Pennsylvania News & Current Events

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Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Social Security staff cuts could affect one in five Pennsylvanians

Pennsylvanians over age 50 are voicing concerns about the Department of Government Efficiency plans to cut 7,000 jobs from the U.S. Social Security …

Cobbs Creek Ambassadors help clean up the creek in Philadelphia. Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful involves students in programs promoting community pride and environmental education. (Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful)

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

'Pick Up PA' drives statewide community cleanup efforts for Earth Day, beyond

Across the state, more than 300 Pick Up Pennsylvania environmental events are planned for this Earth Week. Last year, more than 77,000 volunteers …

In 1997, more than 73 million tons of bituminous coal were mined in Pennsylvania, with over 75% coming from underground mines. (creativenature.nl/Adobe Stock)

Monday, April 21, 2025

As Trump backs PA coal revival, critics say it's unlikely

The decades-long decline of Pennsylvania's coal industry could shift in another direction after a series of executive orders by President Donald Trump…

Despite some state space improvements, about 60% of U.S. egg-laying hens are still kept in cramped battery cages, each with less space than a sheet of paper. (Alex/AdobeStock)

Pennsylvania egg brand agrees to drop ‘free-roaming’ label

By Jessica Scott-Reid for Sentient Climate.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public Ne…

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Mining Research Division in Pittsburgh collaborates with the institute's broader mining program to prevent fatalities, injuries and illnesses in every area of the mining industry. (Lost_in_the_Midwest/Adobe Stock)

NIOSH job cuts threaten PA black lung research, safety labs

A union representing Pittsburgh-based workers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is fighting job cuts proposed by the Trump …

There's no cure for seasonal allergies, but prevention and treatment can help ease symptoms. It's estimated pollen allergies cost more than $3 billion a year, nearly half of that for prescription medications. (Adobe Stock)

Sniffles, sneezes: Navigating allergy season in Pennsylvania

The spring blooms may be pretty, but they are not always a welcome sight for Pennsylvanians who suffer from seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies …

Supporters of an expanded Direct File system say it could save Pennsylvanians more than $600 million in combined annual tax-filing fees and additional tax credits claimed directly from the IRS. (Adobe Stock)<br />

IRS Direct File saves PA tax filers time and money

Pennsylvania is among a growing number of states offering residents access to the Internal Revenue Service's free tax filing system, Direct File…

Between 2022 and 2024, about $23 billion was invested in the four-state Appalachian region to manufacture and implement technologies that reduce greenhouse-gas emissions. (winnievinzence/Adobe Stock)

Federal clean energy funds double climate investments in PA

A surge in federal funding has fueled a clean-energy boom in Pennsylvania and across Appalachia, according to a new report. Investments doubled in …

In Pennsylvania, the Children's Health Insurance Program provides an option for children to receive health care. However, losing Medicaid coverage would leave many children across the state without insurance and unable to access the care they need. (RomanR/Adobe Stock)

Groups oppose Medicaid cuts threatening coverage for 3 million PA residents

In Pennsylvania and nationwide, federal safety net programs may face major cutbacks as President Donald Trump's administration pushes for budget …

Around 500 people gathered at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Pa., for a town hall to discuss concerns about potential cuts to Medicaid, SNAP and Social Security. (Anna Gustafson)

PA retirees fear Social Security cuts under President Trump

By Anna Gustafson for the Pennsylvania Independent.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Pennsylvan…

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 24.3% of adults experienced chronic pain in 2023, while 8.5% had chronic pain that often restricted their daily activities or work over the past three months. (jaojormami/Adobe Stock)

PA sees need for pain management specialists

April is National Stress Awareness Month. Stress is the body's way of processing work, personal and family pressures, or other triggers. A new study …

Immigrants are essential to Pennsylvania's economy, comprising 20% of the workforce in life, physical, and social sciences and 11% in food and accommodation services, according to the American Immigration Council. (InputUX/Adobe Stock)

Unaccompanied immigrant kids in PA lose legal representation

Almost 600 children in Pennsylvania, many fleeing abuse or persecution, are being forced to navigate the immigration court system without legal …

This week, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro joined 22 other states plus Washington, D.C., in suing to challenge the Trump Administration's cut of more than $500 million in public health funding. (Adobe Stock)

