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Pa. lawmakers detail bill to route ICE complaints to Human Relations Commission

(Jan 22, 2026)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 22 – Four Pennsylvania House Democrats are introducing legislation to empower the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission to receive and document complaints from the public regarding civil-liberties violations by federal ICE agents and law enforcement agencies working with ICE. State Reps. Paul Friel, Greg Scott, Abigail Salisbury and Joe Hohenstein circulated a co-sponsorship memorandum today outlining their plan to protect residents and hold ICE accountable in Pennsylvania. “This is a failure of leadership at the highest level,” said Friel, D-Chester . “These raids are not making our communities safer, nor do they seem designed to accomplish that goal. The tactics employed by ICE officials are proving to be inhumane, ineffective and unconstitutional. We must hold accountable those who violate both their duty to the constitution and the rights of our community members.” The memo highlights a troubling rise in hostile and unlawful actions under the guise of “immigration enforcement,” citing examples from Minneapolis, Chicago, Los Angeles, and other cities where ICE has overstepped its authority. “The actions we’ve seen from ICE agents nationwide are traumatizing,” said Scott, D-Montgomery . “They’re horrific, and the federal administration’s refusal to acknowledge that is alarming. Residents witnessing civil-liberties violations currently have Read more

 

Hohenstein welcomes more than $1 million in state funding for local transportation projects

(Jan 21, 2026)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 21 – Today, state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., announced $1.6 million in state funding is being awarded to two transportation projects in his district. The funding comes from the Pennsylvania Transportation Commission’s Rail Freight and Rail Transportation assistance programs. The awardees in Hohenstein’s district are: Philadelphia Regional Port Authority, which is being awarded $974,437 to rehabilitate approximately 2,600 feet of the Tioga Marine Terminal. Riverside Materials Inc., which is being awarded $679,000 to rehabilitate its industrial railcar unloading system. “With our district being located along Philadelphia’s river wards, I was glad to help secure funding for two projects that will be very beneficial to important landmarks along our rivers,” Hohenstein said. “When we improve infrastructure like railways and ports, we create more opportunities for family-sustaining jobs, both in construction and after the projects are completed.” Read more

 

Philadelphia lawmakers tout funding for ACCT Philly

(Jan 15, 2026)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 15 – State Reps. Joe Hohenstein, Jordan Harris, Morgan Cephas, and Jose Giral, all D-Phila., announced today that $200,000 in funding has been awarded to ACCT Philly to support its operations. ACCT Philly is Philadelphia’s largest animal care and control service provider, assisting nearly 18,000 animals and residents in need each year. Its mission is to provide shelter, care, and lifesaving services for homeless, abandoned, and abused animals, while also protecting the health, safety, and welfare of Philadelphia’s residents -- benefiting all city residents regardless of race or economic status. Giral, who represents the legislative district in which ACCT Philly is located, applauded the funding. “ACCT plays a vital role in providing compassionate animal care and rescue services across the Philadelphia region, and I am proud to see this funding support their critical mission,” he said. “The North Philadelphia animal shelter serves nearly 18,000 animals each year who have been homeless, abandoned, or abused, with a steadfast commitment to humane care and finding loving, permanent homes. Protecting and caring for these animals strengthens not only their wellbeing, but also the wellbeing of our communities.” Hohenstein, a member of ACCT’s board, also expressed his appreciation for the funding. “I am happy to be part of Read more

 

Rep. Khan, colleagues move to ban PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Pennsylvania pesticides

(Jan 14, 2026)

The legislation would prohibit the sale and use of pesticides containing PFAS in Pennsylvania when safer alternatives are available. Read more

 

Hohenstein welcomes $1.25 million in state funding for Lower Northeast Philadelphia and the River Wards

