PA Capitol Digest Blog

DEP Secretary: Budget Does Something Very Important- No Staff Layoffs

2012-03-06T18:30:00.000-05:00

Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Krancer underwent nearly three hours of questions about his agency's 2012-13 proposed budget from members of the House Appropriations Committee today. Most of the questions were the same as those from the Senate budget hearing.

Secretary Krancer said one of the most important accomplishments in this budget is that it funds the agency programs without any staff furloughs. In contrast, Gov. Rendell's last budget resulted in taking DEP's budget back to 1994-95 levels and layoffs at DEP and DCNR. Click Here for the full summary.

Tuesday NewsClips

2012-03-06T06:33:00.001-05:00

Senate Moves To Restrict Lawmakers' Use Of Nonprofits
Senate Committee Moves Voter ID Bill To Floor
Voter Photo ID Bill Heads To Senate Floor
Opponents Rally Against PA Voter ID Bill
Veon Guilty On 10 Counts
Inmate Veon Convicted Of Felony Theft
Attorney: Veon Conviction Miscarriage Of Justice
Orie Ex-Aide Says Political Work Came First
Staffers Made Calls As Orie, Ex-Aide Testifies
Altmmire Wins Petition Challenge, Will Stay On Ballot
Judge Removes Democrat Marin From Erie Congressional Ballot
Independent Announces For Mercer House District
Corbett Budget Would Decrease State Grants To College Students
Disagrement Over Corbett Budget: Increase, Decrease In School Funding
Legislators, Education Secretary Spar Over Corbett Budget
Mild Winter May Yield PennDOT Budget Surplus
Editorial: Closing Delaware Loophole Makes Sense
Filing Fees Rise In Allegheny County Courts
Editorial: Time, Finally, To Clear Air On Smoking Ban
Op-Ed: Privatization Of Youth Services Would Save Millions
Op-Ed: Protect Patient Safety
Superior Court Set For Scranton Next Week
Harrisburg School District Faces $15 Million Budget Deficit
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Veon Convicted By Jury In 10 Of 15 Charges

2012-03-05T12:17:00.000-05:00

Former Rep. Mike Veon Guilty On 10 Of 15 Charges
Veon Guilty On 10 Counts
Veon Convicted By Jury in Second Corruption Trial

Monday NewsClips

2012-03-05T06:20:00.000-05:00

Speaker: Supreme Court Rulings Make Case For Merit Selection
Redistricting Confusion Aids Lucky Few
Despite Open Records Law, Barriers Remain
Calls Continue For Orie Sister To Leave Bench
Gambling Addiction A New Problem For Counties
Senators Lining Up Against Higher Education Cuts
School Districts: Cuts Jeopardizes School Busing
Revive adultBasic Health Insurance Corbett Urged
Survey: Nearly All Counties Likely To OK Drilling Fee
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Sunday NewsClips

2012-03-04T06:36:00.000-05:00

Political Donors Got Plenty Of PennDOT Stimulus Money
Orie Sisters Ordered Cover-Up, Former Aid Testifies
Orie Says Politics Was Kept Out Of Legislative Office
Bumsted: Vignettes From Veon Trial
Egg Sandwich Fight Goes Too Far
Parents Decry State Education Cuts
Op-Ed: Ways To Maintain Education Programs Without Deep Cuts
Editorial: HACC Too Valuable To Scramble For Money
Hurdle Rises For In-State Students As Colleges Court Out-Of-Staters
Governor's Higher-Education Panel To Meet March 12
Op-Ed: For Many Students, Playing Field Isn't Level For Tuition
Editorial: State-Related Colleges Key Engine
Proposed Welfare Cuts Cause Confusion
LCB Puts Fine Wines, Spirits At Tips Of Fingers
Editorial: PA's Tax Burden, Slay Leviathan
Op-Ed: Corbett Wants Health Insurance On His Terms
Budget Proposal Would Extend Aid To Adoptive Families
Texting While Driving Ban Takes Effect This Week
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Saturday NewsClips

2012-03-03T06:48:00.000-05:00

Political Reality Tripping Up Fiscal Rhetoric
Nursing Homes Fear Further Funding Cuts
2 Years Later, Still Bickering Over Prevailing Wage
Corbett Tells Higher Education To Control Costs
Corbett Higher Education Commission To Meet March 12
BCCC President Makes Case For Community College Funding
Students Call For Lower Tuition, Debt Forgiveness
LCB Still Tallying What It Owes In Overcharges
Mundy Preparing New Corporate Loophole Bill
Editorial: Time To Throw Delaware For A Loop
Editorial: The Dangers Of Fundraising Judges
Editorial: Choosing Judges Requires Higher Standard
Rendell: Bid To Buy Philly Newspapers In
Jury Ends Week Without Verdict In Veon Trial
Jury To Resume Deliberating Monday In Veon Trial
Former Speaker Perzel Faces Sentencing March 21
Defense Grills Orie's Former Aide About Memos
Aide Testifies Orie Documents Were Altered
Witness Against Orie Spars With The Defense
Altimire May Hear By Monday Whether He Remains On Ballot
Critz Questions Altmire Staffer's Legal Place Of Residence
Businesses Must Absorb Higher Fuel Costs Or Raise Prices
New Bottling Plant To Add 110 Jobs In Eastern PA
Click Here for today's Environmental News

March 5 PA Environment Digest Now Available

2012-03-02T20:50:00.000-05:00

March 5 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.

DCNR Secretary: Elimination Of Keystone Funds Is Permanent

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan told the House Appropriations Committee Tuesday the transfer of over $38 million from the Keystone, Parks and Conservation Fund to the General Fund is not just a one-time transfer, but is proposed to be permanent.

Friday NewsClips

2012-03-02T06:45:00.000-05:00

February Revenue Collections Contain Bright Spot
House Speaker To Set Elections For 6 Vacant Seats
Republicans Speak Defiantly But Schedule Special Elections
Reapportionment Commission Meeting Delayed, Not Rescheduled
Will PA Judges Merit Selection In Future?
Faculty Union Takes Whack At Corbett's Education Plan
Health Plan's Demise Costs PA More Advocates Say
Loss Of adultBasic Leaves Hefty Gap
Veon Corruption Case Goes To Jury
Prosecutor Compares Veon To Masked Bank Robber
Aide: Orie Ordered Campaign Work
Witness Tells Of Orie Coverup Scheme
Editorial: Prison Reformers Have Great Intentions
Revised Unemployment Rate Means Monthly Dip
PA Jobless Rate Falls Again To 7.6 Percent
January Jobless Rate Mostly Same
Health Secretary Gives His Side Of Egg Sandwich Flap
State Judge Says She Is Likely To Approve HBG Receiver's Plan
Harrisburg Receiver Seeks Court Approval For Asset Sales
Harrisburg Residents Facing Higher Parking Costs
Click Here for today's Environmental News

House Speaker: Court Is Tipping The Scales Of Power In Their Own Favor

2012-03-01T17:53:00.000-05:00

In a lengthy statement Thursday in reaction to the PA Supreme Court's decision ordering special elections to fill vacant House seats, House Speaker Sam Smith (R-Jefferson) said--

"The opinion by the majority of the court seems intent on creating a constitutional collision between two of the three constitutionally created co-equal branches of government. Make no mistake, they are tipping the scales of power in their own favor.

"In establishing their position, the majority of the court has added new language to the constitution without the authority to do so. They have ignored U. S. Supreme Court rulings, as they ignored their own precedent in the recent reapportionment ruling. They also issued an order that tramples state and federal law. Notably, they did all of this without briefs being issued and without listening to any oral arguments. It appears that their minds were made up before the complaint was verified.

"While the court rightly expresses concern for those citizens of the six districts that are currently vacant, it showed no concern for the thousands of voters deprived of equal representation, many of whom have special minority status under the Voting Rights Act, in its order on the reapportionment plan recently discarded by this same majority. That decision requires elections to be held in districts that, based on the 2010 census numbers, are wildly and undeniably unconstitutional.

"How the citizens' rights to equal representation in these six districts outweighs the rights of Hispanic and Latino citizens and those citizens who currently live in legislative districts that are 20,000 to 30,000 people over the lowest populated districts is unexplained by this same majority of the court. The solution that was legally consistent, and made common sense, was clearly articulated in the dissenting opinion of Justice Saylor which, if endorsed by the majority of the court, would have avoided this crisis.

"Perhaps someday, the agenda of this activist majority will be unveiled. In the meantime, this order compromises the election process because candidates for these special elections will need to be selected and certified, counties will need to set up for the special elections in an abbreviated time frame and those who vote by absentee ballot, especially military personnel serving overseas, will have their opportunity to vote placed in jeopardy.

"This order is not a setback for Republicans, nor an advantage for Democrats for that matter, since it will not affect the overall makeup of the House. It is, however, a setback for hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians because these elections should be called in districts that comply with the Constitution.

"Understanding that there are competing mandates in the Constitution, it is impossible to establish a perfect map. The more equal one makes the population of each district, the more one must split municipal and county lines, yet this court chose to invalidate a 'better' map while pretending it can achieve the perfect map. That decision is what triggered the legal quandary we are now facing.

"That being said, and in the face of an over-reaching court, my refusal to call these six special elections will only insure a constitutional crisis not of my making. Therefore, in an attempt to avoid that crisis, I will issue the writs of election. However, let me be clear, the court's majority has re-written the Constitution, ignored the clear intention of the law to exercise its own will and advanced its own veiled agenda at the expense of thousands of citizens of the Commonwealth."

February State Revenue Collections $15.6 Million Below Estimates

2012-03-01T17:50:00.003-05:00

Pennsylvania collected $1.7 billion in General Fund revenue in February, which was $15.6 million, or 0.9 percent, more than anticipated, Secretary of Revenue Daniel Meuser reported Thursday. Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $15.5 billion, which is $481.6 million, or 3 percent, below estimate.

Sales tax receipts totaled $623.7 million for February, $6.5 million below estimate. Year-to-date sales tax collections total $5.8 billion, which is $35.7 million, or 0.6 percent, more than anticipated.

Personal income tax revenue in February was $812.8 million, $36.2 million above estimate. This brings year-to-date PIT collections to $6.5 billion, which is $175.3 million, or 2.6 percent, below estimate.

February corporation tax revenue of $64.2 million was $9.7 million, below estimate. Year-to-date corporation tax collections total $1.4 billion, which is $296.5 million, or 17.8 percent, below estimate.

Inheritance tax revenue for the month was $64.9 million, $1.8 million above estimate, bringing the year-to-date total to $525.6 million, which is $9.5 million, or 1.8 percent, below estimate.

Realty transfer tax revenue was $15.1 million for February, $1 million below estimate, bringing the fiscal-year total to $190.6 million, which is $10.8 million, or 5.4 percent, less than anticipated.

Other General Fund tax revenue, including cigarette, malt beverage, liquor and table games taxes, totaled $107 million for the month, $300,000 below estimate and bringing the year-to-date total to $980.4 million, which is $6.9 million, or 0.7 percent, above estimate.

Non-tax revenue totaled $15.6 million for the month, $4.9 million below estimate, bringing the year-to-date total to $148.3 million, which is $32.2 million, or 17.8 percent, below estimate.

In addition to the General Fund collections, the Motor License Fund received $164.8 million for the month, $5.4 million above estimate. Fiscal year-to-date collections for the fund – which include the commonly known gas and diesel taxes, as well as other license, fine and fee revenues – total $1.6 billion, which is $8.1 million, or 0.5 percent, above estimate.

Thursday NewsClips

2012-03-01T06:35:00.000-05:00

PA Supreme Court Orders House Special Elections
Court Orders Special Elections To Fill House Seats
Elections Ordered For 6 Vacant House Seats
Court Overturns Malpractice Fund Ruling
PA High Court Overturns Malpractice Fund Ruling
Penn State Branch Campuses Vulnerable In PA Budget
No State Support Would Lead To Different Penn State
College Students Set Protests Today Over Budget Cuts
Lawmakers, University Leaders Discuss Funding Cuts
LCCC's Problems Addressed, Chief Says
Corbett's Education Spending Hike Covers Pensions
Legislators Join Forum Protesting Public School Cuts
Disabled Advocates Protest Welfare Cuts
Question: When Will Governor Have Transportation Funding Plan?
Corbett Administration Shuts Off Elevators To Handicapped Protesters
Column: How LCB Is Like The Sopranos
State Stores Could Have Overcharged Customers
PA Companies Carry Heaviest Tax Burden
Defense Rests In Veon Trial
Veon Trial: Nonprofit Agency Contract Raised No Ethical Flags
Orie Knows Too Much About Court System To Commit Forgeries
Orie Corruption Retrials At Opposite Ends
Prosecution Has No Evidence Linking Orie To Fraud
In New Orie Trial, Key Witnesses Are First
Court: DeWeese Allowed To Stay On Ballot After Conviction
Feese Begins Serving Prison Term For Computergate Scandal
FBI Said To Probe Pay To Fattah's Son
House GOP Puts Brakes On Abortion Bill
Harrisburg Officials File Objection To State Recovery Plan
Click Here for today's Environmental News

MCARE Ruling Reversed By PA Supreme Court

2012-02-29T18:27:00.000-05:00

Also today, the PA Supreme Court reversed a Commonwealth Court ruling which would have required the General Assembly to return about $800 million to the MCARE Fund used to pay the malpractice insurance of some doctors. The money instead was used to balance the state budget in FY 2009-10. A copy of the decision is available online.