Saturday 'Hands Off' rallies in PA to protest Trump policies

More than 1,000 protests against President Donald Trump's policies are planned nationwide Saturday, including 98 in Pennsylvania. The "Hands Off" …

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation plans to directly fund and distribute roughly 90,000 trees and critical tree sheltering supplies for Pennsylvania this spring, with an additional 100,000 planned for the fall planting season. (Chesapeake Bay Foundation)

PA to plant 10 million trees to boost Chesapeake Bay water quality

The Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership is helping to get Pennsylvania on track for its Chesapeake Bay pollution reduction goals this year. So far…

Bridges in Pennsylvania get a grade of 'D-plus' on the American Society of Civil Engineers report card, which said the state has the second-highest number of bridges in poor condition compared to other states. (Steven/Adobe Stock)<br /><br /><br /><br />

Report Card: PA gets 'C-minus' for its infrastructure

Pennsylvania gets a grade of "C-minus" in a new Report Card about the condition of America's infrastructure. The American Society of Civil Engineers …

Gov. Josh Shapiro's proposed budget includes a new investment of $20 million through the PENNCARE appropriation, which will enable the Area Agencies on Aging to better meet the needs of older adults. (Adobe Stock)

Pennsylvania faces in-home care crisis amid severe workforce shortages

A lack of access to in-home care in Pennsylvania has reached a crisis point, according to professionals in the field, leaving thousands of residents …

If passed, the bipartisan Farm Ownership Improvement Act would allow the USDA up to two years to create and fully implement a pre-qualification or pre-approval process that addresses the needs of young farmers and ranchers. (asafaric/Adobe Stock)

Bipartisan bill could improve land access for new PA farmers

Despite a federal funding freeze, a newly proposed bipartisan bill in the U.S. Senate could enhance loan programs for farmers. Backers say in …

Students harvest food grown in the school greenhouse and use it for meals in their culinary program's in-house restaurant and cafeteria, creating a sustainable cycle. (Courtesy of Exact Solar)

PA groups urge Congress to preserve clean energy tax incentives

Groups in Pennsylvania are asking Congress to preserve federal clean-energy tax incentives. Concerned about the possible repeal of 30% energy tax …

Aaron Chapin, president of the Pennsylvania State Education Association, was among the speakers at Tuesday's Harrisburg rally. He told the crowd it is

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PA school support staffers push for $20 'living wage'

Amid a severe teacher and staff shortage, school support workers and their union allies rallied Tuesday in Harrisburg for a better living wage…

A new analysis from Energy Innovation reveals lower investment and higher energy bills due to repealing federal programs and tax incentives will cost more than 26,400 Pennsylvania jobs in 2030 and nearly 29,000 jobs in 2035, compared with current policies. (Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Adobe Stock)

Report: IRA repeal could raise Pennsylvania energy costs, threaten jobs

Pennsylvania is among the five states projected to be hit hardest if the Inflation Reduction Act is repealed. A report from the think tank Energy …

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 enables tax-exempt school districts to receive IRS elective payments covering 30% of project costs, plus potential bonuses. (anatoliy_gleb/Adobe Stock)

PA works to counter Trump clean energy rollbacks

The Trump administration's rollback of clean energy progress and climate science is eliciting a strong response from Pennsylvania. Gov. Josh …

Beginning in 2024, the Allegheny County Public Defender's office uses 175% of the Federal Poverty guidelines as income requirements for its clients. (Gorodenkoff/AdobeStock

Audit: Allegheny County public defenders overwhelmed with caseloads

An audit by Allegheny County reveals most public defenders face excessive caseloads and a lack of resources, putting clients at a disadvantage…

In 2021, more than 500 black bears perished on Pennsylvania roadways and 60 of the state's more than 1,400 elk were killed by vehicles. (Pennsylvania Department of Transportation)

Report: Reconnecting habitats protecting Pennsylvania’s native species

A new report highlighted efforts to restore Pennsylvania's wildlife habitats and called for stronger conservation to protect native species. With …

Gov. Josh Shapiro's new budget proposal boosts special education funding by $40 million, raising the total to over $1.5 billion to support high-quality services for students with disabilities and special needs. (nimito/AdobeStock)

PA teachers union opposes Trump plan to dismantle U.S. Department of Education

The Trump administration's effort to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education is facing strong opposition from the Pennsylvania State Education …

