Government Helps/Hurts


Graphic by Francesca Daly
What Pennsylvania Has Gotten Out Of Biden’s Infrastructure Law (So Far)

 In Pennsylvania, more than 160 infrastructure projects have been announced so far, and more are in the works. Here’s a look at the work that’s being done in the Keystone State and how it helps Pennsylvanians.

Protesters Holding Signs
New Bill From Pennsylvania Democrat Would Ensure Easier Access to Abortion Care and Secure Reproductive Freedom

The antiquated state law that makes abortion legal includes numerous restrictions on access to care. New legislation would remove those barriers and allow government funding for abortion facilities.

Rep. Summer Lee, D-Pa., arrives for Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro's Inauguration, Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023, at the state Capitol in Harrisburg, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
She Made History. Now, Summer Lee Wants to Empower Pennsylvanians

As the first Black woman to represent Pennsylvania in the US House, Summer Lee feels a responsibility to give voice to other minorities. One way to do that: letting her constituents know they have more power to effect change than they realize.

Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro speaks after taking the oath of office to become Pennsylvania's 48th governor, Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023, at the state Capitol in Harrisburg, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Here Are 5 Key Plans Included in Gov. Josh Shapiro’s First Budget

During his first budget speech before a joint General Assembly, Gov. Shapiro proposed increasing the state’s investment in its workers, businesses, and students.

A black plume rises over East Palestine, Ohio, as a result of a controlled detonation of a portion of the derailed Norfolk Southern Monday, Feb. 6, 2023. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Norfolk Southern Will Pay Pennsylvania $7M for Damages From Train Derailment and Chemical Burn, Shapiro Says

According to Gov. Shapiro, the funds will cover the cost of the response and recovery for state agencies, fire departments, and business and residents in Beaver and Lawrence counties.

FILE - Pennsylvania Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro speaks during a news conference in Philadelphia, Feb. 16, 2023. Shapiro will propose a three-year incentive of up to $2,500 a year for newly certified teachers, cops and nurses in Pennsylvania when the Democrat unveils his budget plan on Tuesday, March 7, administration officials said. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)
Shapiro to Propose Tax Break For Police Officers, Teachers, and Nurses

Gov. Shapiro plans to propose a three-year tax credit incentive for newly certified teachers, cops, and nurses in the commonwealth when he unveils his budget plan next week.

FILE - This photo taken with a drone shows portions of a Norfolk Southern freight train that derailed Friday night in East Palestine, Ohio are still on fire at mid-day Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023. On Friday, Feb 24, The Associated Press reported on stories circulating online incorrectly claiming a photo shows birds that “dropped dead” in Kentucky following the Ohio train derailment, and a video shows birds in northern Indiana that also died from the hazardous chemicals released after the derailment. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)
In Wake of Train Derailment, Pennsylvania Lawmakers Propose More Safety Regulations, Issue Subpoena to Norfolk CEO

Federally, legislation was introduced in both the House and Senate by Pennsylvania lawmakers aimed at expanding safety regulations for the rail industry after a fiery train wreck near Beaver County.