News & Brews June 12, 2023
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Pa. loses in COVID business migration
A new report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks the number of small businesses that moved across state lines from 2020-2021. Editorializing on the study, the Wall Street Journal notes that “states with onerous lockdowns lost employers.” And Pennsylvania rounds out the five states with the most small business exits. “New York led in net business out-migration (487), followed by California (456), Illinois (208), Maryland (50) and Pennsylvania (33). Florida (399), North Carolina (148), Nevada (103), Texas (103) and Tennessee (92) drew the most businesses from other states. All besides North Carolina have no income tax.”
Shapiro to issue disaster declaration after I-95 collapse
Gov. Shapiro plans to issue a disaster declaration this morning after a vehicle fire caused a portion of I-95 to collapse in Northeast Philadelphia. The declaration will allow Pa. “to immediately draw down federal funds and move quickly to repair and reconstruct” the highway. Still, the critical thoroughfare is expected to stay closed for months.
Hearing today on energy tax impacts
The House Republican Policy Committee will hold a hearing at 10:00 a.m. this morning on the negative impacts of the energy tax included in Gov. Shapiro’s and Democrats’ proposed budgets. Among those scheduled to testify are Greg Moreland, Pennsylvania State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business, and David Taylor, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association. The hearing will be live streamed here.
Prepping for ‘overtime’ in Pa. budget talks?
The Erie-Times News reports that “Pennsylvanians will soon learn a lot about the real dynamic between their new governor and the divided Legislature in Harrisburg.” That’s because despite “some kind words from Republicans” when Shapiro unveiled his budget proposal, GOP lawmakers are skeptical of its high price tag. Whether Shapiro and lawmakers will reach an agreement by the traditional June 30 deadline remains a big question.
Pa. reacts to Trump’s indictment
The Inquirer reports reactions among some Pa. politicos to former President Trump’s recent indictment. And as many Republicans continue to try to distance themselves from Trump, few rushed to his defense.