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In this Update:
Protecting Educational Opportunities for StudentsRecently, the Pennsylvania House Education Committee advanced a proposal that would reduce funding for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. This program provides scholarships and educational opportunities for thousands of students across Pennsylvania, including many families in Northeast Philadelphia. I strongly oppose efforts to weaken EITC and remain committed to protecting this program. Families deserve access to options that best meet their children’s needs, and schools throughout our community rely on EITC support to continue serving students. As budget negotiations continue, I will keep fighting to preserve EITC funding and ensure students, families, and schools have the resources they need to succeed. Philadelphia City Government Youth Summit
I was glad to spend time with students at the YMCA’s City Government Youth Summit at City Hall! The summit provides students with hands-on opportunity to learn how government works, discuss issues affecting their communities, and gain experience of the legislative process. I enjoyed answering their questions and sitting in as they debated a bill. It is always encouraging to see young people engaged in public service and civic life. They give me great confidence in the next generation of leaders! Visit to Woods Services
I recently visited Woods Services in Langhorne to learn more about the organization’s work supporting individuals with disabilities through education, healthcare, residential services, and workforce development. Many of 90 students from our district receive services at Woods, and I had the opportunity to see many of the programs that help them build skills and independence, including cooking, classes, horticulture, and the campus barn! Most importantly, I met with several individuals from Woods and heard about the positive impact this organization has had on their lives. Thank you to the dedicated staff and leadership at Woods Services for welcoming me and for the work you do each day to empower individuals and strengthen our community. Meeting at Café Carmela with HUD
I was pleased to welcome leaders from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to Northeast Philadelphia for a productive discussion on housing and community development. As Chair of the Senate Urban Affairs and Housing Committee, I shared details of my recent housing package and discussed opportunities for state and federal collaboration for increasing housing supply, reducing development costs, and supporting strong, vibrant neighborhoods. I appreciate HUD’s partnership and enjoy continuing our work to expand housing opportunities and strengthen communities across the Northeast and the Commonwealth. Congratulations to Koshy John Thalakal on Becoming an Eagle Scout
Congratulations to Koshy John Thalakal on earning the rank of Eagle Scout, Scouting’s highest achievement! As part of his Eagle Scout Project, Koshy improved the grounds of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church by creating community garden beds and installing benches for neighbors to enjoy. His project will leave an impact on the community for years to come. I was proud to present him with a citation and recognize this incredible accomplishment. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor and thank you for your commitment to serving others. Congratulations on Retirement, Lt. Wong
Congratulations to Lieutenant Kevin Wong on an extraordinary career with the Philadelphia Police Department! For nearly 40 years, Lt. Wong has served the people of Philadelphia with tenacity and unwavering commitment to the community he serves. His distinguished career included assignments across the city, numerous commendations for valor, heroism and bravery and the respect of both his fellow officers and the district. I was proud to present a citation to him this past weekend and recognize him for a career defined by service and leadership. Thank you for your dedication to keeping Philadelphia safe. Best wishes in retirement! Mobile Office Hours
My team and I are bringing constituents services directly into the community! We look forward to seeing you and helping you with any state-related issues. Photo of the Month
We are excited to launch a new community feature highlighting the people, places, and moments that make Northeast Philadelphia special. Residents can submit photos that capture the spirit of our neighborhoods. We look forward to showing the pride, character, and community that makes Northeast Philadelphia such a great place to live. You can submit your photos here. Making it Easier for Fire Companies, EMS Agencies to Access Funding
Legislation to make it easier for fire and EMS agencies to access state funding through the Fire and EMS Grant program was approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 1261 streamlines the application process, including eliminating outdated wording and incentives, using the state’s Single Application for Assistance instead of having a separate, redundant system, and asking fire companies to provide additional contact information to ensure lines of communication are open. The bill also increases the amount fire and EMS agencies can borrow through the State Fire Commissioner’s low-interest loan program, freeing up more funding opportunities for first responder agencies. Senate Bill 1261 now advances to the House of Representatives. Read more about these proposed improvements here. Flying the POW/MIA Flag at Public Schools
The Senate voted to require the POW/MIA flag be displayed at any public school in the commonwealth that already displays the American flag, provided the school can reasonably accommodate it. By meeting the requirement of Senate Bill 835 schools can help ensure the sacrifices of prisoners of war and those missing in action are never forgotten and demonstrate their commitment to supporting military families and educating students about the importance of service. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Read more about Senate Bill 835 here. Happy Father’s Day
On Sunday, we celebrate fathers and fatherhood, and honor the dads who influenced us throughout our lives. Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers and father figures who contribute so much to our families and communities. |
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