IssuesPA is a nonpartisan effort to raise the issues most important to Pennsylvania's future http://issuespa.com en-us IssuesPA Thu Aug 28 02:40:16 EDT 2008 http://issuespa.com/articles/22183 What would it take to have a convention in the Commonwealth? IssuesPA takes a look. http://issuespa.com/articles/22182 IssuesPA offers some background and history on state constitutional conventions. http://issuespa.com/articles/22181 The second episode of IssuesPA 2008 features a closer look at energy and infrastructure issues, including alternative energies and energy of the future, building green, and transportation. http://issuespa.com/articles/22081 A Look at the Governor's Proposal http://issuespa.com/articles/21982 IssuesPA takes a closer look at the ongoing debate over funding and accountability http://issuespa.com/articles/21883 IssuesPA Takes a Look at the Cost-Effectiveness of Consolidating Pennsylvania School Districts http://issuespa.com/articles/21881 This month, IssuesPA TV will air on public television stations throughout Pennsylvania. The first episode will look at education. http://issuespa.com/articles/21882 The state's education policies impact students and their families - but also the whole community http://issuespa.com/articles/21683 Award focuses on unique partnership between League and public television stations http://issuespa.com/articles/21811 Many Jurisdictions Plus a Complicated Process = $237 Million Lost Each Year http://issuespa.com/articles/21681 Pennsylvania's new budget just may contain something for everyone - major new programs for education and transportation, modest funding increase overall, and no new taxes. http://issuespa.com/articles/21682 As a part of the budget package, the legislature and Governor approved a $946.3 million plan for transportation in Pennsylvania. IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/21611 An Overview of PEL's October 2006 Study on Transportation Policy and Funding http://issuespa.com/articles/21612 While privatizing the Turnpike or other Interstates through long-term leases is hotly debated, the variety of public-private partnerships are virtually limitless. http://issuespa.com/articles/17908 When it comes to the state?s roads and bridges, how does Pennsylvania compare to other states with similar economic and climate conditions? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/17907 How does Pennsylvania pay for roads, bridges and transit systems in Pennsylvania? IssuesPA looks at a recent study by the Pennsylvania Economy League to learn more. http://issuespa.com/articles/17909 Public transportation systems exist throughout the state ? from large networks of buses, trains and light rail in southeast Pennsylvania to small bus systems in rural communities. IssuesPA takes a closer look at ridership, funding and the overall impact of public transit on Pennsylvania's transportation infrastructure. http://issuespa.com/articles/21541 Assuring access to high quality early learning opportunities for pre-school children benefits the child, family, community, and taxpayers. A review of the research shows how. http://issuespa.com/articles/21544 Early learning is linked to the state's future vitality, and the research demonstrates that connection in a very quantifiable way. http://issuespa.com/articles/21542 Research shows, among other benefits of early learning, increased earning power for parents. The community at large benefits in several ways, including a direct and indirect economic impact and decreased spending on public programs, including education and social services. http://issuespa.com/articles/21543 Quality early learning opportunities ? where children learn how to learn ?is increasingly recognized as an essential part of the education continuum that extends through adulthood. http://issuespa.com/articles/16513 Access to high quality early learning opportunities is important to child development. But what role should state government have in assuring access to high quality child early learning? How about funding early education? http://issuespa.com/articles/16571 Education is both a private and a public good. Students reap the benefits, but so does the larger community in the form of a better-trained workforce, more civically-engaged residents, and less drain on human services systems. Ideally, this makes any community a better place to live, work and do business. http://issuespa.com/articles/16516 Pennsylvania has roughly 700,000 children under the age of five. When they enter elementary school, will they be ready to learn? And when they become adults, will they be ready to succeed? Answers to those two questions will have a big impact on Pennsylvania's future economic competitiveness. http://issuespa.com/articles/19664 As the legislature returns from spring break to continue deliberation on ? among other things ? the 2007-2008 budget, IssuesPA takes a look at the Governor?s budget proposal. http://issuespa.com/articles/19665 Education is a big-ticket item in the state?s General Fund Budget. IssuesPA takes a closer look at the budget, with a focus on the proposed spending for education. http://issuespa.com/articles/19663 PEL report analyzed municipal revenue from 1970 through 2003, found a systemic decline in the fiscal health of communities statewide. http://issuespa.com/articles/19661 Recommend Continued and New State Action to Reverse Current Trends http://issuespa.com/articles/18567 Public and Legislators Share Common Concerns, But Differ on Top Priorities for 2007 http://issuespa.com/articles/18566 Pennsylvania?s universities are terrific economic and social assets, both regionally and statewide. But what?s the bottom line impact on their host municipalities? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/18565 The Pennsylvania Economy League?s Central Office Helps the City Recover From Fiscal Problems http://issuespa.com/articles/18564 In 2006, the table was set for transportation to be a major policy issue in the new year. http://issuespa.com/articles/18563 As IssuesPA wraps up its fourth year of IssuesPA/Pew polling, we take a look back at previous poll results to understand what issues are important to Pennsylvanians and how perspectives have changed in the last four years. Now, a look at Pennsylvania?s physical assets - both natural and manmade. http://issuespa.com/articles/18561 As IssuesPA wraps up its fourth year of IssuesPA/Pew polling, we take a look back at previous poll results to understand what issues are important to Pennsylvanians and how perspectives have changed in the last four years. Now, a look at education and workforce development. http://issuespa.com/articles/18562 As IssuesPA wraps up its fourth year of IssuesPA/Pew polling, we take a look back at previous poll results to understand what issues are important to Pennsylvanians and how perspectives have changed in the last four years. Now, a look at community vitality and the future of Pennsylvania?s communities. http://issuespa.com/articles/18304 As IssuesPA wraps up its fourth year of IssuesPA/Pew polling, we take a look back at previous poll results to understand what issues are important to Pennsylvanians and how perspectives have changed in the last four years. First, a look at health care. http://issuespa.com/articles/18303 Though there will be lots of new faces in the halls of the State Capitol, incumbency stands strong ? even to the winds of change. http://issuespa.com/articles/217 If an advertisement ran in your local newspaper for Governor of Pennsylvania, what would it say? IssuesPA prepared this job description. http://issuespa.com/articles/17903 Election Day is November 7, 2006. What will be the highest priority for Pennsylvania's next Governor? http://issuespa.com/articles/17904 IssuesPA asked the candidates to respond to six questions on governance. http://issuespa.com/articles/17932 IssuesPA asked Ed Rendell and Lynn Swann 35 questions about what matters to Pennsylvanians in 2006. Rendell, the incumbent Governor and a Democrat, and Lynn Swann the Republican challenger, are the two major gubernatorial candidates in the November 7th election. Here?s what they had to say about Governance in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/17933 In a Campaign 2006 survey, IssuesPA asked the two major candidates for Governor 35 questions on topics ranging from education, health care and community vitality to governance and the state?s economic climate. Here?s what Democrat Ed Rendell and Republican