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My Natural Gas Safety Bills Pass, Supporting Small Businesses, My Upcoming Events, and more...

(15 hours ago)

My Natural Gas Safety Bills Pass, Supporting Small Businesses, My Upcoming Events, and more... Read more

 

House passes natural gas safety recommendations after R.M. Palmer chocolate factory explosion

(Jan 28, 2026)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 28 – The Pennsylvania House has passed two bipartisan bills introduced by state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks, aimed at addressing natural gas safety concerns in the wake of the 2023 R.M. Palmer chocolate factory explosion. The bills were introduced after a March 2025 investigation found the explosion, which killed seven people and injured 10 others at the West Reading factory, located in Cepeda-Freytiz’s legislative district, was likely caused by a degraded natural gas connection. “As we approach the three-year anniversary of the devastating R.M. Palmer factory explosion, we continue to feel the impact it had on our community, including the loss of seven of our neighbors,” said Cepeda-Freytiz. “The measures outlined in these bills will save lives and ensure that we learn from this tragedy, so no one else has to suffer as our community has.” The bills passed by the House include: House Bill 1525 : Would require all owners and operators of pipelines transporting steam located in public rights-of-way to register with the Pennsylvania One Call System so that property owners and construction workers know where steam lines are located. (183-16) House Bill 1526 : Would require the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission to work with natural gas pipeline operators to develop guidance and management programs to address threats to degrading plastic pipelines. Read more

 

Statement from the chair, vice chair, and secretary of Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus on the events in Minnesota

(Jan 26, 2026)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 26 - The chair, vice-chair, and secretary of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus issued the following statement today in response to another fatal incident involving federal immigration enforcement personnel in Minnesota: “Once again, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal agents operating under this administration have demonstrated a reckless disregard for human life and community safety. These actions are not isolated -- they reflect a broader pattern of aggressive, militarized immigration enforcement that terrorizes communities, undermines public trust, and endangers both civilians and legitimate law enforcement officers. “ICE agents frequently misrepresent themselves as law enforcement and employ tactics that erode trust and interfere with the work of state and local police, whose duty is to protect all Pennsylvanians. “We categorically reject the false choice between public safety and immigrant rights. True public safety is built through transparency, accountability, restraint, and respect for due process -- not fear, intimidation, or lethal force. The escalation of violence linked to federal immigration operations should alarm every Pennsylvanian, regardless of immigration status. “Our congressional delegation continues to be obstructed by an administration that shows little regard for checks and balances or the rule of law. We urge U.S. Read more

 

Khan and colleagues introduce resolution demanding accountability in DHS and ICE enforcement

(Jan 25, 2026)

State Rep. Tarik Khan, D–Philadelphia, joined by colleagues in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, today introduced a resolution urging Congress to withhold additional federal appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) until meaningful accountability and safety reforms are enacted.The resolution comes in the wake of the killing of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis in January 2026, just weeks after another U.S. citizen, Renee Nicole Good, was shot and killed during federal immigration enforcement operations in the same city. Read more

 

New Funding for our Community, Scholarship Applications now Open, Weekend Events and more...

(Jan 23, 2026)

New Funding for our Community, Scholarship Applications now Open, Weekend Events and more... Read more

 

Cepeda-Freytiz announces over $1.5 million in grant funding

(Jan 20, 2026)

WEST READING, Jan. 20 – The Commonwealth Financing Authority has approved over $1.5 million in grant funding to four projects in the 129th Legislative District, announced state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks. “We will see long-needed repairs to our infrastructure and investments in the safety of our pedestrians with this new funding,” said Cepeda-Freytiz. “I continue to ensure that our community gets the state funding it deserves, and I look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition.” Funding from the Small Water and Sewer Program includes: $454,922 to support the second phase of the Lincoln and Brandywine flood mitigation project in Wyomissing. $400,000 to support watermain replacements in West Reading. Funding from the Multimodal Transportation Fund includes: $543,180 to repair the curb and add a handicap access ramp to Playground Drive in West Reading. $132,047 to install a rapid flashing pedestrian crossing device at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Pine Street in West Reading. Read more

 

A Day of Service, New Funding for Local Youth Sports, Property Tax/Rent Rebate Now Open, and more...

