Shapiro won’t share daily calendar, a departure from previous Pa. governor’s transparency

May 31, 2023 by Spotlight PA

The Democratic governor’s decision to withhold details about who he meets behind the scenes is legally sound, though experts said he could choose to reveal more. Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Commonwealth Media Services Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public

Pa. is sitting on billions in unclaimed property. This bill would get some of it back to its owners.

May 24, 2023 by Spotlight PA

State Treasurer Stacy Garrity has proposed legislation that would allow Pa. to automatically return some unclaimed money to people with no action required on their part. Charlotte Keith of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for

Craft breweries are fermenting change, addressing local ills while serving local ales

May 22, 2023 by The Conversation

Colleen C. Myles, Texas State University Some scholars say beer and wine – and fermentation in general – helped develop a civilization and shaped culture and landscapes over millennia. Portland, Maine’s Rising Tide Brewery supports ‘economic development, LGBTQ+ rights, BIPOC equality … and stewardship of Maine’s natural environment.’ John Ewing/Portland Portland Press Herald via Getty

With summer coming fast, regulator issues electric reliability warning

May 20, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by Robert Zullo, Pennsylvania Capital-StarMay 20, 2023 As much as two-thirds of North America could face shortages of electricity this summer in the event of severe and protracted heat, according to the regulator in charge of setting and enforcing standards for the electric grid. “Increased, rapid deployment of wind, solar, and batteries have made a

Democrat Heather Boyd wins special election, securing Democratic Pa. House majority

May 17, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by Peter Hall, Pennsylvania Capital-StarMay 16, 2023 [*This story was updated at 12:26 a.m., May 16, 2023, to reflect updated unofficial vote tallies] Heather Boyd speaks at her victory party after winning the 163rd Pennsylvania House District special election on Tuesday, May 16, 2022. (Capital-Star photo by Peter Hall) Democrat Heather Boyd won the special

Pa. primary election 2023: When to expect results, how vote counting will work, and more

May 15, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Mail ballots are sorted and counted in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Election Day, November 2022.Matt Smith / For Spotlight PA HARRISBURG — In the

DePasquale, in Gettysburg Tuesday, eyes PA Attorney General post

May 11, 2023May 10, 2023 by John Messeder

Former state Rep and Former Auditor General Eugene DePasquale was in Gettysburg Tuesday, the latest stop on a tour of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties, introducing his potential candidacy for Attorney General. “The Attorney General should be the people’s lawyer,” he told a gathering of about two dozen Democrats gathered at the Adams County party headquarters in

Pennsylvania EMS ‘can no longer BBQ their way to a new fire truck’

May 8, 2023 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square (The Center Square) – Long-simmering problems in Pennsylvania’s emergency medical services system have created stress points for ambulance services and fire departments big and small. The House Democratic Policy Committee held a panel on Friday to hear from first responders on where their legislative priorities should be to

Party affiliation can be misleading in local Pa. elections. Here’s why.

May 3, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. For decades, Pa. school board candidates have been able to run in both parties. But as races get more partisan, some lawmakers want to change that.

The Pa. legislature appears to have met a tax break it doesn’t like: one for teachers, nurses, and cops

May 1, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has proposed a tax credit for new teachers, nurses, and cops. Republicans are skeptical. Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Tom Gralish / Philadelphia Inquirer Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our

Here’s where gas prices are headed (for now) and why

April 28, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by Casey Quinlan, Pennsylvania Capital-StarApril 27, 2023 Higher temperatures. Higher gas prices. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Drivers across the country have seen that seasonal given play out in recent weeks. The national average for a gallon of regular gas is $3.64 on April 26, up 21 cents over the previous month, according to AAA.

Pennsylvania sixth-friendliest for gambling, but not without costs

April 27, 2023 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square (The Center Square) — Pennsylvania’s gambling industry has seen major growth in recent years, bringing billions of dollars in tax revenue to the state budget – but also addiction problems and demands for subsidies. Nationally, the commonwealth is near the top for gambling. A ranking from WalletHub, a personal-finance site,

Pa. doesn’t fund public defense. Shapiro’s budget would change that.