(Dec 19, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Dec. 19 – State Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., announced that $1.25 million in state funding he helped to secure is coming back to his legislative district for local projects. The organizations awarded funding include: Delaware River City Corp. D.B.A. Riverfront North Partnership will receive $500,000 to construct recreation amenities at the Tacony Boat Launch. Hohenstein noted that he was happy to cooperate with state Rep. Pat Gallagher, D-Phila., and state Sen. Joe Picozzi, R-Phila. Delaware River Waterfront Corp. will receive $250,000 for Phase I of the rehabilitation of Pier 18, also known as Graffiti Pier. Hohenstein highlighted that state Sen. Nikil Saval, D-Phila., helped him to secure this grant. New Kensington Community Development Corp. will receive $500,000 to construct a greenhouse at Greensgrow Farms. Hohenstein also noted Saval’s work with him to secure this grant. “ I am proud to have helped secure this funding that will help these three excellent organizations care for some of our most prized natural landmarks,” Hohenstein said. Hohenstein also noted that Caring for Friends, which does a lot of work in his district, will receive $650,000 to purchase and install an HVAC system for their warehouse. He also gave a shout out to Picozzi for his work in securing this grant. He also highlighted that the Covenant House, which has Read more

 

Hohenstein Honors Local War Hero Al Schmid

(Nov 14, 2025)

PA State Rep. Joe Hohenstein, alongside fellow legislators and community leaders, honored the legacy of war hero Al Schmid by dedicating a memorial bell as part of American250PA’s Bells Across PA art series. Schmid's bravery during the Guadalcanal campaign in WWII earned him the prestigious Navy Cross. This dedication ceremony, held on Veterans Day, served as a reminder of his courage and sacrifice. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El, Hohenstein legislation to create Office of New Pennsylvanians referred out of committee

(Oct 28, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Oct. 28 – Legislation (H.B. 1113) that would create an Office of New Pennsylvanians to support, attract and retain immigrants in the commonwealth, introduced by state Reps. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, and Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., was referred out of the House State Government Committee today, 14-12. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El, Hohenstein to hold news conference Oct. 28 in support of their legislation to create Office of New Pennsylvanians

(Oct 22, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Oct. 22 – State Reps. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, and Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., will be joined by representatives of Church World Service at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28 in the East Wing Rotunda, Harrisburg, for a news conference in support of their legislation (H.B. 1113) that would create an Office of New Pennsylvanians to support, attract and retain immigrants in the commonwealth. “Our immigrant communities are an integral part of Pennsylvania’s economic growth, making up over 8% of our state’s work force and paying $3.3 billion yearly in state and local taxes,” Smith-Wade-El said. “But they are facing too many roadblocks due to bureaucratic red tape and restrictive policies targeting immigrant communities. “To keep these skilled workers, entrepreneurs, consumers and community leaders in our state, I’ve introduced a bill that would raze the maze of bureaucratic silos by establishing an Office of New Pennsylvanians that would be a one-stop shop for benefits and resources for immigrants under the auspices of the PA Department of Community and Economic Development.” “My support for immigrant rights is based on my belief in the value of all working people. Organized labor was born in immigrant communities from the coal mines in Pennsylvania to sweatshops in New York and to the grape harvests in California,” Hohenstein said. “Immigrants bring so much to our state – whether Read more

 

Advocating for a More Accessible Semiquincentennial Celebration

(Oct 14, 2025)

PA State Rep. Joe Hohenstein couldn’t attend last week’s Philadelphia City Council meeting of the Committee on People with Disabilities and Special Needs in person because he was in Harrisburg working on the state budget. However, Joe’s Chief of Staff was able to fill in for him and read his statement into the record. Hohenstein, a long-time advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, says the Semiquincentennial celebration in 2026 should be fully accessible for EVERYONE. Read more

 

Technology would increase access to state programs, services for all

(Sep 25, 2025)

“Sadly, as we heard today, not everyone in Pennsylvania has the ability to access the services and information provided by our state government,” said Rep. Joe Hohenstein, who represents portions of Philadelphia and hosted the House Majority Policy Committee hearing during his Disability Summit at Temple University. “For many, technology can serve as a lifeline. Universal access and universal accommodation would allow everyone, including people with disabilities, to access state government services and information, including something as vital as employment opportunities.” Read more

 

Immigration, workforce development focus of Hazleton roundtable

(Sep 24, 2025)

Connecting people with the skills they need to succeed in the workplace, and the role immigrants play in powering Pennsylvania’s economy were two of the topics explored during a community roundtable held Wednesday afternoon in Hazleton Read more

 

Judiciary Committee OK’s Hohenstein bill to protect transit workers

(Jun 17, 2025)