(Jan 16, 2026)

A Day of Service, New Funding for Local Youth Sports, Property Tax/Rent Rebate Now Open, and more... Read more

 

Cepeda-Freytiz: $1.3 million for trail, park development coming to district

(Jan 12, 2026)

READING, Jan. 12 -- The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has awarded $1.3 million to projects investing in outdoor access within the 129th Legislative District, announced state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks. “This funding delivers real, visible change – safer infrastructure, roads, trails, transit systems, opportunities to connect with nature and new spaces for our children to play,” said Cepeda-Freytiz. “I am proud to support funding for these projects, and I continue to work to make sure our district gets the resources it deserves.” The funding, which comes from the Community Conservation Partnership Program , includes: $1 million to Spring Township for the development of West Wyomissing Park. Work will include construction of walking trails, a parking area, a tricycle track and pavement games; installation of play equipment with required safety surfacing, pavilion, fencing and signage; ADA access, landscaping and project sign. $348,500 to Reading City for the development of the Schuylkill River Trail, including the construction of 0.13 miles of trail from Riverfront Drive to the intersection of Front and Penn streets, as well as lighting, ADA access and landscaping improvements. The Community Conservation Partnership Program serves to invest in new recreational opportunities, expand outdoor access, protect natural resources, and strengthen local communities. Read more

 

My Upcoming Property Tax Workshop, Welcoming Our New Local Officials, Looking Back on 2025, and more...

(Jan 09, 2026)

My Upcoming Property Tax Workshop, Welcoming Our New Local Officials, Looking Back on 2025, and more... Read more

 

State lawmakers introduce legislation to mark Dominican Independence Day

(Jan 09, 2026)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 9 – To celebrate the contributions of Pennsylvania’s Dominican community, state Reps. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and Manuel Guzman , both D-Berks, and Danilo Burgos , D-Phila. -- all of whom are of Dominican ancestry -- have introduced legislation to designate Feb. 27, 2026, as “Dominican Republic Independence Day.” The legislation, H.R. 387 , seeks to honor the impact Dominicans have made as leaders around the world, including in the United States and the Dominican Republic. The date marks the 182nd anniversary of the Dominican Republic’s independence, following centuries of Spanish colonial rule and 22 years of Haitian governance. “As the proud daughter of Dominican immigrants, I have seen firsthand the sacrifices, resilience and determination that helped my parents -- and so many Dominicans across our commonwealth and beyond -- build better lives,” said Cepeda-Freytiz, chair of the PA Legislative Latino Caucus. “Dominican Independence Day honors a legacy rooted in freedom, self-determination and democratic values -- principles that continue to guide our commonwealth today. It is an honor to lead this effort to recognize the Dominican community’s enduring contributions to civic life, public service and the cultural strength of Pennsylvania.” “In 2018, I became the first Dominican elected to serve in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. All these years later, it Read more

 

Cepeda-Freytiz presents $60,000 check to Latin Fusion Baseball

(Jan 09, 2026)

READING, Jan. 9 – State Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks, presented a check to Latin Fusion Baseball Thursday to celebrate the organization receiving $60,000 in state grant funding. Noelia Montero, director of Latin Fusion Baseball, accepted the check on the organization’s behalf. The funding for this project will go to support its operations and goals, which include expanding youth Little League and tournament participation, while cementing Reading as a baseball town and motivating a new generation of leaders. “This funding will not just serve as an investment in an outstanding organization, it will also serve as an investment in our future,” Cepeda-Freytiz said. “Latin Fusion Baseball is working to foster leadership skills and athletic talent in the children of our community, and I am proud to support this work by pushing for this funding.” This funding came from a legislative initiative backed by Cepeda-Freytiz, who also serves as chair of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus. Read more

 