Lynn Swann had to say about Community Vitality in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/17902 IssuesPA asked the candidates to respond to six questions on education issues. http://issuespa.com/articles/17931 IssuesPA posed 35 questions to the two major candidates in the 2006 Governor?s election ? incumbent Governor Ed Rendell, a Democrat, and Lynn Swann, a Republican. Topics included Education, Community Vitality, Health Care, Economic Climate, and Governance. Here?s a look at what they had to say about Education in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/17732 Raising the quality of public education in Pennsylvania is on the minds of state and local education policymakers, lawmakers, candidates and ? in this election season ? voters. What?s the best way to get there? http://issuespa.com/articles/17906 In an election survey, IssuesPA asked the two major candidates for Governor 35 questions on topics ranging from education, community vitality and health care, to the state?s economic climate and governance. Here?s a look at what Lynn Swann and Ed Rendell had to say about the economic climate in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/17901 IssuesPA asked the candidates to respond to eight questions on issues relating to the economic climate. http://issuespa.com/articles/17734 Pennsylvania Public Television Network Stations are presenting IssuesPA 2006, a series of four programs highlighting issues of importance to Pennsylvanians in this election year. http://issuespa.com/articles/17737 IssuesPA asked the candidates to respond to seven questions on health care issues. http://issuespa.com/articles/17739 In an election survey, IssuesPA asked the two major candidates for Governor 35 questions on topics ranging from education, community vitality and health care, to the state?s economic climate and governance. Here?s a look at what Lynn Swann and Ed Rendell had to say about health care in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/17738 For many in Pennsylvania, the rising cost of health care is an ongoing concern. State policymakers have the same concern, except that long-term care is driving costs up more than just the rate of health care inflation. http://issuespa.com/articles/17735 IssuesPA asked the candidates to respond to seven questions on community vitality issues. http://issuespa.com/articles/17733 What?s the impact of electricity deregulation in Pennsylvania? And how does the state compare to its peers when it comes to electricity pricing? IssuesPA investigated. http://issuespa.com/articles/17731 Land use planning is a local responsibility in Pennsylvania, but state government has a big stake in its success. Should the state be off the hook entirely? Or should the state be more responsible? http://issuespa.com/articles/17653 An Overview http://issuespa.com/articles/17657 http://issuespa.com/articles/17656 http://issuespa.com/articles/17654 http://issuespa.com/articles/17655 http://issuespa.com/articles/17658 http://issuespa.com/articles/17659 http://issuespa.com/articles/17651 Rendell, Casey Claim Large Leads Heading into November http://issuespa.com/articles/17421 Are taxes too high in Pennsylvania? Most people quickly would say, ?Yes.? But how do we really compare with other states nationwide? IssuesPA investigated. http://issuespa.com/articles/17119 Comparing Pennsylvania?s spending habits to other states? provides a different perspective and could impact how state leaders make future spending decisions. However, these comparisons must be tempered by Pennsylvania?s unique population and culture. http://issuespa.com/articles/17114 Rising crime in Philadelphia. Population growth in south central Pennsylvania. Roads that need fixing in the southwest. The flight of the young in the northeast. According to citizens responding to the latest IssuesPA/Pew Poll, these are among the issues that matter in Pennsylvania in 2006. http://issuespa.com/articles/17118 It's been said the one constant in life is change. In Pennsylvania, changes in statewide and regional population are issues that impact the state's overall economic competitiveness - now and in the future. http://issuespa.com/articles/17117 Pennsylvania's aging infrastructure needs attention. Citizens recognize and accept this fact. Now, they're looking for answers from lawmakers and policymakers on the best way to fix it. http://issuespa.com/articles/17116 Transportation rates as the biggest infrastructure problem for many Pennsylvanians, based on findings in the latest IssuesPA/Pew poll. http://issuespa.com/articles/17113 In a new IssuesPA/Pew Poll, incumbent Governor Ed Rendell, a Democrat, has widened his lead over Republican challenger Lynn Swann. Also, ratings for the Governor, the legislature and overall voter satisfaction are higher. http://issuespa.com/articles/17012 Pennsylvania?s new budget features a larger-than-average and higher-than-inflation increase in spending. What does this mean in terms of spending this year ? and budgeting next year? http://issuespa.com/articles/17011 While the overall growth in the 2006-07 budget is a healthy 5.8%, public schools will get a 7.4% increase in their state support and funding. http://issuespa.com/articles/16575 Real reform? What's the impact of the property tax relief package passed by the legislature? http://issuespa.com/articles/16572 Pennsylvania's leaders ? while powerful ? aren't all powerful when it comes to stimulating the state's economy. They must be strategic, driving their energy and efforts where they can to have a real impact on the economic climate. Private investment will follow good policy decisions. http://issuespa.com/articles/16009 An efficient transportation system is essential to move goods and people. In 2006, how efficient and effective are Pennsylvania?s highway, rail, air and public transportation systems? IssuesPA investigated. http://issuespa.com/articles/16008 Pennsylvania continues to enjoy an overall adequate supply of water to serve all of us who live here. But we shouldn?t take this most precious resource for granted. http://issuespa.com/articles/16003 Employers and employees in Pennsylvania can't escape the impact of the cost of health care. For employers, it's a significant cost of doing business. For employees, it's consuming more of their hard-earned dollars. http://issuespa.com/articles/16574 Keeping young people in Pennsylvania and helping the state's existing workforce stay current are essential to the state?s economic growth. http://issuespa.com/articles/16511 Making the transition from a labor force defined by its hard work to one defined by its skills, as well, requires Pennsylvania leaders with vision to reassess the state's workforce development strategies. http://issuespa.com/articles/16573 Three big taxes account for over 80% of Pennsylvania's tax revenue. Beware the volume of small print that goes along with implementing them. http://issuespa.com/articles/16517 Does Pennsylvania provide a quality education to our youth? There are federal and state tests that provide some insight, but the score that matters most lies in an honest evaluation of the state's overall economic competitiveness. http://issuespa.com/articles/16518 Achieving a stable funding system for basic education that's adequate and equitable is a challenging issue, especially within the context of high demand for property tax relief in Pennsylvania. There are no easy answers. And the debate continues. http://issuespa.com/articles/16519 Government at every level seems to have a say on how to provide basic education in Pennsylvania. As we move forward in this new century, what?s the best way to help our children learn? http://issuespa.com/articles/16512 Pennsylvania boasts more than 450 higher education enterprises, serving nearly 650,000 students every year. These are impressive numbers. The challenge? Educating them here, then finding a way to keep more of them here after graduation. http://issuespa.com/articles/16408 Municipal government in Pennsylvania is a $13 billion annual "business" today. How do the state's local governments provide these services? IssuesPA investigated. http://issuespa.com/articles/16407 While local control has deep roots in Pennsylvania, state government in the 21st century should take a more active role in assisting and leading local government. http://issuespa.com/articles/16405 What are the varied and myriad taxes collected by local governments? Try connecting the dots to draw