Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus | News Center

News Center

First-ever data center regulations in Pennsylvania history pass House

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 24 – On Tuesday, the PA House passed H.B. 1834, legislation that would create the first-ever regulatory framework for data centers in Pennsylvania. The bill is a multifaceted response that would protect ratepayers from even higher utility bills, increase the construction of renewable energy, and fund low-income energy assistance programs. The bill was introduced by state Rep. Robert Matzie, D-Beaver.Pennsylvania has become a site of interest for widespread data center development, yet the Commonwealth currently has no statewide standards for data centers and lacks oversight of these facilities.As a result, ratepayers are often left footing the bill for upgrades to grid infrastructure required by large-load projects like data centers. The immense amount of energy needed to power data centers is also a major driver of rising energy prices, which have increased faster than inflation over the past six years. Consequently, one in six Pennsylvania families are struggling to keep up with their bills, and utility shutoffs rose 38% in 2025. Read more

 

PA House passes Dawkins' bill to raise minimum wage

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 24 – Today, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives voted to pass comprehensive legislation to raise the minimum wage for workers across the state. House Bill 2189 , sponsored by state Rep. Jason Dawkins, would increase the statewide minimum wage from $7.25 per hour to $11 per hour, effective Jan. 1, 2027. The minimum wage would then increase to $13 per hour in 2028 and $15 per hour in 2029, followed by annual cost-of-living adjustments. In addition, the bill would give counties the option to implement a $15-per-hour wage sooner and set the minimum wage for tipped employees at 60% of the statewide minimum wage. “It’s been my mission to provide a living wage for all working Pennsylvanians, and this bill passing the House is a huge step forward in that mission,” Dawkins said. “If you work hard, you shouldn’t have to worry about your next meal or having a roof over your head. Pennsylvania needs a minimum wage suitable for everyone, not just to survive, but to thrive in our state.” The last time Pennsylvania raised its minimum wage was in 2009, when the federal minimum wage increased to $7.25 per hour. Since that time, all neighboring states have raised their wages and inflation has increased more than 50%, all while Pennsylvania has remained stagnant. “Research shows that increasing the minimum wage does not lead to job losses or business Read more

 

Pa. House OK’s Probst plan to extend veterans tax exemption

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Tarah Probst

"This is a vital step in expanding access to property tax relief and ensuring no eligible veteran or surviving spouse is left behind,” Probst said. Read more

 

Burns’ American-made flag bill advances in House

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

A bipartisan bill sponsored by state Rep. Frank Burns that would require all American flags purchased and displayed by the commonwealth to be made in America cleared a key legislative hurdle today. Read more

 

Pennsylvania House passes Matzie bill to protect utility consumers from data center-driven rate hikes

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 24 – With the commonwealth seeing a sharp rise in data center development, the Pennsylvania House today passed legislation introduced by state Rep. Rob Matzie that would ensure the centers’ massive energy demands do not drive up Pennsylvanians’ electricity bills. Matzie, who is chair of the House Majority Caucus, said he introduced H.B. 1834 so the state can get the right regulatory framework in place now, as proposals for new data centers continue to mount. “Normally, if an electric company adds poles and wires or equipment, we all share in the costs. That’s because it’s making the delivery system better for all of us,” Matzie said. “That’s not the case with data centers. No one’s electric bill should ever go up because a data center has located in Pennsylvania, but we need to plan ahead to make sure that doesn’t happen. “It’s possible to protect ratepayers while still allowing the commonwealth to reap the tremendous economic benefits data centers can bring. Those goals are not mutually exclusive – as long as we get the right regulatory framework in place. My bill would do that.” Matzie said his bill would: Make sure that all costs incurred by data centers to get their electricity is paid for by them – not households and small businesses. Require data centers to contribute to universal service programs and supplement Read more

 

Transportation Committee OKs Freeman bill to allow roadside assistance vehicles to use blue safety lights

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Robert L. Freeman

"It is important that roadside assistance vehicles be provided the same opportunity to operate blue safety lights as they carry out their often-hazardous duties in aiding stranded motorists along Pennsylvania roads and highways,” Freeman said. Read more

 

