Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility e-newsletter: Make Your Voice Heard on PECO's Proposed Rate Hike

e-newsletter: Make Your Voice Heard on PECO's Proposed Rate Hike

 
 

Dear Neighbor,

 

I’d like to share with you the work that I’m doing in Harrisburg and locally to ensure we Thrive in the 185. Keep reading for more details, follow my social media for updates, and please contact one of my offices to find out how we can help you with state and local programs and resources. #InformationIsPower

 

Follow me on social media and check out my website!

#GetInvolved and #JoinTheConversation!

 

 

Make Your Voice Heard on PECO's Proposed Rate Hike

Last week, PECO filed a request with the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission to significantly increase its gas and electric rates beginning next year. This rate increase would hit ratepayers hard, especially our neighbors who are already struggling with affordability issues related to energy, gasoline, groceries, and more.

 

To let PECO know this will not stand, sign the petition at this link or by clicking the photo above. Use your voice to inform elected officials, the PUC and PECO that this rate hike is unreasonable and cruel to hardworking residents.

 

Register Today to Vote in May Primary

Have you made your plan to vote yet? The deadline to register for the May 19 primary election is Monday, May 4.

 

The deadline to request a mail-in ballot is Tuesday, May 12. Voting with a mail-in ballot is still a simple, safe and secure way to ensure that your voice is heard.

 

You can take care of all your voting needs from registering, to getting your ballot, to dropping off your completed mail-in ballot at one of Philadelphia’s Satellite Election Offices. Our closest offices are at 6100 Woodland Ave. in the Woodland Village Plaza or 1835 S. Broad St. Philadelphia voters can get all the information they need at PhillyVotes.com.

 

In Delco, the Voter Service Center is at the Government Center in Media, but there are several ballot drop boxes near our area in Darby and Yeadon. Delaware County voters can visit DelcoPA.gov/vote for more information.

 

Don’t wait! Make your plan to vote TODAY!

 

Raise the Wage NOW!

We passed a bill last month in the House that would finally begin to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage. This would begin a graduated increase at $11 per hour on Jan. 1, 2027, with incremental raises to $15 on Jan. 1, 2029.

 

It is long past time for Pennsylvania to raise its minimum wage. We have been stuck at $7.25 an hour since 2009—and that is simply unacceptable. Hardworking Pennsylvanians deserve fair pay that reflects both today’s cost of living and the value of their work.

 

But we’re not done yet. The Senate needs to pass this bill before it can go to the Governor and become law, so we must keep pressure on Senate Republicans to bring this measure to a vote.

 

YOU can #JoinTheConversation by adding your name to our petition to help us reach one million signatures in support of raising the minimum wage. Click the graphic above to sign our online petition as we work to deliver one million signatures to Joe Pittman, demanding action for a living wage for hardworking Pennsylvanians.

 

Investing in Working Families

As part of the 2025-26 state budget, I voted to give a tax break to nearly a million Pennsylvania families, including almost 200,000 in Philadelphia.

 

It’s called the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit – because working people deserve a break! If you qualify for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, you automatically qualify for an additional 10% tax break on your state taxes. That’s money back in your pocket to help pay for groceries, childcare, or other everyday expenses.

 

This is state government working for you — making sure hardworking families keep more of what they earn. You could earn up to $805 in a tax credit. Click the graphic above to learn more and estimate your credit!

 

LIHEAP Extended until May 8

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) application period for 2025–26 has been extended until May 8! Whether you rent or own your home, you could receive a cash grant from $200 to $1,000 based on your household size, income, and fuel type. You can find out more about eligibility requirements and documents you’ll need to apply by clicking the graphic above. Most importantly, this is a grant and does not have to be repaid.

 

To find out if you qualify and for help applying, contact my office to make an appointment with my knowledgeable staff, who can also find out if you qualify for any other state and local programs. You can also apply for LIHEAP online.

 

If you’re concerned about paying your electric bill, contact PECO now to ask about their assistance programs or payment plan options before it’s too late. Weatherize your home by sealing drafts and replacing your furnace filter, and explore other energy-saving tools. Acting early is important—#CallUtilitiesNow to explore options that can help keep your service connected.

 

New Directory for Grants & Resources

The 2026 edition of the PA Grant & Resource Directory is now available on my website! Click above to discover all the opportunities that are available for you and your organizations through state government. The directory is full of information, including the basics of how to plan for your needs and descriptive information for each agency and opportunity. Please contact my office if you have any questions or need a letter of support for a grant.

 

Property Tax & Rent Rebates Still Available

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program is still open for taxes or rent that you paid in 2025. This program provides a rebate ranging from $380 to $1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities while meeting certain household income requirements. In Philadelphia, supplemental rebates provide an additional $190 to $500 in relief to applicants with the most need.

 

These rebates have made it easier for older and disabled folks to stay in their homes while affording groceries, medicine, and so much more. Don’t miss out!