a picture and the results would be... mind-boggling. http://issuespa.com/articles/16406 There's one undeniable fact about local governments in Pennsylvania ? there are a lot of them. Some say we should pay the most attention to what happens at the local government level, because decisions made there affect us the most. IssuesPA offers this primer on the many varieties of local governments, and how (and why) they?ve changed over the decades. http://issuespa.com/articles/16404 Most citizens of Pennsylvania believe the business of government, including state government, should be conducted openly and without undue influence. Those same citizens often question whether that?s actually taking place. IssuesPA investigated. http://issuespa.com/articles/16401 What happens in Washington impacts Pennsylvania, from state to local governments, and from the Governor to individual citizens. It's an alliance worth monitoring and nurturing, for a whole lot of reasons. http://issuespa.com/articles/16402 Is Pennsylvania a high tax state or a low tax state, compared to its peers? It's a difficult question to answer objectively. IssuesPA examined the data. http://issuespa.com/articles/16403 Pennsylvania?s annual state budget comes with strings attached ? it must be balanced and it must be passed on time, or the state loses its power to spend state government dollars. Here?s an IssuesPA budget primer. http://issuespa.com/articles/16118 Close to half of all Pennsylvanians just aren't satisfied with the state's direction, according to results of a new IssuesPA/Pew Poll. Many of them aren't happy with the state legislature, either. Also on their minds - taxes, jobs and education. http://issuespa.com/articles/16262 As the legislature's recent almost-action proves (again!), what to do about property taxes in Pennsylvania continues to be an oft-debated, always complicated issue. The latest IssuesPA/Pew poll results help explain why. http://issuespa.com/articles/16119 What will be on the minds of voters when they go to the polls this month and in November? IssuesPA asked Pennsylvanians in the April 2006 IssuesPA/Pew poll. They weighed in on those who govern, how they're doing, and what government costs. http://issuespa.com/articles/16261 In the recent IssuesPA/Pew poll, education issues again were high on the list voters said they'll consider as they cast their ballots in the upcoming May and November elections. http://issuespa.com/articles/16112 What makes a community strong, vibrant and attractive as a place to live and work? This question is important because, in our global economy, companies and individuals today can locate almost anywhere. In 2006, community vitality may matter more than ever. http://issuespa.com/articles/16114 Public safety services, specifically police and fire, are the most visible services provided locally in Pennsylvania. When it comes to police and fire protection in 2006, how are we faring? http://issuespa.com/articles/16115 In this first decade of the 21st century, one of Pennsylvania's big challenges is to coordinate public safety and emergency preparedness response roles to best protect our citizens, businesses and infrastructure. If possible, we want to be safe. Are we? http://issuespa.com/articles/13831 Stats, facts and opinions. Here's an IssuesPA overview of medical liability in Pennsylvania - by the numbers. http://issuespa.com/articles/16111 In these early years of the 21st century, effective land use planning is among the issues that impact the state?s economic and community vitality. What?s the best way to address the issue in 2006? http://issuespa.com/articles/16006 Pennsylvania faces difficult choices as it struggles to maintain and expand the level of health care coverage and address barriers to health care access in an ever-changing economy. http://issuespa.com/articles/16004 Medical malpractice has been a hot health care policy topic, nationally and in Pennsylvania, since the 1970s. In 2006, the issue has staying power because it can reach crisis proportions any time, and because it affects all aspects of health care policy. http://issuespa.com/articles/16007 The quality of health care in Pennsylvania is a quality of life issue for individuals and families throughout the state. Among those following this issue closely are patients, medical professionals, employers and insurers, basically anyone who encounters the health care system. http://issuespa.com/articles/16005 In 2006, the cost of health care in Pennsylvania continues to be a big issue for state government. Why? Because state government is among the largest purchasers of health care services. http://issuespa.com/articles/16001 In 2006, health care still is very much on the minds of voters in Pennsylvania. Is it affordable? Is it available? Is it high quality? The outlook is uncertain, at best. http://issuespa.com/articles/16002 Asked to weigh in on the overall quality of life in their communities, voters participating in the March 2006 IssuesPA/Pew Poll said Pennsylvania?s community vitality could be a whole lot better. http://issuespa.com/articles/15831 Results of the latest IssuesPA/Pew Poll paint a picture of a Governor?s race this year that?s likely to be competitive. Battle lines already are being drawn, and issues important to voters ? some very familiar ? are emerging. http://issuespa.com/articles/15694 The stage is set for plenty of discussion this state budget season about basic education funding. It?s a sizable chunk of the state?s General Fund, and it?s targeted to receive a significant overall increase for the 2006-07 fiscal year beginning July 1. Will it be cut? Will the distribution method likely survive? http://issuespa.com/articles/15691 A wide variety of people and organizations throughout Pennsylvania looked on with great interest as the Governor laid out his spending plan for the 2006-07 fiscal year beginning July 1. Among their concerns ? who wins and who loses in the plan that?s been advanced. http://issuespa.com/articles/15692 Pennsylvania?s Constitution says the state can?t spend money unless the revenues exist to handle the costs. At the same time, the first question people ask after learning about a new state budget proposal is: ?How much will our taxes go up?? http://issuespa.com/articles/15693 Pennsylvania has started its annual budget dance with the Governor's budget address. It?s a process that impacts every Pennsylvanian in some way. So what?s to be expected in the months ahead? http://issuespa.com/articles/15621 A special session of the legislature is dealing with the high profile issue of property taxes. Almost all of the discussion has focused on school property taxes, the major component of funding public education. The latest IssuesPA/Pew poll found the public cares about other education issues, as well. http://issuespa.com/articles/14993 The IssuesPA/Pew 2005 benchmark poll reveals Pennsylvanians are concerned about their personal economic security. The poll also shows rising concern about health care and a number of other issues. Uneasiness prevails in Pennsylvania ? for many, the economic future isn?t so bright. http://issuespa.com/articles/14994 Quality of life has declined in Pennsylvania, according to the opinions of those surveyed in the latest IssuesPA/Pew Poll. Taxes are the greatest concern, but crime is the highest priority requiring government action. http://issuespa.com/articles/14991 Health care continues to be on the minds of Pennsylvanians as the latest IssuesPA/Pew poll tracks opinion trends for the past thee years. Rising costs are the biggest concern, but worries about losing coverage and those that don?t have it now are increasingly more important than many other issues such as education and quality of life. http://issuespa.com/articles/14992 A number of elected officials are making public statements proclaiming the rising level of economic performance in Pennsylvania but, according to the latest IssuesPA/Pew poll, citizens don?t believe the rhetoric. They also don?t believe government has been doing a good job shepherding the economy. And they say several big problems remain unsolved. http://issuespa.com/articles/14968 The 2005 IssuesPA/Pew Benchmark poll delved into the opinions of Pennsylvanians about taxes. Are they too high? Which ones are worse than others? Are there better alternatives? For the most part, the results aren?t surprising. http://issuespa.com/articles/14967 Results from the 2005 IssuesPA/Pew benchmark poll point to rising