Pennsylvania News & Current Events

Large confined animal feeding operations can pack more than 125,000 broiler chickens or 82,000 laying hens hundreds into tight spaces, creating ideal conditions for the spread of diseases like bird flu. (Fernando/AdobeStock)

Monday, May 19, 2025

Other states learn from PA's 'bird flu-free' status

By Gabriella Sotelo for Sentient Climate.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News…

Eastern hellbenders reproduce from late August to October, with females laying 150-450 eggs that males guard and oxygenate until they hatch, in 45 to 75 days. (Ondreicka/Adobe Stock)

Friday, May 16, 2025

Protecting PA's eastern hellbender on Endangered Species Day

It is Endangered Species Day, a reminder some plants and wildlife need protection, like Pennsylvania's eastern hellbender. It is the state's …

The Trump administration's fiscal year 2026 budget would eliminate $1.3 billion in National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration grants and research, targeting climate and education programs. (Monica/Adobe Stock)<br />

Trump's proposed budget threatens Chesapeake Bay Restoration efforts in PA

Environmental advocates have warned President Donald Trump's proposed budget could cripple restoration of the Chesapeake Bay. Federal agencies have …

A new report proposes a new oil and gas production fee to fund orphaned well cleanup via an independent authority, stricter enforcement, a fully funded escrow for new wells and an amnesty program for small producers. (AdobeStock)

Report: Appalachian gas production slows, reforms needed to fund well plugging

A new report from the Ohio River Valley Institute argued the oil and gas industry, not taxpayers, should cover the cost of plugging up hundreds of …

Ashlie Crosson, the 2025 National Teacher of the Year, will spend a year representing educators and serving as an ambassador for the teaching profession. (Brett Sims/Council of Chief State School Officers)

PA educator wins National Teacher of the Year award

A high school educator from Pennsylvania has been named National Teacher of the Year, one of the highest honors in the field. The prestigious award …

The proposed state budget boosts opportunities for students by adding $5.5 million to expand Career and Technical Education in schools. (Adobe Stock)

PA ‘Education Advocacy Day’ to focus on public school funding

Pennsylvanians will rally in Harrisburg on Tuesday urging lawmakers to boost public school funding. More than 1.7 million students are enrolled in …

In Pennsylvania, to become a foster parent you must be at least 21, and everyone in your home age 14 and older must pass criminal and child abuse-related background checks. (Mediteraneo/Adobe Stock)

'Forever families' needed for PA children in foster care

CORRECTION: The number of foster care referrals received by Bethany Christian Services is 200 each month. A previous version of the story incorrectly …

Since 2023, the caucus has secured more than $200 million in new Momnibus and maternal-health funding through the federal budget process. That money is now reaching community groups, universities, health providers and researchers nationwide. (Rido/Adobe Stock)

Black maternal health remains focus of PA lawmakers

With Mother's Day coming up, some Pennsylvania lawmakers are backing a set of bills that could help improve maternal health. The Black Maternal …

Pollution in PA worsens amid ongoing clean-vehicle policy debate

Air pollution in Pennsylvania is getting worse, according to a new report citing transportation emissions as the primary culprit. The American Lung …

Advocates say the first year of the Inflation Reduction Act's tax credits for individuals, businesses and nonprofits benefited 160,000 Pennsylvanians and saved more than $260 million. (Adobe Stock)

New map reveals IRA investments boost clean energy projects in Pennsylvania

A new interactive map reveals how recent federal investments from the Inflation Reduction Act are driving clean-energy and climate-resiliency projects…

Pennsylvanians will gather at the Capitol for a policy hearing at 9 a.m. Monday, followed by a rally at 10:15 a.m. Participants will then meet with lawmakers to advocate for a minimum wage increase and immigrants' rights. (Adobe Stock)

PA 'Day of Action' planned for higher minimum wage, immigrants' rights

Thousands are expected to rally in Harrisburg on Monday for a "Raise the Wage and Immigrant Rights Day of Action." More than 47,000 Pennsylvania work…