April 26, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Danielle Ohl of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. The Defender Association budget of more than $50 million helps employ about 500 attorneys and other staffers to provide indigent defense

Affordability remains top issue for Pa.’s state-related universities during budget process

April 24, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Wyatt Massey of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. Despite a funding boost, Pennsylvania’s state-related universities may still raise what is already

Primary election day is near. Is your registration correct?

April 22, 2023 by Community Contributors

Have you recently moved or changed your name? Is your voter registration accurate and up to date? Pennsylvania’s primary election is May 16, 2023. Now is the time to make sure you are registered to vote and that your voter registration information is current. You can check your registration status here. It is vitally IMPORTANT that you

Pa.’s juvenile detention centers are overcrowded, but building more isn’t the answer, advocates say

April 22, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

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by Peter Hall, Pennsylvania Capital-StarApril 20, 2023 Youth advocates and a juvenile justice official called on Pennsylvania lawmakers to address a shortage of space and staff that has created a crisis affecting children in the justice system. Christopher Spriggs is the acting executive director of the currently shuttered Glen Mills School (Philadelphia Tribune photo) While the

Expecting more than $1 billion in opioid settlement money, Pa. grapples with policing versus treatment

April 18, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA and Kate Giammarise of WESA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Opioid overdoses kill thousands of people each year in Pennsylvania, and settlement money is meant to

Pa. Medicaid re-enrollment: What you need to know to keep your health insurance or find other options

April 14, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — If you’re one of the nearly 3.7 million Pennsylvanians who use Medicaid for health insurance, you’ll need to requalify

Almost 40 elementary schools have closed in rural north-central Pa. in the past decade. Here’s why.

April 12, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Ashad Hajela of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. Nate Smallwood / For Spotlight PA STATE COLLEGE — At least 38 elementary

Pennsylvania’s biggest coal plant will shutter by July

April 11, 2023 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square Apr 4, 2023 The Homer City Power Generation Plant in Homer City, Pennsylvania, 50 miles east of Pittsburgh. By A. L. Spangler | The Center Square (The Center Square) – Pennsylvania’s largest coal-fired power plant will shut down in July, leaving the commonwealth with only coal refuse-burning facilities. Decommissioning at the

Pa. primary election 2023: A complete guide to the candidates for Commonwealth and Superior Courts

April 10, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — In May, Democrats and Republicans will choose their parties’ candidates for three vacant

PennDOT announces new license plates to help grow and sustain plants and pollinators

April 7, 2023 by Community Contributors

Harrisburg, PA – Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that thanks to recently passed legislation, vehicle owners will now be able to purchase a ‘Pollinator’ license plate. Sixty-five percent of the proceeds from the license plate will be deposited into the Pollinator Habitat Program Fund. The Pollinator Habitat Program Fund is dedicated to supporting

Pa.’s Fetterman to return to U.S. Senate by April 17

March 31, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by Kim Lyons, Pennsylvania Capital-StarMarch 29, 2023 PITTSBURGH — U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., will return to the Senate on April 17, after spending several weeks in the hospital for treatment of clinical depression, a source close to the senator confirmed to the Capital-Star on Wednesday. Fetterman checked himself into Walter Reed National Military Medical

Treatment hindered as drug rehab centers keep up with extra audits

March 27, 2023 by (The Center Square)

(The Center Square) – Drug rehabilitation centers across Pennsylvania can’t expand services due to regulatory barriers, but they also face another challenge: repetitive audits. The result is reams of paperwork and many hours lost to fulfill state and federal rules – but without the benefits of better accountability or transparency of how taxpayer money gets

How Local Government Works: A basic guide to requesting public records in Pa.