HARRISBURG, June 17 – Today, the Pennsylvania House Judiciary Committee approved legislation introduced by state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., to help protect transit workers. In the wake of increased attacks on transit workers in the workplace, this legislation ( H.B. 1145 ) would help transit agencies install improved security measures. It would do so by establishing a grant program to help fund and support increased security measures. These measures may include capital improvements (e.g., security cameras, bullet-proof partitions, security equipment, safety-related technology) and other initiatives (e.g., security training and security staffing). “Transit workers play a massive role in Philadelphia and communities across Pennsylvania getting mass amounts of people where they need to go,” Hohenstein said. “Ensuring their safety is imperative, as it allows them to properly do their jobs without fearing for their well-being, and it keeps riders and the general public safe.” House Bill 1145 now heads to the full House for consideration. Read more

 

Ciresi and Hohenstein tour Pottstown SMART home

(May 16, 2025)

ROYERSFORD, May 16 – State Reps. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, and Joe Hohenstein joined staff members from service provider KenCrest today to discuss how SMART homes can help more people with disabilities to live independently. Equipped with voice-activated features, plenty of maneuverability for wheelchairs, and small robots that can feed people and offer remote monitoring, a SMART home’s technology can help people with disabilities live on their own. “At a time when there is a critical home care worker shortage, SMART homes are the smart investment in assisted living as they help people with disabilities live independently,” Ciresi said. “Unfortunately, the home’s technology can be cost-prohibitive. For example, a device that can assist with eating independently costs approximately $8,600. Under current Pennsylvania law, there is an individual lifetime cap of $10,000 for assistive technology purchases. That outdated limit poses a big obstacle to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities from fulfilling their desire live more independent, safe and fulfilling lives.” “SMART homes provide essential necessities for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to live on their own,” Hohenstein said. "The technology from SMART homes empowers individuals, promotes safety and wellbeing and enhances overall quality of life. I’m proud to be here today to advocate for lifting the $10,000 cap Read more

 

Hohenstein: REAL ID Morning Joe

(Apr 17, 2025)

In this week's Morning Joe, PA state Rep. Joe Hohenstein talks about the impending REAL ID deadline and how his office can help you to get yours. Read more

 

Hohenstein Calls on #PaSenate to Fund Public Transit

(Apr 11, 2025)

#PASenate Republicans refusal to adequately fund transit could mean cuts to SEPTA service and increased fares. PA state Rep. Joe Hohenstein joined his colleagues in the legislature and city officials in Philly to remind everyone just how much SEPTA means to the commonwealth's economy. If an agreement can't be reached, people could see a rate increase of 22% and a 45% reduction in service. Read more

 

Hohenstein: Keeping PA Jobs Despite Irresponsible Tariffs

(Apr 10, 2025)

As Chair of the #PAHouse Transportation Subcommittee on Ports, PA state Rep. Joe Hohenstein knows how important the Port of Philadelphia is to PA’s economy. Unfortunately, the current irresponsible international trade war threatens consumers with higher prices and workers with job instability. Hohenstein met with Gov. Shapiro and labor leaders, businesses and workers to talk about making smart, strategic investments to continue growing PA’s economy and keep the commonwealth open for business. Read more

 

Hohenstein: Reproductive Rights are Human Rights

(Apr 08, 2025)

With uncertainty growing at the federal level, Pa. state Rep. Joe Hohenstein stands with his colleagues in the #PAHouse Democratic Caucus to fight for #bodilyautonomy for ALL birthing people. Hohenstein says this fight is not just about #reproductiverights, it’s a fight for women's health and personal freedom. Read more

 

Hohenstein, Cappelletti join advocates to rally for Trans Day of Visibility

(Apr 02, 2025)

