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Cephas sworn-in for fifth term in PA House

Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

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Summer 2021 Newsletter

(Dec 16, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

This year is unlike any year before. We are steadily recovering from a public health crisis and an economic crisis stemming from the pandemic. Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation welcomes $54 million awarded to the city for bolstering law enforcement and services

(Dec 14, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 14 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today announced that $54,293,730 has been awarded to the city in grants. The funds, approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, are destined to enhance law enforcement, gun violence investigation and prosecution, services offered to victims of crime and more. The grants are: Criminal Justice Advisory Committee Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds - Local Law Enforcement Support Grant Program Philadelphia City Treasurer, PPD Local Law Enforcement Support Grant, $ 25 million. Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds - Gun Violence Investigation & Prosecution Grant Program Philadelphia City Treasurer, Phila. DAO Gun Violence Investigation & Prosecution, $20 million. Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, SEPTA ZeroEyes Technology Pilot Project, $4,993,639. State Funds - Women’s Reentry Services Initiative Maternity Care Coalition, MOMobile Rapid Engagement, $82,352. Prevention Point Philadelphia Inc., Trauma-Informed Wholistic Reentry Program for Women, $99,998. Why Not Prosper Inc., The Why Not Prosper Women's Reentry Program, $100,000. Children's Advocacy Center Advisory Committee State Children's Advocacy Center Funds Philadelphia Children's Alliance, PCA Program Maintenance and Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation praises the release of Brittney Griner from Russian prison

(Dec 08, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 8 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, Chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation, today released the following statement on the announcement that American basketball player Brittney Griner has been freed from a Russian prison. “The Philadelphia House Delegation is proud to join in welcoming Brittney Griner home from nine months of illegal and unjust detention in Russia. “The use of innocent people as political pawns by authoritarian governments is abjectly wrong and goes against everything we believe in as Americans. “I applaud President Biden and his administration for their diligent work on Brittney Griner’s behalf. We look forward to the approximately 50 other Americans, including Paul Whelan and others who are being unjustly detained overseas, to be released so they can come home to their loving families once and for all.” Read more

 

Philadelphia House Delegation expresses condolences after passing of Milton Street

(Nov 28, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 28 – The Philadelphia House Delegation today released the following statement regarding the passing of former state Sen. Milton Street. “We are deeply saddened by the death of Senator Milton Street, brother of former Philadelphia Mayor John Street and uncle to current state Sen. Sharif Street. Street always showcased an unwavering passion to serve our community, leaving behind a trail of countless contributions to our city. “Leadership and kindness were two of the main traits of former Sen. Street, who also was a tireless activist for the underprivileged. “We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, colleagues and friends. May his legacy be an inspiration for future generations.” Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation joined forces with Philabundance for day of service and solidarity

(Nov 23, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 23 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation, and a group of delegation members joined Philabundance Tuesday morning for a day of service and solidarity. The lawmakers helped pack boxes that will be provided to families for Thanksgiving. Cephas said their work at the food bank reaffirmed the commitment of the delegation to ensuring that unserved and underserved families in the city have access to food to celebrate the upcoming holidays. “Our delegation firmly believes that working together makes us stronger, and that aside from advancing important legislation in Harrisburg, it is crucial for us to work alongside residents and local organizations to support our community. “Philabundance has been doing amazing work in our community, and that is why we did not hesitate to join them today when Loree Jones, CEO of Philabundance, extended the invitation. Our delegation will continue partnering with institutions that can help us secure the welfare of our city,” Cephas said. Loree Jones said that the team at Philabundance is grateful to have the support of incredible donors and volunteers. "With over 550,000 people struggling to put food on their table we are working harder than ever to be able to do our part to meet the need.” “To have the support of our legislators will help us not only relieve hunger today but - as we Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation salutes warm welcome to second immigrant bus that arrived in the city from Texas

(Nov 21, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 21 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation, today said the delegation stands behind the city’s continued efforts to welcome migrants. Cephas said the delegation is proud of the role that Philadelphia has played after a second group of migrants sent by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott arrived this morning in the city. “Governor Abbot sent another 48 passengers to our city for the purpose of a political stunt, and we are happy to open our arms and dedicate ourselves to their well-being and safety,” Cephas said. “As their harrowing journey comes to an end, we want to make sure everyone knows that innocent people trying to make better lives for themselves and their families will never be punished in Philadelphia.” City of Philadelphia’s Office of Immigrant Affairs and the Mayor’s Fund for Philadelphia have launched the Philadelphia Welcoming Fund to allow Philadelphia residents the opportunity to contribute to local efforts to welcome immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers arriving in Philadelphia. Funds collected by the Welcoming Fund will be provided to nonprofit organizations in the Philadelphia area that are supporting arriving immigrant communities. Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation participates in a day of service at Philabundance