PA Supreme Court Orders House Special Elections

2012-02-29T18:24:00.000-05:00

In a 4-3 decision, the PA Supreme Court ordered House Speaker Sam Smith to hold six special elections for vacant House seats on Primary Election day April 24. In their opinion, the Court also waived the usual 60 day waiting period before special elections can be held.
The vote again put Chief Justice Ron Castille on the side of the three Democratic members of the Cour, just like the decision to reject the House and Senate redistricting plan developed by the Legislative Reapportionment Commission.

Wednesday NewsClips

2012-02-29T06:29:00.000-05:00

Public Welfare Secretary Goes Under The Budget Microscope
Welfare Secretary Grilled On Required Cuts
Welfare Cuts Get Scrutiny
Welfare Secretary Defends Proposed Funding Cuts
Corbett's Welfare Cuts Draw Anger From Democrats
State System Schools Make Their Budget Case
14 State-Owned Universities Fear Impact Of Budget Cuts
Editorial: Powerful GOP Senator Opposes Higher Ed Cuts
Editorial: Let's Call State-Related Universities' Bluff
LCB Launches App For Wine, Spirits
Veon Trial To Shift To Defense Today
Judge Upholds Charges In Veon Case
3rd Democrat Emerges In Attorney General Race
Sen. Folmer Back To Work After Cancer Treatment
AG Launches Prescription Drug Abuse Program For Kids
Receiver's Plan For Harrisburg Not Much Different
Click Here for today's Environmental News

House Appropriations Committee Changes DEP Budget Hearing To March 6

2012-02-28T20:16:00.002-05:00

House Appropriations Committee changes DEP budget hearing to March 6 at 3:00.

Tuesday NewsClips

2012-02-28T06:39:00.000-05:00

Corman Wants To Retain Higher Ed Funds
Corman: I Want To Restore All Higher Ed Funding
Corman Advocates Against Higher Ed Funding Cuts
California U President Fears Effects Of More Cuts
Leaders Gather Support To Change HACC Funding
Op-Ed: Where's The Return On Higher Ed Investment?
Op-Ed: Tuition Increases Could Price Students Out Of College
Op-Ed: Stop The School Cuts
House, LCB Talk Modernization, Not Privatization
Editorial: Lottery Sales In Private Wine Stores
Blake Outlines Local Sale Tax Option Bill
PA Inmates To Return From Virginia By End Of March
Editorial: Health Secretary's Breakfast Tiff Costs Taxpayers Money
Six Jurors Selected In Orie's Corruption Trial
Jurors Selected For Orie's Second Corruption Trial
Prosecution Moves To Withdraw Some Veon Charges
Prosecutors Wrapping Up Veon's 2nd Corruption Trial
LaValle: Veon Rarly Consulted Him About Nonprofit Operations
Veon Defense On Deck
Latino Activists Rally Over Redistricting Maps
Sen. Costa To Seek Fifth Term
Gay Candidates Run Openly For State House
Op-Ed: Politicians Who Make, Keep Promises Rare Breed
Westmoreland Dems Endorse Altmire For 12th
Editorial: Santorum's Throw-Up
Impact Of Philly Refinery Closure Detailed
Report: Fuel Markets Significantly Impacted By Refinery Shutdown
Editorial: PA Also Has An Anti-Abortion Bill Ready
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Monday NewsClips

2012-02-27T06:23:00.000-05:00

Corbett Budget Cuts Funding For Libraries
Corbett's Budget Could Cost Municipalities Fine Revenue
State Treasurer Eyes Comprehensive Financing Changes
Republicans Back Changes To Delaware Loophole
John Baer: Watching PA Politics Is Capitol Punishment
Jury Selection To Begin Today For Orie Trial
She Made A Legislative Map And Sense
Population Shift Causes Need For New District Lines
Crime Scene Training Center To Open At NCC
Millions Of Pennsylvanians Using Health Care Reform Benefit
Editorial: Anti-Abortion Bill Ultra Unsound
Sunoco, PA Officials Clash Over Marcus Hook Refinery
Sunoco Chief Meets With Local Officials
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Sunday NewsClips

2012-02-26T07:37:00.000-05:00

GOP Eyes Tax Provisions After Blocking Dems
Editorial: Primary Confusion, Right To Keep Same Districts
Santorum Tied To Specter
Voters Say Santorum Can't Beat Obama
Cong. Kelly: Pace Of DC Politics Frustrating
PA Manufacturers Assn. Leader Has Cout With GOP Hierarchy
More On Line For Sen. Orie In Second Trial
Bumsted: Trying John Gallo At Veon Trial
John Micek: Politics As Usual
Agencies Supporting Seniors Learning To Do More With Less
PennDOT: Rural Roads Subsidized More Than Transit
Casinos Work To Improve Quality Of Communities
Erie Casino Celebrates 5 Years, Prepares For Ohio Competition
Pennsylvania Works Hard To Woo Businesses
Editorial: Exemptions Are Fouling Workplace Air
Rank And File Among The Best Paid In State Prisons
Op-Ed: Patient Safety Must Be Priority For Insurers
Op-Ed: Could Politicians Be As Accountable As Public Schools?
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Saturday NewsClips

2012-02-25T06:52:00.000-05:00

Witness: Veon Nonprofits's Office Was Empty, Idle
Staff Worked Alone In Veon Nonprofit Office
DeWeese's Petition To Have Name On Ballot Challenged
Poll: PA Voters Take Another Look At Santorum
Specter Says Santorum Not Telling Truth About Political Deal
Pitt Trustees Remain Critical Of Corbett's Budget Cuts
Lottery Sales Discussed For Liquor Stores
PA Court: Uninsured Drivers Can Sue For Injuries
Debt Watch To Hold Forum On Fiscal Plan For Harrisburg
Op-Ed: Harrisburg Business Community Goes Forward
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Feb. 27 PA Environment Digest Now Available

2012-02-24T20:44:00.000-05:00

Feb 27 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.

DEP Secretary: I'm Bullish About This Budget And In Our Ability To Deliver
Secretary of Environmental Protection Michael Krancer told the Senate Appropriations Committee Wednesday DEP has the resources and personnel to properly regulate and protect pubic health and safety and the environment in all areas of the department, including Marcellus Shale. "I'm bullish about this budget and in our ability to deliver."

A copy of Secretary Krancer's formal budget statement is available online and a summary appears below. Video of the Senate budget hearings for the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources and Department of Environmental Protection are available online.

Friday NewsClips

2012-02-24T06:51:00.000-05:00

Corbett Criticizes Rendell Bid For Philly Papers
Corbett Blasted Rendell For Capitol Renovations, Now He Does It
Auditor General Again Says Turnpike Carrying Too Much Debt
Editorial: Baby Steps To Help Distressed Municipalities
Bullet Breaks Window At State Capitol
Sen. Mike Folmer Has Treatable Cancer
Allentown's House Seat Uncontested
Democrats Step Up Attacks In U.S. House Race
Toomey Speaks Up In GOP Presidential Campaign
Veon Gave Harrisburg Law Firm $4,000/Month
Aide Says He Secured Salary For Veon's Brother
Feds Conducting Separate Sandusky, Penn State Investigation
Hospital Infection Rates Inch Lower
Hospital Infections Fewer, But Still Costly
Harrisburg Gasoline Prices Likely To Rise
Gasoline Expected to Rise This Weekend
Motion Filed To Prevent Implementation Of HBG Recovery Plan
Editorial: Harrisburg Could Use Some County Gaming Money
City Council To Seek Distressed Status For Altoona
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Thursday NewsClips

2012-02-23T06:35:00.001-05:00

New Maps For House, Senate Districts Delayed Again
No Agreement Yet On Legislative District Maps
Senate GOP Leader: No Change In District Lines For Primary
Redistricting Plan Changes Not Likely To Change Primary
Editorial: One More Strike Against Gerrymandering
State-Related Universities Decry Proposed Budget Cuts
State-Related Universities Defend Getting State Funding
Universities Urge Lawmakers To Limit State Funding Cuts
State-Related Universities Make Their Case On Budget
Editorial: Will Penn State Make Strides To Transparency
Corbett Proposes $55 Million In Capitol Complex Repairs
Philly: State Budget Health Cuts A Recipe For Disaster
Editorial: Corbett's Foster Care Plan Would Be Win-Win
Witness: Veon Nonprofit Had Office For State Employee

Veon's Ex-Chief Of Staff To Testify

Brothers To Square Off At Veon Trial

Activist Files Mellow Complaint Over Use Of Campaign Funds

Column: PA Is Overdue For Its 2nd President As Santorum Surges

Santorum Soars Past Romney In Pennsylvania

Harrisburg Authority OKs Selling Historial Artifacts

Click Here for today's Environmental News

DEP Secretary: I'm Bullish About This Budget And In Our Ability To Deliver

2012-02-22T17:59:00.001-05:00

Secretary of Environmental Protection Michael Krancer told the Senate Appropriations Committee Wednesday DEP has the resources and personnel to properly regulate and protect pubic health and safety and the environment in all areas of the department, including Marcellus Shale. "I'm bullish about this budget and in our ability to deliver."

A copy of Secretary Krancer's formal budget statement is available online. Click Here for the complete summary of the hearing.

Wednesday NewsClips

2012-02-22T06:29:00.000-05:00

Redistricting Panel Meets Over House, Senate Maps
People In Unrepresented House Districts Want Special Elections
Senate To Drop High-End Health Coverage
Revenue Secretary Sidesteps Closing Tax Loopholes
Revenue Secretary Outlines Internet Sales Tax Strategy
LCB Works To Increase Revenue, With Privatization Bleak
Corbett Plan To Cut Pension Watchdog Questioned
Penn State, Other Colleges To Make Pitch For More Funding
School District Approves Ads Inside Buses
Philly Takes $42 Million Hit In Corbett Budget Plan
PA Docs Oppose Mandatory Ultrasound Anti-Abortion Bill
Veon Nonprofit, Legislative Funds Were Intertwined
Critz Challenges Altmire Petition Signatures
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Tuesday NewsClips

2012-02-21T06:28:00.001-05:00

Town May Lose Ticket Revenue Under Corbett Budget
Officials: Privatizing Prisons Not An Option In PA
Editorial: Cobett's Austere Budget Hurts College Students
Changes In PA Food Stamp Program Draw Ire
PA Lags Behind Other States In Online Lottery Sales
Analysis: PA In Play For Presidential Primary
Veon Trial To Resume Tuesday
Convict Files Anew To Run For House Seat
Abortion Bills Stirs Up Tempest
Op-Ed: Child Protection Task Force Must Produce More Than Report
Highmark, Verizon Pair Up On Medical Records
Rendell's Vow Of Silence On Newspapers Lasts 2 Days
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Monday NewsClips

2012-02-20T06:33:00.000-05:00

State Offices, Capitol Closed For Presidents' Day
State Commission To Meet This Week On Redistricting
Casey No Longer Seen As Quite So Vulnerable
John Baer: Santorum? Really? Are They Nuts?
With LCB, Modernize Replacing Privatize
Op-Ed: Where's Pennsylvania's Transportation Plan?
Not Enough In Corbett Budget To Help Distressed Municipalities
School Workers Challenge Background Checks
Editorial: Prison Reform, Lockup Logic
PA Among Safest States to Fall Behind On Credit Cards
Rendell: From Now On, No Comment On Philly Papers
Op-Ed: What If Powers-That-Be Own Philly Newspapers?
Op-Ed: How Is Harrisburg Going To Find A Qualified COO?
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Sunday NewsClips

2012-02-19T07:12:00.000-05:00

Map Mania: Ruling Roils 2012 Politics
Democrats Increase Pressure For Special Election
LCB On Course To Modernize Instead Of Privatize
Editorial: Liquor Control, Kill The Beast
Editorial: Parallel Tracks On Liquor Reform Risks Derailment
Editorial: Higher Education Turf Politics Must Go
Bumsted: Veon? The Political Prisoner?
Editorial: Update, Fix Campaign Law
Editorial: Ethics Law Needs To Be Tightened
Schools: Games Of Chance Will Burden Booster Clubs
Right-To-Know Law Could Get Costly If New Fees Added
Bill Would Help Track Prescription Drug Use
Federal Investigators Take Look At Highmark's Acquisition Plans
Rendell Says Bid For Papers Still On
Western PA Rates Well In Job Creation, Economy
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Saturday NewsClips

2012-02-18T07:41:00.000-05:00

Governor Fires Back At Dems Over Transportation Funding
Corbett: Gripes About Transportation Funding Ballsy
Corbett Defends Budget
Editorial: Corbett's Welfare Cuts Could Be Too Drastic
Editorial: LCB Bill Sounds Like Private Sector
House Dems Wants To Move Ahead With Special Elections
Voters File Lawsuit To Force House Special Elections
It's A Lonely Primary For Many Lawmakers
Report: Health Care For Women In Jail Varies Widely
Editorial: County Jails Neglect Female Inmates' Health Care
Editorial: Dead People Left On Voter Rolls
Attorney General: Kane Calls On Murphy To Take Bar Exam
Rep. Smith Failed To Disclose Debts As Required
Court: New DNA Analysis Accepted Statewide
PA Casinos Work To Broaden Appeal
Health Secretary Moves Egg Sandwich Dispute To Federal Court
LCCC Officials Near Deadline To Meet Standards
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Feb. 20 PA Environment Digest Now Available

2012-02-17T20:14:00.002-05:00

Feb 20 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.