displeasure with state government and property taxes in Pennsylvania. Overall, those surveyed seem less pleased with the direction Pennsylvania is heading. http://issuespa.com/articles/14965 TELS? TABORS? They?re new terms connected to Pennsylvania?s latest tax reform efforts. What are they? And why should Pennsylvanians pay attention to them? IssuesPA investigated. http://issuespa.com/articles/14964 A U.S. Supreme Court ruling earlier in the year has put the issue of Eminent Domain front and center in many state legislatures. What's happening in PA? IssuesPA takes a look. http://issuespa.com/articles/14966 Changing the tax system has always been a challenge. Considering several disparate proposals at the same time adds to the complexity. With everything going on, somebody needs to ?connect the dots?? IssuesPA weighs in on the challenge. http://issuespa.com/articles/14931 Election day is Tuesday, November 8th. Even though this isn?t a year for electing a President, Governor, Congressman, or state legislator, there are many local races and issues on the ballot throughout Pennsylvania. IssuesPA examines a referendum in Philadelphia. http://issuespa.com/articles/14961 The Governor has called a special legislative session to reduce property taxes. Policymakers have proposed a plethora of answers to the problem of high property taxes, especially school property taxes, for decades. Past Governors have sought solutions and failed to get them implemented. Why can?t anything be accomplished? IssuesPA investigated. http://issuespa.com/articles/14911 The latest IssuesPA/Pew poll shows most Pennsylvanians, regardless of where they live, see the current job situation in their region of the state as ?only fair? at best. Further, those surveyed were critical of the job high schools are doing preparing young people for the jobs of the future. http://issuespa.com/articles/14913 What should be the state?s role in paying for higher education? Grants and scholarships given directly to students, who can select the institution and program of study? Funds provided directly to schools to hold down tuition increases? IssuesPA explored the issue, using results of the latest IssuesPA/Pew poll as context. http://issuespa.com/articles/14912 How does participation in higher education in Pennsylvania compare to the national average? And how do Pennsylvanians view higher education? The latest IssuesPA/Pew poll and analysis of national data tell the story. http://issuespa.com/articles/14761 To pay for K-12 education in Pennsylvania, a new plan would replace local school property taxes with state sales taxes. Sales taxes would change - a lower overall rate but an expanded base. How would the state tax dollars collected under this plan be distributed? IssuesPA studied the plan and poses 5 critical questions. http://issuespa.com/articles/14762 Should state sales taxes replace local property taxes to help pay for K-12 public education in Pennsylvania? IssuesPA poses 5 questions on the implications for financing public education. http://issuespa.com/articles/14763 A new plan for local tax reform would eliminate school property tax and substitute a modified state sales tax to pay for K-12 public education. What would happen with the state sales tax funds after they're collected? How would funds be distributed to schools under the proposed plan? IssuesPA offers one scenario. http://issuespa.com/articles/14722 There?s a movement afoot to put an end to the school property tax, the most-hated tax (but very reliable source of revenue) in Pennsylvania. What?s the impact on Pennsylvania?s business climate? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/14721 There?s a proposal in the legislature to eliminate the school property tax, the most-hated tax (but very reliable source of revenue) in Pennsylvania. What?s the impact on Pennsylvania?s households? IssuesPA investigates. http://issuespa.com/articles/14391 Projected slow growth and an aging population ? not exactly a recipe for a strong economic future in PA. What do the demographics and trends reveal? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/14162 Pre-K-12 education spending continues to dominate the state budget, making up more than one-third of the state General Fund Budget for 2005-06. http://issuespa.com/articles/14161 There?s a new economic initiative on the horizon for the 2005-06 Fiscal Year. Job Ready PA is one of the few new initiatives in state government. It?s aimed at improving the state?s economic competitiveness, matching up dollars and workers for the jobs most needed in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/14001 Pennsylvania legislators are among the highest paid in the nation - but that's only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the cost of Pennsylvania's state legislature. http://issuespa.com/articles/13835 In every state budget, there are winners and losers. To understand the wins and loses, don?t look for any rhyme or reason. http://issuespa.com/articles/13836 In May, Pennsylvania voters approved borrowing money for Growing Greener II. Now the legislature and the Rendell administration have decided how to spend the money ? and how to repay it. http://issuespa.com/articles/13834 The tight strings around the state budget proposed by Governor Rendell in February were loosened somewhat as the General Assembly and the Governor negotiated a budget for fiscal year 2005-06. Some choices still had to be made. http://issuespa.com/articles/13832 Do caps on non-economic damages impact the overall jury awards in medical malpractice cases? IssuesPA takes a look at objective research that aims to answer this question. http://issuespa.com/articles/13833 How prevalent is defensive medicine among Pennsylvania's high-risk specialists? And what is the potential impact on access to care for Pennsylvanians? IssuesPA takes a look at recent research published in JAMA - the Journal of the American Medical Association. http://issuespa.com/articles/13614 A recent report from the Project on Medical Liability in Pennsylvania looks at a new mediation model that strives to improve patient safety and decrease the likelihood of legal action. A key to mediation: efforts to improve communications. IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/13616 Pennsylvania may be on the cutting edge when it comes to patient safety and medical liability reform. How is the MCARE Act of 2002 impacting health care, the legal realm, and patient safety in Pennsylvania three years after its implementation? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/13615 Medical malpractice and medical liability insurance have been major issues in Pennsylvania for decades. The state MCARE Act of 2002 tackled the failing medical liability system. What's happened since then? http://issuespa.com/articles/13613 IssuesPA/Pew pollster Larry Hugick from Princeton Survey Research Associates International takes a look at the political values that distinguish Republicans from Democrats - and the potential candidates for the 2006 election for Governor and U.S. Senate. http://issuespa.com/articles/13612 All for nothing? Pennsylvanians want government to preserve - or even expand - the government safety net for its citizens - despite a general unwillingness to pay higher taxes. http://issuespa.com/articles/13611 In Pennsylvania, who?s satisfied with the state?s direction depends on variables such as age, income and geography. In its recent poll, IssuesPA asked if Pennsylvania is headed in the right direction, and just how satisfied Pennsylvanians really are in 2005. http://issuespa.com/articles/13243 The Spring IssuesPA/Pew Poll shows taxes, jobs and gasoline are among Pennsylvanians? big concerns. There?s also strong sentiment for reforming the role of money in politics. http://issuespa.com/articles/13244 The latest IssuesPA/Pew Poll shows Pennsylvanians support reform to limit the activities of lobbyists in Harrisburg and explores the role of money in politics. http://issuespa.com/articles/13245 How satisfied are Pennsylvanians with the direction of the state? Depends on region, age, income and education level. However, Pennsylvanians seem to agree: economic concerns, including taxes, jobs and the high price of gasoline top the list http://issuespa.com/articles/13241 After more than a year of debate, a Green Ribbon Commission, and lots of promotion for Green PA and Growing Greener II proposals, voters on have an opportunity on May 17th to decide whether the state will move forward with a $625 million investment in programs to protect and restore our environment. http://issuespa.com/articles/13004 Collecting taxes is a necessary function of local government. In Pennsylvania, who does it and how it is done aren?t consistent across government entities. Here?s a primer from IssuesPA. http://issuespa.com/articles/13003 Act 72 of 2004, the Homeowner Tax Relief Act, targets some of the anticipated revenues from slot machines for local property tax relief in Pennsylvania. However, this new law impacts more than homeowners? tax bills. IssuesPA investigated the impact on local tax collection. http://issuespa.com/articles/13002 Property tax relief for homeowners ? and gambling revenues will make it happen. But what?s in the fine print that makes Pennsylvania?s Act 72 such a complicated issue and hard decision for school directors? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/13001 When businesses consider locating or expanding their operations in Pennsylvania, a key factor influencing their decision is the amount of taxes they?ll pay. And state business taxes get a lot of attention. What do they find out? IssuesPA offers some answers. http://issuespa.com/articles/12534 The science is compelling, and the recommendations ambitious. But nationally ? and in Pennsylvania ? public policy hasn?t caught up with the research on early childhood education. http://issuespa.com/articles/12535 Nationally, the debate continues on whether early care and education should be a public responsibility. One of the most important issues? Cost. http://issuespa.com/articles/12536 Many states have begun to make significant investments in preschool education and care ? including childcare facilities, Head Start programs and other pre-kindergarten education options. How does Pennsylvania compare? http://issuespa.com/articles/12811 Pennsylvanians are beginning to recognize early childhood education and care as vital starting points to meet the challenges of today?s knowledge-driven economy. It?s a quest that?s becoming a 21st century priority. But will Pennsylvania make the investment required? http://issuespa.com/articles/12532 A new proposal aims to coordinate job training with the needs of business and industry in Pennsylvania. A win-win for employees and employers? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/12533 The Governor's budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2005-06 doesn?t include changes to the tax system for next year, but it does look forward to the following year, suggesting a ?revenue neutral? restructuring of business taxes. Here?s an IssuesPA primer on five business tax restructuring terms and possible changes that matter. http://issuespa.com/articles/11788 Pennsylvania's Medical Assistance program is attracting lots of attention. Costs are on the rise. More Pennsylvanians are qualifying for the program. And these trends are likely to continue. http://issuespa.com/articles/11789 Green PA? Or Growing Greener II? Pennsylvania's policymakers are crafting major environmental legislation in the new session. Ultimately, voters could have the final say in a statewide referendum. http://issuespa.com/articles/11787 In this tight state budget proposal, anyone with a recommended funding increase is a big winner. Those with proposed flat funding win too, relatively speaking. http://issuespa.com/articles/11786 Punxsutawney Phil predicts six more weeks of winter - but IssuesPA predicts MONTHS of a long, tough budget season ahead. http://issuespa.com/articles/11784 The latest IssuesPA/Pew Poll reveals jobs, tax reform and higher education tops Pennsylvanians? priority list. http://issuespa.com/articles/11783 Concerns about personal economic futures drive dissatisfaction with quality of life among a growing number of Pennsylvanians, new poll results show. http://issuespa.com/articles/11782 There are three distinct ?Pennsylvanias? when it comes to attitudes about quality of life and economic concerns. http://issuespa.com/articles/11785 While Pennsylvanians show support for two programs under consideration in the legislature, state residents have other issues that top the priority list. http://issuespa.com/articles/11185 It's clear mass transit is an important issue - and not only for those who take a bus or train to work. http://issuespa.com/articles/11186 The mass transit crisis in Pennsylvania looms large. Increasing operating costs, with little corresponding increase in operating revenues, means deficits facing transit systems continue to grow. http://issuespa.com/articles/11183 Looking back at a two-year session of the General Assembly just ended, and at the halfway point for Governor Ed Rendell?s first four-year term. http://issuespa.com/articles/11182 In the waning days of its two-year session, the Pennsylvania legislature lived up to history and reputation ? churning out lots of legislation (over 130 measures) in a short period of time. The result? IssuesPA takes a look at the major issues that were ? or were not ? resolved. http://issuespa.com/articles/10938 The total tax paid on gas at the pump will be going up in January -- and the legislature may consider an additional increase in the gas tax during the current "lame duck" session. How is the 'gas tax' determined? How does PA compare? http://issuespa.com/articles/11181 Mass transit provides more than 300 million rides each year - mostly in the Southeast and Southwest regions of Pennsylvania. Transit systems are experiencing fiscal difficulties - and are threatening to severely cut services or increase fares. Is there a crisis? What's the state's role? http://issuespa.com/articles/10939 The financial status of the Pennsylvania mass transit system is a hot issue that appears to be nearing the boiling point, at least in the two most urbanized regions of the state. What's the state's role? Who should pay? http://issuespa.com/articles/10937 How can state government help slow the rising costs of health care? Focus on patient safety. Aggressively manage chronic illness. Reduce unhealthy behavior to prevent disease. Build better public/private partnerships. Create a statewide Public Health Commission to tackle access, quality and cost concerns. Provide incentives for high-quality care. Put an end to lawsuit abuse. These are among the diverse recommendations from key stakeholders in health care. http://issuespa.com/articles/10936 While the votes from the general election are being counted (and debated), the Pennsylvania legislature enters the last weeks of the 2003-04 session ? known as the Lame Duck session. Expect lots of legislative activity before the two-year session closes November 30. http://issuespa.com/articles/10931 IssuesPA pushes aside the too-close-to-call horse races to look at the issues impacting Pennsylvania?s future. http://issuespa.com/articles/10933 Spending on Medicaid ? known as Medical Assistance in Pennsylvania ? accounts for roughly one-fifth of state budgets ? more in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/10932 Health care policy is as much about the state?s economic health as it is about its residents? physical health. Statewide, the health care services sector is a large employer, providing more than 583,000 jobs. Spending on health care services alone makes up more than 7% of the state?s GSP. http://issuespa.com/articles/10935 Disturbing trends point to declining access to health care insurance for Pennsylvania; what?s the impact on government programs and taxpayers? http://issuespa.com/articles/10934 Pennsylvania?s Medical Assistance program is growing, in both the number of enrollees and costs. Policymakers face difficult decisions: find more money, reduce services, or cut participants? http://issuespa.com/articles/10566 Restructuring the state and local tax systems will not solve all of Pennsylvania?s problems but can play a role toward resolving many of them. http://issuespa.com/articles/10564 Incremental change is how PA's state and local tax systems change - slowly and haphazardly - though not for a lack of ideas and proposals. http://issuespa.com/articles/10565 They are in need of an overhaul; not a tune-up or more incremental repair, but systemic change. http://issuespa.com/articles/10563 The state's interest health care goes beyond its roles of system oversight and regulation. As a major buyer of services, state government should be concerned about the availability, quality ? and cost. http://issuespa.com/articles/10562 