Pennsylvania News & Current Events

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)

Friday, January 17, 2025

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)

Thursday, January 16, 2025

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)

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

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 …

As of Dec. 2020, Pennsylvania had more than 12,000 active

PA group challenges fracking permits in Westmoreland County

CLARIFICATION: CNX entered into an agreement with Apex Energy II, but that sale has not been completed. Also, the state's agreement with CNX is not …

The National Council on Aging recommends during the winter to improve stability on slippery surfaces, attach spikeless ice and snow gripper sole covers to your shoes, and choose winter shoes with rubber soles. (Taisiia/Adobe Stock)

Winter advice for PA seniors: Prevent falls, stay connected

As winter sets in for Pennsylvania, it is crucial to be cautious of fall hazards, especially for seniors. The Centers for Disease Control and …

Between 2021 and 2023, Consumer Product Safety Commission staff received reports of 40 toy-related deaths among children 14 and younger. Flotation toys, bouncy balls and other balls were most frequently implicated. (Adobe Stock)

Pennsylvania parents warned to check kids' toys for safety

The National Retail Federation expects shoppers will have spent nearly $989 billion in November and December for holiday gift-giving. Unfortunately…

The Postal Service reports a net loss of $9.5 billion for the end of fiscal year 2024 in September - $3 billion more than the previous year. (Lost_in_the_Midwest/Adobe)

PA postal union concerned new changes will slow, delay holiday mail

Pennsylvanians mailing holiday cards and gifts may face delays due to proposed postal changes. The Postal Service costs-cutting plans include …

'Lost' winter days: A side effect of climate change in PA

Across Pennsylvania and other northern U.S. states, climate change -- from burning oil, coal and methane gas -- is increasing the number of winter …

As of October, SNAP benefit levels and income limits have increased. A household of up to 10 people is now eligible to receive up to $2,196, with a maximum gross monthly income of $10,584. (fizkes/Adobe Stock)

Impact of Trump's proposed budget cuts cited for Pennsylvanians

As President-elect Donald Trump takes office, federal safety net programs such as Medicaid, CHIP and SNAP, which support 85 million low-income …

Members of the Cleans Trucks Philadelphia Coalition stand in front of clean energy-powered electric trucks and vans during a Philadelphia news conference on Tuesday. (The Partnership Project)

Clean Trucks Campaign touts benefits of electric vehicles for Pennsylvania

Business leaders, clean transportation advocates and other experts say new technologies are helping to accelerate the transition to clean trucks and …

Pennsylvania has more than 49,000 farms, generating nearly $10 billion in agricultural product sales. (Thanaporn/Adobe Stock)

Research shows valuable impact of getting 'back to nature' practices on PA farms

A new study suggested getting "back to nature" in farming could help ward off the biggest effects of climate change. As Pennsylvania faces …

Minimum wages will rise in 14 states and 39 localities because of cost-of-living adjustments. Meanwhile, eight states and 47 localities will see minimum wages hit or surpass $15 per hour for some workers. (IcemanJ/Adobe Stock)

Despite nationwide pay increases, PA minimum wage remains stagnant at $7.25

In January, low-wage workers in Pennsylvania will be missing out on pay hikes seen in 23 other states. Neighboring states such as Ohio are starting …

The Maternity Care Coalition connects families seeking doula services with providers from its doula network and offers free childbirth workshops to educate and empower those giving birth and their families. (Maternity Care Coalition)

Advocate: Doulas essential to birth justice in Pennsylvania

Nationwide, Black women face a maternal mortality rate three times higher than white women. To address the disparity, the Maternity Care Coalition …

A September study by Pew Research showed Black women voters are more likely than Black men to view racial and ethnic inequality (79% vs. 70%) and violent crime (78% vs. 63%) as very important issues for the 2024 election. (Drazon/Adobe Stock)

After 92% of Black women Voted for Harris, what's next?

Some experts contended part of the reason Vice President Kamala Harris lost the 2024 presidential election was because of what they called "misogynoir…

In 2020, Pennsylvania reported more than 32,000 abortions, with providers documenting only 239 cases that involved medical complications. (Longfin Media/Adobe Stock) <br />

PA advocates stand firm on reproductive health access

President-elect Donald Trump's second term has some Pennsylvania health care providers and legal experts voicing concern about potential changes to ab…

The Bipartisan Primary Care and Health Workforce Act, Senate Bill 2840, passed by the Senate Health Committee last year, includes a $3 billion fund for health center construction, prioritizing dental and behavioral health facilities. (SaroStock/Adobe Stock)

Health advocates rallying in D.C. for critical funding

Pennsylvania health care advocates are in Washington, D.C. today and Wednesday to urge Congress to extend federal funding for Community Health …

Animal nutritionists confirm sugar is a key energy source for cows, due to its concentrated and rapidly digestible nature. (Adobe Stock)

PA chocolate surplus finds new use on farms

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

W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co. in Bradford produces pocket and fixed-blade knives.