DCNR Budget Hearing: No New Drilling Leases Planned For State Forests

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee Thursday for a little over an hour answering questions about DCNR's proposed FY 2012-13 budget.

As usual, the Committee dispensed with Secretary Allan's prepared remarks. Here are some of the highlights from the questions asked--

Drilling Leases: There are no plans to lease additional State Forest Land, but if they would, they would follow the recommendations of the Governor's Marcellus Shale Commission to only do leases where they leave little or no surface impact.

Of the 812 well permits have been approved by DCNR on State Forest land, 778 Marcellus Shale wells have been permitted by DEP, 442 wells have been drilled and there are 152 producing wells.

DCNR anticipates receiving $65 million in FY 2012-13 in royalties and rents from drilling, Secretary Allan said. He said there may be some decrease in drilling revenues in the next year or so with lower natural gas prices.

In response to a question, Secretary Allan said the agency professionals are constantly monitoring drilling companies to make sure they comply with their leases and agency best management practices. He said so far, the drillers have been good stewards and have minimized their impacts on State Forest lands.

Drilling In State Parks: DCNR has a policy that there will be no drilling in State Parks where the state owns the mineral rights, Secretary Allan said. Unfortunately, he said, the state owns mineral rights on only 20 percent of the land in State Parks and on 80 percent in State Forests. He said DCNR will look to enforce their guidelines and best management practices on drillers on State Park land and other areas where they don't own mineral rights to make sure any surface impacts are minimized.

State Parks: In spite of budget constraints, Secretary Allan said, DCNR anticipates being able to keep all State Parks open and available for residents, but acknowledged there may be some changes in some services offered, such as the hours in some parks.

Secretary Allan said an updated economic study shows for every dollar invested, State Parks bring in $12 for a total of $1.1 billion of economic activity annually and they support over 13,000 jobs in and around the parks.

Keystone Fund: The proposed transfer of all DCNR revenues from the Keystone, Parks and Conservation Fund to the General Fund, Secretary Allan said, will require the agency to look to other sources of monies to support their operations, like the Oil and Gas Fund, the Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund and the new drilling fee revenue.

He said he advised the Governor's Office the reduction in funding will require the agency to put off some maintenance projects and reduce the funding going for grants.

Secretary Allan said he believes in the future there will be more revenue in the Oil and Gas Fund and from the new drilling fee to replace at least some of the Keystone Fund monies. Click Here for more....

Friday NewsClips

2012-02-17T06:24:00.000-05:00

PA April Primary Ballot Taking Shape
NE Legislative Races Will Have Contests
Mundy Only Area Rep With Primary Opponent
3 Veteran Midstate Legislators Face Challenges
Candidates Abound For Legislative Seats
Raja To Run Again, Seek Pippy Senate Seat
Elections Sought For House Vacancies
House Democrat Wants To Move Ahead With Special Elections
LCB Privatization Gets Short Shrift At Budget Hearing
State Police Commissioner: Some Barracks Could Close
25 More State Troopers In NE Shale Region
Editorial: Capital Budget Funds Must Be Kept Under Control
Prosecutor: Veon Used Public Money For Private Purposes
Veon: Nonprofit Checks Meant Trouble
Prosecutors Portray Veon As Greedy Politician
Is Mike Veon A Crook Or A Victim?
Auditor General To Probe Contracts With State Hospitals
Prescription Monitoring System Eyed
PA Slips To 14th In Union Membership
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Thursday NewsClips

2012-02-16T06:34:00.001-05:00

Department Of State Lists 2012 Primary Candidates
All Major Presidential Candidates Will Be On PA Ballot
House Capital Budget Bill Debate Focuses On Jobs
Editorial: No Thanks Grover, Officials Wrong On No-Tax Pledge
Auditor General: Proposed Budget Would Force Layoffs
Analysis: Taking Baby Steps On Fixing Roads, Bridges
PA Jails Provide Limited Health Care To Women
Dauphin County: Cuts Would Cripple Mental Health Programs
Op-Ed: Public Universities In PA Must Be Supported
Special Report: Paying For Education By The Numbers
Struggling Pittsburgh Schools Pay Lobbyists $400,000
Analyst: Schools' Budget Options Scarcer
Anti-Gun Control Bill Speeding Through Legislature
Veon's 2nd Corruption Trial To Start Today
Defense Lawyer Compares Veon To Nelson Mandela
Veon's Lawyer Calls Him Political Prisoner
Pretrial Motions Delay Start Of Veon Trial
PA Foreclosure Filings Jump 24 Percent In Year
Click Here for today's PA Environmental News

Wednesday NewsClips

2012-02-15T06:30:00.000-05:00

Corbett Signs 3 Energy Sector Bills
Corbett Defends Higher Ed Cuts
Op-Ed: Corbett's Budget Is A Welcome Change
Op-Ed: Corbett To State: Pick Your Poison
Prevailing Wage Bill Collapses In House
Governor Approves KOZ Extension
Editorial: Unemployment Compensation Fraud Priority
Valley Forge Casino Set To Open March 31
Orie Sisters To Be Tried Separately
Orie Sisters To Be Tried Separately Judge Rules
Judge Denies Request For Orie Special Prosecutor
Veon Trial Could Begin Wednesday
12 Jurors Selected In Veon Case
Veon Lawyer Calls Case Pure Politics
Veon, Aide Facing Corruption Trial
Man Charged With Threatening Eastern PA Judge
Candidates File To Run In PA Primary
GOP Questions Timing Of Rep. Hornaman's Retirement
NE Congressional Races Will Have Contests
DEP Hopeful Buyer Will Emerge For ConocoPhillips Refinery
Gasoline Could Reach $5 By July 4
Court To Hold Hearing On Harrisburg's Fiscal Plan
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Tuesday NewsClips

2012-02-14T06:36:00.000-05:00

Pileggi: Primary May Be Moved
Redistricting Mess Has Some In Limbo
Corbett Signs Marcellus Shale Fee Into Law
Corbett Not Afraid To Exercise Muscle On Penn State Board
CCAC Presidents Says He'll Donate Bonus
CCAC President To Give $20K Bonus To Help Charities
Federal Funding Would Help Community Colleges
Pittsburgh Students Ask Governor To Make Education Priority
PA Hopes To Collect $50 Million In Internet Sales Tax
Corbett Would Bank Unanticipated Revenue, Not Spend It
Corbett Combines Social Services Spending To Save Money
NE Senators Tangle Over Budget Priorities
Prevailing Wage Bill Advances In House
Orie Attorney Asks For Special Prosecutor
Orie Wants Alleged Leaks Probed
Jury Selection Begins In Second Trial For Veon
Penn State Spent $3.2 Million On Sandusky Case So Far
Raja Considers Running For Pippy's Senate Seat
Allegheny County Democrats Choose Altmire For Congress
Lancaster Judge Accused Of Dismissing Own Tickets
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Corbett Signs Marcellus Shale Drilling, Fee Bill Into Law

2012-02-13T20:01:00.002-05:00

Gov. Tom Corbett Monday signed House Bill 1950 (Ellis-R-Butler), the Marcellus Shale bill, into law. The bill enhances protection of our natural resources through stronger environmental standards, authorizes counties to adopt an impact fee, and builds upon efforts to help move Pennsylvania toward energy independence.

The historic measure is the first comprehensive re-write of the state’s Oil and Gas Act since 1984. It contains much of what Corbett outlined in his Marcellus Shale proposal last October. His plan followed the work of the Governor’s Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission. House Bill 1950 contains 24 of the legislative recommendations offered by the advisory commission.

“This growing industry will provide new career opportunities that will give our children a reason to stay here in Pennsylvania,” Corbett said. “Thanks to this legislation, this natural resource will safely and fairly fuel our generating plants and heat our homes while creating jobs and powering our state’s economic engine for generations to come.”

The new law enhances environmental standards by:

-- Increasing well-setback distance from 100 feet to 300 feet for streams, rivers, ponds and other water bodies, and from 200 feet to 500 feet from buildings and private water wells and to 1,000 feet for public drinking water systems;

-- Expanding an unconventional operator’s “presumed liability” for impairing water quality from 1,000 feet to 2,500 feet from a gas well, and extends the duration from 6 months to 12 months;

-- Enhancing water quality replacement standards to meet Safe Drinking Water Act standards;

-- Enabling DEP to revoke permits in a more efficient manner to deal with imminent safety or environmental concerns;

-- Increasing blanket bonds from $25,000 up to $600,000;

-- Providing for strong, uniform and consistent statewide environmental standards – building upon and incorporating the best practices used by industry leaders; and

-- Enhancing hydraulic fracturing disclosure, including online posting through FracFocus.org.

This law also authorizes counties within the shale regions to adopt an impact fee, which will be used by local communities experiencing the actual impacts of unconventional shale gas development.

To recognize the tight economics associated with low natural gas prices, the fee amount can fluctuate annually and is based on the average price of natural gas for the preceding year.

If all eligible counties adopt the fee, estimates for revenue are approximately $180 million in 2012, climbing to $211 million in 2013 and $264 million in 2014.

State agencies with a role in mitigating shale gas impacts, such as the Department of Environmental Protection, the Public Utility Commission, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, State Fire Commissioner and the Fish and Boat Commission, will receive fixed dollar amounts off the top of the revenues collected from the fee.

After that, 60 percent is directly distributed to impacted counties. A significant percentage of the remaining 40 percent will also be distributed to those counties through either population- or road-mileage-based formulas, or through the awarding of competitive grants.

The new law also provides long-term regulatory predictability for job-creators and capital investors, and helps businesses succeed by providing increased uniformity and fairness of local regulations while preserving local government’s traditional zoning authority. Upon petition, the Public Utility Commission is authorized to review ordinances to make sure they comply with state law.

Finally, the law creates a Natural Gas Energy Development Program, which will provide incentives to convert fleets with vehicles weighing at least 14,000 pounds to compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, or bi-fuel vehicles. At least 50 percent of the funds must be used for grants to local transportation organizations, including mass transit agencies.

The law’s provisions authorizing counties to adopt ordinances imposing an impact fee go into effect immediately. The majority of the law takes effect in 60 days.

A detailed summary of House Bill 1950 from the Governor's Office is available online.

Monday NewsClips

2012-02-13T06:28:00.000-05:00

Higher Education Could Face Significant Changes
CCAC Hikes Fund Goal
Burden Of College Falling More On Students
Horse Tracks Deride Plan To Shift PA Fund
Race Horse Owners Feel Let Down
Corbett Raiding Special Funds
Corbett Proposes Flat Judiciary Funding
Guards Question Prison Savings
Op-Ed: PA Must Regain Its Compassionate Backbone
Editorial: Welfare Cuts Raise Concern
Op-Ed: PA Makes It Too Hard To Start Charter Schools
Editorial: An Amateur Redistricts Better Than Politicians
In Prison For Bonus Scandal, Veon Faces New Trial
Enforcing Texting Ban Presents Challenge
Fluoride Program Targets Needy Kids In Allegheny
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Sunday NewsClips

2012-02-12T06:31:00.000-05:00

Can Pennsylvanians Survive Under Another Corbett Budget?
As Roads, Bridges Deteriorate, Governor Silent
Editorial: Must A Bridge Fall Down?
Editorial: Eggs Specter, An Illegal Grant
Bonusgate: How The Case Unfolded
Column: DeWeese Conviction Caps String Of Villains
Lessons Of PA Corruption Probe May Be Short-Lived
Editorial: DeWeese: State Of Denial
Editorial: State Convention Our Best Hope
Car Sales Background Helps Cong. Kelly Gain Prominence
Editorial: Stew Over Egg Sandwich Could Be Costly
Editorial: Lawmakers, Stop Shilling For Gun Lobby
Are PA Child Abuse Laws Failing Children?
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Saturday NewsClips

2012-02-11T06:23:00.001-05:00

Corbett Talks Education, Transportation Spending
State Managers Will Get 1 Percent Raise In New Budget
Corbett: Penn State Funding Not Tied To Open Records, But
$1.8 Billion Cut/Diverted From Environmental Programs Over 10 Years
Corrections Secretary Vows Quicker Releases
Feese Will Appeal Computergate Convictions
Brett Feese Gets Prison Term, Must Repay $1 Million
Former Lawmaker Brett Feese Sent To Prison
Ex-Legislator Feese Gets 4 to 12 Years In Prison
Tentative Sandusky Trial Date Set- May 14
CCAC Launching Effort To Raise $10 Million
Philadelphia School Budget Gap At $39 Million
Philly Developer May Start His Own Newspaper
Harrisburg Receivers Officially Puts City Assets On Market
Harrisburg Major Applies For Federal Flood Aid
Harrisburg Mayor To Hire COO In 2 Months
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Feb. 13 PA Environment Digest Now Available

2012-02-10T20:18:00.000-05:00

Feb 13 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.