Inflation from supply chain issues and the risk of a recession have left Pennsylvania business owners unsure how much of a price hike consumers will accept, forcing breweries to decide how much cost they can absorb. (JackF/Adobe Stock)

PA breweries brace for difficult economy with Trump tariffs

By Anna Gustafson for the Pennsylvania Independent.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Pennsylvan…

The Here to Observe and Here to Storytelling program helps students show their workforce skills on their resumes, making it easier for them to succeed when applying for internships, graduate school and jobs. (Gorodenkoff/Adobe Stock)

Funds cut off from Kutztown U.’s NASA program amid DEI crackdown

President Donald Trump's executive order dismantling diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility programs has led to the defunding of Kutztown …

In January, low-wage workers in Pennsylvania missed out on pay hikes seen in 23 other states.<br />(Elementary Coffee Co.)

PA business owner pushes for federal minimum wage hike

Low-wage workers in Pennsylvania haven't seen a minimum-wage increase in more than a decade, but a new bill with bipartisan support would change that…

Of the nearly 956,000 pending cases eligible for jail time in Pennsylvania, about 52% have been assigned to public defenders, based on the latest available records, as of March 2023. (Gorodenkoff/Adobe Stock)

PA public defenders struggle with high caseloads, attorney shortage

More than 60 Pennsylvania counties do not have enough public defenders for their caseloads, forcing some, including in Erie County, to each handle …

A nationwide poll reveals that mental health is a priority for Americans, regardless of political party, with 90% of voters saying expanding mental-health care should be a priority for elected officials. (JenkoAtaman/Adobe Stock)

Report card: PA making steady improvements in student mental health

Pennsylvania is making progress in supporting youth mental health, according to a new report from Inseparable. The state now has about half the …

AARP has created an online pledge people can sign to

Social Security staff cuts could affect one in five Pennsylvanians

Pennsylvanians over age 50 are voicing concerns about the Department of Government Efficiency plans to cut 7,000 jobs from the U.S. Social Security …

Cobbs Creek Ambassadors help clean up the creek in Philadelphia. Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful involves students in programs promoting community pride and environmental education. (Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful)

'Pick Up PA' drives statewide community cleanup efforts for Earth Day, beyond

Across the state, more than 300 Pick Up Pennsylvania environmental events are planned for this Earth Week. Last year, more than 77,000 volunteers …

In 1997, more than 73 million tons of bituminous coal were mined in Pennsylvania, with over 75% coming from underground mines. (creativenature.nl/Adobe Stock)

As Trump backs PA coal revival, critics say it's unlikely

The decades-long decline of Pennsylvania's coal industry could shift in another direction after a series of executive orders by President Donald Trump…

Despite some state space improvements, about 60% of U.S. egg-laying hens are still kept in cramped battery cages, each with less space than a sheet of paper. (Alex/AdobeStock)

Pennsylvania egg brand agrees to drop ‘free-roaming’ label

By Jessica Scott-Reid for Sentient Climate.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public Ne…

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Mining Research Division in Pittsburgh collaborates with the institute's broader mining program to prevent fatalities, injuries and illnesses in every area of the mining industry. (Lost_in_the_Midwest/Adobe Stock)

NIOSH job cuts threaten PA black lung research, safety labs

A union representing Pittsburgh-based workers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is fighting job cuts proposed by the Trump …

There's no cure for seasonal allergies, but prevention and treatment can help ease symptoms. It's estimated pollen allergies cost more than $3 billion a year, nearly half of that for prescription medications. (Adobe Stock)

Sniffles, sneezes: Navigating allergy season in Pennsylvania

The spring blooms may be pretty, but they are not always a welcome sight for Pennsylvanians who suffer from seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies …

Supporters of an expanded Direct File system say it could save Pennsylvanians more than $600 million in combined annual tax-filing fees and additional tax credits claimed directly from the IRS. (Adobe Stock)<br />

IRS Direct File saves PA tax filers time and money

Pennsylvania is among a growing number of states offering residents access to the Internal Revenue Service's free tax filing system, Direct File…