Shoppers guide directs people to products made in America

A new poll shows preference for Made in America gifts, despite competition from Chinese shopping apps. The American Alliance for Manufacturing …

Pennsylvania's uninsured rate rose from 4.3% to 5.3% for Black children, from 4.9% to 6% for Hispanic/Latino children, and from 6% to 9.4% for those identifying as some other race, according to a new report from Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Report: Number of PA uninsured children stable, but no progress

Tens of thousands of children in Pennsylvania are still missing out on essential health care coverage, according to a new report. The "State of …

The NAACP, Human Rights Watch, the ACLU and other groups are voicing opposition to the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act. (Adobe Stock)

PA environmental, free speech advocates worry over 'anti-terror' law

A bill introduced in Congress is facing backlash from nonprofit organizations, warning it could stifle free speech. The Stop Terror-Financing and …

Pennsylvania will receive about more than $591 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to cap orphaned oil and gas wells and restore abandoned mine lands. (Funtay/Adobe)

Advocates: PA's climate progress threatened by 2nd Trump presidency

A Pennsylvania group warned progress on environmental protections could be at risk under a second term for President-elect Donald Trump. The state's …

Meadville's Climate Action Plan includes a food project to help local vendors and farmers increase the affordable fresh produce they offer. And a farming incubator will allow residents access to larger plots of land and agricultural training. (Don/Adobed Stock)

Funding boosts 'green' projects in Meadville, PA

A small rural town in northwest Pennsylvania is using a combination of state and federal funds to implement "green" projects as part of its Climate Ac…

Under the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act, Dual Special Needs Plans must secure contracts with the state Medicaid agency to enhance the integration of Medicare and Medicaid benefits for

PA Medicaid, Medicare dual enrollees may qualify for expanded benefits

Many Pennsylvania residents could benefit from health coverage known as a Dual Special Needs Plan, but may be unaware of this option. According to …

$Short-term exposure to fracking pollutants can cause respiratory and other health issues, while long-term exposure, especially during pregnancy, is linked to birth defects and complications. (Aryfahmed/Adobe Stock)$

PA group fights for global treaty to end plastic pollution

An environmental group in Pennsylvania is among those backing a global plastics treaty set to be finalized by year's end. It is estimated 99% of …

The Susquehanna River is Chesapeake Bay's largest tributary, contributing 50% of its fresh water. The river is nearly one mile wide at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and has a normal flow of 18 million gallons per minute at Havre de Grace, Maryland. (Khairil/Adobe)

Report: Chesapeake Bay cleanup deadline looms as officials propose next phase

Despite some progress, Pennsylvania and other states in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed are unlikely to meet their 2025 pollution commitments to reduce …

Two solar projects now produce about 35% of Four Seasons' energy use. Solar arrays cover the entire roof of the company's Ephrata, Penn., warehouse. (Four Seasons Family of Companies)

Federal funds help power PA produce distributor's rooftop solar

By Sara Millhouse for Resource Rural.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Resource Rural-Public Ne…

The FTC received fraud reports from 2.6 million consumers last year, a number almost identical to 2022. (ronstik/Adobe)

PA residents warned to use caution to avoid scams during holidays

The FBI said Pennsylvania had more than 3,000 scam victims last year, with reported losses of more than $118 million. The Federal Trade Commission …

The Too Small to Fail initiative has reached more than 175,000 parents with valuable text message reminders and tips, encouraging them to talk, read and sing with their young children during daily routines. (WavebreakMediaMicro/Adobe Stock)

Literacy initiative to implement 250 new early-education activations in PA

The early childhood development initiative "Too Small to Fail" is expanding in Pennsylvania to boost children's brain and language development…

A new report from Datu Research found 33 methane mitigation companies now operate in Pennsylvania, marking a 65% increase over the past decade. Major hubs are in Pittsburgh, with 11 facilities, and other concentrations are found in Bridgeville, Charleroi, Canonsburg and Philadelphia. (Leonid Ikan/Adobe Stock)

Report: PA’s methane mitigation industry drives economic growth, clean air

A new report highlighted the growth of Pennsylvania's methane mitigation industry, showing positive effects on the economy, job market and …

Respite offers post-permanency families much-needed relief, with resources that help alleviate the pressures of parenting special needs children and provide flexible, competent care. (Alexis Scholtz/peopleimages/Adobe Stock) <br /><br /><br />

Adoption partnership aims to boost 'forever families' in Pennsylvania

November is National Adoption Month and In Pennsylvania, more than 3,000 children in foster care are waiting for new families through adoption…

