Denouncing recent ICE violence and reaffirming my support for immigrants

I joined 17 of my fellow state representatives and state senators to issue a statement following the murder of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis by an ICE agent, the shooting of two people by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Portland, OR, and the death of Parady La after his detention at the federal center in Philadelphia, all last week, and against the backdrop of a year of escalated violence.

 

Building a community of respect, care, and support is a sacred responsibility entrusted to each of us. However, on Wednesday, January 7, ICE agents in Minneapolis, MN murdered Renee Nicole Good—a mother, poet, and community member who was on site to document ICE’s violence against her neighbors. This was immediately followed by another shooting by U.S. Border Patrol agents on Thursday, January 8, in Portland, OR.

 

Since his return to the White House, President Trump has directed ICE to embark on a reign of terror and chaos in our communities, with violence that has torn apart families, shuttered small businesses, and hollowed out public spaces. In the past year, ICE agents have shot at least 16 people, and 33 people have died in detention centers across the country, including here in Philadelphia just last week.

 

Read the full statement here: PA Senate and House Philadelphia Delegations Denounce ICE Violence, Reaffirm Support for Immigrant Communities, and Call for Action

 

Pennie first enrollment date extended to Jan. 31

Pennie, Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace, recently extended their first enrollment date application period.

 

Customers now have until Jan. 31 to apply, which means more time to get assistance, review options, and choose the plan that works best for themselves and their families.

 

This year’s enrollment experience looks different for many Pennie enrollees due to several federal updates, including the expiration of enhanced federal tax credits, increasing the cost of 2026 health coverage. More information about these changes is available at pennie.com/whatsnew

 

To be covered in the new year, customers must apply by Jan. 31. Don’t wait, enroll today! Head here to apply or contact my office for assistance.

 

PA launches new tool to help SNAP recipients meet new work requirements

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) has introduced a new feature on PA Navigate to help SNAP recipients find volunteer opportunities in their communities and comply with federal work and reporting requirements.

 

Under the new rules, certain SNAP participants must work, volunteer, or engage in education/training for at least 20 hours per week to maintain benefits. PA Navigate now allows recipients to search for local volunteer roles, connect with organizations, and track hours to stay eligible.

 

This initiative is part of Pennsylvania’s broader effort to support Pennsylvanians facing new bureaucratic hurdles, alongside the 2025–26 budget, which includes an $11 million increase for food security programs statewide.

 

SNAP recipients can visit pa-navigate.org to find volunteer opportunities and learn how to report their hours. Questions can be directed to local County Assistance Offices or DHS’ Customer Service Center at 877-395-8930.

 

MLK Jr. Day Closing

Please note that my office will be closed on Monday, January 19 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

We will reopen on Tuesday, January 20 for normal business hours.

 

My office is here to help!

My team and I are ready to help you with a range of services, including filing for your Property Tax/Rent Rebate, help with PennDOT and unemployment services.

 

Please stop by my Philadelphia office (635 W. Erie Avenue), call us at (215) 223-1890 or email RepBurgos@pahouse.net to learn more about the services we offer and get started!

 

Upcoming events

My LIHEAP Drive is Feb. 18

My LIHEAP Drive is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 3 – 7 p.m. at West Kensington Ministry (2140 N. Hancock St., 19122).

 

LIHEAP helps low-income families pay their heating bills by providing cash grants that are sent directly to utility companies. If you plan to attend, please bring proof of your 2026 income, a valid ID, and your most recent PGW and PECO bills.

 

JumpStart Kensington Impact Loan Fund

¡Se acerca el próximo Programa JumpStart Kensington! Este programa tiene como objetivo empoderar a los residentes del norte de Kensington para que se conviertan en promotores de su propia comunidad. El evento gratuito está diseñado para promotores nuevos y experimentados que deseen invertir en viviendas asequibles y de calidad y ayudar a revitalizar la zona.

 

La próxima sesión tendrá lugar el 28 de febrero y el 1 de marzo, de 9:00 a 2 p.m., en Impact Services (1952 Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia 19134). Las plazas son limitadas, así que escanea en el código QR para inscribirse hoy mismo.

 

The next JumpStart Kensington Program is coming up! This program aims to empower the residents of north Kensington to become developers of their own community. The free event is designed for new and experienced developers who want to invest in quality, affordable housing and help revitalize the area.

 

The next session is Feb. 28 and March 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Impact Servies (1952 Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia 19134). Seats are limited, so please scan the QR code to sign up today.  

 

Pennsylvania State Capitol

106 Irvis Office

P.O. Box 202197
Harrisburg, PA  17120-2197
(717) 772-2004

District Office

635 W. Erie Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19140
(215) 223-1890

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