March 24, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Min Xian of Spotlight PA State College In January, I hosted an event that highlighted how Pennsylvania’s system of fragmented local governments hinders public oversight. The level of interest in the topic and the number of questions from attendees overwhelmed me, delighted me — and it gave me an idea. What if I answered your

Pa. primary election 2023: A complete guide to the candidates for state Supreme Court

March 21, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — During Pennsylvania’s primary election in May, Democrats and Republicans will choose their parties’ nominees to fill a seat on

‘My country is in trouble’: Central Pa. volunteers fighting targeted violence share their stories

March 20, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by Frank Pizzoli, Pennsylvania Capital-StarMarch 19, 2023 Three central Pennsylvania residents who volunteered to serve in a federal program aimed at addressing violence targeted at vulnerable populations and others, say the experience has been a lesson in “the ABCs of constructive dialogue.” Joseph Bubman, Founding Executive Director, Urban Rural Action (URA photo). Urban Rural Action

Why shocking new data shows we can’t stop fighting hate | Wednesday Morning Coffee

March 15, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by John L. Micek, Pennsylvania Capital-StarMarch 15, 2023 If you ever needed a reminder that we can’t turn a blind eye to hate, then new data from the Anti-Defamation League should more than do the trick. As the Capital-Star reported Tuesday, white supremacist propaganda hit an all-time high across the country in 2022, even as antisemitic propaganda more

Key senator’s record on election policy has Democrats, voting advocates worried passing reform will be difficult

March 10, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Carter Walker of Votebeat This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and voting. This article is available for reprint under the terms of Votebeat’s republishing policy. As the legislature returns to work after a slow start to the session, progressive advocates and Democratic

No easy fixes for Pennsylvania’s teacher shortage

March 7, 2023 by (The Center Square)

By Nick Grasso | The Center Square contributor (The Center Square) – While the symptoms fueling the state’s teacher shortage are many, apparent easy fixes are few, according to state officials and educators. College debt, stagnant wages and stressful working conditions drive qualified teachers away in droves, testifiers recently told the Senate Education Committee, as the

Resurfacing and safety improvement project resumes on Route 15 in Adams and York Counties

March 4, 2023 by Community Contributors

Permanent crossing and turn restrictions at Glenwood Road, temporary restrictions at Golf Course Road/Range End Road Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced today that work is set to resume next week on a resurfacing and safety improvement project on Route 15 from just south of York Springs in Adams County to just

Six years after hazing death, Penn State plans to drop the Greek life oversight it championed

March 3, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Wyatt Massey of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. STATE COLLEGE — Penn State is quietly planning to roll back its oversight

A law was meant to free sick or aging inmates. Instead, some are left to die in prison

March 1, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by Special to the Capital-Star, Pennsylvania Capital-StarFebruary 27, 2023 By Fred Clasen-Kelly Jimmy Dee Stout was serving time on drug charges when he got grim news early last year. Doctors told Stout, now 62, the sharp pain and congestion in his chest were caused by stage 4 lung cancer, a terminal condition. “I’m holding on,

Joanna McClinton elected first female speaker of the Pa. House as Mark Rozzi steps down

February 28, 2023 by Spotlight PA

by Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA | Feb. 28, 2023 Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Democrat Joanna McClinton was elected the first female speaker of the Pennsylvania House on Tuesday after

Mark Rozzi says he will step down as speaker of the Pennsylvania House

February 28, 2023 by Spotlight PA

By Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Democrat Mark Rozzi plans to step down as speaker of the Pennsylvania House after two tumultuous months presiding

Hundreds of thousands of jobs at risk of automation and AI replacement in Pennsylvania

February 27, 2023February 27, 2023 by (The Center Square)

Samuel Stebbins, 24/7 Wall St. via The Center Square The U.S. job market is about to enter an era of unprecedented change that could impact tens of millions of workers. As robotics and artificial intelligence technologies continue to advance, companies will be able to leverage new, cost-effective tools to create and deliver their products to

Shapiro admin contends taking Super Bowl tickets from group that gets state money didn’t violate governor’s own gift ban