What does the research say about patient safety and medical errors? And how does Pennsylvania compare? http://issuespa.com/articles/10561 What roles do the Patient Safety Authority and the Health Care Cost Containment Council play in improving the availability, quality, and cost of health care? http://issuespa.com/articles/10262 1 in 4 Pennsylvanians say a family member has gone without healthcare insurance at some point in the last 12 months. http://issuespa.com/articles/10263 The cost of health care is a big factor in the state?s economic competitiveness. Growing health care costs impact the budgets of Pennsylvania?s citizens, employers and governments. http://issuespa.com/articles/10264 Despite high percentages of insured Pennsylvanians, poll shows support for larger government role in ensuring access to health insurance. http://issuespa.com/articles/10265 Overall, Pennsylvanians are satisfied with the quality of health care in the state. They still want the government to make public information about medical errors and to protect access. http://issuespa.com/articles/10266 Whether perception or reality, Pennsylvanians report feeling the effects of the state?s medical liability crisis. http://issuespa.com/articles/10062 Still tied. Still deadlocked. It may come down to voter-turn out, so look for campaign buses to keep rolling through the Keystone State. http://issuespa.com/articles/9761 IssuesPA takes a look at spending trends in the state's budget and asks, 'are the state's priorities changing?' http://issuespa.com/articles/9472 More funds for community and economic development - including growing recognition of distress in the state's core communities. http://issuespa.com/articles/9471 Many new policy initiatives are included in new budget - as the state strives to be more economically competitive. http://issuespa.com/articles/9473 The 7.4% increase in basic and higher education represents a sizeable investment in education - compared to the state budget's overall growth of 4.5%. http://issuespa.com/articles/9354 More than just property tax relief, will expanded gambling mean a better future for Pennsylvania? http://issuespa.com/articles/9352 State policymakers have placed a large bet on gambling; now only time will tell whether this bet pays off. http://issuespa.com/articles/9353 Economic development, property tax relief, and so much more http://issuespa.com/articles/8882 The state budget, gambling, local school tax relief, Growing Greener II, caps on medical liability, and more. http://issuespa.com/articles/8886 State leaders seem to agree on a goal - to provide local school tax relief - but not the approach. How do current proposals compare? http://issuespa.com/articles/8881 What would they mean for school finance and educational performance? What are possible outcomes? http://issuespa.com/articles/8884 An expansion of taxable goods and services coupled with a reduced sales tax rate. Under the Commonwealth Caucus plan, state sales taxes would replace most local school taxes. http://issuespa.com/articles/8885 Any dramatic change in the tax structure would result in those who benefit more and those who benefit less. The "Plan for Pennsylvania's Future" is no different. http://issuespa.com/articles/8883 Is this proposal better than the current system of funding education? As with any tax restructuring plan, there are winners and losers, pros and cons. http://issuespa.com/articles/7815 All indicators point to cities and towns that are less populated, less wealthy, and more fiscally unstable with every passing year. How will Pennsylvania's urban decline impact Pennsylvania's economic future? http://issuespa.com/articles/8511 Is there a connection between the success of a suburban area and the success of its urban core? IssuesPA explores the city-suburb question and how Pennsylvania compares. http://issuespa.com/articles/8513 The state's urban areas and inner-ring suburbs are not keeping pace with overall state growth, which impacts economic development initiatives, infrastructure, transportation, and more. http://issuespa.com/articles/8512 Pennsylvania's population isn't getting larger - but it IS moving. What are some of the state's changing population patterns? What is the outlook for the future? http://issuespa.com/articles/8136 Spring 2004 IssuesPA/Pew poll participants don't paint a rosy picture of the future of Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/8139 Pennsylvanians don't believe government generally is doing a good job - but tend to believe that their own representatives are performing adequately. http://issuespa.com/articles/8138 Still, Pennsylvanians show support for early childhood education programs and using gambling proceeds to close the spending gap between rich and poor schools. http://issuespa.com/articles/8137 Growing concern about the state's health care system, particularly when it comes to costs, means it's likely health care will be an important part of the debate in federal and state elections this fall. http://issuespa.com/articles/8135 Among the items named as the top problems facing the state, economic conditions top the list of concerns - including jobs, cost of living and health care costs. http://issuespa.com/articles/8132 But Pennsylvanians differ in opinions about how to divide the proceeds. http://issuespa.com/articles/7951 How would voters in PA vote today for President of the United States? What are the key issues concerning Pennsylvanians going into the national election? http://issuespa.com/articles/7702 Water is crucial for the state's economic development and important to the health and quality of life for Pennsylvanians. On April 27, voters will decide whether to allow state government to borrow money to expand and improve water and infrastructure projects. http://issuespa.com/articles/7814 Pittsburgh is facing a serious fiscal crisis. Why should Pennsylvanians in other parts of the state care? Because other municipalities may not be far behind. http://issuespa.com/articles/7813 How did Pittsburgh get into the current fiscal crisis? What will it take to get out? What lessons can other Pennsylvania municipalities learn? http://issuespa.com/articles/7811 How does Pittsburgh compare to other cities in Pennsylvania? The second largest city in the state has advantages and disadvantages. IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/7812 Crisis brings opportunities for change, and in some respects those prospects have never been greater for Pittsburgh. But change won?t come easily. What are possible answers? http://issuespa.com/articles/7701 After a year of negotiation, state lawmakers have approved an economic stimulus package to boost Pennsylvania's economy. What's included in the package, and what's next? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/7425 The goal? Property tax relief through expanded legalized gambling. The potential result? Take a look at how taxpayers in different school districts would fare. http://issuespa.com/articles/7426 How would proposed property tax relief proposals impact different taxpayers: renters, homeowners, high, middle and low income? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/7114 It's easy to get caught up in the rhetoric: Property tax relief for everyone! However, it's just as easy to get stuck with "tax reform" that really isn't. http://issuespa.com/articles/7115 What are the primary goals? What factors drive the distribution of funds? And what is the long-term outlook for property tax relief funded primarily through gambling revenues? http://issuespa.com/articles/7116 Who gets how much relief? The answer has important implications for taxpayers and schools. Find a pencil, roll up your sleeves, take a deep breath. Here's how it might work. http://issuespa.com/articles/7118 Current proposals would require referenda for most local school tax rate increases in the future, a major change in how schools are financed in PA. What's the long-term impact? http://issuespa.com/articles/7117 Missing from the debates are the real impacts on taxpayers and school finance. What are six likely results? IssuesPA counts them down. http://issuespa.com/articles/7113 Half of the states limit non-economic damages, while the other half have no limit on non-economic damages in lawsuits. As Pennsylvania considers caps, IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/7112 Medical malpractice insurance costs have risen; so have health care costs generally. What are the