Between 2022 and 2024, about $23 billion was invested in the four-state Appalachian region to manufacture and implement technologies that reduce greenhouse-gas emissions. (winnievinzence/Adobe Stock)

Federal clean energy funds double climate investments in PA

A surge in federal funding has fueled a clean-energy boom in Pennsylvania and across Appalachia, according to a new report. Investments doubled in …

In Pennsylvania, the Children's Health Insurance Program provides an option for children to receive health care. However, losing Medicaid coverage would leave many children across the state without insurance and unable to access the care they need. (RomanR/Adobe Stock)

Groups oppose Medicaid cuts threatening coverage for 3 million PA residents

In Pennsylvania and nationwide, federal safety net programs may face major cutbacks as President Donald Trump's administration pushes for budget …

Around 500 people gathered at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Pa., for a town hall to discuss concerns about potential cuts to Medicaid, SNAP and Social Security. (Anna Gustafson)

PA retirees fear Social Security cuts under President Trump

By Anna Gustafson for the Pennsylvania Independent.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Pennsylvan…

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 24.3% of adults experienced chronic pain in 2023, while 8.5% had chronic pain that often restricted their daily activities or work over the past three months. (jaojormami/Adobe Stock)

PA sees need for pain management specialists

April is National Stress Awareness Month. Stress is the body's way of processing work, personal and family pressures, or other triggers. A new study …

Immigrants are essential to Pennsylvania's economy, comprising 20% of the workforce in life, physical, and social sciences and 11% in food and accommodation services, according to the American Immigration Council. (InputUX/Adobe Stock)

Unaccompanied immigrant kids in PA lose legal representation

Almost 600 children in Pennsylvania, many fleeing abuse or persecution, are being forced to navigate the immigration court system without legal …

This week, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro joined 22 other states plus Washington, D.C., in suing to challenge the Trump Administration's cut of more than $500 million in public health funding. (Adobe Stock)

Saturday 'Hands Off' rallies in PA to protest Trump policies

More than 1,000 protests against President Donald Trump's policies are planned nationwide Saturday, including 98 in Pennsylvania. The "Hands Off" …

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation plans to directly fund and distribute roughly 90,000 trees and critical tree sheltering supplies for Pennsylvania this spring, with an additional 100,000 planned for the fall planting season. (Chesapeake Bay Foundation)

PA to plant 10 million trees to boost Chesapeake Bay water quality

The Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership is helping to get Pennsylvania on track for its Chesapeake Bay pollution reduction goals this year. So far…

Bridges in Pennsylvania get a grade of 'D-plus' on the American Society of Civil Engineers report card, which said the state has the second-highest number of bridges in poor condition compared to other states. (Steven/Adobe Stock)<br /><br /><br /><br />

Report Card: PA gets 'C-minus' for its infrastructure

Pennsylvania gets a grade of "C-minus" in a new Report Card about the condition of America's infrastructure. The American Society of Civil Engineers …

Gov. Josh Shapiro's proposed budget includes a new investment of $20 million through the PENNCARE appropriation, which will enable the Area Agencies on Aging to better meet the needs of older adults. (Adobe Stock)

Pennsylvania faces in-home care crisis amid severe workforce shortages

A lack of access to in-home care in Pennsylvania has reached a crisis point, according to professionals in the field, leaving thousands of residents …

If passed, the bipartisan Farm Ownership Improvement Act would allow the USDA up to two years to create and fully implement a pre-qualification or pre-approval process that addresses the needs of young farmers and ranchers. (asafaric/Adobe Stock)

Bipartisan bill could improve land access for new PA farmers

Despite a federal funding freeze, a newly proposed bipartisan bill in the U.S. Senate could enhance loan programs for farmers. Backers say in …

Students harvest food grown in the school greenhouse and use it for meals in their culinary program's in-house restaurant and cafeteria, creating a sustainable cycle. (Courtesy of Exact Solar)

PA groups urge Congress to preserve clean energy tax incentives

Groups in Pennsylvania are asking Congress to preserve federal clean-energy tax incentives. Concerned about the possible repeal of 30% energy tax …

