Pennsylvania News & Current Events

Critics of the federal reconciliation bill said it could worsen pollution and climate change by slashing clean energy incentives, boosting fossil fuel development and rolling back emissions rules. (industrieblick/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Could Congress' big budget bill derail PA's clean energy progress?

Pennsylvania's clean energy progress could stall if the U.S. Senate passes what's known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." The legislation would …

The Pennsylvania Eddystone Generating Station oil and gas power plant near Philadelphia will stay open past its planned shutdown after a last-minute Trump administration order halted its closure. (Dossy/AdobeStock)

Monday, June 16, 2025

Critics: Rollback of Biden-era climate rules could harm PA health, environment

The Environmental Protection Agency is proposing to roll back Biden-era limits on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and natural gas power plants…

The average cost for a gallon of regular gas is about $3.24 in Pennsylvania, according to AAA. (Dusan Petkovic/AdobeStock)

Survey: Gasoline burden highest among Black and Latino drivers in PA

As federal electric vehicle incentives face potential rollbacks, a new study highlighted the burden of gasoline costs on Black and Latino …

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act proposes a new provision starting in fiscal year 2028 that cuts the enhanced federal Medicaid match rate by 10% for states that offer full health benefits or financial help to buy coverage for individuals who are not legally in the United States. (ChayTee/Adobe Stock)

Saturday 'No Kings' rallies in PA to protest Trump policies

More than 1,800 protests against President Donald Trump's agenda are planned nationwide Saturday, including more than 80 in Pennsylvania. The "No …

Pennsylvania would need to lift 198,000 children out of poverty to rank first in the nation for the lowest child poverty rate. (luckybusiness/Adobe Stock)

PA ranks 20th in children's well-being, despite health challenges

Pennsylvania ranks 20th in the nation for overall child well-being, in the new 2025 Kids Count Data Book. The Annie E. Casey Foundation report ranks …

Only 28% of the 177,000 young children in Pennsylvania eligible for child care subsidies are getting help, highlighting major gaps in access, according to the Start Strong PA Campaign. (Irina/Adobe Stock)

PA educators take action for ‘Early Childhood Workforce Day’

Pennsylvanians will rally in Harrisburg today to call attention to the urgent child care teacher shortage across the state. The Pennsylvania Child …

In April, Mack Lehigh Valley Operations said it would lay off up to 350 employees, citing market uncertainty, potential regulatory shifts and the effects of tariffs. (mandritoiu/Adobe Stock)<br />

Allentown looks to neighborhood-scale manufacturing to boost local jobs

By Laura Aka for WorkingNation.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the WorkingNation-Public News Serv…

In Pennsylvania, federal Inflation Reduction Act investments allow homeowners to get a 30% tax credit for installing cleaner energy systems like rooftop solar, wind, geothermal or battery storage. (anatoliy_gleb/Adobe Stock)

PA groups urge Senate to protect clean energy tax incentives

Pennsylvania's U.S. Senators are being asked to do what they can to safeguard federal clean energy tax credits, which are on the chopping block in …

Although TRICARE meets many needs of military families, Medicaid provides more comprehensive care for children through its pediatric benefits, which include yearly check-ups and dental services. (Jacob Lund/Adobe Stock)

Report: Medicaid vital for Pennsylvania military families

As Republican lawmakers consider cutting billions of dollars in Medicaid services, a new report reveals the proposed reductions could affect …

The federal budget reconciliation bill passed last month by the U.S. House would add an estimated $3.3 trillion dollars to the national debt over the next decade, and cause about 13 million people to lose health coverage, according to the Congressional Budget Office. (Cultura Creative/Adobe Stock)

Pennsylvanians with disabilities question GOP's proposed Medicaid cuts

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

A GLAAD survey showed 64% of African Americans, 55% of Hispanic Americans and 60% of individuals aged 18-34 feel comfortable with brands openly support LGBTQ+ organizations and nonprofits. (Viktor/Adobe Stock)

Survey: Pennsylvania consumers support companies selling Pride products

June is Pride Month and new research found most Pennsylvania consumers back brands supporting the LGBTQ+ community. The Gay and Lesbian Alliance …

A study from Community Partners in Asthma Care analyzed attendance and environmental data from three academic years in Clairton City schools and found within two miles of the school and near the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works, asthma affected 16.6 percent of students, based on nurse records. (Natalie Schorr/AdobeStock)

PA climate advocates criticize possible partnership between U.S. Steel, Nippon

A possible partnership between U.S. Steel and Japan's Nippon Steel is drawing publicity but some environmental groups in Pennsylvania are raising …

In 2021, Community Health Centers in Pennsylvania supported more than 13,000 jobs and contributed more than $2.36 billion to the state's economy. (Syda Productions/Adobe Stock)

Funding cuts risk care for 816,000 at PA community health centers

The more than 800,000 Pennsylvanians who rely on local Community Health Centers could face new barriers to care if proposed Medicaid cuts approved by …

