May 2, 2023
Op-ed By Senator John Kane
Senator John I. Kane shares his thoughts on Governor Shapiros Proposed Budget and its impact on District 9.
Folks, let me tell you something: if being a plumber and union business manager has taught me anything, it taught me about being responsible for the finances of others. It taught me to invest in yourself, your trade, your people, and your community. Every year, Pennsylvania’s budget is a statement of who we are and what we want to be. Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal is exactly what our 9th Senate District needs to keep moving forward.
March 5, 2023
Op-ed by Senator Lisa Boscola, 18th Senatorial District
Breaking News… The way Pennsylvania funds its public school system is wildly unfair. It should not have taken a public interest lawsuit to confirm to the General Assembly what I and many others have been saying for a few decades now… homeowners, school districts, teachers and most important students do not win with the way Pennsylvania pays for its public schools.
October 17, 2022
Op-ed By Lisa Boscola
In the Lehigh Valley, we had much to celebrate during “Manufacturing Week” in Pennsylvania from Oct. 7-14. Too many people still think that our manufacturing economy ceased when the Bethlehem Steel smokestacks stopped billowing. As the daughter of a steelworker, I am happy to report that manufacturing is alive and well here. We are home to well-known manufacturers: Mack Trucks, Lutron Electronics, Bosch Rexroth, Victaulic, and Lehigh Valley Heavy Forge.
August 4, 2022
Op-ed By Senator Vincent Hughes and Sharif El-Mekki
A decade ago, Pennsylvania certified 20,000 new teachers. Last year, that number was down to 6,000. Chronic understaffing, along with underfunding, is driving increased burnout and shorter teaching careers.
That loss of teachers is particularly concerning among communities of color which make up 37 percent of the student body, but only 7 percent of teachers.
Simply put, Pennsylvania’s teacher workforce is not keeping up with a rapidly diversifying student body, leading to a classroom experience that is less than ideal for both the teacher and the student.
July 20, 2022
Op-ed by Senator Jimmy Dillon
As a recent candidate for public office and a new member of the State Senate I’ve learned quality of life is still the driving force in local politics. The things that make a difference in the day-to-day lives of the people I serve are usually far less dramatic than the hot button topics in Harrisburg or Washington.
July 13, 2022
Op-ed by Senator Jim Brewster
It’s not really surprising that the highly profitable Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) -which not only serves urban and suburban customers, but also reaches deep into sparse rural regions – has faced constant attacks over the years by profiteers and their loyal allies in the General Assembly.