Senate, House Send Drilling Fee, Environmental Protection Bill To Governor

The House Wednesday voted 101 to 90 to send Marcellus Shale legislation-- House Bill 1950 (Ellis-R-Butler)-- to the Governor for his signature. The House followed a 31 to 19 vote in the Senate Tuesday to approve the same legislation.
House Bill 1950 contains a uniform, statewide county-adopted drilling impact fee and a set of more than a dozen additional environmental protection measures. In addition, the bill contains a transfer of monies from the DCNR Oil and Gas Fund to the Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund. (Click Here for bill summary. Click Here for revenue distribution.)

If all the Marcellus counties adopted the drilling fee, the fee would raise about $180.5 million in 2011 and $211.1 million in 2012 and revenue would increase to about $355 million in 2015. (Click Here for revenue projections.)

Unfortunately, these gains in funding for local government and environmental projects were offset in part Tuesday in the Governor's FY 2012-13 budget proposal which calls for $56.6 million in funds from the Keystone Recreation, Parks and Conservation Fund and the Cigarette Tax to go to the General Fund to balance the state budget.

About $36.1 million from the Keystone Fund and $20.5 million from the Cigarette Tax goes to the General Fund. While Department of Agriculture staff have said the $20.5 million will be made up with interest payments from the Growing Greener II bond fund, that is still a net loss to environmental funding.

Brett Feese Gets Prison Term, Must Repay $1 Million

2012-02-10T13:52:00.002-05:00

Former state Rep. Brett Feese was sentenced to 4 to 12 years in state prison by a Dauphin County judge this morning for his role as a principal in the Computergate scandal. Judge Richard A. Lewis also imposed $25,000 in fines and $1 million in restitution on Feese, who once represented Lycoming County and formerly headed the House Republican Campaign Committee. Click Here for complete Patriot-News article.

Governor's Office Publishes Regulatory Agenda For Next Six Months

2012-02-10T09:13:00.002-05:00

The Governor's Office published its semi-annual notice of proposed and new regulations state agencies will be considering in the next six months in the February 11 PA Bulletin, including regulations for Aging, Education, DPW, Revenue, DEP, DCNR, Agriculture and other agencies under the Governor's jurisdiction. (PA Bulletin page 879)

Friday NewsClips

2012-02-10T06:32:00.000-05:00

Uncertainty Only Constant In Political Mapping Debate
Corbett Signs Bill To Extend Jobless Benefits
Corbett OKs State Grant For Arlen Specter Library
Corbett Proposes 4 Percent Cut To Medicaid
WCCC Tuition Could Go Up 12.5 Percent
Editorial: Key To School Funding? Foundations
Plan To Reduce Number Of Inmates Faces Critics
Editorial: Finally, Plan To Slow Prison Growth
Mellow Spends Big On Lawyers
Musto Campaign Committee Still Has $150,000
Brett Feese To Be Sentenced For Corruption
Editorial: An Entire Institution Gone Astray
Poll: PA GOP Voters Quit Gingrich For Santorum
PA To Receive $266M As Part Of National Mortgage Settlement
Perelman Denied Bid On Philly Newspapers
GOP Lacks Name Recognition In Casey Bid
Casey Joins Objection To Health Care Mandate
Seeds To Bid For Piccola Senate Seat
Eichelberger Won't Run For 88th House District
Delco Seeks To Assure Safety Of Ex-Refineries
Harrisburg Receiver Plan Holds No Commuter Tax Threat
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Thursday NewsClips

2012-02-09T06:35:00.000-05:00

State Can Still Use 2001 Districts, Judge Says
Federal Court: 2001 District Maps OK
Federal Court Shoots Down Pileggi Redistricting Appeal
Turzai Pitches Bill To Limit Capital Budget Spending
Turzai Calls For New Controls On State Borrowing
PA Nursing Homes Brace For More State Cuts
Horse Racing Industry Hits Corbett Budget
Horse Breeders Object To Raiding Of PA Fund
Corbett Says Transportation Funding Too Big For Budget
State's Nonunion Employees Want A Pay Raise
Op-Ed: Budget Is Starting Point, But Legislators Must Act
Op-Ed: Corbett's Budget Moves State In Wrong Direction
Editorial: Corbett's Choices Will Hurt Pennsylvanians
Editorial: The Big No-Tax Lie
College Students' Debt Load Keeps Growing
Editorial: Corbett Again Targets Colleges
HACC Is Financially Healthy Controller Says
Corbett's Budget Would Give Schools But For Pension Money
Governor To Receive Unemployment Benefits Extension
DeWeese Said He'll Resign When Sentenced
DeWeese Not Ready To Relinquish Seat
Editorial: Guilt Not Only On Perzel, DeWeese
Editorial: Making The Case For Courtroom Tweets
Pippy Plans Return To The Private Sector
House Committee Considers No-Casino Zone Around Gettysburg
Legislators Push Mortgage Aid
State Says Allegheny County Drink Tax Legal
Pittsburgh School Tests Looming Lunch Regulations
Harrisburg Receiver Defends Fiscal Recovery Plan
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Federal Court Shoots Down Pileggi Redistricting Appeal

2012-02-08T17:58:00.000-05:00

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — A federal judge has ruled that Pennsylvania's 2001 legislative district maps should be used in this year's elections after the state Supreme Court rejected a new redistricting plan.
Senior U.S. District Judge R. Barclay Surrick says the election cycle is too far along to wait for a new plan to be developed and approved.
Barclay says he doesn't want to postpone the April 24 primary because it could deprive Pennsylvanians the right to vote in the presidential primary.
He has upheld a state Supreme Court plan to use the 2001 legislative map.
The ruling Monday is a setback for Republican Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi, Latino groups and others. They sought to block the use of the 2001 maps, citing population shifts over the past decade.
NewsClips
Federal Court Shoots Down Pileggi Redistricting Appeal
Federal Judge Nixes Pileggi Challenge To Redistricting Maps

Wednesday NewsClips - Let The Budget Debate Begin!

2012-02-08T06:37:00.000-05:00

Corbett Seeks Big Changes In Government's Size
Corbett: We Will Not Spend More Than We Have
Budget Proposal Has No Tax Increase, Deep Cuts
Corbett's Proposed Budget Eases Tax Burden On Businesses
Steep Cuts, No Tax Hikes In Corbett Budget
Corbett Calls Fiscal Plan Lean And Demanding
Editorial: Corbett's No-Frills Budget
Corbett's No-Tax Budget Hikes School Funds, Slashes Higher Ed
A Look At The Winners In Corbett's Budget
A Look At The Losers In Corbett's Budget
Corbett Whacks Higher Education Funding
College Students To Feel Pinch In Corbett's Budget
Higher Ed Takes 2nd Heavy Hit
Higher Ed Proposal Termed Nation's Most Onerous
Higher Ed Cuts Hit Bipartisan Sour Note
California U To Ax 10 Percent Of Its Management
Corbett Proposes Funding Schools At Last Year's Level
Budget Puts Financial Stress On School Districts
Lancaster School Districts Cautiously Optimistic
Editorial: Students Bear Unfair Burden
Editorial: Corbett Again Targets Colleges
Welfare Budget Cuts Draw Mixed Response
Welfare Safety Net Sees Small Overall Cut, Big Changes
Prisons Level-Funded For First Time In Decade
State Police Avoid Major Cuts In State Budget
State Workers Avoid Layoffs In Budget Plan
Little Attention Paid To Transit In Budget
Corbett's Budget Cuts Environment Again, Zeroes Out Keystone Fund
Arts Funding Dips A Little In Corbett Budget
Dem Legislators Criticize Budget, Partisan Process
House Set To Vote On Unemployment Extension
State Unemployment Compensation Crisis Hitting Businesses
Senate Approves First Fees On Shale Drilling
Editorial: One For DeWeese This Time- Guilty
DA Wants To Bar Orie Defense From Making Political Claims
Harrisburg Would See Boost In Fire Protection Funding
Corbett Seeks Dismissal Of Lawsuit Challenging HBG Receiver
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Governor's Budget Cuts Higher Education, $719 Million Deficit Projected

2012-02-07T13:54:00.002-05:00

Gov. Corbett presented his budget proposal to a joint session of the Senate and House this morning proposing a $27.1 billion General Fund budget, a 0.1 percent cut from the FY 2011-12 budget, which features significant cuts to higher eduction, but no tax increases as he promised. (text of speech)

The Governor now estimates FY 2011-12 will end with a $719 million deficit, up from the $500 million projected earlier. The Governor also said he did not include transportation funding proposals in his budget, which he said would be dealt with separately.

Click Here for full budget proposal. Click Here for line-item spreadsheet. Click Here for budget slide presentation. Click Here for more details on the cuts to Environmental Programs.

"Last year, we accomplished much of real consequence. For the first time in 40 years, we spent less,'' Corbett said. "Pennsylvania took its first steps toward changing the culture of tax and spend. Together, we showed we can make reforms that count. It is time to show citizens, weary of empty promises…that we can accomplish more.

"Today I bring before you a budget grounded in difficult realities but framed in the optimism that we are solving our problems,'' Corbett said. "Once again, revenues do not match mandated, escalating costs. That means we must continue the course bravely charted by this assembly in the year just passed.''

The $27.14 billion proposal maintains Corbett's commitment to balance the state budget. The budget closes a projected revenue shortfall of more than $700 million and reduces spending by more than $20 million. It meets the state's pension obligations and does not raise taxes for residents or businesses.

"Every dollar taken in tax is one less dollar in the hands of a job-holder or a job-creator,'' Corbett said. "We will not spend more than we have. We will not raise taxes. We can't ask people to travel the road to recovery and then turn around and add to the burden they must carry along the way.''

Most importantly, this year's budget begins to transform the way government delivers products and services through greater use of block grants giving greater control and flexibility to the recipients, including local governments, community organizations and school districts.

The proposed budget focuses on five key areas: economic opportunities, education, human services, public safety and streamlining government.

Economic Opportunities

"Business creates jobs where it feels welcome. Citizens live best when they are employed and don't live in the constant fear that what they earn will be taxed away,'' Corbett said. "Our unemployment rate dropped by almost a full percentage point from the end of 2010 to this very moment, and, as the year began it was still nearly a full percentage point below the national average.

"This is the road to recovery. We are on it. It sometimes runs uphill but, thanks to your partnership in the past year, Pennsylvania is going in the right direction. We must not turn back now.''

Some initiatives include:

-- Continuing the phase-out of the Capital Stock and Franchise Tax which impacts the competitiveness of virtually every company in the state.

-- Maintaining tax credit programs such as the Research and Development Tax Credit, Job Creation Tax Credit, Film Production Tax Credit and Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit.

-- Continuing the work on the Delaware River channel, which encourages business growth to the Port of Philadelphia and surrounding areas of the southeast.

-- Encouraging energy-producing businesses that will generate jobs. As a side benefit, the state's abundant supply of natural gas reduces home-heating costs for Pennsylvanians who use the clean fuel.

-- Creating programs that will support employers and workers, such as JOBSFirst PA, which invests in small and large businesses, offering initiatives to cultivate and create new industries and jobs.

-- Providing employer-driven, on-the-job training opportunities for unemployed workers through a program called Keystone Works.

"Pennsylvania competes with every state in the union for factories, offices and corporate headquarters,'' Corbett said. "The shorter we make the journey from the drawing board to the ribbon cutting, the better our chances of growing jobs.''

Education

"I want our public schools to work, to accomplish what we ask of them, and to do it for every student of every background in every part of the state,'' Corbett said. "There has been some confusion, even deception, about what we did and did not do with the Basic Education formula last year.

"Here is the truth: When the Obama administration handed states billions of dollars in stimulus monies, the previous administration reduced the state's share of Basic Education funding formula. In its place they put the stimulus funds – almost a billion dollars worth. These funds were one-time only earmarks by the president… That money is gone. It's not coming back.''

