Latest news with #DCED
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Montour County officials reallocate funds to rehab elevator
DANVILLE — Nearly $180,000 of 2022 Montour County grant funds will go toward the rehabilitation of the elevator at the county's administration center. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) awarded Montour County $179,307 for the removal of barriers at Hopewell Park in federal fiscal year 2022. The funds were awarded through the Community Development Block Grant program. County commissioners will abandon the plans for Hopewell and on Tuesday approved reallocation of all of the funds in a budget modification which will be submitted to DCED. — ANNA WIEST
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Legislative roundup: Fetterman to re-introduce SMART Prices Act
May 25—WILKES-BARRE — U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pittsburgh, this week joined 26 of his colleagues to introduce the Strengthening Medicare and Reducing Taxpayer (SMART) Prices Act. The bill, led by Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT), would expand Medicare's ability to negotiate lower drug prices for consumers, reduce federal spending, and give the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) stronger tools to negotiate lower drug costs in Medicare Part B and Part D. Pennsylvania seniors fill more than 100 million prescriptions every year — this bill means they'll finally get a fair shake at the pharmacy counter. In addition, taxpayers will see serious savings. According to preliminary estimates from West Health and Verdant Research, if the SMART Prices Act were to be enacted in 2026, it would save 33% more by 2030 than current law. It would also allow Medicare to begin negotiations earlier and bring down the price of more expensive drugs. "No one should have to choose between medicine and groceries. Multi-billion-dollar drug corporations are making obscene profits off of seniors and working families struggling just to get by," Fetterman said. "The SMART Prices Act is not complicated: it will boost Medicare's ability to negotiate fair deals with pharmaceutical companies and bring drug prices down. Big Pharma lobbyists might hate it, but regular people sure as hell won't." This legislation builds on provision included in the Inflation Reduction Act that empowered Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices for the first time, unleashing the power of 53 million seniors enrolled in Medicare Part D Drug Coverage. The SMART Prices Act would extend this progress by more than doubling the number of prescription drugs Medicare must negotiate to a minimum of 50 per year, allowing the costliest prescription drugs and biologics to have negotiated prices five years after approval by the Food and Drug Administration, and by increasing the discount that Medicare is allowed to negotiate. DCED invests more than $22.6M to help schools Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger this week announced an investment of more than $22.6 million in 74 schools across Pennsylvania through the Solar for Schools Grant Program — which is administered by DCED and funded through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA). Program grants will help schools to cover the purchase and installation of equipment, permit fees, energy storage, and utility interconnection. "Energy is one of the top expenses for schools, which is why investments in solar energy can help to maintain long-term financial stability and improve the quality of education they offer students," Siger said. "Those savings can then be channeled into more resources for our teachers and students, and also create good-paying clean-energy jobs and job training opportunities." School districts, intermediate units, area career and technical schools, charter schools, cyber charter schools, chartered schools for the education of the deaf or blind, community colleges, The Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, and The Pennsylvania College of Technology were eligible to apply for the grants. "Schools across Pennsylvania face tight budgets, and energy costs are one additional expense among a myriad of others," said Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe. Luzerne County: $400,000 to the Hanover Area School District to install solar panels to the district's high school. The district estimates the solar project will reduce its energy costs by 78%, reduce carbon emissions by approximately 100 metric tons annually, and serve as an educational tool for over 2,300 students to learn about renewable energy and its benefits. Legislation introduced to license music therapists Music therapists in Pennsylvania could be professionally licensed by the Commonwealth, bringing significant economic and therapeutic benefits to families and communities under new legislation introduced by state Sen. Elder Vogel, Jr., R-47, and Sen. Carolyn Comitta, D-19. The bipartisan legislation — Senate Bill 579 — would establish a board certification exam, continuing education requirements, and a code of ethics for trained music therapists to receive professional licensure under the State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors. "For years, I have been pushing for Pennsylvania to establish state licensure for music therapists to provide another avenue for those in need of therapy services," Vogel said. "Due to not