Pennsylvania Perspective for Monday, December 23, 2024

December 23, 2024

Editor’s note: The Pennsylvania Perspective will be taking a break over the winter holidays. Regular updates will resume on Thursday, January 2.

Beltway Briefing: Remembering Steve Cozen

With the recent passing of Cozen O’Connor founder and chairman, Steve Cozen, our team reflects with gratitude on the privilege of knowing and working with Steve, a visionary leader who had a profound impact on our firm and the community. Listen to the latest episode featuring Public Strategies’ Howard Schweitzer, Mark Alderman, Patrick Martin, and Kyle Anderson here.

Pennsylvania

State Supreme Court Retention Votes Could Spark Partisan Battle

The retention votes for three Pennsylvania Supreme Court justices in 2025 are expected to become a major partisan battleground, with both Republicans and Democrats preparing for a high-stakes election cycle. WESA has more.

Secretary Schmidt Confident in Integrity of PA’s 2024 Election

Pennsylvania Secretary of State Al Schmidt, who faced threats after defending the 2020 election, has certified the 2024 election results, affirming the process as free, fair, and secure, and noting increased public trust in the electoral system. Spotlight PA has more.

Christian Withdraws, Endorses Rothman for PA GOP Chair

Former Trump 2016 campaign state director Ted Christian has withdrawn from the race for Pennsylvania GOP chair, endorsing state Senator Greg Rothman (R-Cumberland/Dauphin/Perry), who has strong support from key figures like U.S. Senator-elect Dave McCormick and State Treasurer Stacy Garrity. PoliticsPA has more.

Utility Shutoff Law Expires, Winter Moratorium Remains

While a Pennsylvania law governing utility shutoffs expires on December 31, protections such as the winter shutoff moratorium for low-income customers will continue, ensuring no interruptions in service during the cold months. WHYY has more.

PA Launches Telehealth Licensing for Drug, Alcohol Treatment Providers

The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs has introduced a new licensing program for remote-only drug and alcohol treatment providers to increase access to care, following the success of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has more.

PA Drops Plan to Ease Casino Return for Problem Bettors

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has decided against a proposal to simplify the return process for self-excluded problem gamblers after receiving significant opposition from addiction professionals and advocacy groups, citing concerns about increased relapse risk. Spotlight PA has more.

Philadelphia

Mayor Parker Highlights Achievements in “State of the City” Address

Mayor Cherelle Parker has achieved significant successes in her first year — including reductions in crime, new public cleanliness initiatives, and the approval of a new 76ers arena — which she highlighted with an inaugural “State of the City” address at Temple University. She also set her sights on continuing to tackle ongoing challenges like the Kensington drug market in 2025. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Pittsburgh

Candidates Enter Race for Open Pittsburgh City Council Seat in West End

With incumbent Theresa Kail-Smith not seeking re-election, multiple candidates, including Democrats Kim Salinetro and David Binkoski, are vying for the open Pittsburgh City Council District 2 seat, highlighting differing views on housing and public safety. WESA has more.

Professor Documents Pittsburgh’s Iconic Innovations in Online Hall of Fame

University of Pittsburgh law professor Mike Madison has created the Intellectual Property Hall of Fame to celebrate Pittsburgh’s iconic innovations and creative contributions, from Heinz ketchup to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Pittsburgh Magazine 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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