Cure Violence program outreach workers are trained by Temple University's Center for Bioethics to spot patterns of violence and connect with people at highest risk, often those with criminal records, gang involvement or past experiences with gun violence. (Courtesy Tyreek Counts)

PA violence prevention programs hit by federal funding cuts

CLARIFICATION: The grant from Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency is helping to keep program staff employed. An earlier version of the …

More than 80 percent of adults without a degree or credential who have thought about going back to school say they are likely to enroll in a program within the next five years. (S Fanti/AdobeStock)<br />

Report: PA adults want degrees but cost, access are barriers

As students graduate across Pennsylvania, a new report shows many adults still hope to earn a college degree -- but high costs and limited access …

A report from the Education Law Center and Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children found Black children in Pennsylvania face disproportionate foster care placement and increased scrutiny, reflecting broader racial disparities seen in schools and discipline. (Lumeez/Adobe Stock)

Policy solutions to improve foster youth education in PA

Education is a major challenge for kids in foster care in Pennsylvania, according to a new report. Nearly 20,000 children and teens are served by …

More than two-thirds of producers surveyed by the National Wildlife Federation believe allocating federal funds specifically to support farmers in adopting climate-smart agriculture practices is a worthwhile investment. (Dusan Kostic/Adobe Stock)

PA farmers back boost in long-term funding for conservation programs

A recent poll from the National Wildlife Federation showed Pennsylvania farmers and ranchers benefit from voluntary conservation programs from the U.S…

Large confined animal feeding operations can pack more than 125,000 broiler chickens or 82,000 laying hens hundreds into tight spaces, creating ideal conditions for the spread of diseases like bird flu. (Fernando/AdobeStock)

Other states learn from PA's 'bird flu-free' status

By Gabriella Sotelo for Sentient Climate.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News…

Eastern hellbenders reproduce from late August to October, with females laying 150-450 eggs that males guard and oxygenate until they hatch, in 45 to 75 days. (Ondreicka/Adobe Stock)

Protecting PA's eastern hellbender on Endangered Species Day

It is Endangered Species Day, a reminder some plants and wildlife need protection, like Pennsylvania's eastern hellbender. It is the state's …

The Trump administration's fiscal year 2026 budget would eliminate $1.3 billion in National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration grants and research, targeting climate and education programs. (Monica/Adobe Stock)<br />

Trump's proposed budget threatens Chesapeake Bay Restoration efforts in PA

Environmental advocates have warned President Donald Trump's proposed budget could cripple restoration of the Chesapeake Bay. Federal agencies have …

A new report proposes a new oil and gas production fee to fund orphaned well cleanup via an independent authority, stricter enforcement, a fully funded escrow for new wells and an amnesty program for small producers. (AdobeStock)

Report: Appalachian gas production slows, reforms needed to fund well plugging

A new report from the Ohio River Valley Institute argued the oil and gas industry, not taxpayers, should cover the cost of plugging up hundreds of …

Ashlie Crosson, the 2025 National Teacher of the Year, will spend a year representing educators and serving as an ambassador for the teaching profession. (Brett Sims/Council of Chief State School Officers)

PA educator wins National Teacher of the Year award

A high school educator from Pennsylvania has been named National Teacher of the Year, one of the highest honors in the field. The prestigious award …

The proposed state budget boosts opportunities for students by adding $5.5 million to expand Career and Technical Education in schools. (Adobe Stock)

PA ‘Education Advocacy Day’ to focus on public school funding

Pennsylvanians will rally in Harrisburg on Tuesday urging lawmakers to boost public school funding. More than 1.7 million students are enrolled in …

In Pennsylvania, to become a foster parent you must be at least 21, and everyone in your home age 14 and older must pass criminal and child abuse-related background checks. (Mediteraneo/Adobe Stock)

'Forever families' needed for PA children in foster care

CORRECTION: The number of foster care referrals received by Bethany Christian Services is 200 each month. A previous version of the story incorrectly …

Since 2023, the caucus has secured more than $200 million in new Momnibus and maternal-health funding through the federal budget process. That money is now reaching community groups, universities, health providers and researchers nationwide. (Rido/Adobe Stock)

Black maternal health remains focus of PA lawmakers

CORRECTION: State Reps. Morgan Cephas and Gina Curry are both members of the Democratic Party. A previous version of this story incorrectly …

Pollution in PA worsens amid ongoing clean-vehicle policy debate

Air pollution in Pennsylvania is getting worse, according to a new report citing transportation emissions as the primary culprit. The American Lung …

Advocates say the first year of the Inflation Reduction Act's tax credits for individuals, businesses and nonprofits benefited 160,000 Pennsylvanians and saved more than $260 million. (Adobe Stock)

New map reveals IRA investments boost clean energy projects in Pennsylvania

A new interactive map reveals how recent federal investments from the Inflation Reduction Act are driving clean-energy and climate-resiliency projects…

Pennsylvanians will gather at the Capitol for a policy hearing at 9 a.m. Monday, followed by a rally at 10:15 a.m. Participants will then meet with lawmakers to advocate for a minimum wage increase and immigrants' rights. (Adobe Stock)

