Beaver County News

Pennsylvania state legislators have announced the creation of a new bipartisan and bicameral group within the General Assembly, named the Pennsylvania Competitiveness Caucus. The caucus, led by State Senators Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York) and Lisa Boscola (D-Northampton), along with Representatives Paul Friel (D-Chester) and Josh Kail (R-Beaver), aims to enhance the state's economic competitiveness.

The initiative comes as Pennsylvania grapples with challenges such as retaining businesses, attracting investment, and addressing stagnant population growth. The caucus seeks to foster collaboration among lawmakers on policies that promote economic growth.

“Although we sit on opposite sides of the aisle, we are united in our belief that making Pennsylvania more economically competitive through the advancement of pro-growth policies will benefit working-class families, reverse our stagnant population growth and ensure our Commonwealth is an attractive place to live, work and raise a family for generations to come,” said Phillips-Hill.

Recent successes in the 2024-25 state budget, including permitting reform and eliminating Pennsylvania’s start-up tax by improving net operating losses treatment, have set a foundation for further efforts. “The most recent budget was a giant step forward in making Pennsylvania more competitive today and building the workforce of tomorrow,” Boscola stated.

The caucus will focus on public policy impacting business investment in Pennsylvania. “Our Competitiveness Caucus recognizes the enormous potential of Pennsylvania to be a global leader in industry, technology and innovation,” Friel commented.

Kail expressed enthusiasm about co-chairing the caucus: “The time to unleash Pennsylvania’s potential as an economic powerhouse is now.”

A press conference is scheduled for January 28 at 8:30 a.m. in the Main Capitol Rotunda to outline legislative goals. A closed meeting for members will follow.