The proposed budget provides a slight increase to funding Basic Education through consolidation of several programs. The result is to give spending discretion back to the local school districts.

Other initiatives include:

-- Funding for student, teacher and administrator assessments and evaluations that will ultimately result in better schools. This new accountability system includes public school districts, career and technical centers, charter schools and cyber charter schools.

-- Increasing funds to improve data collection, so that state money will be correctly sent to the school based on current enrollment and actual student attendance.

-- Reducing funding for Pre-K Counts program, through administrative savings and program modifications. The reductions do not impact the number of children served. Funding is increased for Early Intervention programs to $206.2 million.

--Providing more than $50 million for libraries across the state.

One of the challenges of creating a balanced budget is school district pension costs. This year, the budget includes a $315 million increase, or 53 percent, in the state's contribution to the Public School Employees' Retirement System.

"We need to open the discussion about how best to finance higher education in this state. We need to have a thorough, public, and candid conversation about how best to deal with the spiraling costs and our own obligations,'' Corbett said.

Corbett quoted comments made by President Obama last month: "If you can't stop tuition from going up, the funding you get from taxpayers will go down. Higher education can't be a luxury...it's an economic imperative that every family in America should be able to afford.''

"I think he is right that we need to confront the problem,'' Corbett said. "I think we need to talk about this honestly and without rancor and dramatics.''

As a start, Corbett has created an advisory panel on higher education to evaluate the system in Pennsylvania. It will make recommendations on what is needed or not needed, and how our universities can best serve the students and the citizens.

The budget also will:

-- Sustain funding for higher education programs which directly result in job placements through such specialized institutions as Thaddeus Stevens and Penn College of Technology.

-- Create a Targeted Industry Cluster Certificate Program for high-priority occupations. This program will provide grants to students enrolling in certificate programs that are accepted by targeted industries, such as energy, agriculture, building and construction.

-- For Pennsylvania's veterans, the budget maintains a $13 million commitment to help military personnel with the cost of higher education.

-- Provide the following funding for state-related and state universities: Penn State University, $194.6 million (a 1.6 percent decrease of its operating budget); Temple University, $97.9 million (a 1.8 percent decrease of its operating budget); University of Pittsburgh, $95.2 million (a 2.1 percent decrease in its operating budget); State System of Higher Education, a total of $330.2 million (a 3.8 percent decrease of its operating budget).

-- Three other institutions will be level funded: Penn College of Technology, $13.58 million; Lincoln University, $11.16 million; and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, $10.33 million.

"Maintaining our commitment to the technical professions and practical trades keeps a bargain with today and builds for tomorrow. As our energy sector expands and manufacturing revives, Pennsylvania needs a trained workforce ready to meet the demand for workers,'' Corbett said.

Police and Public Safety

"Citizens of the commonwealth must be protected. If we have no other job maintaining civil order is it. Without safety there can be no society,'' Corbett said.

This budget includes:

-- Funding for a new Pennsylvania State Police cadet class of 115 troopers and to maintain civilian support staff.

-- Level funding for Department of Corrections for the first time in more than a decade. Corrections will implement numerous cost containment programs, including better overtime management and partial hiring freeze.

-- Funding to the state Fire Commissioner to expand training activities for volunteer fire companies.

-- Homeland security operations have been integrated into the Pennsylvania State Police, consolidating intelligence and law enforcement technology.

-- Increased funding for PA Board of Probation and Parole personnel, which supports the transition from incarceration to community, while still protecting the public.

Health, Welfare and Human Services

"We have a duty to care for and to protect those among us who cannot fend for themselves,'' Corbett said.

The budget is built to transform the public welfare system, to streamline it into a performance and accountability-based operation that will provide a safety net for those who truly need it.

By merging several separate budget lines into one block grant, the state will give counties the flexibility they need to identify their most pressing needs and apply funds as they know best.

"All of these adjustments have been done with an abiding belief that the best route from the welfare line is to the work line by focusing on job creation. There is no other sensible way,'' Corbett said.

This includes:

-- An increase of 4.4 percent, or $101.6 million, to the Children's Health Insurance Program, providing health insurance to nearly 200,000 children.

-- Using increased federal funds to support young adults, aged 18 to 21, in foster care; and implementing a $1.7 million program to protect physically and cognitively impaired adults.

-- Saving $149 million by eliminating cash assistance benefits and saving $170.3 million by revising eligibility criteria for medical assistance benefits. Changes include minimum work requirements and tightened definitions of medical conditions.

-- Saving $168.4 million by consolidating multiple human services programs into a single block grant, giving counties the flexibility to move funds where they are needed most.

-- Implementing a system to identify waste, fraud and abuse in high-cost cases, saving $50 million.

For older Pennsylvanians, the budget includes: $4.7 billion for home and community-based services as well as nursing home care; $244.8 million for pharmaceutical assistance; $286.1 million for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program, $81 million for transportation programs and $2.1 million for fresh food coupons.

Streamlining Government

"Reform means understanding this simple truth: when you don't have enough to spend, you spend less,'' Corbett said. "These tough decisions will lay the groundwork for the prosperity of tomorrow. We cannot allow the debts of today to crowd out the dreams of tomorrow. If we don't act to reconfigure government and revamp how it provides services, we will find ourselves trapped in this same box every year."

That means:

-- Public improvement projects for state-owned buildings and facilities will be reduced by 50 percent, to slightly under $200 million. Spending can be prioritized to where it's most needed and to projects that will have the greatest impact on Pennsylvania's economy.

-- The Department of Community and Economic Development will be combining data and information relating to local property taxes and municipal pensions.

-- In the area of criminal justice, the Department of Corrections, Probation and Parole, Pennsylvania State Police and the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency are combining resources in research.

The budget continues efforts begun last year, Corbett said, to streamline government through merging, consolidating and realigning a number of programs and agencies.

Revenue, which in the past went into specific projects, will now be redirected to fund other programs. For instance:

-- Cigarette tax revenue of $20.5 million that previously supported Farmland Preservation and $6.5 million previously directed to Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant program will both remain in the general fund.

-- Approximately $59 million in Tobacco Settlement Fund revenues will offset long-term care costs in the Department of Public Welfare.

-- Revenues of $38.6 million which previously supported programs in the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, as well as maintenance projects at the State System of High Education, will be redirected to the general fund.

"We need a budget that employs simple honesty for the common growth of our commonwealth,'' Corbett said. "We must continue the journey that will turn the road to recovery into the path to prosperity.''

Related Press Releases From Governor

-- Corbett's Budget Plan Will Help Create Jobs, Improve Employment Services

-- PA Investments In Parole Are Leading to Lower Recidivism, Reduced Victimization

-- Corrections Budget Holds Steady, Encourages Population Reduction Initiatives

-- Corbett's Budget Plan Funds New State Police Cadet Class

-- Public Welfare Budget Reforms, Sustains Programs For PA's Neediest

-- Corbett's Education Budget Provides Flexibility, Accountability

-- Corbett Recognizes State Troopers, Firefighters and Soldiers

-- Corbett Creates Higher Education Advisory Panel

NewsClips

New Budget Holds Line On Taxes, Big Cuts For Higher Education

Corbett Budget Holds Line On Spending, Taxes

Steep Cuts, No Tax Hikes In Corbett's $27.1 Billion Budget

Governor Proposes Lean Budget, With Big Higher Ed Cuts - $719 M Deficit
Corbett Proposes Funding Schools At This Year's Level

College Students Feel Pinch In Corbett's Budget Proposal
State Workers Avoid Layoffs In PA Budget Plan

State Police Avoid Major Cuts In State Budget

Senate OKs Marcellus Shale Bill 31 to 19

2012-02-07T11:49:00.001-05:00

By a largely partisan vote of 31 to 19, the Senate moments ago approved the Conference Committee report on House Bill 1950 (Ellis-R-Butler) which provides a uniform, statewide county-adopted drilling impact fee and a set of more than a dozen additional environmental protection measures agreed to by Senate and House Republicans and the Governor's Office.

The bill now goes back to the House for a concurrence vote, probably on Wednesday.

Click Here for a staff summary the House Bill 1950 Conference Committee Report.

Governor Proposes Lean Budget, $719 Million Deficit Projected

2012-02-07T11:39:00.001-05:00

The Governor's budget address to a joint session of the Senate and House has been delayed because the Senate is debating the Conference Committee report on the Marcellus Shale legislation-- House Bill 1950. But several early budget articles have been posted--
Governor Proposes Lean Budget, With Big Higher Ed Cuts - $719 M Deficit
Corbett Proposes Funding Schools At This Year's Level
State Workers Avoid Layoffs In PA Budget Plan

Tuesday NewsClips - Budget Day

2012-02-07T06:36:00.000-05:00

Corbett Budget Out Today
Scarnati: Prepare For Dramatic, Difficult Budget Cuts
Corbett To Propose 20, 30 Percent Cuts To State Universities
Colleges Prepped For Painful Budget News
Op-Ed: Community Colleges Like HACC Quickly Adapting
Transit Backers Focus On Corbett
Conference Committee Approves Drilling Impact Fee
Delaying April Primary Would Weaken PA Voice
Federal Judge Considers Challenges To Using 2001 Districts
Shape Of 15th Senate District Bothers Justices
Op-Ed: Lawsuit Asks Court For Clarity In Redistricting
Op-Ed: Speaker's Redistricting Lawsuit Without Merit
Column: Voters Are Owed An Apology For This Sorry Map
DeWeese Found Guilty On Five Counts
DeWeese Guilty On All But One Count
Jury Convicts DeWeese In Corruption Case
DeWeese's Support Resilient In Home Base
DeWeese Convicted Of Theft, But Vows To Stay
DeWeese's Colleagues Express Sadness, Sympathy
DeWeese Faces Banishment From House
Editorial: DeWeese Conviction, A Common Thief
Editorial: Vampires In PA- DeWeese, Budget Address
Lawyers Want Claims Barred From Orie Trial
Bill Restoring Unemployment Benefits Headed To Full House
Challenger In GOP Congressional Primary To Get Backing
Candidate Rohrer Says Rationale For Driver's Licenses, Slavery Similar
Rohrer Says He's Best Choice For Conservatives
Op-Ed: Equal Pay Legislation Evens Playing Field
HBG Recovery Plan Keeps Bankruptcy On Table
Dauphin County Commissioners Disappointed In HBG Fiscal Plan
Click Here for Today's Environmental News

Jury Convicts DeWeese in 5 of 6 Counts In Corruption Case

2012-02-06T12:05:00.002-05:00

Jury Convicts DeWeese In Corruption Case
DeWeese Found Guilty On Five Of Six Counts In Corruption Case

Monday NewsClips

2012-02-06T06:48:00.000-05:00

Hate Last Year's State Budget? You'll Hate The New One More!
A Look Ahead To Corbett Budget II
Schools Wait On State Budget Plan
Corbett's Spending Plan Might Cut Funds For Higher Ed
State Budget Cuts Put Disability Services In Jeopardy
Op-Ed: The Corbett Budget Plan For Human Services
Editorial: Marcellus, Smokeless Tobacco Taxes Wait
Editorial: Numbers Say State Benefitted From Gambling
GOP, Corbett Near Deal On Marcellus Well Fees
Senate Dem: GOP Takes Third World Tack On Election
Democrats Would Fight Delay In PA Primaries
DeWeese Jury Trial To Deliberate For Third Day
Pennsylvania Continues To See Fewer Civil Lawsuits
State Inmates' Return To Boost Economy
Court: State Official Emails Not Always Public Records
Editorial: Panel Would Keep Courts In Dark Ages
Questions Raises About PA Health Insurance Exchange
Click Here for today's Environmental News

Senate, House May Act On Compromise Marcellus Shale Bill This Week

2012-02-05T19:49:00.001-05:00

Senate and House Republicans and the Governor's Office have reached an apparent agreement on Marcellus Shale legislation which includes a uniform, but county-adopted drilling impact fee and a set of more than a dozen additional environmental protection measures.

Click Here for a staff summary of what is being called the House Bill 1950 Conference Committee Report.

House Bill 1950 is now on the Senate Calendar. To adopt the compromise language the Senate will have to formally insist on its amendments, the Senate and House would form a six member Conference Committee, that Committee must meet and adopt the proposal which then goes to the full House and Senate for adoption.

The tentative schedule seems to be having the Senate and the House vote this week before going into budget hearings.

Click Here for more details.

