John,

Happy New Year from Dream.Org – we’ve got some big plans in 2026, especially in Pennsylvania. Most legislative sessions have officially begun, so let’s get into it. Here’s everything you need to know about what we have planned in your state in 2026:

2026 Pennsylvania Legislative Session

Start: January 6, 2026
End: November 30, 2026 (session extends through calendar year)
Schedule: Pennsylvania’s legislature meets year-round in 2026 (with no fixed adjournment deadline), though reconvened sessions & recesses occur.

Your state is now in session and lawmakers are busy reviewing their agendas for the year ahead. This is where Dream.Org comes in — we’re working alongside directly impacted leaders through our Empathy Network to push for policies that make communities safer, healthier, and more fair — but we won’t be able to do it without you and other Dream.Org members in your state so let’s mount up, and get ready to fight for a better Pennsylvania. Here’s what we’re focused on in PA this session:

What’s Moving This Session →

• Fair Future Act: Currently, people with past convictions can face a lifetime barrier to housing because of an outdated law known as the Thurmond Amendment which allows landlords to legally deny potential renters or home buyers based on a decades-old drug conviction. The Fair Future Act reduces collateral consequences and expands second chances by repealing the amendment at the state level.

Along with Dream.Org, this work is being led on the ground by an Empathy Network State Lead Yusuf Dahl — a directly impacted leader helping shape policy with lived experience and community voice at the center.

We’re also preparing for an upcoming Dream.Org Day of Empathy (DOE) in Pennsylvania, where advocates, impacted leaders, and community members come together to speak directly with lawmakers. You can expect more details about this powerful event very soon — or visit our Mobilize to register now for your state’s Day of Empathy.

Don’t forget, the PA legislative session runs through November 30, which means we have under a year to get this bill past the finish line. It’s time to lock in.

Thank you for being part of a movement that believes justice and public health go hand in hand. We’re excited to keep you updated — and to invite you into action as these bills move forward!

In solidarity,
— Lauren Johnson, Justice Director at Dream.Org

P.S. To sign up for mobile alerts in your state, text “DREAM” to 97483. And if you want to help fund the change, consider making a donation to Dream.Org.