An August 2024 KFF analysis found Medicaid covers 3 in 8 Pennsylvania children, 5 in 8 nursing home residents, 2 in 5 people with disabilities, and 1 in 6 adults aged 19-64. (Selene Studio/AdobeStock)

SNAP, Medicaid cuts would strain PA emergency food system

By Anna Gustafson for the Pennsylvania Independent.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Pennsylvan…

A recent Ohio River Valley Initiative report says the Shell petrochemical plant in Beaver County, Pennsylvania, has failed to deliver the promised economic benefits since its announcement more than a decade ago. (Dawid/Adobe Stock)

PA faith leader part of TX protest of oil, gas subsidies

A Buddhist minister from Pennsylvania joined 40 religious leaders in Texas this week to demand an end to fossil-fuel subsidies and expansion of oil an…

Every year AARP Foundation's Tax-Aide volunteers take appointments at more than 3,600 locations in libraries, malls, banks and community centers in all 50 states. (RomanR/AdobeStock)

Free tax prep available across Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania residents who need assistance filing their income tax returns can use the free services of the AARP Foundation's Tax-Aide program…

In Pennsylvania over the past two years, tax credits have helped launch construction on 2,000 new homes and apartments, and facilitated repairs for an additional 3,200 housing units. (Tupungato/Adobe Stock)

$50 million 'whole home repair' funding may address PA housing crisis

Gov. Josh Shapiro's budget includes a $50 million investment for repairs to older homes. A grassroots group supports the idea but said the dollar …

Mail-in and civilian absentee ballots must be received by the county election office no later than 8:00 P.M. on May 20th. On election day, polls will be open from 7:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M (Annap/AdobeStock)<br /><br />

Getting word out to PA voters about voter registration

With Pennsylvania's primary election set for May 20, a nonpartisan group is working to raise awareness about voter registration. Over 8.7 million …

In 2022, Pennsylvania's K-12 public schools served more than 1.57 million students across nearly 2,700 schools in 499 districts. (JackF/Adobe Stock)

PA teachers union reacts to DEI lawsuit against Dept. of Education

The American Federation of Teachers and the American Sociological Association are suing the Trump administration over threats to defund schools it bel…

In 2021, House Bill 335 was introduced which would allow Pennsylvania to observe daylight saving time year-round. It passed in the House, but didn't make it through the state Senate. (izzzy71/Adobe Stock)

Expert: Daylight saving time affects PA workers’ health, economy

This Sunday, most of the United States will "spring forward" for daylight saving time, which means losing an hour of sleep. Dr. Deepa Burman…

In November 2024, the ratio of unemployed workers to job openings climbed back to one-to-one, giving job-seekers less choice of open positions, and employers a greater choice of prospective workers. (Nassorn/Adobe Stock)

Report: PA workforce signals strong economy, tight labor market

A new report showed Pennsylvania's labor market is healthy and strong, with 139,000 more jobs than in early 2020 and a steady unemployment rate of 3.6…

Scranton received $68.7 million in federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act. (Brandon/Adobe Stock)

Scranton mayor puts bipartisan infrastructure law funding to work

A Pennsylvania city is leveraging funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to improve road safety, housing, and more. The largest …

The Family Care Act would establish a paid family medical leave insurance fund in Pennsylvania, enabling workers to care for elderly loved ones, sick children or newborns without risking their jobs or financial security. (Adobe Stock)

Backers of PA paid family leave bill cite health of moms, babies

Legislation to create paid family and medical leave in Pennsylvania is getting bipartisan support. House Bill 200 has 58 cosponsors, including three …

Unfrozen abandoned mine land funds will help Pennsylvania reclaim 24,000 acres, maintain 16 water treatment systems for toxic runoff and handle 60 emergencies annually. (Adobe StocK)

Advocates laud Shapiro’s lawsuit to unfreeze federal funding

Environmental projects are restarting as advocates praise Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro for suing the Trump administration, leading to the release …

It is estimated each cow contributes around $34,000 annually to the local economy, but barriers for new dairy farmers are preventing enough new entrants to the industry to replace retiring farmers. (Ann/Adobe Stock)

Apprenticeship trains next generation of PA dairy farmers

In Pennsylvania, a nonprofit striving to secure the future of small dairy farms is hoping its federal funding won't be frozen much longer. …