February 23, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA and Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — The Shapiro administration insists the governor did not violate his own gift ban

Taxes, health care, housing riddled with regulatory woes

February 22, 2023 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square (The Center Square) – House Republicans want to prioritize the reform of regulatory issues in Pennsylvania, from concerns about taxes and health care to housing and infrastructure. A Tuesday hearing for the House Republican Policy Committee for “common sense state regulatory reform” highlighted the challenges Pennsylvania faces. The challenge

What the public can and can’t know about Four Diamonds, beneficiary of Penn State THON’s fundraising

February 21, 2023February 17, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Wyatt Massey of Spotlight PA This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. STATE COLLEGE — For years, thousands of Penn State students have participated in a grueling

5 ways Pa.’s marijuana laws could change in 2023

February 14, 2023 by Spotlight PA

by Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — As the legislative session picks up, Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering a host of changes to the state’s cannabis

Pennsylvania EMS system teeters on brink of collapse, official says

February 18, 2023February 14, 2023 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square Two Philadelphia Transit Policemen are seen by a Philadelphia Fire Department Emergency Medical Services ambulance. By Alan Budman The Center Square (The Center Square) – Pennsylvania’s hyperlocal emergency medical services system teeters on the brink of collapse and, officials say, it’s up to legislators to intervene before it’s too

Tracking Josh Shapiro’s biggest campaign promises

February 10, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Tom Gralish / Philadelphia Inquirer HARRISBURG — Gov. Josh Shapiro made a lot of promises on the campaign trail. Now, he

Pennsylvania’s school funding system violates state constitution, judge rules

February 8, 2023 by Chalkbeat

Dale Mezzacappa, Chalkbeat Philadelphia “This story was originally published by Chalkbeat. Sign up for their newsletters at ckbe.at/newsletters”. This story has been updated. A Commonwealth Court judge has declared Pennsylvania’s school funding system unconstitutional and ordered the General Assembly to overhaul it. Judge Renée Cohn Jubelirer’s ruling, which the court issued Tuesday, could have a profound

Democrats sweep special elections, affirming first Pa. House majority in 12 years

February 7, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Democrats have swept three Allegheny County special elections, cementing their one-vote majority in the Pennsylvania state House and ending

Welfare programs worry lawmakers for different reasons

February 6, 2023 by (The Center Square)

By Lauren Jessop (The Center Square) – While senators on both sides of the aisle worry about the future of public assistance programs in Pennsylvania, the reforms under consideration seem unlikely to win each other over – even in the fresh era of cooperation ushered in by Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro. Still, optimism abounds. Sen.

Why a Pa. school district decided to arm its officers with semi-automatic rifles

February 1, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Ashad Hajela of Spotlight PA State College This story first appeared in Talk of the Town, a weekly newsletter by Spotlight PA’s State College regional bureau featuring the most important news and happenings in north-central Pennsylvania. Sign up for free here. ALTOONA — At least two school districts in Pennsylvania now allow their police officers

Auditor: 12 Pennsylvania school districts hid $400 million to pass tax increases

January 30, 2023January 30, 2023 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square (The Center Square) – A dozen school districts in Pennsylvania exploited a legal loophole to raise millions of dollars in new taxes on the public without putting it to a referendum. In the process, they’ve hidden hundreds of millions of dollars in reserve funds that could cover school

Pennsylvania poultry owners should take steps now to protect flocks against highly pathogenic avian influenza

January 27, 2023 by Community Contributors

Harrisburg, PA – As spring wild bird migration nears, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) Director Randy Padfield remind poultry owners to protect their flocks, and their neighbors’ flocks, along with the commonwealth’s economy, against highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)by remaining vigilant and reviewing and implementing strong biosecurity plans and practices.

