State lawmakers from Philadelphia are trying to pass new legislation that would help prevent rowhomes from being damaged by adjacent demolitions and reduce defects in newly built houses. Read more
A week after reaffirming his commitment to upholding the Constitution for a second term, state Rep. Joe Hohenstein today announced he's been appointed to several key House committees to help in his ongoing efforts to put hardworking Pennsylvanians first. In the 2021-22 Legislative Session, Hohenstein said he has been appointed to serve on the: Judiciary Committee , which traditionally deals with legislation pertaining to criminal justice reform, law enforcement, judicial reforms, crime victims, sex offenses, among other things. Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, which focuses on environmental and energy issues, including air and water quality, and has oversight of the Department of Environmental Protection and other agencies. Transportation Committee, which is responsible for reviewing vehicle code regulations, mandatory insurance and coverage minimums, rules of the road, parking and local law enforcements, mass transit codes, rail issues and PennDOT, among other things. Game and Fisheries Committee, which considers legislation that affects hunting and fishing in Pennsylvania and has oversight of the Game Commission and Fish and Boat Commission. "I am grateful to have been selected to serve on committees that reflect many of the priorities I've been fighting for since I came Read more
HARRISBURG, Jan. 5 – State Rep. Joe Hohenstein affirmed his commitment to uphold the Constitution at the state Capitol today to begin his second term representing the riverwards and lower Northeast Philadelphia. The noon ceremony marked the beginning of the 2021-22 session of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. "I am honored and excited to begin my next chapter as state representative of the 177th Legislative District," said Hohenstein, D-Phila. "With the COVID-19 pandemic still very much a threat, I will pick up where I left off in 2020 fighting to secure and connect small business owners, the unemployed and all other Pennsylvanians with the support, relief and resources they need to make it through this health crisis safely." Hohenstein added he will also continue putting hardworking families first by working to raise the minimum wage, create good-paying jobs, make healthcare affordable for everyone and ensure all students have access to a quality education in a safe learning environment. Hohenstein said his office can help with a variety of state-related services, including home heating, children’s health insurance, prescription drug and property tax/rent rebate assistance. His office phone number is 215-744-2600 . Residents also can learn more about Hohenstein's legislative priorities and the services his office provides by visiting his website at www.pahouse.com/Hohenstein . Read more
Take a look at state Rep. Joe Hohenstein's latest newsletter for details about COVID-19 resources, legislative updates and upcoming events he's hosting. Read more
STATE GRANT PROGRAMS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs: Veterans’ Trust Fund Grant Program (Source of Funding: Veterans’ Trust Fund) Who May Apply : 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a mission of serving veterans, 501(c)(19) veteran service organizations, and county directors of veterans affairs. Use : Up to $150,000 in grant funding is available for new, innovative or expanded programs or services operated by the county directors of veterans’ affairs or the Pennsylvania Association of County Directors of Veterans Affairs. The areas of emphasis for applicants in this category are veterans’ outreach and veterans’ court programs. Up to $650,000 in grant funding is available to veteran service organizations and non-profit organizations with a mission of serving Pennsylvania veterans. Funding priorities for applicants in this category are homelessness, behavioral health initiatives and veterans’ courts. Funds : A total of $800,000 will be awarded statewide. Application Deadline : January 27, 2021 at 2 p.m. More Information : Click on https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Pages/Programs%20and%20Services/Veterans%27%20Trust%20Fund/VeteransTrustFundGrantProgram.aspx . UPCOMING APPLICATION DEADLINES: DEP Driving PA Forward Onroad Rebate Program – Trucks and Buses: Read more
Legislators ask for release of families, children in face of COVID pandemic, unsanitary conditions Read more