(Nov 21, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 21 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, Chair of the House Philadelphia Democratic Delegation, joins members of the Delegation for a day of service at Philabundance tomorrow, Tuesday, Nov. 22. Members will help pack boxes that will be provided to families for Thanksgiving. Those who wish to volunteer must create an account with Philabundance at this link: https://philabundance.volunteerhub.com/vv2/lp/repcephas , signup for the event and sign a waiver form. What: Members of the Philadelphia Delegation will join the Philabundance team to pack boxes for families for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Where: 3616 S. Galloway St., Philadelphia When: 8:45 a.m. to Noon Tuesday, Nov. 22. ### EDITORS NOTE: Media coverage of Tuesday’s event is invited. Read more

 

Cephas applauds final low-income housing tax credit awarded to complete the Shepherd Senior Residences Project

(Nov 21, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 21 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today praised the announcement made by development company Pennrose, that the Good Shepherd Senior Residences Project has been awarded Low Income Housing tax credits by Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. Pennrose is now ready to move towards a financial closing, followed by construction. The organization expects to begin construction around September 2023. “This is monumental. I am very excited and appreciative of this; a lot of hard work has been done to get to this moment. The public funding awarded will help ensure much-needed senior residences that will benefit our community tremendously,” Cephas said. Cephas also emphasized that she will continue championing for high-quality affordable housing in Philadelphia. “I will keep fighting for one of my biggest goals, which is to expand the construction and access to affordable housing opportunities for our residents and I am glad to say that we are moving forward,” Cephas said. Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation announces new leadership team

(Nov 18, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, Nov. 18 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, former co-chair of the Legislative Women’s Health Caucus, has been elected chairperson of the Philadelphia Delegation of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for a two-year term starting in the 2023-24 legislative session. The delegation also elected Rep. Danilo Burgos as vice-chair and Rep. Malcom Kenyatta as secretary/treasurer. Cephas said that she is looking forward to working with fellow members in the delegation to advance a strategic agenda for the city of Philadelphia. “I feel honored to step into this new role, to be able to lead such a hardworking team. I’m ready to embrace the challenges that this position will bring,” Cephas said. “I can assure all Philadelphians that in this pivotal moment, we are aware of the complex issues impacting our communities, and we are going to keep furthering commonsense policy that can generate lasting impact for our city.” She highlights priorities for the delegation to address include overwhelming gun violence rates, ongoing levels of high poverty, affordable housing, aging infrastructure, education funding, and access to care. Burgos said he feels proud to assume his position in the delegation because it will help him amplify his voice on behalf of underserved residents of the community. “This is really a meaningful moment in Read more

 

Philadelphia Delegation praises coordinated response of the city on the arrival of first migrant bus sent from Texas

(Nov 17, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 17 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas, chair of the House Philadelphia Democratic Delegation, along with fellow members, today thanked city officials for the immediate response and support provided to an estimated 30 immigrants sent to Philadelphia from Texas on a bus that arrived outside the 30th Street Station Wednesday morning. The delegation said its top concern and priority is the welfare of the group of migrants and highlighted that the key words against the backdrop of migrations are collaboration and solidarity. “The most important aspect to take into consideration is to make this group of people feel safe. We all have the right to feel protected and respected; we are talking about a fundamental right.” The delegation applauded the city officials for the humane response and emphasized that once again Philadelphia has proved why it is referred to as the “City of Brotherly Love.’ “We are proud to say that Philadelphia is one of very few sanctuary cities in the country. The Texas officials did not even coordinate with the city, but we opened our doors to them, and we are ready to offer shelter, health care and essential resources.” The delegation also stressed that although Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has stated that he will continue sending buses to other cities, because he understands that the government keeps allowing illegal immigrants, this is far from that case. “The individuals we welcomed are not Read more

 

Cephas to step down as co-chair of the legislative Women’s Health Caucus

(Nov 16, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, Nov. 16 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today announced that she will be stepping down from her position as co-chair of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus Cephas said this represents a sweet-and-sour moment in her career as a lawmaker because she is closing a chapter that allowed her to fight for women’s rights at all levels. “I’m proud to say that as the Women’s Health Caucus, we not only fought, but also won many battles together. I had the honor to support this work in Harrisburg and at home, in Philly co-sponsoring legislation aimed to ensure access. We also have made great strides for maternal health in the Commonwealth under the guidance of the WHC in the last two years.” Cephas emphasized the extensive list of the organization’s achievements includes close collaboration with the governor's administration and stakeholders from across the state, which has resulted in a $25 million investment into maternal health and the implementation of the Medical Assistance extension from six weeks to one-year postpartum. “The WHC has played a pivotal role in decisions made at the Capitol. We also worked on the creation of a pathway to certification for doulas through the launch of the Perinatal Doula Certification Program, and improvements in supports for our incarcerated population through the development of the Doula Pilot Program in SCI Cambridge Springs and SCI Muncy,” Cephas said. Read more