Hopes of bipartisan cooperation give way to complete deadlock in the Pa. House

January 26, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania House officially adjourned Tuesday until late February, almost certainly ending any chance of voters seeing constitutional amendments

How communities in north-central Pa. are attempting to preserve a scarce resource: darkness

January 23, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Ashad Hajela of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. Communities in north-central Pennsylvania are taking action to limit outdoor artificial lighting that

U.S. hits debt limit and Treasury Department begins ‘extraordinary measures’

January 20, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by Jennifer Shutt WASHINGTON — The nation reached its debt limit Thursday, beginning the uncertain process known as extraordinary measures, in which the U.S. Treasury Department uses accounting maneuvers to avoid defaulting on the debt. The often-used practice is intended to give the Republican House, Democratic Senate and Biden administration time to negotiate a bipartisan agreement

A new year, a new governor, a new chance to clean up the Chesapeake Bay | Opinion

January 16, 2023 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by Capital-Star Guest Contributor, Pennsylvania Capital-StarJanuary 15, 2023 By Harry Campbell As one year ends and another begins, many of us have hope and optimism for the new year. In these early days of 2023, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) is encouraged that momentum in 2022 can bring us closer to cleaner rivers and streams in Pennsylvania. Most

No significant changes found in hand recount of 2020 presidential election in Pa.’s Lycoming County

January 15, 2023 by Spotlight PA

By Carter Walker of Votebeat This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and voting. This article is available for reprint under the terms of Votebeat’s republishing policy. A recount of the 2020 presidential race conducted this week in a Pennsylvania county did not

Pennsylvania lawmakers aim to stop gas tax hike, but price at the pump expected to fall

January 13, 2023 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square (The Center Square) – Pennsylvania’s gas tax is a major funding source for the upkeep and repair of roads and bridges across the state. It’s also one of the highest gas taxes across the nation. An automatic increase of the tax, set to kick in 2023, is now causing

This Pa. county is about to start a hand recount of its 2020 presidential election results

January 9, 2023 by Spotlight PA

This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and voting. This article is available for reprint under the terms of Votebeat’s republishing policy. More than two years after the last ballot was cast in the 2020 election, Lycoming County plans to recount all presidential

What Mark Rozzi’s record can tell us about what kind of Pa. House speaker he’ll be

January 6, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — In the Pennsylvania Capitol, no other issue defines the legislative career of newly minted state House Speaker Mark Rozzi more than helping survivors of

Democrats and a handful of Republicans picked the Pennsylvania House’s new speaker

January 3, 2023 by Charles Stangor

people walking on pedestrian lane near white concrete building during daytime

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA, Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA and Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania House Democrats and a handful of Republicans

Who will lead the Pennsylvania House? Lawmakers will soon decide as power struggle continues

January 2, 2023January 1, 2023 by Spotlight PA

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Lawmakers in Pennsylvania’s state House are scheduled to elect a new speaker Tuesday. But unlike in most legislative sessions,

Boost in Pennsylvania tax revenues negated by inflation

December 30, 2022 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square 12 hrs ago (The Center Square) – Pennsylvania’s general fund revenues have stayed healthy, and may outpace 2021 by 4%. However, inflationary pressures that have driven up the costs of goods and services paid for by the state, put a damper on extra revenues. An analysis from the Allegheny Institute highlighted the

Gov. Wolf encourages low-income households to enroll in Affordable Connectivity Program

December 28, 2022 by Community Contributors

Harrisburg, PA – Governor Tom Wolf is reminding low-income Pennsylvanians to enroll in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to help reduce the cost of internet service. “The Affordable Connectivity Program is another opportunity to help us close the digital divide so that all Pennsylvanians can have internet service,” said Gov. Wolf. “The need for reliable, at-home internet service is

The four political storylines that defined 2022 | Analysis

December 27, 2022 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by John L. Micek, Pennsylvania Capital-StarDecember 26, 2022 If you can count on one thing about Pennsylvania politics, it’s that they’re rarely dull. From a historical U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down Roe v. Wade and nationally watched races for U.S. Senate and the governor’s office to the ongoing battle for control of the state