Shusterman, Davis honor Mae Krier, Rosie the Riveter Day

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 24 – State Reps. Melissa Shusterman and Tina Davis honored Bristol resident Mae Krier, a trailblazing member of the “Rosie the Riveter” generation, in celebration of her 100th birthday and her lifelong advocacy on behalf of women who supported the nation during World War II. The recognition took place in conjunction with H.R. 385, which designated March 21, 2026, as “Rosie the Riveter Day” in Pennsylvania. The resolution commemorated the millions of American women who entered the workforce during World War II to support the war effort, filling critical roles in manufacturing, industry, and military support services. These women, many of whom lived and worked across Pennsylvania, played a vital role in securing victory and reshaping the nation’s workforce. “It is my honor to recognize Rosie the Riveter Day here in Pennsylvania,” Shusterman said. “Mae Krier's tireless advocacy for the Rosies to receive the accolades they deserve has always been inspiring to me. At a time when some people are attempting to erase our shared history, it is more important than ever to elevate all the trailblazers and women who have come before us.” Davis emphasized the importance of recognizing both Krier’s legacy and the broader impact of the Rosie the Riveter generation. “Mae Krier represents the very best of this Read more

 

Williams’ bill ensuring juvenile protections on federal property unanimously passes PA House

(Mar 24, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Legislation introduced by state Rep. Dan Williams to ensure juveniles on military bases are handled through the appropriate state juvenile justice systems unanimously passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today. Read more

 

Matzie: Newly released study recommends changes to PIAA policies

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 24 – The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association should update its policies to better protect student athletes participating in competitions, according to the newly released findings of a legislative study requested by state Rep. Rob Matzie. Matzie, who is chair of the House Majority Caucus and the longest-serving member of the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee, called on the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct the study based on concerns that PIAA’s system of classifying schools for competition puts student athletes at risk by forcing them to compete against wealthier schools with bigger budgets and larger rosters. “The study’s findings and recommendations demonstrate the need for updated PIAA policies relative to how transfers are monitored and adjudicated, where and how certain private, charter, and co-op schools get their student athletes, and how championship sites are determined,” Matzie said. “This vindicates the questions I’ve raised over the past several years, especially in regard to the treatment of the Aliquippa School District.” Matzie said the report recommends that PIAA: establish a statewide body to independently record, monitor and adjudicate student-athlete transfers among member schools. revise its policy for feeder schools, which pipeline Read more

 

Salisbury bill to preserve tree canopy advances from committee

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Abigail Salisbury

HARRISBURG, March 24 – Legislation introduced by state Rep. Abigail Salisbury to help preserve a healthy tree canopy for Pennsylvania’s communities has advanced from committee, sending the bill to the full House for consideration. Salisbury’s H.B. 2161 , which was approved by the House Environmental and Natural Resource Protection Committee, would require utility companies to plant a new tree for each one they cut down. “I introduced this bill after residents and environmental advocates in our district expressed concerns that trees were being removed entirely, instead of simply being pruned or trimmed,” Salisbury said. “Maintaining a healthy tree canopy is essential for communities because it reduces stormwater runoff and air pollution, provides shade that lowers energy costs, raises property values and increases pedestrian traffic for local businesses, among other benefits. “Monday’s committee action moved us a step closer to making sure those benefits continue.” Salisbury’s legislation would require electric utilities that cut down a tree to offer to plant a new one within two years in a location of the municipality’s choice. Salisbury said that the bill would align tree removal by utility companies with existing regulations that require utilities to repair damage caused by work that requires excavation or other projects that involve Read more

 

Kinkead, Green unveil bill tying legislator COLA to minimum wage increases

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Emily Kinkead, Rep. Roni Green

Automatic, annual minimum wage bump at same rate of lawmaker pay raises Read more

 

House Majority Appropriations Chairman Jordan A. Harris Introduces 2026-27 State Budget Proposal Focused on Affordability and Accountability

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Jordan A. Harris

This budget reflects our commitment to making everyday life more affordable while also delivering on the promises we’ve made to our communities. It prioritizes investments in public education, workforce development, and the services that help people stay safe, healthy and financially stable. Read more

 

Conklin resolution calls on state to study feasibility of senior property tax exemption

