Pennsylvania Legislative Session Agenda
CASA is the largest immigrant rights organization in the mid-Altantic region serving a membership of over 122,000 Black and Latino immigrant and working families. Through a unique blend of services ranging from citizenship assistance to vocational classes and more – and local, state and federal advocacy, CASA fights to create a more just society through power-building and by improving the quality of life of working-class and immigrant communities.
We envision a future where we stand in our own power, our families live free from discrimination and fear, and our diverse communities thrive as we work with our partners to achieve full human rights for all.
Driver Licenses for All: House Bill 279 extends driving privileges to every qualified person regardless of immigration status, ensuring that no one ends up in immigration court because they were forced to drive without a license. As a member of the Driving PA Forward coalition, CASA is fighting for equal access to driver’s licenses for all Pennsylvania residents. HB279 does the following:
Removes immigration status as a requirement to receive a stated issue Pennsylvania driver’s license.
Increases the safety of all drivers by raising the number of drivers who are licensed and insured.
Ensures that PA will join the 16 other states, which include New Jersey, Delaware, and New York, that offer licenses to all residents regardless of immigration status.
Driver Licenses For All (HB 279)
One Fair Wage (HB 345) : CASA, in coalition with the We The People campaign, is fighting to increase the minimum wage in Pennsylvania. HB 345, also known as One Fair Wage, which would increase the minimum wage in PA from $7.25/hr to $15/hr. HB345 would:
Amend the Minimum Wage Act of 1968, increasing the minimum wage to $15/hr over the course of several years, joining states like New Jersey, New York, and Maryland that have already increased their minimum wage.
One Fair Wage (HB 345)
All communities suffer from the impacts of climate change on our environment, but Black and Latino communities suffer the most. As a member of the PA Climate Equity Table (PACET), CASA is committed to building power in marginalized communities across Pennsylvania that have been impacted by climate and environmental issues. Legislation we support includes:
Establishment of the Office of Just Transition, which will establish a community-driven process that centers workers, and community members impacted by the transition from our extractive economy, to a regenerative economy.
Supplement funding for the Whole-Home Repairs Fund, to continue to create a one-stop shop for home repairs and weatherization, so Pennsylvania residents can stay safe and healthy in their own homes.