having state licensure, most patients are denied insurance coverage for this therapy and music therapists then are limited in job opportunities here in the Commonwealth and seek employment elsewhere. Patients are losing out on a beneficial health care option and Pennsylvania is losing out on family-sustaining jobs and generating economic revenue. I am happy to introduce this legislation again and continue to fight for this important treatment option for those who can truly benefit from it." "Music therapy can be a powerful tool to promote healing, well-being, and recovery. And licensing our highly trained music therapists will not only reduce public health costs and improve access to care, but it will also boost our economy, increase tax revenue, and help create jobs," said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. "I'm proud to partner with Sen. Vogel on this legislation. I also want to recognize state Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, D-Wilkes-Barre, who championed this issue in the House. I appreciate their efforts and the work of all our music therapists and advocates in communities across the Commonwealth." Music Therapy is an evidence-based healthcare profession that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease pain, and improve communication and social skills. Pennsylvania is home to the largest number of higher education programs in the country for music therapy, yet professional licensure for music therapists is not currently offered in the Commonwealth. By establishing a license for music therapy, Pennsylvania could regain approximately $7 million by retaining graduates and $135.4 million by enabling music therapists to bill appropriately, according to the Pennsylvania Music Therapy Task Force. In addition, most insurance companies and Behavioral Health Managed Care Organizations (BH-MCOs) deny coverage to music therapists because they lack state licensure, even when they are nationally board-certified. Of Pennsylvania's 67 counties, at least 60 are blocked from reimbursed music therapy services with BH-MCOs. As a result, employers lose approximately $128,752 per music therapist, adding up to more than $93 million in lost revenue annually for Pennsylvania businesses, healthcare facilities, and therapy practices, according to the task force. Senate Bill 579 represents a significant opportunity to retain professional talent, expand health care access, and capture substantial economic value currently forfeited to neighboring states with more developed regulatory frameworks. Pennsylvania is currently home to more than 600 music therapists serving 49,000 residents each year. They assist clients with a variety of clinical needs, including Alzheimer's disease, autism spectrum disorders, cerebrovascular accidents (strokes), dementia, depression, developmental and intellectual differences, Parkinson's disease, post-traumatic stress disorders, terminal illnesses, traumatic brain injuries, visual impairments, and more. Senate Bill 579 is before the Senate Consumer Affairs and Professional Licensure Committee. It is co-sponsored by 14 senators from both sides of the aisle. There is companion legislation in the House, House Bill 563, sponsored by Pashinski. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
DCED analysis: PA secured $5.2B private sector investments, created 9,500 jobs
May 23—WILKES-BARRE — The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) this week completed new analysis showing that the Shapiro Administration has secured more than $5.2 billion in private sector investment, creating more than 9,500 new jobs, since taking office. "Since day one, my administration and I have been laser focused on making Pennsylvania a leader in economic development, job creation, and innovation," said Gov. Josh Shapiro. "From historic investments in site development, to cutting red tape, we're showing the world how we get stuff done — and we'll continue to make bold, strategic investments that create real opportunity for Pennsylvanians." As part of the Shapiro Administration's work to implement the 10-year Economic Development Strategy, DCED created the BusinessPA team — an experienced group of economic development professionals dedicated to Getting It Done for businesses looking to thrive in Pennsylvania. "Economic development is a team sport, and the DCED team is committed to partnering with regions across our Commonwealth to make sure Pennsylvania is open for business," said DCED Secretary Rick Siger. Pennsylvania's appeal to businesses has not gone unnoticed. DCED was recently named a top state economic development group by Business Facilities Magazine. The Commonwealth recently ranked 10th overall in Site Selection Magazine's Governor's Cup — and third among Northeast states. Additionally, BusinessPA was honored with a Deal of the Year — Impact Award from Business Facilities Magazine for its role in GSK's expansion in Lancaster County. US House passes bill to simplify veterans forms The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan, Jr.'s legislation — H.R. 1286, the Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act. The bipartisan bill, which passed by a vote of 386-1, would simplify forms required by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for veterans and survivors. Bresnahan, R-Dallas Township, introduced this bill on Feb. 13, 2025, and it passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Veteran's Affairs on May 6. This is the first piece of legislation Bresnahan introduced and is his first legislation to pass the House. "When our military members return home from serving our country, they are often tasked with filling out dozens of pages of paperwork in order to receive the benefits they've rightfully earned," Bresnahan said. "Veterans and their families should not be subjected to a VA claims process that is more difficult and stressful than necessary, which is why I am incredibly proud to see my legislation, the Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act, pass out of the House this evening. "Pennsylvania's Eighth Congressional District is home to nearly 40,000 veterans, and I am proud to spearhead this legislation for each and every one of them and their families." The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) requires veterans and survivors to complete standard forms to initiate and pursue claims for VA benefits, including disability compensation, pension and survivors' benefits. These forms can often be arduous and difficult to understand for veterans or their survivors, and failure to do correctly fill them out can result in delays in processing their claim, delays in receiving a decision on their claim, or even a denial of their claim. Bresnahan said he introduced the Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act to simplify the forms process to make VA standard forms more user-friendly. The legislation would require VA to contract with a nonpartisan, federally funded research entity to conduct a study on, and provide recommendations for, revising VA forms to be more understandable for veterans and their survivors. Following this study, the VA Secretary would be required to report findings to Congress and implement recommendations. AG: Congress needs to fund PSAs Attorney General Dave Sunday this week joined a bipartisan coalition of 38 Attorneys General calling on Congress to pass the Youth Substance Use Prevention and Awareness Act — a federal bill that aims to reduce youth drug use through research-based public education and community outreach. The bill would employ prevention methods proven to be effective in forming public service announcements and initiatives — produced by student peers — aimed at young people when they have first exposure to dangerous substances. "Protecting children is a core function of the Office of Attorney General, and it is crucial that young people receive this positive messaging at a time when they are most impressionable," Sunday said. "Without a doubt, the best way to solve a problem or crisis is to prevent it from happening. As a father, I am well aware of the challenges and influences facing our children. We must do all we can to equip them with the tools they need to make healthy choices." The legislation, introduced by U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), would amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide targeted federal funding for public service announcements (PSAs), youth-led campaigns, and other outreach tools that help prevent early substance use. All campaigns funded under the bill must be grounded in evidence, designed for cultural relevance, and adapted to meet the specific needs of local communities. "This thoughtful and timely legislation represents a critical, evidence-based step toward reducing youth substance use through strategic public education and engagement," write the attorneys general in a letter to Senate leadership. The Youth Substance Use Prevention and Awareness Act would fund a range of efforts to better reach youth with timely, credible and accessible information, including: —Culturally relevant PSAs tailored specifically to youth. —Youth-led PSA contests to drive peer-to-peer engagement and creativity. —Federal grants for outreach across TV, radio, social media, streaming platforms and other media. —Annual reporting requirements to measure reach and effectiveness, ensuring transparency and accountability. PUC: Add energy efficiency to 'summer utility checklist' With summer fast approaching and new default electric generation prices taking effect on June 1, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) this week is urging residents and businesses across the Commonwealth to #SaveInPA by taking proactive steps now to manage their utility bills — with a strong focus on energy efficiency, conservation and understanding supply options. "As temperatures rise, so do energy costs — especially when demand for air conditioning peaks," said PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank. "Now is the time to review your past energy usage, make smart adjustments at home or work, and explore tools that can help you take control of your summer electricity bills." —Why now? Understanding June 1 price changes Every June 1 and Dec. 1, electric distribution companies (EDCs) in Pennsylvania adjust their "Price to Compare" (PTC) — the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) charged to customers who have not selected a competitive supplier. These prices are based on wholesale market rates and can significantly impact monthly bills. Note: These changes only affect customers receiving "default service" from their electric utility — that is, those who have not selected a competitive supplier. Customers already shopping with a supplier will continue paying the generation price set by their contract, but they should also be aware of these broader market trends to prepare for potential impacts when their current contract ends. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Presque Isle State Park will not receive $1.5 million in funding for sand replenishment
