Pennsylvania News & Current Events

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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Wednesday, March 26, 2025

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)

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

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Pennsylvania is among the five states projected to be hit hardest if the Inflation Reduction Act is repealed.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)

Monday, March 24, 2025

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…

The ADA protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination, just as other civil rights laws safeguard against discrimination based on race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion.<br />(Adobe Stock)

Dismantling DEIA initiatives may harm PA disability rights

For Pennsylvanians with disabilities, there may be unexpected side effects to ending so-called Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility …

In its 2024-25 budget, Pennsylvania boosted its commitment to equitable education with a $100 million increase in special education funding, aiming to enhance resources and support for students with disabilities. (Adobe Stock)

PA Democrats push school funding, new revenue sources

Pennsylvania lawmakers return to Harrisburg on Monday, facing renewed pressure to address long-standing issues, including improving the economy and …

The survey reveals that car buyers want improvements in purchase price, maintenance costs, infotainment systems and cargo space. (rh2010/Adobe Stock)

Survey: PA drivers want carmakers to keep improving fuel efficiency

Americans continue to see improving fuel economy as the most significant change they want from vehicle manufacturers when they offer new products…

In 2023, the Biden-Harris administration invested $5.3 million in environmental justice related projects benefiting communities throughout Pennsylvania. (kardaska/Adobe Stock)

PA pollution, flooding concerns rise as Trump ends 'Justice40' initiative

Black communities affected by industrial pollution in South Philadelphia are among those watching a Trump administration rollback of health protection…

AARP Community Challenge grants will be capped at $25,000 nationwide this year, although the group said it might award higher amounts for compelling projects. (Patrick/Adobe Stock)

AARP Pennsylvania seeks ideas for grants to boost 'livability'

Pennsylvania cities or civic groups with ideas for improving their communities have a new chance to make them a reality. Grants from the AARP …

In Pennsylvania, charter schools and cyber charter schools are required to operate as public, nonprofit organizations. (Adobe Stock)

Is AI curriculum the future of education in PA 'cyber charters?'

A new virtual charter school offering two hours of artificial intelligence-based learning wants to expand into Pennsylvania. The Unbound Academy …

Road deicers, usually a form of salt applied on wintry roads, can eventually be swept away by rain or thaw, forming a bad brew for local waters. (Chesapeake Bay Foundation)

Road salts are hazardous to PA rivers, streams and critters

Just like overindulging in salt is bad for your health, so too is the excessive use of road salt on the environment. Since 2020, PennDOT reported …

A report card from the group Inseparable found Pennsylvania has one school counselor for every 369 students, while the recommended ratio is 1 to 250. (Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

Pennsylvania lagging in school-based mental health support

As young people struggle with mental health issues, schools often provide the best avenue for getting them help. However, Pennsylvania has fallen …

In 2022, 52% of rural hospitals no longer had maternity wards, compared to 36% of urban hospitals. Cuts to Medicaid funding would affect already struggling rural medical facilities. (Adobe Stock)

Proposed Medicaid cuts threaten rural PA residents, hospitals

Federal safety net programs face major potential cuts as the Trump administration pursues budget reductions, with a House GOP proposal suggesting $2.5…

A group of students from the Univerity of Pennsylvania's Political Empathy Lab visited the state capitol in Harrisburg on a

UPenn Political Empathy Lab students study bridging idelogical divide

A group of University of Pennsylvania students got up close and personal with Keystone State voters recently as they studied solutions to bridging the…

The average retail electricity price in Texas is 2% lower than in West Virginia, 9% lower than in Ohio and 20% lower than in Pennsylvania, according to the Ohio River Valley Institute. (Adobe Stock)

PA power demand spurs concerns over rising rates, gas dependency

Utility providers foresee a big rise in electricity demand which could lead to double-digit rate hikes if it is met with new natural gas-fired power p…

The Equal Rights Amendment was first introduced in Congress in 1923, three years after the 19th Amendment was ratified, as a step toward achieving full equality for women. (Halfpoint/Adobe Stock)

Groups urge Biden to add Equal Rights Amendment to Constitution

With just a few days before President Joe Biden leaves office, more than 140 nonprofits are urging him to act on the Equal Rights Amendment. Passed …

As of 2022, more than 978,000 foreign born people are living in Pennsylvania. More than 522,000 are naturalized U.S. citizens. (Tetiana/Adobe Stock)

Mass deportation threatens PA economy, workforce stability

With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office on Monday, a Pennsylvania group is helping some residents prepare for possible deportation …

Becky Marszalek, a paraprofessional at Avonworth Elementary School in Pittsburgh, is the Pennsylvania State Education Association's Dolores McCracken Education Support Professional of the Year for the 2024-25 school year. (PSEA)

PA educator wins Education Support Professional of the Year award

An elementary school educator from Pennsylvania has been named this year's Education Support Professional of the Year, one of the highest honors in …

President Joe Biden's budget would reduce the deficit by $3 trillion over the next decade, stabilizing debt relative to the economy. Deficit reduction grows over time, and is expected to exceed $500 billion in 2034. (Tangtong/Adobe Stock)

Another Trump nominee under the microscope in PA

An environmental group is voicing concerns about the current nominee to lead the federal Office of Management and Budget. President-elect Donald …

In Pennsylvania, abortions are legal up to the 23rd week of pregnancy and beyond if the woman's health is at risk. (Parilov/Adobe Stock)

Researcher warns about Christian nationalism's influence on reproductive rights

There are growing concerns about the prevalence of Christian Nationalism, an ideology that seeks to establish a theocracy rooted in Christian …

U.S. Steel has had a presence in the Mon Valley since 1901 and currently employs about 4,000 workers.<br />(Jeffrey Bowser/Adobe)

Blocked sale of U.S. Steel does not allay fears of effects on workers, health, community

A Pennsylvania environmental justice group is voicing concerns about the blocked sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel, citing its effect on the …

Each year, gun violence claims the lives of 1,600 Pennsylvanians and injures another 3,000. (Roman/Adobe Stock)

PA gun safety advocates plan for stricter ghost-gun regulations

As the Pennsylvania House reconvenes this week, lawmakers will focus on regulating 3D-printed ghost guns. These untraceable firearms, like the one …

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