The departure of 58 seasoned election officials in Pennsylvania since November 2019, as noted by Votebeat, has resulted in the loss of around 300 years of experience. This decline in experienced officials raises the risk of unintentional election mishaps. (Studio Romantic/Adobe)

PA voting report: Strengthening election integrity amid potential disruptions

Amid concerns of election denialism, a report from a nonpartisan watchdog organization highlights the robust protections in place to help safeguard …

In 2023, an estimated 67,800 workers in Pennsylvania earned minimum wage or less, which has remained at $7.25 since 2009. (Rawpixel/AdobeStock)

Report: Presidential candidates' policies could shape PA families, economy

As Pennsylvania voters head to the polls Tuesday, a new report takes a deep dive into how the economic policies of former President Donald Trump and …

Pennsylvania has been allocated $1.6 billion to expand high-speed internet access statewide. The investment, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has already led to savings for more than 764,000 Pennsylvania households on their monthly internet bills. (Zimmytws/Adobe)

PA Lehigh Valley economic stability at risk with Project 2025 proposals

Ahead of tomorrow's presidential election, a nonprofit is raising concerns Project 2025 and its proposed rollback of federal aid could disrupt …

The survey reveals 62% of people polled don't support efforts to ban books, limit free speech or censor the teaching of U.S. history in public schools if some believe the content could be offensive. (Vesperstock/Adobe Stock)

Poll: PA voters favor protecting union jobs, labor laws, education

Ahead of Election Day, a new survey shows voters across the country and in the battleground state of Pennsylvania overwhelmingly support labor-law …

In Pennsylvania, an AARP poll showed voters are split in their retrospective approval of former President Donald Trump, with 50% approving and 49% disapproving. Vice President Kamala Harris has a slightly negative rating at 45% approval to 52% disapproval. (vesperstock/Adobe Stock)

PA suburban women 50+ talk healthcare, inflation, immigration, caregiving

Pennsylvania voters aged 50 and older are expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming election, motivated by key issues, and could affect the …

The State of Early Care and Education report from Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children suggests providing additional opportunities for professional development and career advancement for Pennsylvania's child care and early education workforce. (Halfpoint/Adobe Stock)

Report makes recommendations to solve PA's 'historic' child care crisis

Pennsylvania is facing what children's advocacy groups call a historic child care crisis, leaving thousands of young children without access to early …

In Pennsylvania on election day the polls are open from 7 A.M. to 8 P.M. Today is the last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot. (AnnaStills/Adobe)<br /><br /><br /><br />

Scholars gather in PA to discuss growing authoritarian threats to U.S. democracy

With Pennsylvania a crucial state in this year's presidential election, political scholars gathered in Philadelphia last night to share their …

Over 55,000 immigrant business owners accounted for 10% of self-employed Pennsylvania residents in 2018 and generated $1.2 billion in business income. (Vesperstock/Adobe Stock)

Online forum debunks immigration myths before election

Today's virtual "Ask Me Anything" program will address debunking immigration myths and tackle complex questions. About one in 14 Pennsylvanians is …

Union voters are split between Harris at 50% and Trump at 43%, with 6% supporting third-party candidates, according to a poll by the Pew Research Center. (Platoo Studio/Adobe Stock)

PA government workers push to get out union vote

Labor unions in the battleground state of Pennsylvania said they could play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of this year's election…

The Department of Veterans Affairs provides comprehensive mental health care, including counseling, medication and peer support to help veterans thrive, serving more than 1.7 million veterans in the past year. (Adobe Stock)

PA group offers free, comprehensive resources to veterans

A Pennsylvania nonprofit is working to provide essential services to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Pennsylvania is home to more than 7…

One of the Pennsylvania Council of Children, Youth and Family Services members stated all five Behavioral Health Managed Care Organizations fell short of their requested rate increase by more than 25%, meaning this provider is not being compensated for the true cost of care. (Seventyfour/Adobe Stock)

Report: PA Behavioral health rate hikes essential for vital provider services

Behavioral-health providers in Pennsylvania face financial instability because of inconsistent rate increases, affecting staff recruitment and …

The Hazleton Area School District received a grant for more than $99,000 to implement a sustainable agriculture program in its career center, providing local, nutritious food to students and addressing health disparities in its community. (Adobe Stock)

Program builds bridge between PA's local farms, school cafeterias

Schools in Pennsylvania are recognizing October's National Farm to School Month by serving local produce in their meals. The U.S. Department of …

The last day for Pennsylvanians to register to vote is Oct. 21. The deadline to request a mail-in ballot is Oct. 29. (Maria Vitkovska/Adobe Stock)

PA needs over 45,000 poll workers for upcoming elections

Election Day is less than three weeks away and while the focus for most people is on casting their ballot, Pennsylvania also needs a lot more poll …

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - January 17, 2025

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