NewsClips:

Shale Impact Fee Near Final Deal

GOP Lawmakers Seek Vote On Gas Drilling Bill

Negotiated Shale Bill Details Emerge, Action This Week

Final Impact Fee Compromise May Be In Place

Sunday NewsClips

2012-02-05T06:28:00.000-05:00

Lean Budget Expected From Corbett
Corbett To Outline State Budget Plan
Corbett Faces Another Fiscal Test
Activists Mobilize Ahead Of Corbett Budget Address
Dems Call Corbett Heartless
Pileggi Says Delayed Primary May Be Needed
Column: Convincing A Court To Rethink Redistricting
3 Midstate Lawmakers Face Primary Challengers
Bumsted: Corbett's U.S. Senate Calculus
Revised Small Games Of Chance Should Benefit Clubs
NYT: PA School Funding Pits Districts Against Charter On Steroids
Column: School Budget Woes Hit Suburbia Too
State Considers Revamping Assessments Of Educators
Former Aide: Corbett Buckled To Pressure On Firing DPW Staffer
Railroad Industry Still On Track
GE Invests $72 M In Grove City Evolution Locomotive Plant
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Saturday NewsClips

2012-02-04T06:02:00.000-05:00

Redistricting May Delay PA Primary
Court Mum On Fate Of Primary In Redistricting Decision
Primary Imperiled By Redistricting Rejection
Supreme Court Explains Why It Tore Up Political Map
PA Supreme Court Issues Rulings On Assembly Districts
Supreme Court Issues Opinons On Redistricting
High Court Says Reapportionment Divides Areas Improperly
Pileggi To File Federal Suit On Redistricting
Court: If Teacher Can Draw Easier Map, Legislature Can Too
Woman's Map Made The Redistricting Difference
DeWeese Jury To Try Again Monday To Reach Verdict
DeWeese Jury Heads Home For Weekend Without Verdict
Column: Somebody Up There Likes Sen. Browne
Castellani Looking To Run For Staback's Seat
NE Legislators Enter Year With Campaign Money
No Standout GOP U.S. Senate Contender
Corbett Budget Preview: Cuts Ahead [This Is A Surprise?]
Editorial: PA's Legalized Gambling Is Far From A Bust
Slot Machine Revenue Increases At Erie Casino
Start Of Online Sales Tax Collection Delayed
Rendell Assembling Group To By Inquirer, Daily News
Bill To Protect Homeowners From Mechanics' Liens Too Late
Harrisburg Receiver To Deliver City Fiscal Plan Monday
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Feb. 6 PA Environment Digest Now Available

2012-02-03T21:03:00.000-05:00

Feb. 6 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.

DEP Awards 73 Grants to Protect, Improve Watersheds, But Growing Greener Is Broke

The Department of Environmental Protection announced Friday it will invest in 73 watershed protection projects intended to improve watersheds, stormwater runoff, acid mine drainage and educational programs, among other environmental efforts.

This year, the Growing Greener Program, which is funded by the Environmental Stewardship Fund, will award $9.72 million for 57 projects around the state.

The Growing Greener Program is now all but bankrupt and the program needs to be refunded. The Marcellus Shale drilling impact fee bills now pending in the General Assembly and a potential transfer from the DCNR Oil and Gas Fund are the best possibilities to see the program continue. Visit the Renew Growing Greener Coalition website for more information.

An additional project, funded by the Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Grant, will cost $72,912. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Section 319 Nonpoint Source Management Program, which was created through the federal Clean Water Act to help reduce water pollution from nonpoint sources, is funding 15 additional projects, which would total $3.12 million.

"We are delighted to provide support to local communities and watershed groups to fund projects that enhance and protect Pennsylvania's water quality," DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. "That includes projects that address abandoned mine drainage, stream bank restoration, stormwater reductions and agricultural runoff."

These projects will reduce nonpoint source pollution in watersheds where streams are impaired by implementing agricultural and stormwater best-management practices; developing, repairing or installing passive systems to treat abandoned mine drainage; and supporting the establishment of riparian buffers, among other goals.

One of the Growing Greener program's goals is to invest in projects that protect watersheds from impairment due to nonpoint source pollution or those that will restore damaged waterways.

Some examples of priority areas are restoration activities to reduce pollutant load in impaired watersheds for which total maximum daily loads have been developed; projects in priority watersheds that would reduce the source of impairment; and priority activities that lead to water quality restoration and protection.

In this latest grant round, 130 applicants request about $24.5 million. Applications came from counties, authorities and other municipalities; county conservation districts; councils of governments; watershed organizations that promote local watershed conservation efforts; and other authorized organizations involved in restoring and protecting the environment.

A list of projects funded is available online.

For more information on Growing Greener or to see the complete list of grant recipients, send email to: GrowingGreener@pa.gov, call 717-705-4500 or visit DEP's Growing Greener webpage.

PA Supreme Court Issues Opinions On Legislative Redistricting

2012-02-03T14:49:00.000-05:00

On Friday, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued their formal opinions knocking down the Senate and House redistricting plans, both majority, dissenting and an opinion by Chief Justice Castile. Copies are available online:

-- Opinion by Chief Justice Castle

-- Majority Opinion - Part 1

-- Majority Opinion - Part 2

-- Dissenting Opinion - Justice Orie Melvin

NewsClip: PA Supreme Court Issues Rulings On Assembly Districts

Friday NewsClips

2012-02-03T06:28:00.000-05:00

Targeted Lawmakers Stuck In Political Limbo
Latino Group Sues Over PA Redistricting Lines
Editorial: Redistricting Train Wreck An Opportunity
School Districts Brace For Corbett's Education Budget
Op-Ed: Rebuilding After The Education Storm
Senate Canceled College Funding Hearings
Editorial: Governor Right To Open Up State-Related Universities
Op-Ed: PA Budget Woes Go Back To Corporate Tax Change
Tim Burns Drops Out Of U.S. Senate Race
Meet Sen. Farnese, Comic Book Nerd
Platts Congressional Seat Attracts 11 Candidates
DeWeese Jury: No Verdict After First Day
DeWeese Jury To Continue Deliberations Friday
Liquor Stores Offer iPhone App
Op-Ed: Ignore Alcohol Sales Fairy Tale
Editorial: DPW Proposes Better Food Stamp Standard
All Hail Rail: Union County Project Means Growth
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Thursday NewsClips

2012-02-02T06:38:00.000-05:00

Corbett Visits Groundhog This Morning
State Tax Collections Down Just $10 Million In January
PA Employees' Unions Suggest Ways To Cut State Budget
Caucuses Split On Redistricting Response
Redistricting, Lack Of Cash Against Congressional Hopefuls
Op-Ed: PA Voter ID Bill Is An Unfunded Mandate
DePasquale Wants $30 Million For Struggling Schools
PSEA Endorses DePasquale Bill To Help Distressed Schools
Corbett Eases Plan For Food Stamp Assets Test
State Will Raise Asset Limit For Food Stamp Recipients
DeWeese Trial Set To Go To Jury Thursday
Jury Gets DeWeese Corruption Case
DeWeese Blames Campaign Work On Rogue Staff
Brash, Bombastic, Serious, Thoughtful, DeWeese Testifies
Diner Sues Health Secretary Over Egg Sandwich Flap
3rd Person In Race For Pippy's Seat
Attorney To Challenge Vance In Primary
Murphy's $1.04 Million Tops House Race
3rd Dem Challenging Kelly In 3rd District
Editorial: PA Could Generate More Tourism Jobs
Corbett Urged To Restart Mortgage Assistance Program
Heavier Trucks Could Roll By Congress
Federal Judge Rejects Latest Harrisburg Bankruptcy Appeal
Editorial: Plan For Harrisburg Must Have Concessions From All
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

January Revenue Collections $10.4 Million Less Than Anticipated

2012-02-01T14:58:00.000-05:00

Pennsylvania collected $2.2 billion in General Fund revenue in January, which was $10.4 million, or 0.5 percent, less than anticipated, Secretary of Revenue Daniel Meuser reported Wednesday.

Fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $13.8 billion, which is $497.2 million, or 3.5 percent, below estimate.

Sales tax receipts totaled $807.5 million for January, $65.5 million above estimate. Year-to-date sales tax collections total $5.2 billion, which is $ 42.2 million, or 0.8 percent, more than anticipated.

Personal income tax revenue in January was $1.1 billion, $45.6 million below estimate. This brings year-to-date PIT collections to $5.7 billion, which is $211.5 million, or 3.6 percent, below estimate.

January corporation tax revenue of $96.1 million was $27.4 million below estimate. Year-to-date corporation tax collections total $1.3 billion, which is $286.7 million, or 18 percent, below estimate.

Inheritance tax revenue for the month was $69.5 million, $6.7 million above estimate, bringing the year-to-date total to $460.7 million, which is $11.3 million, or 2.4 percent, below estimate.

Realty transfer tax revenue was $22.9 million for January, $52,000 above estimate, bringing the fiscal-year total to $175.5 million, which is $9.8 million, or 5.3 percent, less than anticipated.

Other General Fund tax revenue, including cigarette, malt beverage, liquor and table games taxes, totaled $95.1 million for the month, $2.9 million below estimate and bringing the year-to-date total to $873.4 million, which is $7.2 million, or 0.8 percent, above estimate.

Non-tax revenue totaled $20.5 million for the month, $6.6 million below estimate, bringing the year-to-date total to $132.7 million, which is $27.3 million, or 17.1 percent, below estimate.

In addition to the General Fund collections, the Motor License Fund received $232.2 million for the month, $7.1 million above estimate. Fiscal year-to-date collections for the fund – which include the commonly known gas and diesel taxes, as well as other license, fine and fee revenues – total $1.4 billion, which is $2.7 million, or 0.2 percent, above estimate.

Judiciary Should Be Allowed to Make Budget Presentation, Sen. Hughes Says

2012-02-01T14:57:00.002-05:00

Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair Sen. Vincent J. Hughes (D-Philadelphia) strongly suggested that Senate Republicans reconsider their decision to cancel the budget hearing for state courts and allow justices to discuss their financial needs before the full Appropriations Committee.

The judiciary’s hearing was scheduled for February 23. Sen. Hughes was notified earlier this week of the abrupt cancellation. The cancellation was announced less than a week after the Supreme Court rejected the state legislative redistricting plan.

Sen. Hughes’ objection to the cancellation was contained in a January 31 letter sent to the Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Sen. Jake Corman (R-Centre).

“The court should be given the opportunity to come before the Senate Appropriations Committee to discuss its budgetary needs for the next fiscal year,” Sen. Hughes said. “In these lean times, it is important for the members of the Appropriations Committee to hear directly from courts since they are one of the three co-equal branches of government.

“The failure to learn about the funding needs of the courts through the budget hearing process reduces transparency and accountability.”

In his letter to Sen. Corman, Sen. Hughes said his concern was that there should never be even the slightest appearance that future actions by this committee and the General Assembly could be influenced by the Supreme Court’s redistricting rulings.

“As committee chairmen we must be particularly sensitive to this concern for both of our caucuses. Unless your decision resulted from a court initiated request seeking more time to prepare for their hearing, your action appears inappropriate.”

Sen. Hughes said in the letter that it was important that separation of powers among the branches of government be maintained and that the legislature “must never take any action to call our respect for their independence into question.”

The West Philadelphia lawmaker asked for an immediate action on his reconsideration request.

Wednesday NewsClips

2012-02-01T06:28:00.000-05:00

Redistricting Mess Focuses Attention On Reform Bills
Democrats Push Governor To Increase Transportation Funding
State Democrats Lobby For Transportation Funds
Students Rally At Capitol For Higher Education Funding
Students Rally for Funding, Corbett Ties Aid To Open Records
Slots Revenue Has Not Delivered Expected Tax Relief
PA Residents Must Now Track, Pay Sales Tax For Online Purchases
Ethics Commission: DPW Secretary's Consulting Business No Conflict
17,000 Losing PA Unemployment Benefits
Editorial: State House Must Not Hold Jobless Hostage
DeWeese Supporters Push Back In Corruption Trial
DeWeese Expected To Testify At His Corruption Trial
DeWeese Jury Hears Muddled Testimony
Both Sides In Orie Case Stage Pretrial Maneuvers
Orie Asks For Sequestered Jury For Trial
State Seeks Outside Jury For Sandusky Trial
Casey Reports $4.4 Million Campaign War Chest
3 Incumbent Congressmen In Fine Fiscal Shape
Luzerne Commissioner May Take On Holden
Op-Ed: Behind The Scenes Of HACC's Online Success
Editorial: Legislators Fail To Separate Church, State
Few In PA Maintain A Financial Safety Net
Editorial: State Role Vital In Development
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Democrats Lament Corbett's Lack Of Leadership On Transportation

2012-01-31T14:13:00.002-05:00

Noting the six months of inaction since Gov. Tom Corbett's blue ribbon transportation commission released its final report, Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) Tuesday joined county and legislative leaders in Pittsburgh to call on the governor to lead on transportation infrastructure and mass transit investment Pennsylvania.

"On the eve of the six-month anniversary of the release of the recommendations from the governor's Transportation Funding Advisory Commission, we are still awaiting a plan for transportation from Gov. Corbett," said Sen. Costa. "The governor's own transportation commission issued its report, and it is his responsibility to lead. We don't believe Pennsylvanians should have to wait any longer."

