Jessica Benham

Jessica L. Benham (born December 13, 1990) is an American politician and disability rights activist serving as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 36th District. She is the first openly LGBTQ+ woman and first openly autistic person elected to the Pennsylvania General Assembly. She co-founded the Pittsburgh Center for Autistic Advocacy in 2014.

Education Benham was homeschooled through highschool and competed for many years at the National Christian Forensics and Communications Association, advancing to the national level multiple years in a row.

Benham earned a bachelor's degree in political science and communication at Bethel University. She earned a master's degree in communication at Minnesota State University, Mankato and a master's degree in bioethics at University of Pittsburgh (Pitt). While at Pitt, she was a member of the organizing committee to start a union for graduate students. Benham holds a doctorate in communication from the University of Pittsburgh.

Career In 2014, Benham cofounded the Pittsburgh Center for Autistic Advocacy, where she served as the director of development. It is an LGBTQ+ autistic-led advocacy group, and the only LGBTQ+, autistic-led advocacy program in the greater Pittsburgh region. The group successfully advocates for state legislation, including Paul's Law which prohibits those with disabilities from being denied organ transplants. She brings her Devon Rex cat, Ravi, to work at the Capitol daily.

She has served as the Judge of Elections since 2018.

Aging & Older Adult Services Subcommittee on Programs & Benefits Chair Consumer Protection, Technology & Utilities Health Human Services Subcommittee on Mental Health Chair Liquor Control