(Mar 23, 2026) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, March 23 – State Rep. Scott Conklin today introduced a resolution calling on Pennsylvania’s Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to research the feasibility of providing a property tax exemption for seniors. Conklin said he introduced H.R. 457 to address a growing problem facing older Pennsylvanians. “Aging in place—in the homes and communities they love—should be a realistic expectation for Pennsylvania’s more than 2.5 million residents who are 65 or older,” Conklin said. “Yet that future is far from certain for the growing number of seniors on fixed incomes, who face the risk of losing their cherished homes as property taxes increase. “A number of other states currently offer some form of property tax exemption for qualifying seniors. Pennsylvania should investigate whether it would be feasible to do the same, which is why I am calling on the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to research the feasibility of providing such an exemption. “Our seniors have built our businesses, shaped our communities, and helped lay the groundwork for younger generations. They shouldn’t have to fear losing their homes because of the burden of property taxes if there is a way we can prevent that from happening.” Read more

 

Tiburcio sworn in to serve PA’s 22nd Legislative District after special election

(Mar 23, 2026) Rep. Ana Tiburcio

Tiburcio was elected to the office on Feb. 24 in a special election. She replaces Josh Siegel, who resigned at the end of 2025 to become Lehigh County executive. Read more

 

PA House OKs Rusnock bill to expand solar energy to warehouses and distribution centers

(Mar 23, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

State Rep. Jacklyn Rusnock, D-Berks, announced that her bill to expand solar energy through e-commerce growth passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Read more

 

Rivera encourages residents to attend PUC hearing on UGI’s proposed rate increase

(Mar 23, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

LANCASTER, March 23 – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission will hold an in-person public hearing about UGI-Utilities, Inc.-Gas Division’s proposed rate increase at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. March 30 in the Manheim Township Public Library Morgan Center, 595 Granite Run Drive. Rivera will offer comments at the 6 p.m. hearing. Rivera said the hearings are being held in response to UGI’s planned substantial rate increase in operating revenues by 8.5%, or approximately $99.368 million. Under the proposal, the average monthly bill for a residential customer using 68.7 hundred cubic feet of natural gas would increase 8.7%, from $113.64 to $123.55 per month. In September 2025 , the PUC approved a 8.9%, or $69.5 million UGI rate increase--$40.9 million less than the 14.1%, or $110.4 million that the company originally requested. The monthly customer charge rose by 6.7%, or to $110.51 from $103.57. The rate hike took effect Oct. 28, 2025. According to UGI, the requested increase would allow the company to receive a fair return on proposed investments, including PUC-approved infrastructure replacement programs; enhanced information technology systems; recovery of operating expenses associated with providing gas distribution service; extension of its Weather Normalization Adjustment pilot; and incorporation of weather calculation into its rate design. On Feb. 19, the PUC formally suspended the proposed rate Read more

 

Neilson applauds literacy advocates working to endorse literacy programs across the state

(Mar 23, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

State Rep. Ed Neilson, D-Phila., today thanked the Pennsylvania Literacy Coalition, school and district leaders, literacy advocates, and lawmakers from across the commonwealth for reaffirming their commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality, evidence-based literacy programs. Read more

 

Neilson applauds literacy advocates working to endorse literacy programs across the state

(Mar 23, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

State Rep. Ed Neilson, D-Phila., today thanked the Pennsylvania Literacy Coalition, school and district leaders, literacy advocates, and lawmakers from across the commonwealth for reaffirming their commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality, evidence-based literacy programs. Since beginning his career in public service, Neilson has worked on various initiatives to highlight the importance of literacy programs in Pennsylvania. In 2014, Neilson’s legislation to create a dyslexia screening pilot program was signed into law by Gov. Tom Corbett, making it the first program of its kind in the commonwealth. In 2020, a federal bill modeled after this program was introduced in the U.S. Congress. “Every child in the commonwealth deserves to have a strong educational foundation that leads to a secure and successful future. That foundation is literacy. With literacy programs, children aren’t just learning new words; they are learning comprehension and critical thinking skills. Reading introduces them to new concepts, enhances creativity, and encourages them to think outside the box,” Neilson said. Read more

 