"It has been more than a year since Tom Corbett became governor, and half a year since his commission gave him a detailed plan for transportation funding," said Rep. Frank Dermody (D-Allegheny), the House Democratic Leader. "We are lucky that so far it's simply a matter of crumbling roads and weight-restricted bridges, but we are driving on borrowed time. If nothing is done, it will get much worse. Lives are at risk."

Sen. Costa said PennDOT statistics show that there are more than six million trips daily across Allegheny County bridges that are rated either functionally obsolete or structurally deficient, and more than 178,000 trips across bridges that have temporary supports or weight restrictions in place.

Sen. Costa said an investment in infrastructure will create jobs. In 2010, Pennsylvania ranked seventh in the nation for job creation and has now slipped to 25th in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report issued last week.

Last week, Senate Democrats also laid out their budget priorities in anticipation of another round of job-crushing cuts from the Corbett Administration during the governor's upcoming budget address. The Senate plan calls for creating jobs through investments in our economy for infrastructure development and improvements, as well as targeted training and education programs for a quality workforce.

"Gov. Corbett's Transportation Funding Advisory Commission report laid out options for the governor to choose, including uncapping the Oil Company Franchise Tax and raising licensure fees to support investments in highways, bridges and mass transit," said Sen. Vincent J. Hughes (D-Philadelphia), Democratic Appropriations Committee Chair. "The time for studies, commissions, and conversing is behind us. It's time to act. I urge the governor to take action and indicate to the legislature how he wants to move forward."

"Gov. Corbett can move our economy forward — or stall it if he provides leadership to address our well-documented transportation problems," said Rep. Joseph Markosek (D-Allegheny) Minority Chair of the House Appropriations Committee.

Sen. John Wozniak (D-Cambria), who serves as the Democratic Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee and is a member of the state Transportation Commission, said "Pennsylvania's two biggest challenges right now are its crumbling transportation infrastructure and the stagnant economy. It has been months since the Transportation Funding Advisory Commission released its report and it's time for leadership from the administration on a plan that will keep drivers safe and keep commerce rolling."

"We each know personally about the need for transportation funding," said Rep. Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny), the House Democratic Caucus Chairman. "We know it as we swerve to avoid potholes, are forced to detour due to closed bridges, or wait in the cold for buses. Each individual story adds up to a story about our economic vitality. If we can't move goods and people around because our bridges won't bear the weight of trucks and our buses are idled, our economic growth will stall."

Corbett's Transportation Funding Advisory Commission issued its report on August 1, 2011. The commission was tasked with indentifying an additional $2.5 billion annually to address the transportation funding shortfall. In addition to its funding proposal, the Commission made suggestions for modernizing transportation.

The report noted that funding in Pennsylvania falls far short of needs, and points out specifically that the report is "about more than potholes—the issues at hand affect safety, our economy, and the environment, all of which shape the quality of life and ease of commerce in Pennsylvania."

Sen. Costa and his legislative colleagues said they await word from the governor on how he wants to proceed, but more delay creates even more problems. Pennsylvania maintains the dubious distinction of having the highest number of structurally-deficient bridges in the country and the most miles of road in "poor" condition. An estimated 300 bridges are added to the structurally deficient list each year.

Ethics Commission: DPW Secretary's Consulting Business No Conflict

2012-01-31T11:17:00.000-05:00

By JAN MURPHY, The Patriot-News
Welfare Secretary Gary Alexander's side business presents no conflict of interest problem with his Cabinet post, the State Ethics Commission ruled. Click Here for full story.

Tuesday NewsClips

2012-01-31T06:37:00.000-05:00

Speaker Files Federal Suit On PA Redistricting Dispute
Speaker Seeking Ruling On Past District Maps
Turzai: Redistricting Order Sooner Rather Than Later
Pileggi: Using 2011 District Lines For 2012 Is Unconstitutional
Editorial: State Waits for Court Explanation On Redistricting
Editorial: Weekend Voting Can Increase Turnout
Column: Corbett Administration Wants To Shred Safety Net
Op-Ed: Corbett's Food Stamp Asset Test Is Needless, Expensive
Op-Ed: PA Needs To Curb Food Stamp Abuse
Lawmakers Prepare For Tough Budget Message From Governor
Editorial: Build Revenue, Fairness
Lawyer Kicks Off Defense For DeWeese
DeWeese Was Figurehead Of Out Of Control Democratic Caucus
DeWeese Plans To Run Again If Acquitted At Trial
Witness: DeWeese Called For Inquiry
Mustio's In, Gastgeb's Out Of Pippy Senate Race
Mustio Enters Race For Pippy Senate Seat
Red Lion Businessman Runs For Platts Seat
Former Rep. Van Horne Dies
Obama Maintains Solid Support Among PA Women
Jobless Benefits To Expire Unless House Acts
Western PA Joblessness Nudges Downward
Lehigh Valley Adds 1,300 Jobs In December
Erie Unemployment Rate Holds Steady In December
NE Jobless Rate Lowest Since May, But Tops State
Unemployment Falls In The Harrisburg Area
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Monday NewsClips

2012-01-30T06:23:00.000-05:00

Broad Redistricting Plan Changes Foreseen
Invalidated Redistricting Map Throws PA Races Into Turmoil
Critics: Congressional Redistricting Plan Riddled With Shortcomings
Column: If PA Is Broke, Can We Afford $100 M For Forum Building
PA Pursues Internet Sales Taxes
Editorial: Open State Courts
Editorial: Social Deserve Financial Boost
Charter Schools Struggle To Meet Standards
Slippery Rock Names Acting President
PA Seeks Health Care Law Funding
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Sunday NewsClips

2012-01-29T07:26:00.000-05:00

Governor's Endorsements: The Republican State Committee Saturday endorsed all the candidates Gov. Corbett endorsed for statewide row offices: Cumberland County District Attorney David Freed for Attorney General, Allegheny County Rep. John Maher for Auditor General, Washington County Commissioner Diana Irey Vaughn for State Treasurer and Chester County entrepreneur Steve Welch for the U.S. Senate race.
With Corbett Backing, Welch Gets GOP Nod For U.S. Senate
Governor's Candidate For Senate Gets State GOP Nod
Republicans Endorse Welch For Senate Run
Corbett Seeking to Make Mark In State Elections
Corbett Takes Risks With GOP Endorsements
Corbett's Slate Exposes GOP Rift
Bumsted: Pay-Jacking Payback
Editorial: Redistricting Debate: Heat & Light
Editorial: Court Was Right On Redistrict Charade
Editorial: Court Finds Its Voice Against Gerrymandering
Redistricting Was The Topic On The Menu
Editorial: Bills Finally Seek To Close Tax Evasion Loophole
Editorial: Public Schools Facing Crisis
Editorial: Back Leaner Look For Legislature
Barletta: A Frustrating First Year
Late Primary Hurts State Economy
Obama Courts Marcellus Shale Region Voters
Fayette Liquor Store Leads PA In Losses
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Saturday NewsClips

2012-01-28T05:34:00.000-05:00

Redistricting Decision Sends Campaigns Back To Drawing Board
Editorial: Court Rejection Of Redistricting Plan Good News
Republicans Meet To Endorse Primary Candidates
GOP Endorsements Of Auditor General, Senate Likely Today
Republican Committee Set To Endorse Senate Candidate
PA Republicans Spar Over U.S. Senate Seat Endorsement
Fight Brewing Over GOP's U.S. Senate Endorsement
AG Candidate Withholds Judgment On Sandusky Case
GOP Auditor General Candidates Maher, Pinto Clash
GOP Auditor General Contender Drills Down On Marcellus Data
Tired, Broke, Santorum Heads Home To Do His Taxes
Santorum: Haven't Considered Dropping Out Of Race
Ex-Marine, HACC Student Seek Delozier's Seat
Column: Legislature Too Big But Is Only Part Of Problem
Turzai To Introduce RCAP Reform Bill
Corrections Secretary Offers Details On Prison Reform Effort
Welfare Drug Testing Tried In Pennsylvania
Paterno's Death Complicates Legal Case
Ruling On LCCC's Accreditation Nearing
Transit Funding A State Issue, Port Authority Says
Boston Beer Pouring Millions Into Lehigh Valley
Philly Bars' Not So Happy Hour
Gasoline Reaches 5-Month High On Refinery Upsets, Shutdowns
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Jan. 30 PA Environment Digest Now Available

2012-01-27T21:54:00.000-05:00

Jan. 30 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.

Berks County Joins 350 Groups Supporting Renewal Of Growing Greener Program

The Renew Growing Greener Coalition Thursday announced 35 counties – more than half the state – have passed resolutions calling for the renewal of the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund, Pennsylvania’s primary source of funding to help local communities protect water quality, preserve open space and farmland, and enhance parks, trails and other recreational opportunities.

Now more than 150 government entities, including 109 municipalities, representing more than seven million Pennsylvanians, have passed resolutions calling for a dedicated source of funding for the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund.

This week Berks County adopted a resolution in support of the Growing Greener initiative, marking a significant milestone in the efforts to save the critical program. In addition, BedfordCounty adopted a resolution this week.

“The Growing Greener program has made a tremendous impact in counties throughout the Commonwealth,” said Chairman of the Berks County Board of Commissioners Christian Leinbach. “In Berks County, the program has helped us enhance our heritage areas, conserve our open space and protect our water quality. We could not achieve this without Growing Greener.”

In Bedford County, Growing Greener has contributed to improvements at the Saxton Borough and East Providence wastewater treatment plants and helped mitigate acid mine drainage in Broad Top Township.

“Bedford County has effectively leveraged Growing Greener funds to achieve tangible, lasting results for our residents,” said Kirt Morris, Chairman of the Bedford County Board of Commissioners. “We cannot let this program die.”

Republican State Committee Meets To Consider Endorsements

2012-01-27T10:13:00.001-05:00

The Republican State Committee meets this weekend to consider endorsements for upcoming statewide offices. We'll see if the State Committee agrees with endorsements Gov. Corbett recently announced.

Corbett endorsed Cumberland County District Attorney David Freed for Attorney General, Allegheny County Rep. John Maher for Auditor General, Washington County Commissioner Diana Irey Vaughn for State Treasurer and Chester County entrepreneur Steve Welch for the U.S. Senate race.

NewsClip: Corbett Shows Republicans He's In Charge

Friday NewsClips

2012-01-27T06:39:00.000-05:00

Supreme Court Won't Explain Redistricting Decision This Week
Court Opinion Awaited Next Week
Court Ruling Throws Legislative Races Into Turmoil
Rejection Of New PA Districts Causes Buzz
GOP Blasts Justice Baer For Remapping Comments
State Justices Drop Bombshell, Hurry To Tropics
Editorial: Court Leaves Pennsylvania Hanging
Corbett Shows Republicans He's In Charge
Column: Planning Out The Primary Races
Corbett Quietly Launches Effort To Reduce Prison Costs
PA Corrections System Cuts Considered
PHEAA: Giving Back State Money, Students Unharmed
Draft Corbett Plan For Chester Schools Stirs Debate
Prosecutors Wrap Up Case Against DeWeese
Witness: DeWeese Stepped Up Pressure After Pay Raise
Ex-Coordinator Says DeWeese Demanded Help
Challenge Ahead For Con. Murphy
York Man Will Run For Platts Congressional Seat
Controversial DPW Advisor Set To Leave His Position
Auditor Warns Philly Schools Budget Situation Dire
Poll: Support For Paterno Firing Dropping
Panel Looking At PA Child Abuse Laws Starts Work
U.S. Attorney Keeping An Eye On HBG Financial Crisis
HBG Council To Request Federal Investigation Next Week
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClip

Thursday NewsClips

2012-01-26T06:30:00.000-05:00

PA Supreme Court Invalidates Redistricting Plan
Court Orders More Work On New House, Senate Districts
Court Throws Out Redistricting Plan
Court: Go Back To Drawing Board On Districts
Senate Dems Push To Restore School, Social Program Funding
Delaware Loophole Closure Bill Gets Rare Bipartisan Support
Bill Aims To Cancel Corporate Tax Break
Rendell Chides Corbett Over Food Stamp Eligibility
Corbett's Food Stamp Proposal Criticized
Rendell Steps On Toes In Return To Capitol
State Buys Forum Place Building In HBG For $100 Million
House Sends Corbett Small Games Of Chance Bill
Small Games Bill Goes To Governor
State Building A Smaller House
Editorial: Reduce Whole Legislature
McCaffery (Dem) Drops Bid For Attorney General
Gastgeb To Seek Senate Senate Vacated By Pippy
Toomey Backs Rothfus In Congressional Run
Column: Another Sestak Run? Not A Stretch
New Poll Produces Mixed Results For Obama
F&M College Poll Shows Voters Remain Uncertain
Corbett Will Help Honor Patrick Solano
Judge Wants Details Of Orie Mailing
Campaigning Was Required DeWeese Aide Says
CCAC Shows Off Job Training Program
Millersville President To Step Down
Editorial: Distracted Walking Begins To Take A Toll
Op-Ed: Roe v. Wade Promotes Values Of Freedom, Privacy
Op-Ed: Logic Dictates Nation Review Roe Decision
Editorial: Can't We Give Racehorses Better Than Slaughterhouse?
Allegheny County Courts Cut Costs To Fill Gap
4 Months Later, Harrisburg Takes Steps For Aid Money
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Senate Democratic Leader Says Redistricting Ruling Honors Constitution

2012-01-25T20:25:00.000-05:00

Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) released the following statement in response to the PA Supreme Court's decision to remand the 2011 redistricting plan:
"We are pleased to learn that the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the many petitioners who filed an appeal to the Legislative Reapportionment Commission's final plan. We are grateful that the Supreme Court honored Pennsylvania's Constitution and Commonwealth voters. It is a very important matter, and it is the responsibility of the reapportionment commission to devise a plan that is true to both the Constitution and the voters of Pennsylvania. Counties and communities must have their voices heard in Harrisburg, and our goal was to make sure that the 2011 redistricting process achieved that.
We are thankful that the Court and the many petitioners understood the concerns of the voters who took the time and effort to express their concerns to both the Commission and ultimately the Court. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court acted with respect for the Constitution, communities across our Commonwealth, and the voters.
We await the state Supreme Court's direction regarding drafting a new reapportionment plan for the Commonwealth."