3 key takeaways from Spotlight PA’s investigation of how a local government nearly collapsed after hiring Tamir Rice’s killer

December 25, 2022December 25, 2022 by Spotlight PA

By Min Xian of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. A five-month investigation by Spotlight PA detailed how the government of Tioga,

Pennsylvania’s labor force participation continues to fall

December 25, 2022December 24, 2022 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square Dec 20, 2022 (The Center Square) – Pennsylvania’s number of open jobs remains high while its number of workers in the labor force continues to shrink. The trend, which has been ongoing for years, became worse when the pandemic hit in March 2020. The commonwealth has struggled to recover to

Pa. residents bought nearly 71K guns in November, data show

December 20, 2022 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by John L. Micek, Pennsylvania Capital-StarDecember 19, 2022 Pennsylvania residents bought nearly 71,000 guns in November, part of a nationwide buying spree that saw Americans purchase approximately 1.4 million guns, a new analysis of FBI data shows. That seasonally adjusted nationwide tally of 1.36 million weapons sold includes 840,000 handguns and 520,000 long guns (rifles and shoguns), according

“Love Your Dog. License Your Dog.”

December 20, 2022 by Community Contributors

Harrisburg, PA – Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding reminded Pennsylvania dog owners to purchase a 2023 license from their county treasurer by January 1, 2023. Licenses are not just a responsibility of owning a dog; they protect all Pennsylvania dogs and are the best way to bring your pet home quickly if it’s lost. “If you love

Pa. Republicans fight to prolong House majority and pass far-reaching constitutional amendments

December 19, 2022December 17, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Republicans in Pennsylvania’s state House could hold a functional majority until at least mid-February thanks to Democratic vacancies —

Giving Back With Books: Gettysburg College Students Start Remodeling of Local School Library

December 16, 2022 by Jarvis McGrath

A group of students from Gettysburg College has started a plan to remodel the Vida Charter School library in the Gettysburg area. Students from the Literacy as Agency education class at the college were tasked with coming up with this plan. It has been slowly put into effect throughout the semester. Getting Books in Hands

Pennsylvania’s deer season shift a tradeoff in boosting licenses and preserving tradition

December 15, 2022 by (The Center Square)

By Anthony Hennen | The Center Square Pennsylvania’s recent shift of deer season’s start date wasn’t universally loved, but the deer harvest has continued to grow since 2015. Ysbrand Cosijn / Shutterstock.com The Pennsylvania Game Commission upset a number of hunters in 2019 when it voted to move the start of deer season to the Saturday

And… Action! Gettysburg College Film Students Have Final Performances

December 14, 2022 by Jarvis McGrath

By: Jarvis McGrath The students of the Fundamentals of Directing class at Gettysburg College had their final project on Wednesday. The performances took place at Kline Theater on the Gettysburg College campus. The performances included all students from the class directing a scene they had picked with a full cast. The scenes were almost all

Pa. approves 36 new historical markers honoring artist Keith Haring, others

December 12, 2022 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

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by Cassie Miller, Pennsylvania Capital-StarDecember 8, 2022 Three-dozen more blue and gold historical markers will soon adorn roadsides in 18 counties across the commonwealth. The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) announced Thursday that it has approved 36 new historical markers, selected from 91 applications, to join the more than 2,000 markers already spread throughout

Raphael Warnock’s Georgia win matters to Pa. This is why

December 10, 2022 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by John L. Micek, Pennsylvania Capital-StarDecember 8, 2022 U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock’s, D-Ga., runoff win against Republican Herschel Walker on Tuesday night was a big deal in a lot of ways. For one thing, Warnock, the pastor of the storied Ebenezer Baptist Church (once ministered by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) in Atlanta, is now the first Black man to

Wolf backs regulatory change that would formalize discrimination protections for LGBTQ Pennsylvanians

December 10, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — In the closing days of his final term in office, Gov. Tom Wolf is backing a regulatory change that

How often are Penn State’s private planes flying during a budget crunch?

