Cephas applauds budget for affordable housing, education, and
Rep. Morgan B. Cephas July 15, 2026
HARRISBURG, July 15 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., emphasized her support for the 2026-27 state budget, which invests more than $50 billion in Pennsylvanians without raising taxes.
Gov. Josh Shapiro signed the budget on Sunday, July 12.
“At a time when necessities like food, housing and utilities are becoming harder to afford, I am happy this budget will put money back in Pennsylvanians’ pockets,” Cephas said. “This budget increases affordable housing opportunities, making it easier to find and secure housing; establishes an Affordable Housing Database within the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency; and addresses rising energy costs so families can afford their monthly bills.
“This budget also provides a long-awaited cost-of-living adjustment to give more money to our retired teachers, police officers, firefighters and other public servants.”
Cephas continued: “As chairwoman of the Philadelphia Delegation, I must also acknowledge the positive impact this budget will have on the city. It supports smaller local businesses and invests in making our streets safer.
“The budget includes $157 million for the School District of Philadelphia, up more than $20 million, or 7.6%, from last year. Furthermore, it takes important measures to keep our kids safe from bullying, including a $121 million statewide investment in targeted school safety and mental health grants.
“This is a budget that protects and invests in our communities without raising taxes. That is why I was proud to vote yes. I want to thank Gov. Shapiro and my fellow legislators on both sides of the aisle for delivering solutions to the people of Pennsylvania.”