PA 'Day of Action' planned for higher minimum wage, immigrants' rights

Thousands are expected to rally in Harrisburg on Monday for a "Raise the Wage and Immigrant Rights Day of Action." More than 47,000 Pennsylvania work…

Inflation from supply chain issues and the risk of a recession have left Pennsylvania business owners unsure how much of a price hike consumers will accept, forcing breweries to decide how much cost they can absorb. (JackF/Adobe Stock)

PA breweries brace for difficult economy with Trump tariffs

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

The Here to Observe and Here to Storytelling program helps students show their workforce skills on their resumes, making it easier for them to succeed when applying for internships, graduate school and jobs. (Gorodenkoff/Adobe Stock)

Funds cut off from Kutztown U.’s NASA program amid DEI crackdown

President Donald Trump's executive order dismantling diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility programs has led to the defunding of Kutztown …

In January, low-wage workers in Pennsylvania missed out on pay hikes seen in 23 other states.<br />(Elementary Coffee Co.)

PA business owner pushes for federal minimum wage hike

Low-wage workers in Pennsylvania haven't seen a minimum-wage increase in more than a decade, but a new bill with bipartisan support would change that…

Of the nearly 956,000 pending cases eligible for jail time in Pennsylvania, about 52% have been assigned to public defenders, based on the latest available records, as of March 2023. (Gorodenkoff/Adobe Stock)

PA public defenders struggle with high caseloads, attorney shortage

More than 60 Pennsylvania counties do not have enough public defenders for their caseloads, forcing some, including in Erie County, to each handle …

A nationwide poll reveals that mental health is a priority for Americans, regardless of political party, with 90% of voters saying expanding mental-health care should be a priority for elected officials. (JenkoAtaman/Adobe Stock)

Report card: PA making steady improvements in student mental health

Pennsylvania is making progress in supporting youth mental health, according to a new report from Inseparable. The state now has about half the …

AARP has created an online pledge people can sign to

Social Security staff cuts could affect one in five Pennsylvanians

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NIOSH job cuts threaten PA black lung research, safety labs

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

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

Sniffles, sneezes: Navigating allergy season in Pennsylvania

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

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

IRS Direct File saves PA tax filers time and money

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

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

Federal clean energy funds double climate investments in PA

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

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

Groups oppose Medicaid cuts threatening coverage for 3 million PA residents

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

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

PA retirees fear Social Security cuts under President Trump

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

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

PA sees need for pain management specialists

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

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

Unaccompanied immigrant kids in PA lose legal representation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PNS Daily Newscast: June 18, 2025

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Pennsylvania

Could Congress' big budget bill derail PA's clean energy progress?

Critics: Rollback of Biden-era climate rules could harm PA health, environment

Survey: Gasoline burden highest among Black and Latino drivers in PA

Saturday 'No Kings' rallies in PA to protest Trump policies

PA ranks 20th in children's well-being, despite health challenges

PA educators take action for ‘Early Childhood Workforce Day’

Allentown looks to neighborhood-scale manufacturing to boost local jobs

PA groups urge Senate to protect clean energy tax incentives

Report: Medicaid vital for Pennsylvania military families

Pennsylvanians with disabilities question GOP's proposed Medicaid cuts

Survey: Pennsylvania consumers support companies selling Pride products

PA climate advocates criticize possible partnership between U.S. Steel, Nippon

Funding cuts risk care for 816,000 at PA community health centers

PA violence prevention programs hit by federal funding cuts

Report: PA adults want degrees but cost, access are barriers

Policy solutions to improve foster youth education in PA

PA farmers back boost in long-term funding for conservation programs

Other states learn from PA's 'bird flu-free' status

Protecting PA's eastern hellbender on Endangered Species Day

Trump's proposed budget threatens Chesapeake Bay Restoration efforts in PA

Report: Appalachian gas production slows, reforms needed to fund well plugging

PA educator wins National Teacher of the Year award

PA ‘Education Advocacy Day’ to focus on public school funding

'Forever families' needed for PA children in foster care

Black maternal health remains focus of PA lawmakers

Pollution in PA worsens amid ongoing clean-vehicle policy debate

New map reveals IRA investments boost clean energy projects in Pennsylvania

PA 'Day of Action' planned for higher minimum wage, immigrants' rights

PA breweries brace for difficult economy with Trump tariffs

Funds cut off from Kutztown U.’s NASA program amid DEI crackdown

PA business owner pushes for federal minimum wage hike

PA public defenders struggle with high caseloads, attorney shortage

Report card: PA making steady improvements in student mental health

Social Security staff cuts could affect one in five Pennsylvanians

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

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

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

NIOSH job cuts threaten PA black lung research, safety labs

Sniffles, sneezes: Navigating allergy season in Pennsylvania

IRS Direct File saves PA tax filers time and money

Federal clean energy funds double climate investments in PA

Groups oppose Medicaid cuts threatening coverage for 3 million PA residents

PA retirees fear Social Security cuts under President Trump

PA sees need for pain management specialists

Unaccompanied immigrant kids in PA lose legal representation

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

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

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