PHILADELPHIA, April 27, 2026 — Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, the bipartisan government relations and communications affiliate of international law firm Cozen O’Connor, today announced the addition of Mikecia Witherspoon as principal in its Philadelphia office.
Legislation to strengthen renter protections advanced Monday after the City Council’s Housing Committee reapproved two “Safe Healthy Homes” bills, a required revote following a landlord lawsuit that alleged Sunshine Act violations. The measures would expand rent abatements, add retaliation protections, require “good cause” for non‑renewals, and increase penalties for chronic code violations. Landlord groups continued to push for changes, while tenant advocates urged the Council to hold firm. Some members signaled additional amendments may be needed before a final vote expected as early as April 16.
City Council began reviewing Mayor Cherelle Parker’s proposed 25‑cent retail delivery tax, which would fund six new “pothole squads” in the Streets Department. Finance officials said the fee is intended to link road‑repair funding to delivery‑vehicle impacts, while Councilmembers raised concerns about administration, exemptions, and potential over‑charging by retailers. Industry groups are lobbying against the proposal, arguing it would burden consumers and small businesses, while disability advocates urged safeguards for residents who rely on delivery services.
The Philadelphia Board of Education approved a preliminary $4.6 billion budget for 2026‑27 that includes $56 million in school‑based cuts and the elimination of 340 positions as the School District confronts a $300 million structural deficit. Superintendent Tony Watlington also outlined $169 million in central‑office reductions, stating that he is not relying on the revenue generated from Mayor Parker’s proposed $1‑per‑ride rideshare tax. Principals will finalize school budgets this spring, with district officials set to appear before the Council on April 22 and final budget adoption expected in May.
Thousands of demonstrators gathered at City Hall and marched along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on Saturday for the region’s third “No Kings” protest, part of a coordinated series of rallies opposing the Trump administration, federal immigration enforcement, and the ongoing war with Iran. Organizers estimated roughly 40,000 participants, with speakers — including U.S. Rep. Madeleine Dean — criticizing ICE operations, federal detention practices, and the broader direction of national policy.
PECO filed a request with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission seeking $520 million in electric and natural‑gas delivery rate increases for 2027, a move that would raise a typical residential electric bill by about $20 a month and a gas bill by roughly $14.50. The utility says the hike is needed to fund grid‑reliability and safety investments, including stronger poles, upgraded cables, new transformers, and expanded storm‑response technology, as well as replacement of aging gas mains. Company officials acknowledged affordability concerns but said rising demand, extreme weather impacts, and higher wholesale energy costs leave few alternatives.
Temple University will embed faculty, students, and support staff at Duckrey and Bethune Elementary Schools under a new Temple Partnership Schools Network approved by the Board of Education, providing expanded academic, mental health, and family support resources while creating learning labs for Temple students. The collaboration aims to strengthen PK‑12 instruction, improve teacher preparation, and deepen community engagement in North Philadelphia, with career exploration programs, on‑site courses, and wraparound services planned through 2027‑28.
State Rep. Morgan Cephas withdrew Friday, March 27 from the Democratic primary for Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District, citing lack of momentum and fundraising challenges in the crowded field. Her departure leaves six candidates vying to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans and is expected to clarify support among West Philadelphia elected officials, where Cephas has longstanding ties. Cephas, who will continue her bid for reelection to the State House, is not endorsing another candidate at this time.
Managing Director
Principal
Legislative Analyst
Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, an affiliate of the international law firm Cozen O’Connor, is a bipartisan government relations practice representing clients before the federal government and in cities and states throughout the country. With offices in Washington D.C., Richmond, Albany, New York City, Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Chicago, and Santa Monica, the firm’s public strategies professionals offer a full complement of government affairs services, including legislative and executive branch advocacy, policy analysis, assistance with government procurement and funding programs, and crisis management. Its client base spans multiple industries, including healthcare, transportation, hospitality, education, construction, energy, real estate, entertainment, financial services, and insurance.
Established in 1970, Cozen O’Connor has over 775 attorneys who help clients manage risk and make better business decisions. The firm counsels clients on their most sophisticated legal matters in all areas of the law, including litigation, corporate, and regulatory law. Representing a broad array of leading global corporations and middle-market companies, Cozen O’Connor serves its clients’ needs through 31 offices across two continents.
April 28, 2026
April 27, 2026
April 27, 2026
