Pennsylvania News & Current Events

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

Thursday, February 6, 2025

Educators voice concern of 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)

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

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)

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

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)

Monday, February 3, 2025

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 …

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…

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