I believe we must be providing exclusive avenues of support where person-centered care and focus work best, and the fact is women face unique challenges while incarcerated and when re-entering society,” said Cephas, who is Co-Chair of the Women’s Health Caucus and a member of the PA Commission for Women. There are approximately 30 to 50 pregnancies a year within Pennsylvania’s state correctional facilities, while over half?of all women in U.S. prisons and 80 percent of women in jails are mothers. Most of them are also the?primary caretakers?of their children and incarceration leaves their children with a lapse in support. Knowing a parent’s absence can threaten the family structure makes the need for maternal and family support vital to incarcerated women and reentrants. Wolf also visited The Wardrobe in Philadelphia, a program that provides clothing for reentrants. “Coupled with housing and health care access, improving the attention people receive while struggling is one of the best ways we can improve outcomes for ourselves,” Cephas said. “Many thanks to First Lady Wolf for taking Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 28 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas joined Sens. Amanda Cappelletti and Carolyn Comitta, and Rep. Mary Jo Daley on Friday for a news conference at Phoenixville Hospital to discuss Opt In PA, a move from Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration to improve postpartum care by extending Medicaid support from 60 days to one year. “Medicaid opt-in sounds technical, but health care heroes like the ones at Phoenixville know that it means extra care for those who need it most,” Cephas said. “Many thanks to the providers there supporting birthing people and families, who understand that Medicaid opt-in can mean important changes in the lives of so many Pennsylvanians who need the care.” Cephas is an ardent fighter for improved maternal health care in Philadelphia and across the commonwealth. Cephas has introduced a series of legislation (H.Bs. 1173-1176), which would also extend Medicaid coverage to doula services while also creating a Doula Advisory Board; require implicit bias training for health care professionals; and categorize maternal morbidity as a reportable event for better tracking of the issue. The United States ranks amongst the highest in maternal mortality – a statistic that rings especially true for women of color. Those who are surrounded by a network of support before, during, and after pregnancy often report better mental and physical health outcomes. A part of the sad reality is that Read more
With the anticipation of inflation and the rising cost of goods and services, the time has never been more critical for the student loan crisis to be addressed by our colleagues in Washington. Read more
PHOENIXVILLE, Feb. 25 -- The co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus (WHC) hosted a press conference today at Tower Health in Phoenixville to applaud the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services’ decision to opt in our Medicaid program for postpartum individuals. “As a public health expert, it is important that we prioritize our resources in ways that will ensure better health outcomes for all Pennsylvanians,” said Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-17 Montgomery/Delaware) and co-chair of the Women’s Health Caucus. “Birthing individuals can experience health complications up to one year postpartum and beyond. By extending Medicaid coverage to one year, we are improving maternal mortality and morbidity, improving childhood health outcomes, and ensuring a healthy start for Pennsylvania families.” As part of President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, this provides a federal option for states to extend Medicaid coverage for postpartum individuals from 60 days to one year. The program will start on April 1, 2022 and be available for five years in Pennsylvania. "It's clear that 60 days of postpartum coverage is not only insufficient, it's also dangerous,” said Senator Judy Schwank (D-11 Berks) and co-chair of the Women’s Health Caucus. “By extending postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to 12 months, Pennsylvania is seizing a major opportunity to address the shocking rate of postpartum Read more
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 22 – Rep. Morgan Cephas saw more than 3,000 constituents in the 192nd Legislative District engage with her at a series of events last week to discuss state government and community priorities. Cephas said that the number of people who joined her telephone Town Hall, in-person Town Hall, and district office grand opening broke previous records for turnout, suggesting that people are expecting more from their government now more than ever. On Tuesday, Feb. 15, Cephas hosted nearly 3,000 people for a telephone Town Hall event to get district updates and ask questions directly to the representative. Questions ranged from gun violence reduction strategies to housing assistance. On Thursday, Feb. 17, 30 community members and stakeholders joined Cephas and guests at BOOST CDC for the State of the 192nd Town Hall. Cephas was joined by Philadelphia Register of Wills Tracy Gordon, Community Legal Services, and the Philadelphia Department of Revenue to talk about resources for renters and homeowners. To close out the week, Cephas hosted more than 70 attendees at her new district office grand opening at 7538 Haverford Ave. on Saturday, Feb. 19. She was joined by colleagues Rep. Amen Brown, Rep. Mary Jo Daley, and Rep. Danilo Burgos; Congressman Dwight Evans; Sen. Vincent Hughes; Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr.; Judge Tamika Lane and Commissioner Omar Sabir. “Neighbors of the 192nd are eager to be and stay Read more
If you weren't able to join the call, listen to what our friends & neighbors in the 192nd had to say about the issues that matter. Read more
I’m hosting a Telephone Town Hall tonight, Tuesday, Feb. 15. I’ll dial constituents at 7 p.m. tonight – all you have to do is stay on your phone line to be connected to our live discussion. You’ll be able to ask questions and participate in polls live on the call. Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 14 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas joined First Lady Frances Wolf and the Departments of Human Services and Corrections to announce a new partnership that is bringing doula services to women who are pregnant while incarcerated. Doula services have been found to ease the pregnancy and labor process and improve birth outcomes for both mother and child, according to many studies. Funded through the Tuttleman Foundation, the doula pilot at State Correctional Institute Muncy will expand pregnancy and parenting supports for women who are incarcerated, a key goal of Cephas’s. Wolf said that the goal of the program is to support mothers through a difficult and vulnerable period and empower them as they prepare to re-enter their communities. “I'm glad – and proud – to see that the Department of Corrections is recognizing the importance of doulas in the fight to reduce maternal mortality among incarcerated women and improve birthing outcomes for birthing people and children,” Cephas said. “We now have an opportunity to capitalize on this momentum to pass legislation in the House or Senate to include Medicaid coverage for doulas for all birthing people, and the full Dignity for Incarcerated Women bill to show compassion for the unique circumstances that these women face.” Cephas was previously joined by Dream Corps JUSTICE, the American Conservative Union and Ardella’s House, along with other stakeholders, Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 8 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., released the following statement in response to Gov. Tom Wolf’s budget address today. “First, I want to echo the sentiment of our governor that ‘we're ready to build.’ Coming off two years of life-changing events, with a budget surplus, we have the opportunity to pay our bills and make lasting investments for Pennsylvanians. “At its heart, we all know that a state budget is a financial plan that reflects our priorities – we must ensure that those priorities align with what the public values and helps us care for the most vulnerable.” In addition to the Wolf administration's historic investments in school funding, Cephas stated the following priorities for the 192nd Legislative District this budget season: Investments in gun violence prevention. Building an equitable education system. Increasing health equity. Access to housing and rental assistance. Small business investments. “I am glad to see a budget that reflects these priorities and will work this legislative session to support these investments,” she said. “Prioritizing these areas helps us to recover from the enduring impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic turmoil we experienced over the last two years while looking beyond recovery and into the future of our communities and our commonwealth.” Read more
The Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund, or PAHAF, is a housing-related program funded by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to assist Pennsylvania homeowners facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic that began after January 21, 2020, (including a hardship that began before January 21, 2020, and continued after that date). Read more
PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 20 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas issued the following statement regarding a hostage incident that took place on Jan. 19 in the Overbrook neighborhood, which is in her legislative district. “First and foremost, I’m grateful to everyone who helped resolve this hostage situation without any injury or loss of life. While law enforcement and others work to investigate the full scope of this incident, my thoughts are with the families involved. Though we don’t have all the details regarding this incident at this time, I remain committed to doing everything in my power as a state legislator and a member of the Philadelphia community to combat gun violence. Governor Tom Wolf visited Philadelphia today to focus on that very issue that is plaguing our city, and I want him to know that I look forward to continued collaborative efforts to work on reducing gun violence in our communities.” Read more
HARRISBURG, Jan. 19 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., will soon be introducing legislation to help seniors who might otherwise become victim to potential pitfalls of reverse mortgages to help them better understand the process and be able to take advantage of the benefits of the option. “Reverse mortgages can help some seniors navigate financial struggles,” Cephas said. “But for some seniors and their families, reverse mortgages can be confusing financial tools that are costly, even costing some their homes. These contracts can be difficult to navigate, especially for our most vulnerable populations. Understanding how a reverse mortgage works is key, which is why I will be introducing legislation to ensure that seniors be educated about reverse mortgages before they get one.” Cephas’ legislation would require face-to-face counseling for a senior with an approved financial counselor before one begins a reverse mortgage. If the meeting is unable to take place face-to-face, the potential borrower could also meet with a counselor over the phone or through video teleconference. “I want seniors in my district and across the commonwealth to get the support they need as they make life-changing decisions,” Cephas said. “This legislation will help ensure they are provided the support they deserve.” Read more
HARRISBURG, Jan. 11 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas issued the following statement about the school funding trial today. "Our children are our future," Cephas said. "That statement is more than just a platitude, it's a reality. We have a responsibility to provide our children with all the tools they need to build a better future for us all. For too long, the opportunities for children in some public schools far exceed the opportunities for children in other public schools, despite our state constitution requiring that the General Assembly provide for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of public education to serve the needs of the commonwealth. Some of our children are falling through the cracks because of our failures. “Philadelphia students are short on average $5,583 per student based on how we fund our schools. Over the years we’ve lost guidance counselors, principals and essential programming for our students. Since taking office, my colleagues and I have been fighting for fair funding for students across our commonwealth. Today, the School District of Philadelphia and Dr. Hite take the stand to testify on behalf of the SDP to speak to the reality of the state of education in Philadelphia and to offer insight on the needs of our students and families. It is my sincere hope that they will be heard. “It is time to right the wrongs of our inequitable school funding system and ensure that children Read more
Happy New Year to you and yours! I hope that you’re starting 2022 out healthy, happy and optimistic about the new year. Read more
HARRISBURG, Dec. 10 – State Reps. Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, and Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., have announced that Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia is the recipient of $23,593 through the It’s On Us grant program. The funds aim to support Pennsylvania college campuses in combatting instances of sexual assault. “A safe environment is key in helping students thrive in furthering their education,” said Daley. “This grant will help St. Joe’s create a safer campus and community free from sexual violence.” "Every student who sets out to get an education to create a life and livelihood for themselves ought to be able to walk about a college campus without being assaulted, harassed or abused," Cephas said. "This grant awarded to St. Joe's will help make strides in the direction of creating a campus culture free from such threats. This is great news for the entire community, on campus and beyond." Since 2016, the Wolf administration has awarded over 190 It’s On Us PA grants totaling nearly $4 million to more than 75 postsecondary institutions, including public and private two-year and four-year colleges and universities. Learn more about It’s On Us here . Read more
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