Pennsylvania Perspective for Thursday, December 19, 2024

December 19, 2024

The entire team at Cozen O’Connor and Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies mourns the passing of Steve Cozen, one of the firm’s founders and former Chairman of the Board. Steve passed away earlier today, leaving a lasting legacy in the Philadelphia area and throughout Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania

Lancaster Republicans Set Timeline for Replacing PA Sen. Aument

Republicans in Lancaster County have until January 3 to submit letters of intent for the nomination to replace outgoing state Senator Ryan Aument, who will be stepping down to serve as U.S. Senator-elect Dave McCormick’s state director. The GOP committee will nominate their candidate on January 25, while Democrats are also preparing to select their candidate once the special election date is announced. LancasterOnline has more.

State Rep. Siegel Announces Bid for Lehigh County Executive

State Representative Josh Siegel (D-Lehigh) launched his campaign for Lehigh County Executive, focusing on affordable housing, regional investment, and public safety under his “One Lehigh” platform. LehighValleyNews has more.

Few Doctors Issue One-Third of PA Medical Marijuana Cards, Raising Oversight Concerns

A small group of doctors issued nearly one-third of Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana certifications in 2022, prompting calls for increased oversight and questions about the quality of patient care. Proposed legislation aims to limit the number of certifications a single doctor can issue to ensure responsible medical practices. Spotlight PA has more.

PA Health Providers Urge Congress to Extend Medicare Telehealth Options

Pennsylvania health providers are urging Congress to extend Medicare telehealth options set to expire on December 31, 2024. Without an extension, many patients could lose access to vital telehealth services. WHYY has more.

PA Gaming Revenue Hit Record High in November

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board reported a record $562.4 million in gaming and fantasy contest revenue for November 2024, a 26% increase from November 2023. PoliticsPA has more.

Philadelphia

City Council Wraps Up 2024 by Approving Sixers Arena

In its final 2024 meeting, City Council approved an 11-bill package for a new $1.3 billion Sixers arena in Market East, with Mayor Cherelle Parker expected to sign the bills, keeping the project on track for a 2031 opening. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Mayor Parker Launches City Progress Tracking Website

Mayor Parker introduced Philly Stat 360, a website that tracks the City’s progress on over 30 indicators, including safety, cleanliness, and economic opportunity, with regular updates to enhance transparency and accountability. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Market Street Overhaul Begins in Old City 

A $16 million project to revamp a stretch of Market Street in Old City to enhance safety and create a more welcoming environment in time for Philadelphia to be on the world stage in 2026 has begun. Billy Penn has more.

Pittsburgh

City Council Passes 2025 Budget Amid Staffing Cost Concerns

Pittsburgh City Council approved a $785 million budget for 2025, despite concerns about unrealistic projections for police overtime and other staffing costs. WESA has more.

PPS Approves $752M Budget, Ratifies Union Contracts

Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) passed a $752 million budget for 2025, addressing a $28.1 million deficit, and ratified new union contracts lifting residency requirements for staff. WESA has more.

Allegheny County Council Delays Vote on Industrial Permit Fee Increase

Allegheny County Council has postponed a vote on increasing permit fees for industrial polluters, referring the proposal back to committee for further consideration in January. PublicSource has more.

PRT Seeks Public Input on Major Bus System Redesign

Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) is seeking public feedback on a draft plan to redesign the bus system, which could change dozens of routes across Allegheny County. The redesign aims to improve service post-pandemic. PublicSource has more.

New Winter Shelter in North Side Opens

Allegheny County has opened a new winter shelter in Perry South, moving the service from Downtown. The decision has faced criticism from City officials who argue that the new location lacks resources and adequate support for the unhoused. The need for shelter in Allegheny County has increased significantly in recent years. PublicSource has more.

Federal

PA GOP Electors Cast Votes for Trump, Embracing Mail-In Ballots

Pennsylvania’s Republican electors formally cast their votes for President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, crediting their newfound support for mail-in ballots as crucial to their 2024 electoral success. PennLive has more.

Sen. Casey Delivers Farewell Remarks to the U.S. Senate

U.S. Senator Bob Casey expressed deep gratitude to his family, colleagues, and the people of Pennsylvania in his farewell speech. He highlighted his legislative achievements and emphasized the importance of public service and future challenges for the nation. PoliticsPA has more.

Sen.-Elect McCormick Poised to Influence GOP Dynamics in Washington

Dave McCormick narrowly won Pennsylvania’s Senate race by effectively countering Democratic attacks and leveraging local support. His campaign’s early focus on Kamala Harris and strategic outreach to key voter groups were pivotal in his victory. NBC News 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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