 

Department Of Human Services Receives Federal Approval For Medicaid Extension Of Postpartum Coverage Period

(Nov 03, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

The Department of Human Services (DHS) today announced that Pennsylvania received approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to extend its postpartum coverage period for mothers and birthing people eligible for Medicaid because of their pregnancy. Read more

 

Cephas secures nearly $6 million in grants awarded for local projects

(Oct 26, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, Oct. 26 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today announced that three projects in the 192 nd Legislative District will receive grants from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program totaling nearly $6 million. The grants include: Cobbs Creek Foundation, $ 3.5 million. Cobbs Creek Foundation will restore areas along Cobbs Creek, Indian Creek and five unnamed tributaries. The project includes the restoration of degraded stream channel in a predominantly urban watershed. The ultimate purpose of this project is to provide comprehensive aquatic resource restoration. Pennrose Management Company, $1 million. The Good Shepherd Senior II project will construct a residential development for seniors in the Overbrook neighborhood of Philadelphia. Building amenities include a fitness room, management suite and a community room for residents. Shepard Recreation Center, $1.4 million. This project will renovate the Shepard Recreation Center and make improvements to the outdoor site. The recreation building will undergo significant interior improvements, including the installation of an elevator and construction of a new lobby, in addition to improvements to the building's exterior envelope. Improvements will also be made to the sidewalks, playground, basketball courts and tree coverage. “I’m grateful for these much-needed funds that will improve the Read more

 

Cephas and Davis move Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act to the Senate

(Oct 21, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

State Reps. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., and Tina Davis, D-Bucks, applauded today’s House passage of their bill that would regulate how pregnant people are treated in Pennsylvania’s jails and prisons. The bill is now on its way to the Senate. Read more

 

Women’s Health Caucus call on the PA Human Relations Commission demanding health equity

(Oct 14, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

State Rep. Morgan Cephas today sent a letter to the Human Relations Commission on behalf of the PA Women’s Health Caucus, where she serves as co-chair, requesting the institution to investigate a recent incident that occurred at the Philly Pregnancy Center. Read more

 

Women’s Health Caucus Highlights Summer Recess Activities, Plans to Continue Advocating for Abortion Rights in Fall Session

(Oct 06, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

Building on great progress made for maternal health over the last year, the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus continues the fight to improve health outcomes for women and families and continues to work to protect reproductive health access for all. Read more

 

Cephas praises award of $350,000 in grants to local green spaces

(Sep 08, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

Harrisburg, Sept. 8 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today announced that two projects in the 192 nd Legislative District will receive major grants from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The grants include: Jastech Development Services Inc., $150,000, Development of Overbrook NatureWorks Park. Work to include renovation of building; construction of pedestrian walkways and stormwater management measures; installation of play equipment with required safety surfacing, fencing, interpretive signage, lighting and utilities; ADA access, landscaping, project sign and other related site improvements. Neighborhood Gardens Trust, $200,000, Payment toward the acquisition of three to five community gardens in West Philadelphia for neighborhood open space protection. “I applaud this investment. The green spaces in our neighborhoods are as essential as the water or the electricity to our community. The recreation in green zones is a fundamental part of our lives and fundamental part of healthy communities,” Cephas said. “We need to protect and revitalize those spaces, which are the lungs of our city. These funds will enhance community access, secure preservation and provide safety resources, among other improvements.” Cephas added that 5 Loaves, 2 Fish, a Community Garden located at 55 th and Jefferson streets, preserved under the guidance of the organization Read more

 

Student loan forgiveness moves the needle for all to advance

(Sep 01, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

If you are complaining about your tax dollars paying off someone else’s student loan debt, or proudly declaring that you worked hard to pay your own student loan debt, or if you were silent when billions of tax dollars paid off the debt of big corporations under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), have a seat. If you were fortunate enough to have family or someone who could save or even scrape together money for your higher education costs, by all means, count your blessings. You are not begrudged that good fortune. However, not everyone was or is in that same position. According to the Federal Reserve, the gender and racial wealth gap is significant. The median wealth of white families is 10 times that of Black families and more than 8 times that of Latinx families. A white man’s median net worth is 100 times higher than a Black woman’s. Yes, there is a cost to closing the gender-racial wealth gap. But the up-side is huge: Black women contributing to their communities through home ownership, purchasing goods and services, and on and on. So it stands to reason, Black women will benefit the most from President Joe Biden’s cancellation of student loan debt, which may explain some of this backlash. Historically, Black women have been left out of the higher education game, first by blatant discrimination and now by cost. This gender-racial wealth gap affects everyone. It affects entire communities. But at its core, Read more