contributing factors? What's the impact on health care access and quality? What are the next steps? http://issuespa.com/articles/7111 In the last two years, Pennsylvania's legislature has approved nearly a dozen medical liability reforms - including patient safety, judicial and financial reforms. What do they do? http://issuespa.com/articles/6357 After reaching agreement on funding for Pennsylvania Accountability Block Grants in December, Governor Rendell is seeking another $75 million for his block grant program -- in addition to new money for basic education subsidies, public libraries, and higher education. http://issuespa.com/articles/6356 The overall budget proposed for the Department of Community and Economic Development contains new programs that connect community development, quality of life, and economic development initiatives. http://issuespa.com/articles/6355 The largest new initiative in the budget proposal focuses on quality of life improvements including protecting open space, cleaning up the environment, and revitalizing Pennsylvania's communities. http://issuespa.com/articles/6354 On February 3, Governor Rendell presented his budget proposal and set policy priorities for the 2004-2005 state budget. What's the financial outlook for the state? What are the Governor's policy priorities for the next fiscal year? http://issuespa.com/articles/6352 After approving a personal income tax increase going into an election year, state leaders may feel the need to make good on the promise of property tax relief. But what are the obstacles to an expansion of gambling? What do lawmakers stand to gain? http://issuespa.com/articles/6351 The state budget is a place for the Governor to set his priorities for the coming fiscal year and to establish a policy direction for the future of Pennsylvania. Following such an unusual budget process in 03-04, what can Pennsylvanians expect in the new budget? http://issuespa.com/articles/6272 Schools, community development, health and human services: find out who the winners and losers are in the 2003-2004 budget and just how much money we're talking about. http://issuespa.com/articles/6271 More than $700 million in new revenues will fund the 2003-2004 budget. But who's going to foot the bill? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/6141 Six months into the fiscal year, Pennsylvania's legislature finalized the 2003-2004 state budget - just in time to start NEXT year's budget process in February. http://issuespa.com/articles/6142 The pre-holiday state budget compromise was good news to school districts; they finally would begin to see their 2003-04 state basic education subsidy payments. Also in the plan? New state funding for early childhood education, tutoring programs, an expanded education improvement tax credit, and more. http://issuespa.com/articles/6143 Pennsylvania lawmakers ended 2003 with a budget in place - but still no action on property tax relief or initiatives to expand legalized gambling. Over the past two years, IssuesPA has thoroughly examined these two issues that are likely to resurface in 2004. Want to catch up? Here's your chance. http://issuespa.com/articles/5651 Uncertainty about their economic future is taking a toll on Pennsylvanians. Economic issues, including jobs and taxes, are their biggest concerns, followed by education and health care. http://issuespa.com/articles/5653 Pennsylvanians believe taxes on individuals are too high - property taxes, in particular, are the most onerous of state and local taxes. Pennsylvanians don't support tax increases - except 'sin' taxes on cigarettes and alcohol and expanding forms of gambling. http://issuespa.com/articles/5654 Young adults are the key to the state's economic future. Pennsylvania's ability to attract and keep young adults is vital to its future economic health and ability to compete. The perspectives and opinions of the state's young adults is a critical link to Pennsylvania's future. http://issuespa.com/articles/5655 When asked to name the most important health care concern for state government to address, 41% say keeping health care affordable. Pennsylvanians are troubled by the rising costs of care. http://issuespa.com/articles/5656 Health care costs, job stability, financial security, and opportunities for children and young adults are real issues for Pennsylvanians. IssuesPA took a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/5657 Pennsylvanians say the state is doing a fair or poor job of keeping local taxes for basic education reasonable and fiar. But when asked to pick the one most important basic education issue, taxes rank third - behind giving all children a reasonable opportunity to get a quality education and providing high quality education. http://issuespa.com/articles/5658 Seventy-nine percent of parents with children under 18 years old are concerned about affording college for their children, and two-thirds of all respondents say state government is doing a fair or poor job dealing witht he affordability of higher education. http://issuespa.com/articles/5701 When asked to name the most important problem facing the state, one-quarter of all respondents cited jobs - more than any other issue. Pennsylvanians are worried about job opportunities for themselves and for their children. http://issuespa.com/articles/5422 What are the health care challenges Pennsylvania faces, and what role does state government play in resolving these challenges? IssuesPA looks at the major themes -- Access, Cost and Quality. http://issuespa.com/articles/5423 What barriers to access exist in Pennsylvania? How does Pennsylvania compare to competitor states in terms of access to health care? IssuesPA takes a look at the question of access. http://issuespa.com/articles/5424 Rapidly rising health care costs impact individuals and organizations. IssuesPA takes a look at trends in health care costs such as prescription drugs, clinical services and others. http://issuespa.com/articles/5425 What impacts health care quality? What role does state government play in assuring quality health care for all Pennsylvanians? IssuesPA looks at the issue of health care quality. http://issuespa.com/articles/5426 Who are the key stakeholders in the medical liability debate and what are the major issues? IssuesPA takes a look at the complex issue that has been described as 'The Perfect Storm.' http://issuespa.com/articles/4163 The House passed a measure to increase the income tax. What would this mean to Pennsylvanians? IssuesPA takes a look at state and local income taxes in a three-part series. http://issuespa.com/articles/4164 One of a three-part series by IssuesPA on state and local income taxes. http://issuespa.com/articles/4165 One of a three-part series by IssuesPA on state and local income taxes. http://issuespa.com/articles/5421 How do Pennsylvania's sales and use taxes REALLY compare to other states? And what's the impact on Pennsylvanians at different income levels? IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/5251 Pennsylvania is losing people! More people are moving out of the state than are moving in. IssuesPA takes a closer look. http://issuespa.com/articles/5252 Can Pennsylvania keep and attract young people? IssuesPA looks at the numbers to see where young adults are going and what that means to Pennsylvania's future. http://issuespa.com/articles/5253 IssuesPA looks at changes in the Sales and Personal Income taxes as possible sources of revenue being considered in the legislature. What's the better solution? Depends on your perspective. http://issuespa.com/articles/5001 How much have education costs increased in recent years? And how is the money spent? http://issuespa.com/articles/5002 What combination of local and state tax sources fund education in Pennsylvania? http://issuespa.com/articles/5003 Local funding on public education has increased faster than state spending, fueling debate about how to fund public education and the question of equity. http://issuespa.com/articles/5004 To debate whether the Commonwealth's school funding system is equitable, policy-makers must have a common understanding of what equity is. http://issuespa.com/articles/5005 Throughout the country, states are struggling with how to fund public education and achieve equity. What are other states doing, and how does Pennsylvania compare? http://issuespa.com/articles/4921 In the first of two articles on business taxes, IssuesPA takes a look at the major business taxes