December 9, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Wyatt Massey of Spotlight PA State College The Penn State Transparency Tracker is an ongoing effort by Spotlight PA to document and share the ways in which the university is, and is not, being transparent with the community. Due to its special “state-related” designation, Penn State is not subject to open records laws beyond the

Dispute over Pa. House special elections, control likely heading to court

December 8, 2022 by Mark Purdy

Democrat Joanna McClinton says she is now in control of the Pennsylvania House, a claim Republican leaders say amounts to a “paperwork insurrection.” Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Pennsylvania House Democratic

In tussle for Pennsylvania House leadership, parties clash over math and precedent

December 5, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Calculating which party controls a legislative chamber normally requires simple math. But less than a month after the critical

A record-setting number of women will serve in state legislatures in 2023

December 5, 2022 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

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by Jennifer Shutt, Pennsylvania Capital-StarDecember 1, 2022 WASHINGTON — A record number of women will soon serve in state legislatures, breaking the previous cap of female lawmakers by at least 69 seats and bringing total representation to more than 32 percent, according to the Center for American Women and Politics. States will have at least

A controversial Pa. prison for migrants is closing. Three things to know

December 3, 2022December 2, 2022 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by John L. Micek, Pennsylvania Capital-StarDecember 2, 2022 Putting a cap on years of protests, a controversial prison for asylum seekers in Berks County will shut its doors next month, according to published reports. Officials in Berks County announced Wednesday that the federal government, which operates the Berks County Residential Center in Bern Township, will terminate its

Rejecting undated mail ballots disproportionately impacts communities of color in Pa., data shows

December 1, 2022 by Spotlight PA

This article is made possible through Spotlight PA’s collaboration with Votebeat, a nonpartisan news organization covering local election administration and voting. This article is available for reprint under the terms of Votebeat’s republishing policy. Pennsylvania’s policy of rejecting undated and incorrectly dated absentee and mail ballots is more likely to impact voters from communities with

Agriculture Secretary Tours Veteran-Owned Farms, Encourages Supporting Farmer Veterans this Holiday Season

November 30, 2022 by Community Contributors

Moon Township, PA – Today, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Brigadier General Mark Goodwill joined veterans and partners during visits to veteran-owned farms in Allegheny and Fayette counties. During the tours, Redding thanked farmer veterans for continuing to serve their communities through agriculture after returning from military service. “More than 7,000 Pennsylvanians are veterans who continue to serve through

As Pennsylvania certifies and audits election, lawsuits and a deadlock may slow it down

November 30, 2022November 29, 2022 by (The Center Square)

As Pennsylvania counties submit certified election results to the Department of State, state officials are conducting audits to ensure no mistakes occurred. Counties were to submit their certified results on Monday, and the department will conduct risk-limiting audits to check counties for any errors. Lawsuits and a split county board could slow down certification, however.

Nonpartisan journalism is vital to the future of Pa. Here’s how you can keep it going.

November 28, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Christopher Baxter of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Huge stories will shape Pennsylvania’s future next year. With a new administration in the governor’s office and a shift in power

Mass shootings prompt new calls for assault weapons ban. Will it happen?

November 28, 2022 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

by John L. Micek, Pennsylvania Capital-StarNovember 28, 2022 There was no mistaking the anger in President Joe Biden’s voice on Thanksgiving Day as he once again decried America’s fatal love affair with guns. “The idea we still allow semi-automatic weapons to be purchased is sick. Just sick,” Biden said, according to the Associated Press. In the wake of deadly shootings

The Democratic takeover of the Pa. House will be a little messy to start. Here’s why.

November 19, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — The Democrats have won control of the Pennsylvania House, but the party will need to rely on Republican support

Democrats win control of Pennsylvania state House after picking up 12 seats

November 19, 2022November 17, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Democrats have won control of the Pennsylvania state House for the first time

Have Democrats flipped the Pa. House? The latest on the deciding races.

