Jay Costa

Pennsylvania lawmakers were urged to protect SNAP benefits and support the state's farming industry amid rising grocery costs and federal policy uncertainty. Food bank leaders, a union representative, and state officials highlighted the strain on families and businesses due to inflation and the Trump administration's policies, including tariffs and immigration guidance.

Pennsylvania's state budget will not be passed on time for the fifth consecutive year as the Republican-controlled Senate adjourned without a spending plan. Democratic leaders expressed frustration over Republicans' refusal to share their proposal, while House Democrats pledged to continue negotiations. The Senate's recess delayed a resolution until next week.

Pennsylvania Senate Republicans blocked a Democratic effort to raise the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour with annual cost-of-living increases. The House had passed the bill, but Senate rules prevented debate on its contents during a procedural vote, leading to a party-line split. Neighboring states have higher minimum wages than Pennsylvania’s current $7.25.

Senate Democrats in Pennsylvania are urging the passage of minimum wage legislation to gradually raise the state's minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 an hour by 2029. The bill, which has bipartisan House support, is stalled in the Republican-controlled Senate Labor and Industry Committee. Minority Floor Leader Jay Costa filed a discharge petition to force a Senate vote.