Gov. Josh Shapiro's Pennsylvania state budget proposal includes $10 million to continue universal free breakfast in schools, to help support children's academic success through better nutrition. (Oksana Kuzmina)

PA budget proposal boosts early childhood education funding

A Pennsylvania nonprofit is praising Gov. Josh Shapiro's new budget proposal, which includes a funding increase for early childhood education…

Yearly oil and gas operations in the United States release around 16 million metric tons of methane through venting, flaring and leaks, which amount to roughly $2 billion in lost natural gas. (anatoliy_gleb/Adobe Stock)

Report: Methane mitigation in PA drives economic growth, fights climate change

A new report shows U.S. companies tackling oil and gas pollution are seeing solid and strong economic growth. Pennsylvania's methane mitigation …

A new analysis found Beaver County's GDP has contracted by more than 12% despite double-digit growth in Pennsylvania and the nation, adjusting for inflation. (Digitalwhiz/Adobe Stock)

Report: Economic decline continues in Beaver County as PA, U.S. see growth

A recent report revealed the Shell petrochemical plant in Beaver County has failed to deliver the promised economic benefits since its announcement mo…

The foods you eat can have a significant effect on your mood. UnitedHealthcare recommends prioritizing whole, nutritious food options, like fruits and vegetables. (Maridav/Adobe Stock)

Mental health tips for fighting winter blues in PA

As winter drags on, many Pennsylvanians struggle with what they may shrug off as the winter blues but seasonal affective disorder is a type of …

An approved winter manure-spreading practice requires Pennsylvania farmers to maintain a 100-foot setback from water sources, including streams, lakes, ponds, sinkholes, wells and above-ground drainage inlets. (Andov/Adobe Stock)

PA farmers urged to minimize manure input on fields during winter

Winter in Pennsylvania brings farmers not only snow and freezing temperatures but stricter manure-spreading regulations to minimize water pollution…

In 2024, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed Act 55, funding free menstrual products for students. Schools can use the funds for purchases made between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. (Adobe Stock)

PA advocate: Defunding Planned Parenthood threatens affordable health care

By Rebekah Sager for the Pennsylvania Independent.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Pennsylvani…

Prospective foster parents must be at least 21 years old and undergo extensive background checks, including criminal and child abuse clearances for all household members, age 14 and older. (Motortion/Adobe Stock)

Easing tough transitions: PA organizations help teens exit foster care

Pennsylvania nonprofits are working with teens in foster care to ensure they have the resources they will need to navigate life once they are out of t…

The Shapiro administration announced earlier this year an investment of more than $288 million for 39 water infrastructure projects in 24 counties through PENNVEST. (Igor/Adobe Stock)

PA replacing lead water pipes to ensure safe drinking water

Pennsylvania is working to eliminate lead pipes under the Environmental Protection Agency's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, which require most …

Gov. Josh Shapiro's Pennsylvania state budget proposal would strengthen efforts to reintroduce vocational education into Pennsylvania classrooms, with a $5.5 million boost for Career and Technical Education. (Adobe Stock)

PA budget proposal boosts public education, student-teacher stipends

Gov. Josh Shapiro's proposed state budget includes a significant increase for public education to address Pennsylvania's school funding issues and …

Immigrants make up 9.7% of Pennsylvania's workforce and play a vital role in strengthening the state's economy in various ways. (Pressmaster/Adobe Stock)

Educators voice concerns about PA immigrant student protections

Immigration policy changes under the Trump administration are instilling fear in Pennsylvania schools, as educators and advocates warn of their …

One of the biggest challenges for Pennsylvania's indigent defense community is attracting and hiring qualified public defenders. (Thanksforbuying/Adobe Stock)

Public defender shortage in PA sparks hiring push

More than 60 counties in Pennsylvania have a shortage of public defenders for low-income residents who need these services. This Friday in …

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Student Leadership Council members gather around an Eastern hellbender at the Pittsburgh Zoo in 2018. The students spearheaded the effort to designate the hellbender as Pennsylvania's official state amphibian. (Chesapeake Bay Foundation)

Eastern hellbender, PA's state amphibian, faces endangered-species protection

The Eastern hellbender, North America's largest salamander and Pennsylvania's state amphibian, is one step closer to receiving federal protection…

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