Transportation, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Jan 08, 2026)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Transportation: Multimodal Transportation Funding (MTF) Who May Apply: Municipalities, councils of government, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agencies, ports and rail freight entities. Use: To improve transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit revitalization. Funds: The MTF requires a 30% match of the amount award. Awards are available for projects with a minimum cost of $100,000 and no more than $3,000,000. Application Deadline: February 13, 2026 More information: PennDOT website Commonwealth Financing Authority: Public School Facility Improvement Grant Who May Apply: School entities, defined as a school district or an area career and technical school. Use: Facility improvement projects, including but not limited to roof repair/replacement, heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment, plumbing systems, window repair/replacement, health and safety upgrades, and accessibility projects. Funds: $100 million in total funding is available. Grant requests shall not exceed $5 million per eligible improvement project. School entities may submit more than one application, but no school entity shall receive more than 20% of the total funding available. Application Deadline: March 13, 2026 More information: CFA Website Department of Military and Read more

 

Statement From the Chair of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus, Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, Regarding Venezuela

(Jan 05, 2026)

“The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation in Venezuela. We are deeply concerned about the potential impact on civilians and the stability of the region. We urge all parties to exercise restraint, uphold international law, and prioritize a peaceful, diplomatic resolution that protects human rights and respects the Venezuelan people’s right to self-determination.” “Our thoughts are with Venezuelan families, including many here in Pennsylvania - who are anxiously seeking clarity, stability, and a future free from violence.” Read more

 

Cepeda-Freytiz: Over $220,000 for traffic safety coming to West Reading

(Dec 30, 2025)

WEST READING, Dec. 30 – The state Transportation Department has approved $228,404 in grant funding to West Reading Borough to support traffic safety and mobility by improving traffic flow, announced state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks. “This funding will clear up traffic congestion in West Reading, which will improve safety and mobility for so many of our neighbors,” said Cepeda-Freytiz. “I am proud to see this funding come back through the state budget to improve the community.” Intersection that will receive new traffic signal retiming and equipment upgrades include: 7th Avenue / Parkside Drive North 7th Avenue / Reading Avenue 8th Avenue / Hill Avenue / Reading Avenue This grant is funded through the Green Light-Go grant program. It is one of three awarded projects in Berks County to improve the efficiency and operation of existing traffic signals. Read more

 

Property Tax/Rent Rebate Deadline Approaching, Supporting the Local Arts, Holiday Events in Reading, and more...

(Dec 19, 2025)

I want to wish you and your family a happy holiday season! I hope you take the time to relax and connect with family as we approach the new year. Read more

 

Cepeda-Freytiz brings in over $1.5 million in grants to Berks County

(Dec 18, 2025)

READING, Dec. 18 – The Commonwealth Financing Authority has approved over $1.5 million in grant funding for projects in the 129th Legislative District, announced state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks. “This funding will bring meaningful improvements to our community—from critical infrastructure repairs and railroad development to stronger support for local law enforcement and new, safe places for our children to play,” said Cepeda-Freytiz. “I’m proud to support these projects, and I’ll keep fighting to ensure our district gets the resources it deserves.” The projects in Cepeda-Freytiz’s district that are supported by this funding include: $507,704 to Spring Township to support the purchase of a street sweeper and two police vehicles. $406,575 to the Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority for the Federal Railroad Administration’s Corridor Identification and Development Program in Reading. This project spans between Reading and Philadelphia via Pottstown and Reading, and overlaps with the districts of Reps. Joe Ciresi, Manuel Guzman and Jacklyn Rusnock. $232,612 to replace a 50-year-old water main pipe in West Reading on Olive Street, between Elm and Buttonwood streets. $200,000 to the Berks County Emergency Response Team to support equipment upgrades for officers. This project was backed with Rusnock and Guzman, the other Democrats in the Berks County Read more

 

Cepeda-Freytiz announces over $1.2 million award to 129th District

(Dec 16, 2025)

