Key Developments for PA (February-March 2025)

As we navigate the evolving legislative landscape in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial for sheet metal contractors to stay informed about the latest developments that could impact their businesses. From Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal to updates on environmental regulations and workforce development, here’s a roundup of the most important legislative updates for February & March 2024.

Governor Shapiro’s FY 2025-26 Budget Proposal

Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled his 51.4 billion budget proposal for FY2025-2026 focusing on education, workforce development, and healthcare. The plan relies on 4.5 billion surplus and the Rainy Day Fund to balance the budget, but it has sparked debate among lawmakers. Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Scott Martin (R-Lancaster) raised concerns about potential future shortfalls, while Senate Democrats praised the proposal for its focus on affordability and infrastructure improvements.

Key highlights:

• Education and Workforce Development: Increased funding for schools, childcare, and job training programs.

• Infrastructure Investments: Emphasis on transportation, energy, and stormwater management.

• Revenue Sources: Proposals to legalize recreational marijuana and regulate skill games to generate new revenue.

For more details, visit the Governor’s Budget Proposal.

House and Senate Appropriations Committee Hearings

The House and Senate Appropriations Committees held hearings to review Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal. Key hearings included discussions with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Topics ranged from stormwater management and natural gas development to permitting process improvements.

Key takeaways:

• Stormwater Management: Rep. Joe Webster (D-Montgomery) emphasized the need for better hydrology modeling to prevent flooding.

• Permitting Process: DEP is rolling out a new Salesforce-based system to streamline permitting, expected to launch by late summer 2025.

• Natural Gas Development: Rep. Eric Davanzo (R-Westmoreland) questioned DEP’s stance on the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and its impact on energy costs.

Legislative Activity: Bills of Interest

Several bills introduced in February could impact the sheet metal industry. Here are the highlights:

• HB543 (Expanding Mechanical Insulation): Promotes the use of mechanical insulation in energy efficiency programs.

• HB659 (Comprehensive Stormwater Management): Requires counties to develop and implement stormwater management plans.

• SB309 (UCC Enforcement): Ensures competition in third-party enforcement of the Uniform Construction Code (UCC).

• HB677 (Apprenticeship Ratios): Aims to standardize apprentice-to-journeyman ratios for better workforce development.

For a full list of bills, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website.

Regulatory Updates

The Pennsylvania Bulletin published the 2025 Regulatory Agenda, outlining upcoming changes to the Uniform Construction Code (UCC) and other regulations. Key updates include:

• UCC Revisions: Adoption of the 2021 International Codes and updates to lifting device regulations.

• Energy Efficiency Standards: New standards for appliances and building energy conservation.

Local and Federal Updates

• Philadelphia’s FY26 Budget: Mayor Cherelle Parker proposed a $6.7 billion budget, including tax cuts and investments in housing and infrastructure.

• Federal Tariffs: The Trump Administration raised tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, prompting reciprocal tariffs from the European Union.

Upcoming Meetings and Events

• May 8, 2025: Uniform Construction Code Review and Advisory Council meeting.

For a full schedule, visit the Pennsylvania House and Senate websites.