Some of us may have seen the concerning headlines in the news about a little known virus called RSV, spreading through daycare centers and preschools, infecting our children and their families. "The little known virus" is called RSV and it is impacting children in Philadelphia. Yet again, parents and caregivers in my district have found themselves scrambling for information about a new virus making children sick across our city. 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
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
HARRISBURG, Dec. 8 – State Reps. Morgan Cephas and Joanna McClinton, both D-Phila., applauded the maternal mortality and morbidity call to action issued by Vice President Kamala Harris this week , citing legislation that can be enacted in Pennsylvania to improve health outcomes and save lives. “The issue of maternal health and the devastatingly high rates of maternal mortality and maternal morbidity in Pennsylvania and across the country have been and continue to be a top priority of mine,” Cephas said. “I’m grateful that Vice President Harris has issued this call to action, elevating this issue in front of the entire country.” “Maternal health is at the core of family wellness,” House Democratic Leader McClinton said. “Despite our nation’s strengths, the fact that we have one of the highest maternal mortality rates is a stain on our country. “I applaud Vice President Harris’ actions to bring visibility to this issue that impacts so many women in our communities.” According to the call to action issued by Harris, the maternal mortality rates in the United States are among the highest in the developed world and are especially high among Black women and Native American women, regardless of income or education levels. As part of the call to action, $3 billion in Build Back Better funding will be invested in maternal health and states will be encouraged to extend Medicaid programs to 12 Read more
STATE PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs: Substance Use Disorder Drop-In Centers (Funding Source: Federal Funding) Who Can Apply : Existing drop-in centers in Allegheny, Philadelphia, Bucks, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. Single County Authorities (SCAs) are not eligible to apply, nor are DDAP-licensed treatment providers. Use : To expand drop-in center services for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) in areas of the commonwealth experiencing high overdose deaths. Funds : Approximately two to three grants up to $650,000 each will be awarded. Application Deadline : December 13 More Information : Click on https://www.ddap.pa.gov/DDAPFunding/Pages/Funding-Opportunities.aspx . Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency: Pennsylvania Academic and Career/Technical Training (PACTT) Grants (Funding Source: General Fund) Who Can Apply : Residential facilities, community-based, and/or juvenile probation office providers that are PACTT Affiliates primarily serving adjudicated delinquent youth. Use : To advance academic and career/technical training among adjudicated youth receiving services while in residential facilities, from community-based providers, and through juvenile probation departments. Funds : Up to $75,000. Application Deadline : December 22 More Information Read more
PA House Democratic Leader Joanna McClinton and state Rep. Morgan Cephas announced today $138,581 is going to support efforts by two nonprofits to help jobseekers, local businesses, and residents in West Philadelphia amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more
The Women’s Health Caucus works to develop legislation and social policy that protect and respect women’s health. An updated list of legislation our caucus is proposing as of 10/26/21 regarding healthcare, childcare, and other issues is found here. Read more
The 2022 Open Enrollment Period for Pennsylvanians seeking health insurance coverage through Pennie is now open (as of Monday, Nov. 1) and will remain open through Jan. 15, 2022 . Pennie connects customers with financial aid and helps them shop for, compare and purchase health insurance. Nearly everyone qualifies for savings because of the American Rescue Plan. Pennie was created through legislation in 2019, moving Pennsylvania from the federal-based exchange to a state-based marketplace, which helped residents save hundreds – and, in some cases, thousands – of dollars on health insurance. Customers may see additional savings when enrolling in a 2022 Pennie plan because of the American Rescue Plan, according to state Rep. Tony DeLuca , Democratic Chairman of the House Insurance Committee. If you have questions, Pennie has answers via its FAQ page . Visit Pennie.com or call 1-844-844-8040 for more information. While open enrollment continues through Jan. 15, 2022, the last day to enroll for coverage starting Jan. 1 is Dec. 15, 2021 . Visit the Pennsylvania Insurance Department website for more information on how to get health insurance. Read more
HARRISBURG, Oct. 26 – Chairs of the Women’s Health Caucus today condemned the actions of taxpayer-funded crisis pregnancy centers following the release of a report detailing some of their deceptive anti-abortion practices in nine states, including Pennsylvania. The report , titled “Designed to Deceive: A Study of the Crisis Pregnancy Industry in Nine States,” was published today by the Women’s Law Project in collaboration with The Alliance and the California Women’s Law Center. The study highlights the deceptive practices used by CPCs to steer pregnant patients away from abortion. The report found almost two-thirds (63%) of CPCs promoted medical falsehoods and 95% offered no prenatal care. Women’s Health Caucus co-chairs Rep. Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., Sen. Amanda Cappelletti, D-Delaware/Montgomery, and Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, said CPCs serve no real medical purpose and taxpayer funds should only be used for evidence-based services. “Crisis Pregnancy Centers in Pennsylvania have long diverted money from a program that actually helps needy families in Pennsylvania,” Daley said. “CPCs often target low-income women and women of color by providing them with biased and false medical claims. Instead, we should be promoting science-based and safe family medicine practices across the Commonwealth.” In Pennsylvania, CPC’s outnumber abortion care clinics nine to Read more
PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 22 – Grant funding of $220,748 has been approved to renovate 330 streetlights on West Market Street between the intersections of 46 th and 63 rd streets, state Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., announced today. Cephas said the grant to the nonprofit ACHIEVEability – awarded from the Local Share Account (LSA) administered by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development – will support the installation of modern LED lights to create better visibility for all travelers along West Market Street. “These fixtures will increase and improve current lighting conditions along the area to create a safer environment for residents and passerby that utilize the major road. The corridor connects West Philadelphians to the rest of the city through public transportation routes, walking, biking, and driving,” Cephas said. “A large section of the project area has recently added bike paths and increased lighting will provide safer roads for drivers, bikers, and pedestrians alike.” LSA grant eligibility varies by county. In Philadelphia, funds are sourced from license fees for slot machines operating within the city and are eligible for use on economic development, neighborhood revitalization, community development, and public interest projects in the city. In Philadelphia, LSA grant amounts can fall anywhere between $10,000 and $500,000. Read more
LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered by the Department of Human Services that provides assistance for home heating bills so Pennsylvanians can stay warm and safe during the winter months. Read more
HARRISBURG, Oct. 14 – Members of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus applauded Pennsylvania First Lady Frances Wolf for organizing a virtual discussion Wednesday to discuss the unique needs of women who are incarcerated and those leaving prison and returning to their families and communities. The virtual discussion among formerly incarcerated women, corrections professionals, reentry experts and advocates focused on the challenges that women face while incarcerated and during reentry, how the needs of these women are currently being met, and how the criminal justice system can improve to better serve them. Women’s Health Caucus co-chairs Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., Rep. Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks, and Sen. Amanda Cappelletti, D-Delaware/Montgomery, said the respectful treatment of women while in prison and when they are reentering society is a priority for the caucus and its legislative agenda. Over the span of three decades Pennsylvania has seen a significant increase in the number of incarcerated women. “We appreciate the efforts and commitment of First Lady Frances Wolf for understanding that there is a necessity to address the needs and concerns of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women in our state,” Cephas said. “Conversations like this can and should lead to better public policy and the enactment of legislation to help prevent negative mental and physical health outcomes for all of Read more
HARRISBURG, Oct. 7 – State Reps. Malcolm Kenyatta and Morgan Cephas, both D-Phila., are introducing legislation to prohibit PA from imposing undue regulations on women’s reproductive health. This legislation would protect the health care women get and their access to safe abortions. It also would prevent women from being denied the right to an abortion. “Abortion is health care, and health care is a human right,” Kenyatta said. “Abortion care should be able to be accessed without any barriers, and we should put that into law.” Cephas said, “Women’s reproductive health issues are a major problem in our country, with extreme laws or proposals across the nation to restrict reproductive healthcare. Women of color suffer from it the most.” Executive Director of Planned Parenthood of PA, Signe Espinoza, joined the lawmakers at a news conference yesterday at the state Capitol to discuss the importance of having this protection in Pennsylvania. Read more
Feel free to share this resource among your networks and don’t forget to engage with the Women's Health Caucus on social media using the #OptInPA. Read more
The Women’s Health Caucus is in full support of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services and all partners and providers in implementing a state plan to extend Medicaid coverage to one-year postpartum for Pennsylvanians by April 1, 2022. This page is intended to serve as a hub of resources and information on the road to improving health outcomes across Pennsylvania, for communities impacted by the maternal mortality and postpartum health crisis. Feel free to share these resources amongst your networks and don’t forget to engage with us on social media using the #OptInPA. Read more
Members of the Women’s Health Caucus said they want to remind Pennsylvanians that, while they are standing in solidarity with those negatively impacted by the new Texas law, abortion remains legal in Pennsylvania, and Gov. Wolf has guaranteed a veto if any restrictive legislation reaches his desk. Read more
HARRISBURG, Aug. 26 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., today announced that she was recently appointed to the board of directors for the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority, also known as Pennvest, and said she aims to address the longstanding environmental challenges that exist in underserved communities throughout Pennsylvania in her new role. “Over the years the presence of lead in our drinking water, the ongoing need to remediate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in water sources and the importance of repairing miles of old infrastructure throughout the commonwealth have been well-documented,” Cephas said. “With resources potentially coming from the federal government, now is a great time to be strategic by leveraging Pennvest resources to further expand economic and workforce development opportunities.” Since its inception, Pennvest has been committed to serving communities and residents of Pennsylvania by funding sewer, stormwater and drinking water projects throughout the commonwealth through low-cost financial assistance opportunities. These projects not only contribute to improving Pennsylvania's environment and the health of its people, but they also provide opportunities for economic growth and jobs for Pennsylvania's workers. "In my new role, I am excited to examine and approve projects that will create healthy and safe communities across Pennsylvania," Cephas said. Read more
“I am grateful to House leadership for recognizing this and for working with the Women’s Health Caucus to get the message across – birthing people in Pennsylvania need access to care to improve maternal and child health outcomes. I am also grateful that the department recognizes the role they play in improving outcomes and has decided to act. Together we can make improvements for Pennsylvania’s families,” Cephas said. Read more
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