READING, Dec. 16 – Through the Neighborhood Assistance Program, seven projects in the 129th Legislative District have received more than $1.2 million in state funding, announced state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks. “From combating food insecurity to ensuring that victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault have the support and safety they need, these projects will make a meaningful difference in our community,” Cepeda-Freytiz said. “I am grateful for the dedication of these organizations to helping our neighbors, and I am proud to continue supporting their important work.” The organizations that will receive funding from this program include: $459,000 to Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank to support year three of five in their renovation to add a community kitchen and annex to their building, which will produce frozen meals and provide space for nonprofits and affordable apartments. They will also receive $109,850 for food purchasing and distribution costs. $414,000 to Our City Reading Inc. to support the development of the Helping Harvest Annex, including two Head Start classrooms and a playground for 34 children. $81,000 to Safe Berks for upgrades to their confidential safe house to ensure security for domestic abuse and sexual assault victims. This includes improved video surveillance and access control, installing solar film on all windows to deter abusers, and repairs to a patio. Read more

 

LIHEAP Now Accepting Applicants, Supporting Local Unions, Upcoming Holiday Events, and more...

(Dec 12, 2025)

LIHEAP Now Accepting Applicants, Supporting Local Unions, Upcoming Holiday Events, and more... Read more

 

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Dec 09, 2025)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Community and Economic Development: Local Share Account Philadelphia Who May Apply: Community Development Corporations, economic development organizations and redevelopment authorities, business improvement districts/neighborhood improvement districts, non-profit organizations with a 501(c) designation, the City of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia. Any eligible organization must be located in Philadelphia. Use: Economic development projects, neighborhood revitalization projects, community improvement projects, projects in the public interest. Any eligible project must be located in Philadelphia. Funds: Grant amounts will vary based on the specific project requirements but are limited to a minimum request/award of $10,000 and a maximum request/award of $500,000. Application Deadline: January 31, 2026 More information: DCED Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Community and Economic Development: PA SITES Who May Apply: Municipalities, economic development organizations, redevelopment authorities, municipal authorities, industrial development agencies, and for-profit organizations. Use: To develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within Pennsylvania. Funds: $400 million in funding is available. Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and approved on a quarterly basis Read more

 

Celebrating New Local Art, Local Holiday Events, New Tax Credit Program, and more...

(Nov 28, 2025)

Celebrating New Local Art, Local Holiday Events, New Tax Credit Program, and more... Read more

 

My Natural Gas Safety Bills Pass, Supporting Small Businesses, My Upcoming Events, and more...
15 hours ago

House passes natural gas safety recommendations after R.M. Palmer chocolate factory explosion
Jan 28, 2026

Statement from the chair, vice chair, and secretary of Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus on the events in Minnesota
Jan 26, 2026

Khan and colleagues introduce resolution demanding accountability in DHS and ICE enforcement
Jan 25, 2026

New Funding for our Community, Scholarship Applications now Open, Weekend Events and more...
Jan 23, 2026

Cepeda-Freytiz announces over $1.5 million in grant funding
Jan 20, 2026

A Day of Service, New Funding for Local Youth Sports, Property Tax/Rent Rebate Now Open, and more...
Jan 16, 2026

Cepeda-Freytiz: $1.3 million for trail, park development coming to district
Jan 12, 2026

My Upcoming Property Tax Workshop, Welcoming Our New Local Officials, Looking Back on 2025, and more...
Jan 09, 2026

State lawmakers introduce legislation to mark Dominican Independence Day
Jan 09, 2026

Cepeda-Freytiz presents $60,000 check to Latin Fusion Baseball
Jan 09, 2026

Transportation, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jan 08, 2026

Statement From the Chair of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus, Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, Regarding Venezuela
Jan 05, 2026

Cepeda-Freytiz: Over $220,000 for traffic safety coming to West Reading
Dec 30, 2025

Property Tax/Rent Rebate Deadline Approaching, Supporting the Local Arts, Holiday Events in Reading, and more...
Dec 19, 2025

Cepeda-Freytiz brings in over $1.5 million in grants to Berks County
Dec 18, 2025

Cepeda-Freytiz announces over $1.2 million award to 129th District
Dec 16, 2025

LIHEAP Now Accepting Applicants, Supporting Local Unions, Upcoming Holiday Events, and more...
Dec 12, 2025

Agricultural, Environmental, Public Safety, Redevelopment, Transportation, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Dec 09, 2025

Celebrating New Local Art, Local Holiday Events, New Tax Credit Program, and more...
Nov 28, 2025