Pennsylvania Perspective for Thursday, November 21, 2024

November 21, 2024

Pennsylvania

Gov. Shapiro Launches Fast-Track Program to Speed Up Infrastructure Permits

Governor Josh Shapiro signed an executive order to streamline the permitting process for major infrastructure projects in Pennsylvania, creating the Pennsylvania Permit Fast Track Program to reduce delays and increase transparency. The Pennsylvania Capital-Star has more.

Gov. Shapiro Vows Support for SEPTA, Stresses Need for State Action

Gov. Shapiro expressed support for SEPTA amid its financial struggles, emphasizing that the agency will not fail while also calling for state legislative action to address its funding issues, and reiterated that the Philadelphia 76ers should remain in the city. Spotlight PA has more.

PA DEP Eliminates Oil, Gas Permit Backlog, Speeds Up Reviews Statewide

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has eliminated its oil and gas permit backlog and reduced overall permitting delays by 73% through staffing increases, technology investments, and streamlined processes. PennLive has more.

PA Gaming Revenue Saw 3% Increase in October

Pennsylvania’s gaming revenue for October increased by nearly 3%, totaling $496.6 million, with gains in slot machines, internet gaming, and video gaming terminals, despite a drop in revenue from table games and fantasy contests. Lehigh Valley Business has more.

PA Film Office Awards $9.2M in Tax Credits to Support 12 Productions

The Pennsylvania Film Office has allocated $9.2 million in tax credits to 12 projects, including Netflix’s Tires and Sight & Sound’s A Great Awakening, supporting 2,200 jobs and generating $36.7 million in economic impact. PennLive has more.

Commonwealth Considers Bitcoin Investments Amid Cryptocurrency Debate

Pennsylvania is considering a bill that would allow the state to invest up to 10% of its funds in Bitcoin, despite concerns over the cryptocurrency’s volatility. The Center Square Pennsylvania has more.

Philadelphia

PA Supreme Court Rejects Philadelphia’s Bid for Local Gun Laws

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court rejected Philadelphia’s attempt to pass its own gun laws, ruling that the city’s arguments did not meet the legal standard required to overturn the state’s preemption law. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Philadelphia’s 250th to Cost $100M, $1B Boost in Tourism Expected

The 250th celebration of America’s independence in 2026 is projected to cost Philadelphia $100 million, with city officials anticipating a $1 billion boost in tourism revenue. WHYY has more.

Pittsburgh

Allegheny RAD Approves $141.2M Budget for 2025

The Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD) approved a record $141.2 million budget for 2025, supporting libraries, parks, and cultural organizations, with significant grants for local arts projects and infrastructure. WESA has more.

Social Service Providers Push for Tax Hike to Preserve County Services

Social service providers are urging Allegheny County Council to approve a proposed millage rate increase to preserve funding for vital services, despite opposition from some Council members. WESA has more.

CMU Announces Free Tuition for Families Earning $75K or Less

Carnegie Mellon University will offer free tuition to students from families earning $75,000 or less starting next year through its new CMU Pathway Program. WESA 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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