Jacklyn Isasi

The story of public policy in Pennsylvania in 2015 began with new occupants of three of the most important positions in the Commonwealth’s political structure – Governor Tom Wolf, Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, and House Majority Leader Dave Reed. They took on the leading roles in the on-again, off-again state budget drama that played out over the course of the year, beginning with the Governor’s budget address in March.

Pennsylvania’s state budget situation has reached the point where it now resembles a nightmare road trip with a dysfunctional family.

Every month, millions of Pennsylvanians receive their electric utility bill and I would guess that many of us look at the total, maybe grumble a little, then make a payment and go on with our business. I would also hazard a guess that most consumers don’t know how to read or understand their utility bills, and don’t know exactly what the charges are for or how one could be saving money. Do you know the difference between ‘supplier’ and ‘distributor’? Did you know that you can shop for your electric supplier, but not your distributor? How do you know where you could be saving money on your monthly electric utility bill and which costs are fixed?

As we enter the holiday season, many shoppers are juggling long grocery lists for that big family gathering and long gift lists for their loved ones. For some, this holiday season brings the excitement of shopping, cooking, and gift-wrapping. For others, this holiday season is a precursor to the hefty credit card statement or empty wallet.

“An age-friendly community is a livable community for people of all ages.” – Getty

An eventful Monday before Thanksgiving in Harrisburg with the focus entirely on the State Budget. Governor Wolf spoke before the Pennsylvania Press Club and confirmed that he and the General Assembly have taken a step backwards in working toward an agreement to pass a state budget, which is now almost five months overdue. The framework agreement that appeared to be in place a week ago is no longer acceptable to either side. A method to reduce property taxes is now the main sticking point, as the two sides cannot agree on a formula for implementing the reduction. With that disagreement in mind, the State Senate held a vote on a budget amendment to eliminate property taxes in Pennsylvania. The vote failed 24-25.

Public attention in Harrisburg this week centered on the on-going controversy about Attorney General Kathleen Kane and the behind-the-scenes negotiations to resolve Pennsylvania’s state budget impasse. These issues garnered the headlines, but with the General Assembly continuing to work while awaiting an opportunity to consider a state budget proposal, there were other things being talked about in the halls of the Capitol.

As people gears up for the holiday festivities, scammers are taking advantage of the season to rob people of more than just holiday cheer.

State Budget Movement?

Tuesday, November 3rd was election day and the business of state government slowed this week while the results are analyzed. Let’s join the crowd.