State Rep. Joe Hohenstein today announced a $340,000 state grant has been awarded to the Delaware River City Corporation to help move the Bridesburg Riverfront Park project forward. Hohenstein said the funding is through the Department of Community and Economic Development's Local Share Account and will go towards the first phase of construction, which includes: Site work. Environmental remediation. Parking. Landscaping, utilities and a restroom facility. "This new park will take 10-acres of greenspace right in our backyard and transform it into a place that provides great views and outdoor activities for all ages to enjoy across our communities and beyond," said Hohenstein, D-Phila. "I applaud the collaborative effort on the state and local levels that has made this project a reality, and I look forward to seeing it through to its completion." Hohenstein added that the second phase of the park development will include a stage pavilion, picnic pavilion, terraced lawn seating and a river boardwalk. “We are deeply grateful for this support,” said Stephanie Phillips, executive director of Riverfront North Partnership. “Our parks are an integral part of our neighborhoods and personal wellbeing. Riverfront North Partnership has been Read more
With new modeling projecting 22,000 new COVID-19 cases per day in Pennsylvania in December, Gov. Tom Wolf and Sec. of Health Dr. Rachel Levine announced new targeted mitigation measures to help stop the spread during this critical time. Read more
State Rep. Joe Hohenstein is applauding his colleagues today for adopting his latest effort to help break down barriers and advocate for people living with a disability. Hohenstein's measure ( H.R. 1082 ) recognizes November as Assistive Technology Awareness Month across the commonwealth, raising awareness about the ongoing need to make quality tools -- like hearing aids, wheelchairs and orthotic devices -- affordable and readily accessible to every Pennsylvanian who needs them. "Since I was six years old, I have worn hearing aids, and I know first-hand how essential assistive technology is to helping people with everyday tasks like hearing, walking or speaking," explained Hohenstein, D-Phila. "These devices play a critical role in removing the often frustrating and stigmatizing challenges that can stand between those with a disability and their quality of life." During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hohenstein said the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation has provided $1.4 million in low-interest loans to people with increased needs in the disabled community for assistive technology, and he's stressing the importance of building on this progress in the state legislature. Hohenstein added, "No one should be defined by a disability. I will continue working in Harrisburg to ensure financial support is available, and individuals receive the services they deserve. Together, we can amplify the voices of those seeking help to reach Read more
In response to rising COVID-19 cases in Philadelphia, the City and Department of Public Health have announced changes to restrictions on businesses, events and gatherings, and other activities to help flatten the epidemic curve, prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed, and reduce the number of COVID-19 deaths. Read more
State Rep. Joe Hohenstein announced today that a $24,686 Safe Schools grant has been awarded to the Philadelphia Charter School for Arts and Sciences at H.R. Edmunds to purchase safety and security-related equipment. "Whether they're learning in the classroom or at home, our priority is still to ensure all students learn in a safe environment," said Hohenstein, D-Phila. "This funding will go a long way in strengthening safety measures at this school and allow them to continue offering young people a quality education." Along with equipment, the Pennsylvania Department of Education awards the competitive grants to prevent and reduce violent incidents and to provide training and compensation for school resource and police officers. For more information on Safe Schools grants, visit the state Department of Education website . Read more
After being tested for COVID-19, state Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., said his results came back negative. He released the following statement: "Earlier this week I told you my wife and I were tested for COVID-19 after coming in close contact with a family member who later tested positive. I am glad to report that both of our results came back negative today. "Our family member who tested positive for the virus is in good spirits and recovering. I am grateful for the outpouring of support for me and my family. Our situation is another reminder that COVID-19 is a real danger. "With a record number of positive cases in Pennsylvania and across the nation being reported each day, we must all be vigilant and heed CDC guidelines by wearing a mask, social distancing and washing our hands frequently. "These steps are critical in stopping the spread and protecting ourselves and those around us, especially as we head into the colder months." Read more
State Rep. Joe Hohenstein joined Oak Street Health, the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and other advocates to discuss coping with mental health during COVID-19 and the resources available. Read more
Check out my latest update to read about a plan I voted against that would compromise our democracy and how to make sure your mail-in ballot is counted. Read more