 

Contact one of my offices today to find out if you qualify and let us help you apply!

 

 

Seniors Ride FREE on SEPTA

Did you know that seniors ride for free on SEPTA? A SEPTA Senior Fare Card allows seniors 65 and older to ride for free, but those cards do expire after three years. My office can help you get or renew your card. As we continue to work on a State Budget solution for mass transit, senior fare cards still allow you to ride for free to your medical appointments, your job, visiting family and friends, or anything you need to do in our region.

 

SEPTA keeps our communities moving and economy thriving – and a senior fare card helps your wallet by saving on transportation costs! Contact my office today for more information on getting or renewing your SEPTA Senior Fare Card.  

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Small Business Resource Seminar

Join me and Rep. Joanna McClinton for a Small Business Resource Seminar on April 21! We’ll share information on available programs, support for business growth, and more. Come learn, connect, and get engaged in the local business community!

 

Space is limited and registration is required by scanning the above QR code or by calling 215-748-6712.

Discovery Pathways Outdoor Activities

As the season begins to change and the weather begins to get warmer, Discovery Pathways will be hosting several wonderful outdoor activities at FDR Park through the Spring and Summer. Use this time to get outdoors and explore more!

Voter Registration & Civic Conversation Town Hall

Join me, Rep. Joanna McClinton and Commissioner Omar Sabir to learn more about state government programs and services available to you. We will also be there helping register voters ahead of the May 4 deadline!

Mother’s Day Health Fair

Save the date for our Mother's Day Health Fair! Join me in partnership with state Rep. Jordan Harris from our neighboring South & Southwest Philadelphia district on Friday, May 8, from 10 a.m. until noon at St. Edmond’s Senior Community Center at 2130 S. 21st St. We’ll have health screenings, activities, FOOD, plus information and resources geared toward the women and mothers in our lives. Don’t miss this great opportunity to get informed and connected!

 

 

IN THE COMMUNITY

 

Town Hall/Civic Conversation

Thank you to everyone who came out on Wednesday night to our Town Hall/Civic Conversation with Rep. Joanna McClinton and the Philadelphia Police Department 12th District. I appreciate everyone taking the time to stay informed about what is happening in our community and to learn more about the civic process!

 

Penn FERBS Program

I recently joined my colleague and friend, state Rep. Danilo Burgos, to discuss the importance of some amazing education opportunities that are available!

 

We highlighted the FERBS program within the Department of Biology at the University of Pennsylvania, which focuses on training and developing qualified undergraduate students within the biological research sciences field. Click here for more information on the FERBS program.

 

Canvassing in the Southwest

We were out in the Southwest canvassing to get the word out about upcoming elections and how to register to vote. Remember to make your plan to vote in the May 19 primary election, and register by May 4 if you haven’t already!

 

Children's Playhouse Read Aloud

It was so fun getting to catch up with the kids at The Children’s Playhouse Early Learning Center! I was able to take part in a read-aloud that was really engaging, and it’s so good to see kids interacting with books at such a young age.

 

The Children’s Playhouse Early Learning Center has three locations in Philadelphia, and I’m proud to support their mission of early education!

 

 

Confronting the Chaos – Know Your Rights

Recent actions by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis and other cities across our nation have become a cause for concern for many of us. Incidents involving aggressive enforcement tactics — including the fatal shootings by federal ICE officers in Minneapolis that have sparked widespread protests and debate over use of force and community safety — have raised serious questions about how these operations are being conducted and the impact they are having on families and neighborhoods. The chaos and fear being sown in these communities is unwelcome, unnecessary, and deeply troubling.

 

If you are at risk or concerned for loved ones, I encourage you to contact the local organizations listed in this document for information or assistance. While my office can help connect you with state and local resources, concerns regarding federal actions should be directed to federal officials. Please refer to the list of our U.S. congressional representatives above and reach out to their offices to seek help or share your concerns. Advocating for our rights is a cornerstone of democracy.

People are scared across our state and nation. It’s important to know your legal rights and how to react if confronted by ICE. Click here for guidance as an individual or for your organization or business. 

Don’t give up and don’t give in.

Know your rights and stay vigilant for your family and your community.

 

 

PROGRAMS AND OPPORTUNITIES

 

State Grants Available

My office helps city officials and local organizations connect to state grants available to help them do their important work to improve our communities and the lives of residents. You can find a list of state grant programs that are currently open for application on my website. We update this list as new programs come online so check back often.

 

My offices are here to help!

In service and in action,

Rep. Regina Young

Pennsylvania State Capitol
105-A East Wing

Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-8634

Southwest Phila. Office

6844 Elmwood Ave.

Philadelphia, PA 19142
(215) 952-3376

Delco Office

629 N. Governor Printz Blvd.
Essington, PA 19029

(610) 616-2003

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