Pennsylvania Perspective for Thursday, December 5, 2024

December 5, 2024

Pennsylvania

Gov. Shapiro Highlights Faster License Processing at Pittsburgh Barbershop

Governor Josh Shapiro announced significant reductions in permit and license processing times, including barbers’ licenses now approved in a day instead of two weeks. He emphasized the economic impact, noting faster approvals for nearly a million workers and new businesses statewide. WESA has more.

State Utility Law to Expire After Legislative Deadlock

Pennsylvania lawmakers failed to reauthorize Chapter 14, a consumer protection law preventing winter utility shut offs for low-income customers. The Public Utility Commission (PUC) will maintain most protections, but advocates argue stronger rules are needed amid rising energy costs. Spotlight PA has more.

Secretary Schmidt Certifies 2024 Election Results

Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt certified Pennsylvania’s 2024 general election results, confirming a 77% voter turnout. President-elect Donald Trump won the state’s presidential vote, and all statewide offices were secured by Republicans. The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has more.

PA Farms to Receive Over $40M for Climate Resilience

Pennsylvania farms will receive $40.8 million in federal grants to enhance climate resilience, funded by the Farm Bill and Inflation Reduction Act. The grants will support sustainable farming practices and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock. StateImpact Pennsylvania has more.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia City Council Delays Vote on Sixers Arena

Philadelphia City Council has postponed the initial vote on the proposed Sixers arena to December 11, allowing more time for negotiations. The final vote is now expected on December 19, with discussions ongoing about increasing the team’s contribution to the community benefits agreement. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Mayor Parker Faces Pressure to Reaffirm Philadelphia’s Sanctuary Status

Immigrant advocates are urging Mayor Cherelle Parker to reaffirm Philadelphia’s sanctuary city status amid threats of mass deportation from the incoming Trump Administration. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Property Tax Exemptions Could Cost City, Schools $11.4M Annually

Thousands of Philadelphia properties are improperly receiving tax exemptions, potentially costing the city and school district $11.4 million annually. City Controller Christy Brady’s office found that many property owners may be unknowingly committing tax fraud, and recommended measures to prevent future losses. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Pittsburgh

Allegheny County Passes $1.7M Property Tax Hike

Allegheny County Council approved a 1.7 mill property tax increase to fund the 2025 budget, ending a two-month stalemate. The compromise budget restores most human services funding and avoids layoffs, while addressing fiscal challenges inherited from the previous administration. The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has more.

Pittsburgh Debates Citywide, Neighborhood-Based Affordable Housing Plans

Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey has proposed expanding inclusionary zoning citywide to increase affordable housing, while City Councilmember Bob Charland (District 3) has suggested letting each neighborhood decide. The mayor’s plan mandates long-term affordability, whereas Councilmember Charland’s offers more developer incentives and flexibility. The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has more.

PA Rep. Miller Announces Bid for Allegheny County Judge

State House Representative Dan Miller (D-Allegheny) announced his candidacy for Allegheny County Common Pleas Court judge, with support from prominent Democrats and a focus on public health and mental disability issues. WESA has more.

Pittsburgh City Councilmember Kail-Smith Announces Retirement

Pittsburgh City Councilmember Theresa Kail-Smith will retire in January 2026 after more than 15 years of service. She has represented District 2 since 2009 and served as City Council President and chair of several key committees. WPXI 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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