My Fall 2020 Community and Legislative Update contains upcoming and previous community events along with information on state programs and resources available to you and your family. I also encourage you to make your plan now to vote in the Nov. 3 general election so that you can exercise your right to vote in the safest way possible. Read more
HARRISBURG, Sept. 8 – State Rep. Danilo Burgos, along with state Reps. Joe Hohenstein, Mary Isaacson, all D-Phila., today joined the Driving PA Forward Coalition at the Saint Francis of Assisi Church to highlight their legislation to help undocumented individuals apply for a driver's license. “Our bill is about making Pennsylvania roads safer by requiring that all residents pass the mandatory written and vision examinations and road test to obtain a driver’s license,” Burgos said. “An additional benefit is that the revenue generated from application costs to PennDOT and purchases on car insurance policies would greatly benefit Pennsylvania’s economy -- a much needed relief as our economy struggles to gain stability in the wake of the pandemic.” Concurring with Burgos, Hohenstein pointed to immigrants comprising a substantial population of Pennsylvania’s workforce, especially as essential workers during the pandemic. "It’s not an exaggeration to say that immigrants have a large role in keeping our country running," Hohenstein said. "One in six people fulfilling essential roles during the pandemic is an immigrant. Many are our doctors, nurses and healthcare providers. Others are farm workers who sow, tend and harvest our food. Others prepare and serve us our food. All should have access to an official driver's license from the state in order to continue Read more
Important election dates and updates for my senior constituents Read more
My summer 2020 newsletter provides you an update on my work in Harrisburg, as well as programs and resources available to you and your family. Read more
Materials from a House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing held in the Capitol and co-chaired by State Rep. Joe Hohenstein. Read more
HARRISBURG, July 21 – State Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster, announced today that the House Democratic Policy Committee will hold a public hearing on Building Inclusive Disability Curriculum as part of Disability Pride Philadelphia’s Virtual PA 2020. The hearing will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 23, in Room G-50 Irvis Office Building in Harrisburg. The media and public are urged to watch the livestream at www.pahouse.com/live . The hearing was requested by State Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., to explore how educational curriculums can be more inclusive of the disability community. Testifiers and members will participate in person and remotely. Testifiers will include: Jamie Ray-Leonetti , Associate Director of Policy, Temple Institute on Disabilities Alan Holdsworth , Director, Disability Equality in Education Dr. Thomas Neuville , Professor and Disability Studies Advisor, Millersville University ShaVon Savage, Elementary School Principal , School District of Philadelphia Lisa Aquila, Home Care Worker and Disability Advocate Nadine Silber, Autistic Activist and Disability Educator Nancy Ostroff, Disability Advocate Shawn Aleong, Student, Temple University Following the hearing, testimonies and full hearing video will be posted at www.pahouse.com/policycommittee . ### Read more
HARRISBURG, July 14 – State Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., and state Sen. Larry Farnese announced today that Richmond Elementary School has been awarded a grant of $651,868 from the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Alternative and Clean Energy High Performance Building program to construct a two-story LEED certified addition to the school. “This grant will help Richmond Elementary school stand as an example to others of how our schools can be energy efficient when they have the resources they need,” Hohenstein said. “Our students and teachers deserve to work in buildings that are up-to-date, and I believe this will have a positive impact for everyone. Our children need to know that we are willing to invest in them and their future and providing them state-of-the-art facilities is one of the best ways to show them we care.” “Philadelphia lawmakers have been relentless in advocating for improvements to our school facilities and this grant is the kind of good news that fuels that effort,” Farnese added. “Fighting for equality for our kids is the most important thing we can do.” Richmond Elementary School plans to include LED lighting, low-flow plumbing, water and energy meters, CO2 censors, and water bottle filling stations in the addition. The CFA’s High Performance Building Program provides financial assistance in the form of grants and loan funds to Read more
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