Presque Isle State Park will not receive its usual $1.5 million in federal funding for sand replenishment this year, raising concerns about infrastructure stability. The park typically receives $3 million annually for sand replenishment, with half coming from the federal government and half from the state. This year, the federal government has not provided its share, leaving the state to cover the remaining $1.5 million. 'The commonwealth is going to contribute its half of the 1.5 million into the project this year. Nourishment will continue, but it will be about half scale, though,' said Matt Greene, Presque Isle State Park Operations Manager. State Representative Ryan Bizzarro criticized the lack of federal funding, stating, 'You can't be pro-business or pro-growth without understanding how sand replenishment benefits the region.' DCED officials promote NAP program during visit to Erie Presque Isle State Park spreads 38,000 cubic yards of sand annually to maintain infrastructure integrity. This process mimics natural sand replenishment that would occur without man-made structures. Due to the funding shortfall, park officials plan to conduct a partial replenishment by relocating sand from tombolos, sand bars that connect to break walls, to areas most affected by erosion. Matt Greene explained that the sand might need to be moved further than usual this year to address erosion at critical locations like Beaches 5 through Mill Road Beach. Ryan Bizzarro expressed disappointment over the federal government's decision, highlighting the importance of sand replenishment for regional growth and infrastructure stability. Green-thumbed gardeners, plant enthusiasts gather at Community Seedling Swap and Sale Bizzarro also noted the political context, urging federal representatives to advocate for the restoration of funding. Greene emphasized the need for consistent sand replenishment to prevent operational impacts and maintain the peninsula's infrastructure. Without federal funding, Presque Isle State Park faces challenges in maintaining its infrastructure, prompting state officials to seek alternative solutions for sand replenishment, considering it's not fully budgeted for now by the Commonwealth. The situation underscores the importance of federal support for regional projects. All facts in this report were gathered by journalists employed by WJET/WFXP. Artificial intelligence tools were used to reformat from a broadcast script into a news article for our website. This report was edited and fact-checked by WJET/WFXP staff before being published. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bone broth manufacturing facility opens in Lancaster County
LANCASTER, Pa. (WHTM) — A new state-of-the-art bone broth manufacturing facility recently opened its doors in Lancaster County. Earlier this week, a national leader in bone broth, cooking broths, and soups, called Kettle & Fire, officially unveiled its new manufacturing facility located at 425 Ben Franklin Boulevard in Lancaster County. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now The new 167,000 square foot manufacturing facility is called KettleWorks. According to the Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED), the new facility will inject more than $19.1 million into the local economy and create at least 149 new jobs. The new facility was in part made possible due to a funding proposal from DCED, which includes a $4 million Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) loan and a $40,000 WEDnetPA grant to train its workers. 'When a fast-growing company like Kettle & Fire chooses to build its first manufacturing facility right here in Pennsylvania, it shows that our Commonwealth has what it takes to compete and win in today's economy,' Governor Shapiro said. 'From day one, my Administration has been focused on creating jobs, strengthening our agriculture and manufacturing sectors, and making Pennsylvania the best place to live, work, and grow a business — and this announcement is proof that our strategy is working. My Administration will continue to secure major investments in our economy, create jobs, and open up the doors of opportunity for more Pennsylvanians.' Kettle & Fire says the new facility was purposefully designed to meet their high standards while also helping to accelerate growth and innovation in the larger bone broth category. 'Opening KettleWorks marks a significant milestone in our company's history,' Brian Hack, CEO of Kettle & Fire, said. 'Self-manufacturing is one of the most important steps an emerging brand can take to ensure consistent service for its customers and improve its ability to partner with retailers, distributors, and other partners. By opening KettleWorks, we unlock significant capabilities which will enable us to deliver higher service levels and quality.' According to Kettle & Fire, the company was founded in 2014 and is a leader in shelf-stable bone broth. Today, the company's variety of bone broths, cooking broths, and soups are available in over 22,000 stores nationwide. abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