Aaron Chapin, president of the Pennsylvania State Education Association, was among the speakers at Tuesday's Harrisburg rally. He told the crowd it is

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PA school support staffers push for $20 'living wage'

Amid a severe teacher and staff shortage, school support workers and their union allies rallied Tuesday in Harrisburg for a better living wage…

A new analysis from Energy Innovation reveals lower investment and higher energy bills due to repealing federal programs and tax incentives will cost more than 26,400 Pennsylvania jobs in 2030 and nearly 29,000 jobs in 2035, compared with current policies. (Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Adobe Stock)

Report: IRA repeal could raise Pennsylvania energy costs, threaten jobs

Pennsylvania is among the five states projected to be hit hardest if the Inflation Reduction Act is repealed. A report from the think tank Energy …

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 enables tax-exempt school districts to receive IRS elective payments covering 30% of project costs, plus potential bonuses. (anatoliy_gleb/Adobe Stock)

PA works to counter Trump clean energy rollbacks

The Trump administration's rollback of clean energy progress and climate science is eliciting a strong response from Pennsylvania. Gov. Josh …

Beginning in 2024, the Allegheny County Public Defender's office uses 175% of the Federal Poverty guidelines as income requirements for its clients. (Gorodenkoff/AdobeStock

Audit: Allegheny County public defenders overwhelmed with caseloads

An audit by Allegheny County reveals most public defenders face excessive caseloads and a lack of resources, putting clients at a disadvantage…

In 2021, more than 500 black bears perished on Pennsylvania roadways and 60 of the state's more than 1,400 elk were killed by vehicles. (Pennsylvania Department of Transportation)

Report: Reconnecting habitats protecting Pennsylvania’s native species

A new report highlighted efforts to restore Pennsylvania's wildlife habitats and called for stronger conservation to protect native species. With …

Gov. Josh Shapiro's new budget proposal boosts special education funding by $40 million, raising the total to over $1.5 billion to support high-quality services for students with disabilities and special needs. (nimito/AdobeStock)

PA teachers union opposes Trump plan to dismantle U.S. Department of Education

The Trump administration's effort to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education is facing strong opposition from the Pennsylvania State Education …

An August 2024 KFF analysis found Medicaid covers 3 in 8 Pennsylvania children, 5 in 8 nursing home residents, 2 in 5 people with disabilities, and 1 in 6 adults aged 19-64. (Selene Studio/AdobeStock)

SNAP, Medicaid cuts would strain PA emergency food system

By Anna Gustafson for the Pennsylvania Independent.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Pennsylvan…

A recent Ohio River Valley Initiative report says the Shell petrochemical plant in Beaver County, Pennsylvania, has failed to deliver the promised economic benefits since its announcement more than a decade ago. (Dawid/Adobe Stock)

PA faith leader part of TX protest of oil, gas subsidies

A Buddhist minister from Pennsylvania joined 40 religious leaders in Texas this week to demand an end to fossil-fuel subsidies and expansion of oil an…

Every year AARP Foundation's Tax-Aide volunteers take appointments at more than 3,600 locations in libraries, malls, banks and community centers in all 50 states. (RomanR/AdobeStock)

Free tax prep available across Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania residents who need assistance filing their income tax returns can use the free services of the AARP Foundation's Tax-Aide program…

In Pennsylvania over the past two years, tax credits have helped launch construction on 2,000 new homes and apartments, and facilitated repairs for an additional 3,200 housing units. (Tupungato/Adobe Stock)

$50 million 'whole home repair' funding may address PA housing crisis

Gov. Josh Shapiro's budget includes a $50 million investment for repairs to older homes. A grassroots group supports the idea but said the dollar …

Mail-in and civilian absentee ballots must be received by the county election office no later than 8:00 P.M. on May 20th. On election day, polls will be open from 7:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M (Annap/AdobeStock)<br /><br />

Getting word out to PA voters about voter registration

With Pennsylvania's primary election set for May 20, a nonpartisan group is working to raise awareness about voter registration. Over 8.7 million …