levied by state government in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/4922 In the second of two articles on business taxes in Pennsylvania, IssuesPA looks at two proposals to redefine taxable business income. http://issuespa.com/articles/4295 Will Pennsylvania pull the lever on slots? IssuesPA tries to sort out what it all means. http://issuespa.com/articles/4294 What's a Billion Dollars mean in Pennsylvania? IssuesPA adds it up. http://issuespa.com/articles/4293 Who and what is at the table in PA's gambling debate? http://issuespa.com/articles/4292 State approaches to gambling vary widely. IssuesPA took a look. http://issuespa.com/articles/4291 Philadelphia's unique Wage Tax has long complicated tax reform efforts. What is different, and why is it a problem? http://issuespa.com/articles/3681 An IssuesPA guide to the issues behind the current school finance reform proposals. http://issuespa.com/articles/3591 What are the pluses and minuses of relying on the sales tax as a major piece of tax reform? http://issuespa.com/articles/3592 What are the burdens imposed by PA's Sales and Use Tax on different types of taxpayers? http://issuespa.com/articles/3593 What would be the implications of a broader sales tax base for Pennsylvania? http://issuespa.com/articles/3531 What are property taxes and how much do you pay? http://issuespa.com/articles/3491 Are PA's property taxes fair, efficient or effective? http://issuespa.com/articles/3532 It's little wonder that people love to hate property taxes. http://issuespa.com/articles/3594 What would be the impact of expanding gambling options in Pennsylvania? http://issuespa.com/articles/3595 How high are Pennsylvania's taxes, really? http://issuespa.com/articles/307 Community colleges play a key role in creating a skilled workforce. Is greater state involvement required? http://issuespa.com/articles/308 Making the transition from a labor force defined by its hard work to one defined its skills requires a reassessment of our workforce development strategies. http://issuespa.com/articles/310 Keeping young people in-state and helping the existing workforce stay current are essential. http://issuespa.com/articles/311 An expanding definition makes prioritization even more important. http://issuespa.com/articles/312 Are policy changes needed to encourage growth in the new economy? http://issuespa.com/articles/313 The costs of maintaining an extensive road network are growing. http://issuespa.com/articles/314 Balancing the need for abundant clean water with the push for economic development. http://issuespa.com/articles/315 Compared to other states, PA property and sales tax burdens are low, while individual income and wage tax burdens are higher. http://issuespa.com/articles/316 Despite a considerable number of past attempts, interest in tax reform remains high. http://issuespa.com/articles/317 Three key issues are driving current tax reform debates. http://issuespa.com/articles/318 Pushing for state funded pre-school in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/320 How should PA encourage quality child care for working parents? http://issuespa.com/articles/321 Pre-kindergarten education should be more than just child-care. http://issuespa.com/articles/322 Encouraging the accreditation of pre-kindergarten programs. http://issuespa.com/articles/323 Differences in funding have caused disparities in education standards amongst local school districts. http://issuespa.com/articles/324 Declining levels of state funding have led to an increase in the cost of education for local districts. http://issuespa.com/articles/325 While property taxes are currently the major supporter of PA schools, other options are available. http://issuespa.com/articles/327 Using colleges to bring in and keep talent from outside the state. http://issuespa.com/articles/328 Are the high costs of education sending PA's graduating seniors elsewhere? http://issuespa.com/articles/330 Pennsylvania's Governor has less control over higher education policy and direction than other states' governors. http://issuespa.com/articles/331 Using tests for both students and teachers to track educational performance. http://issuespa.com/articles/332 Is PA's move towards standards based eduction working? http://issuespa.com/articles/333 As many teachers reach the age of retirement, a push must be made to hire qualified replacements. http://issuespa.com/articles/334 A need for greater cooperation between local municipalities. http://issuespa.com/articles/335 Municipal boundaries can often divide communities and inadvertently waste tax dollars. http://issuespa.com/articles/337 Should the state government step in to provide services to cash strapped municipalities? http://issuespa.com/articles/338 Promoting vigilance and preparation are important factors in the creation of public safety strategies. http://issuespa.com/articles/340 The vast majority of those involved in emergency planning are volunteers from many different municipalities. http://issuespa.com/articles/341 Local plans for emergency response generally are less useful and current than the state's equivalent. http://issuespa.com/articles/342 More than 1,350 municipalities rely exclusively on state-funded protection from the Pennsylvania State Police. http://issuespa.com/articles/343 More than 500,000 citizens have left PA's urban centers in the last 20 years. http://issuespa.com/articles/344 People move within Pennsylvania, but relatively few people move into Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/345 Pennsylvania's growth rate is climbing, but needs to be balanced with other competing concerns. http://issuespa.com/articles/346 While PA appears to have done well during the 1990's, it fell behind the national average in a number of categories. http://issuespa.com/articles/347 As the need for a skilled and adaptable workforce increases, even more attention needs to be paid to education. Without quality education, workers will not receive the proper training. http://issuespa.com/articles/348 With cities losing citizens to the suburbs, policies should be stepped up to guarantee no change in the quality of PA's communities. http://issuespa.com/articles/351 PA could use an influx of newfound entrepreneurship. http://issuespa.com/articles/352 What should Pennsylvania's long term economic plans contain? http://issuespa.com/articles/350 Pushing for college graduates to invest in Pennsylvania. http://issuespa.com/articles/353 The environment of PA must be taken into consideration when trying to attract outside investment. http://issuespa.com/articles/354 How can PA continue to support local amenities without incurring immense financial costs? http://issuespa.com/articles/355 Pennsylvania has something for almost everyone. http://issuespa.com/articles/303 How to measure the relative efficacy of one tax versus another http://issuespa.com/articles/304 Who is levying the varied and myriad taxes? http://issuespa.com/articles/305 And the changing face of Pennsylvania tax policy http://issuespa.com/articles/306 Three big taxes account for over 80% of Pennsylvania's tax revenue. But the volumes of small print that go with them are something else altogether. http://issuespa.com/articles/301 How will the Governor raise the money to pay for his new initiatives? http://issuespa.com/articles/302 Governor Rendell's Plan for a New Pennsylvania looks like the proverbial kitchen sink. http://issuespa.com/articles/295 Due to a number of one time decreases, PA's budget is predicted to grow only incrementally in the next year. http://issuespa.com/articles/296 Spending increases and a laundry list of recommended program cuts. http://issuespa.com/articles/297 To get the full picture of the governor's budget, both parts must be taken into consideration. http://issuespa.com/articles/293 Pennsylvania's new governor and his expected budget http://issuespa.com/articles/276 Does Pennsylvania have enough water to meet its needs? Water is a resource most Pennsylvanians take for granted, and yet there's no reliable answer to even the most basic questions. http://issuespa.com/articles/298 What's required to replace one-half of property taxes now levied for local public schools in Pennsylvania? http://issuespa.com/articles/205 In an increasingly competitive economy where companies and individuals no longer are bound by geographic limitations, how Pennsylvania stacks up against other states is becoming more important to its economic future.