Lawmakers have missed SEPTA’s deadline to act to forestall cuts, divided over where money for transit should come from.
Spotlight PA
People seeking to clear their record of a criminal conviction can now do so online
The state’s new online pardon application aims to speed reviews and expand access for people seeking to clear criminal records.
State delays new contract with extra accountability measures for Pa. elder abuse agencies
The Department of Aging pointed to a new system to monitor whether counties are conducting quality abuse and neglect investigations.
Budget ‘blame game’ continues between Pa. House, Senate as public transit cuts loom
The Pa. House has passed a transit funding bill, but the Senate may favor a stopgap deal for Harrisburg’s six-week-late budget.
Key reasons Pennsylvania’s mental health system is failing
A Spotlight PA investigation reveals Pennsylvania has failed to fulfill its 2011 promise to transition patients from state psychiatric hospitals to community care, leading to increased mental health needs in county jails.
Why Pennsylvanians may see higher electric bills this summer — and next
Record-setting usage fueled by heat waves, plus the region’s electrical grid, is behind the increases.
Transportation funding deadlock threatens PA infrastructure plans
Pennsylvania lawmakers are wrestling with funding solutions for the state’s aging transportation infrastructure while grappling with declining gas tax revenues and rising maintenance costs.
Family’s decade-long struggle reveals gaps in state’s psychiatric care
A Spotlight PA investigation found Pennsylvania politicians and local officials broke promises to replace institutionalized care with community options — despite knowing the devastating consequences.
Train enthusiasts keep Pennsylvania’s rich railroad heritage on track
Trains played a huge role in Pennsylvania’s development, and local museums and volunteer groups statewide help to preserve that history.
How a bipartisan push — and backing from farmers — helped end Pennsylvania’s Sunday hunting ban
The law, which will allow the Game Commission to set Sunday hunting dates, takes effect in early September.
Pennsylvania governor’s mansion fire fundraiser details remain under wraps
The Shapiro administration has yet to say just how much repairing and upgrading the Harrisburg residence will cost after a brazen arson attack.
Prices on certain goods, services could rise as Pa. lawmakers consider axing some sales tax exemptions
With the budget overdue and facing significant deficits, one GOP leader says he’s willing to consider changes.
How Pa. is responding to rising use of a synthetic opioid more powerful than fentanyl
At least 50 people have died of an overdose associated with nitazenes. A lack of testing means the true number is likely higher.
Fourth consecutive budget delay looms as PA lawmakers remain divided
Impasses don’t mean much unless they stretch for more than a few weeks. Then, they start having serious consequences for schools, libraries, and more.
Shortage of new teachers is hurting Pa. kids’ academic prospects, report says
Poor school districts are leaning heavily on less-rigorous emergency certifications to fill teaching gaps, a Penn State report found.
















