Pennsylvania Perspective for Monday, December 2, 2024

December 2, 2024

Pennsylvania

How PA House Democrats Defended Majority Despite Red Wave

Pennsylvania House Democrats successfully defended their one-vote majority by focusing on local issues and personal connections, even as Republicans swept other statewide races. Candidates emphasized everyday concerns like public safety and rising prices, which resonated with voters. GoErie has more.

Advocates Continue Push for Stricter Gun Laws in PA Despite Court Setback

Despite a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling against stricter local gun laws, advocates are determined to continue their fight, with plans to pursue both legal challenges and legislative efforts to advance gun control measures. Spotlight PA has more.

PA Legislators’ Salaries to Exceed $110K with New Raises

Beginning this month, Pennsylvania legislators’ base salaries surpassed $110,000 for the first time due to inflation-based cost-of-living adjustments. PennLive has more.

State Revisions to Culturally Responsive Teaching Guidelines Spark Concerns

The Pennsylvania Department of Education’s decision to rescind mandatory culturally relevant teaching guidelines has raised concerns among Black educators about potential setbacks in teacher recruitment and diversity initiatives. Despite the changes, Philadelphia schools plan to continue incorporating culturally relevant practices into their professional development programs. Chalkbeat Philadelphia has more.

Delays in Grant Disbursement Impact PA College Students

Due to issues with the FAFSA rollout and state system upgrades, many Pennsylvania college students are still waiting for state grant funds, causing financial strain. Efforts are ongoing to resolve the delays and distribute the remaining funds. Spotlight PA has more.

IFO Releases Monthly Revenue Update

The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO), the state agency responsible for providing revenue projections and impartial analysis for state legislators, has released its report on FY 2024-25 projections. November 2024 General Fund revenues were $2.93 billion, a decrease of $130 million compared to the same month last year and were within $8 million of IFO projections. View the report here.

Gov. Shapiro Activates National Guard to Aid Erie During Snowstorm

Governor Josh Shapiro has activated the National Guard and signed a disaster declaration to assist Erie County residents affected by heavy lake-effect snow, ensuring emergency responders can reach those in need. GoErie has more.

Philadelphia

Final Sixers Arena Hearings Scheduled for This Week

Philadelphia City Council’s final hearing on the proposed Sixers arena in Center City is scheduled for this Tuesday, with a final vote expected by December 19. The New York Times has more.

Pittsburgh

Allegheny County Council Proposes Budget Cuts to Reduce Tax Increase

Allegheny County Council has proposed over $70 million in budget cuts to reduce the property tax increase rate, aiming for a more modest hike than County Executive Sara Innamorato’s proposal. The council’s plan will be voted on at the December 3 meeting, with ongoing negotiations expected. The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has more.

Nippon Steel Confident in U.S. Steel Acquisition Despite Opposition

Nippon Steel remains optimistic about acquiring U.S. Steel, which could impact Pittsburgh’s economy by modernizing local mills and preserving jobs. The deal faces opposition from President Joe Biden and the United Steelworkers union but may find support under President-elect Donald Trump. The Washington Post has more.

Federal

Gov. Shapiro Building National Profile for Potential 2028 Presidential Bid

Governor Shapiro, who has been extremely popular in Pennsylvania and is widely considered a front-runner for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028, is currently polling closely behind other high-profile Democrats according to Emerson College’s first post-election poll. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

U.S. Sen. Fetterman Urges Democrats to Stay Calm, Focused

In a recent interview, Pennsylvania U.S. Senator John Fetterman advises fellow Democrats to accept their losses, avoid overreacting, and focus on constructive conversations with voters as they navigate the next four years under President-elect Trump. The New York Times has more.

Authors

About Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies

Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, an affiliate of the international law firm Cozen O’Connor, is a bipartisan government relations practice representing clients before the federal government and in cities and states throughout the country. With offices in Washington D.C., Richmond, Albany, New York City, Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Chicago, and Santa Monica, the firm’s public strategies professionals offer a full complement of government affairs services, including legislative and executive branch advocacy, policy analysis, assistance with government procurement and funding programs, and crisis management. Its client base spans multiple industries, including healthcare, transportation, hospitality, education, construction, energy, real estate, entertainment, financial services, and insurance.

About Cozen O’Connor

Established in 1970, Cozen O’Connor has over 775 attorneys who help clients manage risk and make better business decisions. The firm counsels clients on their most sophisticated legal matters in all areas of the law, including litigation, corporate, and regulatory law. Representing a broad array of leading global corporations and middle-market companies, Cozen O’Connor serves its clients’ needs through 31 offices across two continents.

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