McCaffery (Dem) Drops Bid For Attorney General

2012-01-25T17:23:00.002-05:00

McCaffery (Dem) Drops Bid For Attorney General

PA High Court Throws Out Assembly Redistricting

2012-01-25T17:10:00.003-05:00

PA High Court Throws Out Assembly Redistricting
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — A divided Pennsylvania Supreme Court is invalidating a plan to redraw district lines for seats in the state House and Senate, calling the redistricting approach "contrary to law."
            The justices voted 4-3 to send the plan back to the Legislative Reapportionment Commission, and the majority said their opinion in the case would be released later.
            The high court's ruling throws into disarray plans by candidates and parties for this year's General Assembly races.
            The two-page order says current district lines remain in force until the commission comes up with a new plan that passes legal muster.
            The commission consists of the Republican and Democratic floor leaders from the House and Senate, along with a fifth member, an appointed judge.
            The plan the court threw out was opposed by Senate Democrats.

Small Games Of Chance Bill Heads To Governor's Desk

2012-01-25T16:46:00.002-05:00

The House Wednesday gave final approval and send to the Governor House Bill 169 (Delozier-R-Cumberland) which would amend the current Small Games of Chance law to allow nonprofit associations, charitable organizations and other civic groups to raise revenues to support their community as well as maintain their operation.

The bill would update the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act, which has not been changed since 1988, allowing for increased limits for prize payouts.

Small games of chance licenses are used by charitable organizations to raise funds to assist those in the local community. These nonprofit groups assist community residents by sponsoring youth sports, supporting fire companies and veteran events, refurbishing local parks, and giving out grants and scholarships to our students.

“The passage of this bill means we are actively working to preserve the role that local organizations have in our communities,” said Rep. Sheryl Delozier. “Most of the money that is spent on these small games of chance does return to the community with a multiplier effect that benefits all of us.”

House Bill 169 would increase limits for prize payouts from $500 to $1,000 for daily drawings, from $5,000 to $25,000 for weekly drawings and from $5,000 to $10,000 for raffles per calendar month.

Under the bill, at least 70 percent of proceeds raised by these organizations would be distributed for public interest purposes, and up to 30 percent of the money raised can be used by the organizations to help maintain capital projects such as fixing a roof or heating system.

“The upcoming budget season is going to be a tough one,” Rep. Delozier noted. “Allowing for increased fundraising will help our nonprofits to fill some of the gaps in funding from government and stay afloat during hard economic times. This bill is the support system our communities need.”

House Bill 169 was amended in the Senate to include measures that permit fire and emergency services to hold a raffle with a $50,000 limits. Measures to require clubs with liquor licenses to submit semi-annual reports to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue were also among the changes to the House version of the bill.

“House Bill 169 has been overwhelmingly supported statewide by community organizations and legislators on both sides of the aisle,” said Rep. Delozier. “I am pleased we are finally able to get this bill to the governor’s desk and ensure our nonprofit organizations are able to continue to meet their expenses and fund projects and services throughout our local communities.”

A summary and House Fiscal Note are available.

Senate Democrats Outline Their State Budget Priorities

2012-01-25T12:06:00.001-05:00

Senate Democrats, led by Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny), Appropriations Chair Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia) and others, Wednesday called on the governor to make job creation, tax fairness, education funding, shale and the restoration of funds for safety net programs budget priorities.

"We need a budget that moves Pennsylvania forward, not one that puts us in reverse," Sen. Costa said. "We need to focus our energy on job creation, restoring education funding, providing sufficient dollars for safety net programs and improving transportation infrastructure."

The Democrats outlined their budget priorities at a news conference.

Sen. Costa said Senate Democrats have identified nearly $1 billion in new revenues from smart policy changes, efficiencies and a responsible shale tax that can be used to pay for their agenda.

Sen. Costa said Pennsylvania has regressed under Gov. Tom Corbett, who has produced no jobs plan while unemployment has stagnated. At the same time, the governor has driven education funding back to 2006 levels and funded higher education support at a level not seen since 1995, under former Republican Gov. Tom Ridge.

"Senate Democrats produced a comprehensive jobs plan called PA Works Now but we've heard nothing on jobs from the governor," Sen. Costa said. "We are ready to move on transportation if he would lead and let us know how he plans to address that crisis."

Sen. Hughes said Senate Democrats predicted chaos in education if Corbett's plan to slice more than $1 billion was approved by Republican lawmakers.

"Senate Democrats voted against last year's budget plan because we thought it would produce exceptionally high local tax bills, cut education quality and imperil schools," Sen. Hughes said. "Now we have a crisis in the Chester-Upland district and there are at least ten more districts that may soon be in a similar position.

"Insolvency will spread beyond poor schools and spill over into adjoining districts as a result of Gov. Corbett's education and fiscal policies."

Sen. Hughes said that unemployment rose sharply after Corbett took office and it has taken one year to recede, noting that on jobs "we treaded water for a year."

Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne), who has been the Senate lead negotiator on Marcellus Shale, said that his region in northeast Pennsylvania has been hit hard by job loss and education cuts.

"We need to make strategic investments and create jobs and we can do that by adopting a responsible shale drilling plan that generates money for rebuilding roads and other infrastructure while we protect the environment and our communities with tough regulations," Sen. Yudichak said.

Bipartisan Plan Unveiled To Close Delaware Tax Loophole

2012-01-25T10:51:00.002-05:00

Rep. Dave Reed (R-Indiana) Wednesday joined with Rep. Eugene DePasquale (D-York) to unveil a plan to close the “Delaware Loophole” and implement necessary business tax reforms in Pennsylvania.

The proposal is geared toward helping create a more competitive and fair business climate in the state.

Employing what is known as an “expense add-back” provision, House Bill 2150 would close the Delaware Loophole and levels the playing field for all companies doing business in Pennsylvania.

“Any business tax reform proposal, if it’s to be taken seriously, should include closing the Delaware Loophole,” stated Rep. Reed. “Creating a competitive environment and a level playing field for job creators is vital to our economic recovery, and this proposal accomplishes both goals.”

The Delaware Loophole has garnered significant attention over the years and has been criticized as a flaw in Pennsylvania’s business tax structure. The term was coined to describe a legal tax avoidance practice used by some multi-state corporations to reduce their Pennsylvania tax liabilities by transferring the ownership of intangible assets to an affiliated company in Delaware.

“A successful business is not built on hiring high-priced tax attorneys and accountants to avoid paying taxes,” Rep. Reed said. “It’s about having a good business model, working long hours, and making sacrifices. Most Pennsylvania businesses do not use this tax avoidance mechanism, which is all the more reason to close the loophole to ensure fairness among all employers.”

Targeting very specific transactions among close business affiliates, the new provision would only affect businesses that are taking advantage of the loophole for the sole purpose of tax avoidance in Pennsylvania. The proposal also would use revenue captured through closing the loophole to reduce Pennsylvania’s overall business tax burden.

Specifically, closing the Delaware Loophole would enable the state to gradually reduce the corporate net income tax during the next six years; implement a single sales apportionment factor; and gradually phase out the cap on net operating losses during the next nine years.

“Year after year, the state ranks among the worst in the nation for the cost of doing business, so it’s clear that comprehensive business tax reforms are needed,” said Rep. Reed. “Closing the Delaware Loophole will bring consistency to our tax structure and lower the tax burden, showing that Pennsylvania is a great place to do business.”

Reps. Reed and DePasquale were joined by members of both parties to introduce the legislation. To date, House Bill 2150 has more than 50 co-sponsors.

Wednesday NewsClips

2012-01-25T06:34:00.001-05:00

Turzai Nixes Run For Congress
Turzai Changes His Mind, Won't Run For Congress
Sen. Pippy To Bow Out After 16 Years
Pippy Will Not Run For Another Term
Editorial: PA Primary Might Matter Now
House Panel Supports Bill To Cut Size Of House
Bill To Slash House Size Heads To Vote
House Committee Votes To Reduce Size Of House
House Panel OKs Plan To Shrink Chamber
House Would Shrink Under A Legislative Proposal
Op-Ed: Let's Begin Reform Efforts With Term Limits
DeWeese Ordered Staffer Fired Who Lost House Race
State Time Used To Campaign DeWeese Aides Say
State Time Used To Campaign DeWeese Aides Testify
PA Supreme Court May Be Affected By Orie Scandal
Corbett Not Planning To Attend Paterno Memorial
Two More Vie For Rep. Buxton's House Seat
Toomey To Endorse Reilly For Platts Congressional Seat
Corbett Asked To Aid Poor Schools
New Department To Target Drug, Alcohol Addiction
Erie Casino Table Game Revenue Jumps Nearly 25 Percent
HBG Receiver Asked To Consider Fiscal Plan's Impact On Schools
Harrisburg Council To Ask Feds To Investigate Bond Transactions
Click Here for today's Environmental NewsClips

Governor Nominates Gary Tennis To New Drug & Alcohol Programs Agency

2012-01-24T16:57:00.003-05:00

Gov. Tom Corbett Tuesday nominated Gary Tennis of Philadelphia to serve as secretary of the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, which is being created as a result of a 2010 state law.

Tennis is retired from his previous position as chief of the legislation unit in the Philadelphia's District Attorney's Office, where he represented the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association working with the General Assembly.

"Gary Tennis has been a passionate advocate for effective drug and alcohol treatment both within and outside the judicial system," Corbett said. "I am confident his experience will help guide the delivery of quality, effective drug and alcohol services for Pennsylvanians."

In addition to more than 25 years of legislative experience, Tennis served as executive director of the President's Commission on Model State Drug Laws in 1993. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of Tulsa in 1975 and was a Rhodes Scholarship nominee. He is also a graduate of The University of Pennsylvania Law School.

Tennis's first order of business will be to analyze the provision of drug and alcohol services, which are currently provided through several agencies including the state departments of Health and Public Welfare. The goal is to ensure the highest and most effective care for Pennsylvania citizens struggling with addiction.

Tennis has been charged with taking a common-sense approach to streamlining and eliminating duplication of state drug and alcohol treatment and prevention efforts in Pennsylvania.

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs was created under Act 50 of 2010. It will establish a plan for the management and allocation of state and federal funds used to oversee alcohol and drug prevention, intervention and treatment services.

The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs is currently located in the Health and Welfare building. The Pennsylvania Department of Health is assisting in the agency's formation.

Rep. Turzai Will Not Run For Congress

2012-01-24T14:06:00.002-05:00

House Majority Leader Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) said Tuesday he has now decided not to run for Congress in the district he helped create as part of legislative reapportionment.
NewsClip: Turzai Changes His Mind, Won't Run For Congress

Sen. Pippy Will Not Seek Re-Election

2012-01-24T14:02:00.003-05:00

Sen. John Pippy (R-Allegheny) announced Tuesday he will not seek re-election this year. Sen. Pippy serves as Majority Chair of the Senate Law and Justice Committee which deals with liquor control issues.

"I am announcing today that I will not seek re-election to the Senate of Pennsylvania in 2012. Since 1997, I have had the pleasure of serving and working alongside the constituents of the 37th Senatorial District and 44th Legislative District. Over the years, I have met many wonderful and dedicated people in the public and private sectors, and am grateful for the support and encouragement of so many. It has been truly an honor and privilege to serve the people of Pennsylvania and I will be forever grateful for that opportunity."