November 17, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — With control of the Pennsylvania state House on the line, attorneys for Democratic and Republican candidates in two close,

Why these Pa. teams got left out of the minor league baseball union

November 17, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Colin Deppen of Spotlight PA This story was produced by Spotlight PA in collaboration with Defector, an independent sports blog and media company. HARRISBURG — Professional baseball will become a fairer sport next year — at least in terms of compensation. After a successful unionization push by minor league players, the workforce — historically paid

Control of PA House comes down to three races in the Philly suburbs

November 13, 2022 by Pennsyvlania Capital-Star

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by Peter Hall, Pennsylvania Capital-StarNovember 10, 2022 Control of the Pennsylvania House will come down to three narrow races for legislative districts in the Philadelphia suburbs. In Bucks County, Democrat Mark Moffa held a two-vote lead over Republican Joe Hogan in the 142nd House District and Democrat Brian Munroe had a 406-vote lead over Republican

Democrats believe they will take control of the Pennsylvania House for the first time in more than a decade

November 9, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania Democrats believe they will win enough state House seats after Tuesday’s midterm

Democrat Josh Shapiro elected governor of Pennsylvania, defeating Republican Doug Mastriano

November 9, 2022November 9, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Democrat Josh Shapiro has won the election to be Pennsylvania’s 48th governor, cruising to a decisive victory over far-right

Why are undated mail ballots such a big deal in Pennsylvania?

November 3, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court is expected to soon rule on a case that could decide whether undated mail ballots can

Pa. election 2022: Where governor candidates Mastriano and Shapiro stand on mail ballots, election security, and voting rights

October 29, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania’s next governor will have a lot of power over the way elections are run, and the two major

Pa. election 2022: How redistricting could alter control of the legislature and other changes to watch Nov. 8

October 27, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA and Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — It’s showtime for Pennsylvania’s brand-new legislative districts. The revamped state House and Senate

Wolf administration insists undated mail ballots will be valid this November as counties proceed with caution

October 22, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania’s top election official is doubling down on guidance that directs county officials to count undated mail ballots during

How well a death in Pennsylvania will be investigated depends largely on where someone dies

October 21, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Ashad Hajela of Spotlight PA State College This story was produced by the State College regional bureau of Spotlight PA, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to investigative and public-service journalism for Pennsylvania. Sign up for our regional newsletter, Talk of the Town. STATE COLLEGE — In one Pennsylvania county, the coroner’s office relies on an

Pa. election 2022: Where governor candidates Mastriano, Shapiro stand on rural health care, broadband, and agriculture

October 20, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Ashad Hajela and Min Xian of Spotlight PA State College Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — People who live in rural Pennsylvania face unique barriers to health care, broadband, and

Pa. Election Day 2022: A complete guide to the Nov. 8 election, including how to vote, find your polling place, understand mail ballots, and more

October 18, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — On Nov. 8, Pennsylvanians will make their way to polling places to decide the governor’s race and U.S. Senate

Pa. election 2022: Where governor candidates Mastriano, Shapiro stand on the opioid epidemic, medical marijuana, and other health issues

October 15, 2022 by Spotlight PA

By Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — As a freshman state senator, Doug Mastriano (R., Franklin) rose to prominence by vocally opposing the Wolf administration’s

Unresolved gray areas in Pa. mail voting law likely to spur fresh confusion, legal challenges

October 6, 2022October 6, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — As millions of Pennsylvanians once again go to the polls this November, some

Pa. election 2022: Where governor candidates Mastriano, Shapiro stand on energy and the environment

October 6, 2022October 4, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Kate Huangpu of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. In Pennsylvania, it’s usually not a question of whether a statewide candidate is supportive of the oil and gas industry but

Pa. election 2022: There will be no constitutional amendments on the Nov. 8 ballot, but big ones are looming

September 27, 2022 by Spotlight PA

Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania voters will not see any proposed constitutional amendments on this year’s November ballot, but that is almost certain