Whitney Downard, Pennsylvania Capital-Star
Latest from Whitney Downard, Pennsylvania Capital-Star
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Pa. senators weigh consumer protections from cryptocurrency scams
Millions of Americans fell prey to scammers in 2025, losing nearly $21 billion in cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence scams. It’s an ever-growing industry that takes advantage of society’s most vulnerable.
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Ahead of busy tourism year, Pa. lawmakers scrutinize aggressive driving
Pennsylvania—and its drivers—will be in the spotlight with events like the FIFA World Cup, America250 events and the NFL Draft.
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Pa. fire companies feel the pinch as private equity buys up truck manufacturers
In an industry that used to have two dozen independent companies, options for buying firetrucks have dwindled as private equity firms consolidate factories and grow their profits.
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With $4.5B on the line, Pennsylvania businesses seek tariff refunds
“This is not a way to make the world a more just and equitable place for all,” said one Lancaster County business owner.
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No Kings protest in Reading, Pennsylvania brings out opposition to ICE detention facility
Across thousands of cities nationwide, including dozens in Pennsylvania, millions of Americans rallied against the Trump administration Saturday in the third “No Kings” protests since President Donald Trump returned to office.
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Pa. House Democrats introduce identical budget proposal to Gov. Shapiro’s
Appropriations Chair Rep. Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia) formally filed the bill with legislative services on Tuesday, emphasizing his caucus’ alignment with Pennsylvania’s chief executive.
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State House Democrats: Pa. needs to prioritize universal pre-K
Research indicates that a quality pre-kindergarten education prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
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Pa. high school students weigh in on state policies for AI use following new tools
Students talked about peers who were “overly reliant” on AI for either their mental health, homework or basic skills.
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Pa. small businesses cheer U.S. Supreme Court tariffs decision, but still face uncertainty
Some $126 billion has been paid by Americans since the tariffs were imposed, including a $4 billion cost for Pennsylvanians.
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Senators urge House to adopt bell-to-bell cell phone ban in Pa. schools
A bipartisan proposal for a student cell phone ban in Pennsylvania’s public and private schools advanced to the House this week with Gov. Josh Shapiro’s backing.
