Pennsylvania News Summary

Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled his 2025-26 budget proposal, focusing on workforce development, cost reduction in healthcare, housing, and energy, and investments in economic development and education[2]. The $50 million PA Innovation program, part of the budget, aims to strengthen Pennsylvania's innovation economy, with $30 million dedicated to spurring life sciences job growth[3].

In political news, protesters gathered at the Pennsylvania Capitol on February 17, 2025, as part of a national demonstration against President Donald Trump's administration[1]. The event highlighted ongoing political tensions in the state.

On the economic front, the Shapiro Administration reported securing over $3 billion in private sector investments and creating more than 4,700 jobs since taking office. A notable success was attracting life sciences company Adare Pharma Solutions to relocate from New Jersey to Philadelphia, creating 115 new jobs and retaining 200 existing positions[8].

In public health news, Montgomery County officials confirmed the first measles case of 2025 in Pennsylvania on March 2, related to an unvaccinated child. The case is linked to international travel, and officials are conducting contact tracing to notify potentially exposed individuals[6].

Weather-wise, Pennsylvania experienced a cold spell in mid-February, with temperatures 10-20°F below normal. The forecast predicted a gradual return to seasonable temperatures by the end of the month, with the possibility of light snow in northern and western areas[4].

In education and infrastructure, the state budget includes investments in these sectors, although specific details were not provided in the available search results.

Looking ahead, the Pennsylvania General Assembly will focus on policy issues in the 2025-26 legislative session. Key areas to watch include potential cannabis legalization, taxation of skill game machines, and initiatives to eliminate medical debt for low-income residents. Governor Shapiro's upcoming budget address in early February 2025 is expected to outline major policy priorities for the year[7].