Briggs’ radon testing bill approved by committee

(Mar 23, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 23 – Legislation introduced by state Rep. Tim Briggs that would require radon testing and mitigation in Pennsylvania schools has been approved by the PA House Environmental & Natural Resource Protection Committee. House Bill 289 , which is a bipartisan bill co prime sponsored by state Rep. Jason Ortitay (R- Allegheny/Washington), now advances to the full House for consideration. “Ensuring the safety and health of students and school staff is a fundamental responsibility,” Briggs said. “H.B. 289 establishes clear standards for radon testing and mitigation in our schools, protecting communities across Pennsylvania. I am encouraged by the bipartisan support this bill received and look forward to continued progress in the full House.” Radon is a radioactive, colorless, and odorless gas that forms naturally from decaying radium in the soil and can enter buildings through cracks in foundations. Pennsylvania’s geology places residents at a higher risk of exposure, and the Radon in Schools Workgroup estimates that as many as two in five schools may have unhealthy radon levels. This invisible gas poses a serious long-term health risk, ranking just behind smoking as a leading cause of lung cancer nationwide. Damage can occur gradually and without obvious symptoms, even when concentrations are relatively low. The risk is heightened for children, whose bodies are still developing and Read more

 

Legislators introduce bill to make taxes easier for small businesses

(Mar 23, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, March 23 – After the success of a recent pilot by the PA Department of Revenue, state Reps. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and Steve Samuelson have introduced legislation to codify a program that would instantly remit sales tax to the state. The legislation, H.B. 2300 , would officially establish the use of software that collects sales and use tax in real time for each transaction and sends it to the Department of Revenue, taking the burden of handling sales and use tax off the taxpayer. “As a small business owner myself, I know convenience and predictability can be hard to come by when you run a business,” said Cepeda-Freytiz. “This legislation would afford our small businesses just that, while ensuring 100% compliance among those who use it. This is a solution that clearly makes work easier for the businesses that fuel our economy and the state government.” Cepeda-Freytiz previously owned Mi Casa Su Casa Café, a breakfast and lunch café in downtown Reading that opened in 2007. The legislation would also allow the Department of Revenue to mandate use of the software for taxpayers with certain arrearages, with the first-year costs covered by the department. After the pilot program, three out of four participants chose to continue using the software at their own expense. House Bill 2300 has been referred to the House Finance Committee, chaired by Samuelson. The Finance Read more

 

First-ever data center regulations in Pennsylvania history pass House
Mar 24, 2026

PA House passes Dawkins' bill to raise minimum wage
Mar 24, 2026

Pa. House OK’s Probst plan to extend veterans tax exemption
Mar 24, 2026

Burns’ American-made flag bill advances in House
Mar 24, 2026

Pennsylvania House passes Matzie bill to protect utility consumers from data center-driven rate hikes
Mar 24, 2026

Transportation Committee OKs Freeman bill to allow roadside assistance vehicles to use blue safety lights
Mar 24, 2026

Shusterman, Davis honor Mae Krier, Rosie the Riveter Day
Mar 24, 2026

Williams’ bill ensuring juvenile protections on federal property unanimously passes PA House
Mar 24, 2026

Matzie: Newly released study recommends changes to PIAA policies
Mar 24, 2026

Salisbury bill to preserve tree canopy advances from committee
Mar 24, 2026

Kinkead, Green unveil bill tying legislator COLA to minimum wage increases
Mar 24, 2026

House Majority Appropriations Chairman Jordan A. Harris Introduces 2026-27 State Budget Proposal Focused on Affordability and Accountability
Mar 24, 2026

Conklin resolution calls on state to study feasibility of senior property tax exemption
Mar 23, 2026

Tiburcio sworn in to serve PA’s 22nd Legislative District after special election
Mar 23, 2026

PA House OKs Rusnock bill to expand solar energy to warehouses and distribution centers
Mar 23, 2026

Rivera encourages residents to attend PUC hearing on UGI’s proposed rate increase
Mar 23, 2026

Neilson applauds literacy advocates working to endorse literacy programs across the state
Mar 23, 2026

Neilson applauds literacy advocates working to endorse literacy programs across the state
Mar 23, 2026

Briggs’ radon testing bill approved by committee
Mar 23, 2026

Legislators introduce bill to make taxes easier for small businesses
Mar 23, 2026