Pennsylvania Perspective for Thursday, September 4, 2025

September 4, 2025

Pennsylvania

Gov. Shapiro Navigates SEPTA Crisis Amid Budget Stalemate

Governor Josh Shapiro (D) is caught between House Democrats and Senate Republicans as he tries to secure long-term funding for SEPTA, which has already cut service and nearly raised fares due to a budget shortfall. Despite political gridlock and accusations from both sides, Gov. Shapiro continues to mediate behind closed doors, aiming for a broader budget deal that includes sustainable transit funding. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

New Bill Proposes Heat Protections for Workers

A new Pennsylvania House bill would require employers to provide paid rest breaks, water, and safety plans when the heat index reaches 80°F, aiming to protect indoor and outdoor workers from rising temperatures driven by climate change. WHYY has more.

PA Opioid Board Holds First Public Session

Pennsylvania’s opioid trust board invited public input for the first time, hearing emotional testimony and policy suggestions from advocates, experts, and families affected by addiction. While officials pledged to consider the feedback, speakers urged deeper reforms to ensure transparency and meaningful community involvement. Spotlight PA has more.

PA Expands Vaccine Authority to Bypass Federal Delays

To counter federal disruptions and restore COVID vaccine access, Pennsylvania now allows pharmacists to follow guidance from leading medical societies, enabling immediate distribution despite conflicting federal restrictions. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Ransomware Attack Disrupts PA AG’s Office

A ransomware attack on Pennsylvania’s Office of Attorney General has delayed court cases and disabled key internal systems, though officials say prosecutions and investigations are continuing as IT teams work to restore access. Spotlight PA has more.

IFO Releases Monthly Revenue, General Fund Status Updates

The Independent Fiscal Office (IFO), the state agency responsible for providing revenue projections and impartial analysis for state legislators, has released its August Monthly Revenue Update and a General Fund Status Update.

Pennie Users Face Steep Premium Hikes Without Federal Action

If Congress allows enhanced American Care Act subsidies to expire, most Pennie enrollees in Pennsylvania could see monthly health insurance premiums rise sharply, with up to 150,000 expected to drop coverage due to affordability concerns. The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has more.

Philadelphia

City’s Novel PHLHousing+ Program Shows Strong Results

Philadelphia’s PHLHousing+ program pilot is outperforming expectations and could serve as a national model for rental assistance, with participants less likely to face eviction, homelessness, or poor housing conditions. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

William Penn Foundation Awards $10M to Counter Federal Funding Cuts

In response to what it calls “unjust policies and actions” under the Trump administration, the William Penn Foundation has issued nearly $10 million in emergency grants to support Philadelphia-area nonprofits facing federal funding threats. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

“Ring It On” Brings Philly Neighborhoods Into 2026 Celebration

Philadelphia launched a citywide initiative to ensure all neighborhoods benefit from the semiquincentennial through public art, community events, and targeted economic investment. City & State Pennsylvania has more.

Gov. Shapiro, Mayor Parker Highlight CTE Training During Dobbins Visit

Gov. Shapiro and Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker (D) visited Dobbins High School to highlight the importance of career and technical education (CTE) as budget talks continue in Harrisburg. The Philadelphia Inquirer has more.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh City Council Approves Tiny Homes for Transitional Housing

Pittsburgh City Council passed a bill allowing construction of “tiny homes” and other interim housing for people experiencing homelessness, though some supporters hope the measure remains unused unless future need arises. WESA has more.

RAD Pass Expands to Year-Round Free Access for Pittsburgh Residents

Allegheny County’s Regional Asset District (RAD) Pass now offers library cardholders free and discounted admission to cultural attractions year-round, aiming to make arts and entertainment more accessible across the region. WESA has more.

Federal

PA Prepared for President Trump to Deploy National Guard, Gov. Shapiro Says

Gov. Shapiro criticized President Donald Trump’s use of troops in cities and said Pennsylvania is prepared for any federal action. He emphasized the state’s investment in crime reduction and warned against disrupting community trust. Meanwhile, state Treasurer Stacy Garrity (R), who launched her 2026 gubernatorial campaign last month, praised President Trump’s tough-on-crime stance.

Reps. Fitzpatrick, Perry Back Bipartisan Push to Ban Congressional Stock Trades

U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) and Scott Perry (R-PA-10) joined a bipartisan coalition to introduce the “Restore Trust in Congress Act,” which would ban members of Congress and their families from owning or trading individual stocks. PoliticsPA has more.

PA Rejects Mid-Decade Redistricting Push

Gov. Shapiro and legislative leaders say Pennsylvania will not be joining other states in redrawing congressional maps before 2030, citing divided government and concerns over election integrity. While legal and political avenues exist, officials agree the effort is off the table for now. Spotlight PA has more.

Mayor Cognetti Launches Bid for PA-08

Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti (D) announced she will run for Pennsylvania’s 8th Congressional District, a seat currently held by U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan (R). She will continue her 2025 mayoral reelection campaign. WVIA has more.

State Rep. Cephas Enters Race for PA-03

State Representative Morgan Cephas (D-Philadelphia) launched her campaign for Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District on Wednesday, becoming the third state lawmaker to join the 2026 Democratic primary following the announcement of U.S. Representative Dwight Evans’ (D) impending retirement. The Philadelphia Inquirer 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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