 

Cephas to introduce a bill that would protect homeowners and address racial bias in real estate appraisals

(Aug 23, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

HARRISBURG, Aug. 23 – In an effort to help Pennsylvania homeowners to get a fair appraisal of their properties, state Rep. Morgan Cephas said she plans to introduce legislation that would address discrimination in housing and ensure equity in the real estate appraisal process. “Current laws do not prevent home appraisers from discriminating against people of color, or other marginalized communities for that matter. With little regulation or oversight, appraisals can make or break the value of a home,” Cephas said. “My legislation would require real estate appraisers to complete training regarding bias and discrimination prior to receiving their certification or license or prior to renewing their certification or license.” Cephas’ legislation would also forbid a licensed or certified real estate appraiser from incorporating bias or discrimination into their appraisal of real estate. “It is important that we put training in place that make appraisers aware of the presence of bias or discrimination in housing and ensure that they are conducting themselves with equity and fairness,” Cephas said. “Every family deserves a fair shot at their dream home.” Bound by the federal Fair Housing Act, home appraisers are prohibited from discriminating against homeowners based on their race, religion, national origin, or gender. In addition, Title XI of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 Read more

 

Cephas condemns shooting outside of Shepard Recreation Center, stands with local leaders to encourage community cooperation

(Aug 19, 2022) Rep. Morgan B. Cephas

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 19 – State Rep. Morgan Cephas today released the following statement in the wake of the recent shooting near a playground in West Philadelphia where five individuals were wounded. “This is a horrifying incident. Nearly 100 shots were fired. It is heart wrenching to know that at the time of this shooting, there were children and families gathered at the center. No child should have to be a witness to such a horrific incident and families should be able to enjoy activities in their communities in peace,” Cephas said. Cephas stood last Wednesday with Philadelphia leaders including District Attorney Larry Krasner, Mayor Jim Kenney, Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw, City Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr., other area elected, community members and more to host a press conference at Shepard Recreation Center in response to the shooting that took place Tuesday night. “We can’t live in fear, and we can’t continue to allow our children to live in a culture of violence. I will keep fighting to make sure that we do all we can to put a halt on this gun violence epidemic including allocating resources to communities who need it most,” she added. The shooting took place only one day after Cephas co-hosted a public policy hearing on safe and healthy spaces at the Kingsessing Recreation Center, just a few miles away from Shepard. Monday’s discussion included talk about Read more

 

Summer 2021 Newsletter
Dec 16, 2022

Philadelphia House Delegation welcomes $54 million awarded to the city for bolstering law enforcement and services
Dec 14, 2022

Philadelphia House Delegation praises the release of Brittney Griner from Russian prison
Dec 08, 2022

Philadelphia House Delegation expresses condolences after passing of Milton Street
Nov 28, 2022

Philadelphia Delegation joined forces with Philabundance for day of service and solidarity
Nov 23, 2022

Philadelphia Delegation salutes warm welcome to second immigrant bus that arrived in the city from Texas
Nov 21, 2022

Philadelphia Delegation participates in a day of service at Philabundance
Nov 21, 2022

Cephas applauds final low-income housing tax credit awarded to complete the Shepherd Senior Residences Project
Nov 21, 2022

Philadelphia Delegation announces new leadership team
Nov 18, 2022

Philadelphia Delegation praises coordinated response of the city on the arrival of first migrant bus sent from Texas
Nov 17, 2022

Cephas to step down as co-chair of the legislative Women’s Health Caucus
Nov 16, 2022

Department Of Human Services Receives Federal Approval For Medicaid Extension Of Postpartum Coverage Period
Nov 03, 2022

Cephas secures nearly $6 million in grants awarded for local projects
Oct 26, 2022

Cephas and Davis move Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act to the Senate
Oct 21, 2022

Women’s Health Caucus call on the PA Human Relations Commission demanding health equity
Oct 14, 2022

Women’s Health Caucus Highlights Summer Recess Activities, Plans to Continue Advocating for Abortion Rights in Fall Session
Oct 06, 2022

Cephas praises award of $350,000 in grants to local green spaces
Sep 08, 2022

Student loan forgiveness moves the needle for all to advance
Sep 01, 2022

Cephas to introduce a bill that would protect homeowners and address racial bias in real estate appraisals
Aug 23, 2022

Cephas condemns shooting outside of Shepard Recreation Center, stands with local leaders to encourage community cooperation
Aug 19, 2022