In 2021, House Bill 335 was introduced which would allow Pennsylvania to observe daylight saving time year-round. It passed in the House, but didn't make it through the state Senate. (izzzy71/Adobe Stock)

Expert: Daylight saving time affects PA workers’ health, economy

This Sunday, most of the United States will "spring forward" for daylight saving time, which means losing an hour of sleep. Dr. Deepa Burman…

In 2022, Pennsylvania's K-12 public schools served more than 1.57 million students across nearly 2,700 schools in 499 districts. (JackF/Adobe Stock)

PA teachers union reacts to DEI lawsuit against Dept. of Education

The American Federation of Teachers and the American Sociological Association are suing the Trump administration over threats to defund schools it bel…

In November 2024, the ratio of unemployed workers to job openings climbed back to one-to-one, giving job-seekers less choice of open positions, and employers a greater choice of prospective workers. (Nassorn/Adobe Stock)

Report: PA workforce signals strong economy, tight labor market

A new report showed Pennsylvania's labor market is healthy and strong, with 139,000 more jobs than in early 2020 and a steady unemployment rate of 3.6…

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - May 19, 2025

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Pennsylvania

Other states learn from PA's 'bird flu-free' status

Protecting PA's eastern hellbender on Endangered Species Day

Trump's proposed budget threatens Chesapeake Bay Restoration efforts in PA

Report: Appalachian gas production slows, reforms needed to fund well plugging

PA educator wins National Teacher of the Year award

PA ‘Education Advocacy Day’ to focus on public school funding

'Forever families' needed for PA children in foster care

Black maternal health remains focus of PA lawmakers

Pollution in PA worsens amid ongoing clean-vehicle policy debate

New map reveals IRA investments boost clean energy projects in Pennsylvania

PA 'Day of Action' planned for higher minimum wage, immigrants' rights

PA breweries brace for difficult economy with Trump tariffs

Funds cut off from Kutztown U.’s NASA program amid DEI crackdown

PA business owner pushes for federal minimum wage hike

PA public defenders struggle with high caseloads, attorney shortage

Report card: PA making steady improvements in student mental health

Social Security staff cuts could affect one in five Pennsylvanians

'Pick Up PA' drives statewide community cleanup efforts for Earth Day, beyond

As Trump backs PA coal revival, critics say it's unlikely

Pennsylvania egg brand agrees to drop ‘free-roaming’ label

NIOSH job cuts threaten PA black lung research, safety labs

Sniffles, sneezes: Navigating allergy season in Pennsylvania

IRS Direct File saves PA tax filers time and money

Federal clean energy funds double climate investments in PA

Groups oppose Medicaid cuts threatening coverage for 3 million PA residents

PA retirees fear Social Security cuts under President Trump

PA sees need for pain management specialists

Unaccompanied immigrant kids in PA lose legal representation

Saturday 'Hands Off' rallies in PA to protest Trump policies

PA to plant 10 million trees to boost Chesapeake Bay water quality

Report Card: PA gets 'C-minus' for its infrastructure

Pennsylvania faces in-home care crisis amid severe workforce shortages

Bipartisan bill could improve land access for new PA farmers

PA groups urge Congress to preserve clean energy tax incentives

PA school support staffers push for $20 'living wage'

Report: IRA repeal could raise Pennsylvania energy costs, threaten jobs

PA works to counter Trump clean energy rollbacks

Audit: Allegheny County public defenders overwhelmed with caseloads

Report: Reconnecting habitats protecting Pennsylvania’s native species

PA teachers union opposes Trump plan to dismantle U.S. Department of Education

SNAP, Medicaid cuts would strain PA emergency food system

PA faith leader part of TX protest of oil, gas subsidies

Free tax prep available across Pennsylvania

$50 million 'whole home repair' funding may address PA housing crisis

Getting word out to PA voters about voter registration

Expert: Daylight saving time affects PA workers’ health, economy

PA teachers union reacts to DEI lawsuit against Dept. of Education

Report: PA workforce signals strong economy, tight labor market