HARRISBURG, April 2– On Monday, state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., and state Sen. Amanda Cappelletti, D Delaware/Montgomery, joined members of transgender advocacy groups to rally for Trans Day of Visibility. Trans Day of Visibility is an observance held on March 31 every year. This day is dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of discrimination they face worldwide. At this rally, the lawmakers highlighted a package of legislation that would protect and support Pennsylvania trans residents and trans students in their schools. This legislation includes: HB1040 (LGBTQ+ Inclusive Curriculum) SB448 (Administrative Name Change Reform) SB477 (Removal of Sex from Birth Certificates) SB437 (Navigating Pennsylvania’s Current Name Change Process) Bill # TBD (Grants LGBTQ+ Community Organizations) Bill # TBD (Removing Publication Requirements for Name Changes ) Bill # TBD (Nondiscrimination Policies to Protect All Students) Hohenstein, is the parent of a trans/nonbinary child and emphasized the importance of protecting trans kids. “Trans people are human; however, they are too often attacked for being different and not fitting into our society’s rigid gender structures,” Hohenstein said. “Because of this, many trans individuals live in fear of being attacked or harmed simply for being their true selves. Read more

 

An Open Letter to the Lawyers and Law Firms the Trump Administration Seeks to Silence

(Apr 02, 2025)

We, the undersigned lawyer-legislators of the Pennsylvania state House of Representatives, are appalled though tragically not surprised by President Trump's latest attack on the rule of law. As outlined in the Presidential Memorandum of March 22, 2025, SUBJECT: Preventing Abuses of the Legal System and the Federal Court, the President instructed the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security to weaponize the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, the Rules of Professional Conduct, and any other regulations governing attorney conduct and discipline to silence the zealous advocacy of lawyers and law firms across the nation. We will not allow the Trump Administration’s attempt with this memorandum to chill legal representation that inconveniences its efforts to undermine the Constitution, gut essential programs, attack vulnerable groups and individuals, and otherwise subvert the rule of law to go unchallenged. Read more

 

Hohenstein: Trout Season Opens April 5th

(Mar 27, 2025)

As Secretary of the #PAHouse Game and Fisheries Committee and an angler himself, Pa. state Rep. Joe Hohenstein knows how much Pennsylvanians love trout fishing. That’s why Hohenstein rolled up his sleeves and helped Fish and Boat Commission conservation officers and volunteers to stock trout in the #Pennypack Creek. Every year the #PFBC stocks millions of #trout in waterways across the Commonwealth. Trout season officially opens April 5th, but kids can get an early start on March 29th for Mentored Youth Trout Day. Funds from the purchase of #fishing licenses pay for stocking and all trout stocking events are open to the public. There are hundreds of sporting goods, bait and tackle shops across Pa. where you can purchase a license or go to www.fishandboat.com to buy online and check stocking schedules. Read more

 

Pa. lawmakers detail bill to route ICE complaints to Human Relations Commission
Jan 22, 2026

Hohenstein welcomes more than $1 million in state funding for local transportation projects
Jan 21, 2026

Philadelphia lawmakers tout funding for ACCT Philly
Jan 15, 2026

Rep. Khan, colleagues move to ban PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Pennsylvania pesticides
Jan 14, 2026

Hohenstein welcomes $1.25 million in state funding for Lower Northeast Philadelphia and the River Wards
Dec 19, 2025

Hohenstein Honors Local War Hero Al Schmid
Nov 14, 2025

Smith-Wade-El, Hohenstein legislation to create Office of New Pennsylvanians referred out of committee
Oct 28, 2025

Smith-Wade-El, Hohenstein to hold news conference Oct. 28 in support of their legislation to create Office of New Pennsylvanians
Oct 22, 2025

Advocating for a More Accessible Semiquincentennial Celebration
Oct 14, 2025

Technology would increase access to state programs, services for all
Sep 25, 2025

Immigration, workforce development focus of Hazleton roundtable
Sep 24, 2025

Judiciary Committee OK’s Hohenstein bill to protect transit workers
Jun 17, 2025

Ciresi and Hohenstein tour Pottstown SMART home
May 16, 2025

Hohenstein: REAL ID Morning Joe
Apr 17, 2025

Hohenstein Calls on #PaSenate to Fund Public Transit
Apr 11, 2025

Hohenstein: Keeping PA Jobs Despite Irresponsible Tariffs
Apr 10, 2025

Hohenstein: Reproductive Rights are Human Rights
Apr 08, 2025

Hohenstein, Cappelletti join advocates to rally for Trans Day of Visibility
Apr 02, 2025

An Open Letter to the Lawyers and Law Firms the Trump Administration Seeks to Silence
Apr 02, 2025

Hohenstein: Trout Season Opens April 5th
Mar 27, 2025