States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Shapiro Administration Celebrates Opening of Newly Renovated YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, Highlights the Need for Critical Infrastructure Funding for Housing
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, June 9 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development issued the following news on June 8, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Celebrates Opening of Newly Renovated YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, Highlights the Need for Critical Infrastructure Funding for Housing
Supported through Pennsylvania's Neighborhood Assistance Program, the $26 million project expanded residential housing for men at its 600 West North Avenue location.
Earlier this year, Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled the Commonwealth's first-ever Housing Action Plan to ensure every Pennsylvanian
... Show Full Article
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, June 9 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development issued the following news on June 8, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Celebrates Opening of Newly Renovated YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, Highlights the Need for Critical Infrastructure Funding for Housing
Supported through Pennsylvania's Neighborhood Assistance Program, the $26 million project expanded residential housing for men at its 600 West North Avenue location.
Earlier this year, Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled the Commonwealth's first-ever Housing Action Plan to ensure every Pennsylvanianhas access to safe, stable, and affordable housing.
The Governor's 2026-27 proposed budget calls for a $1 billion investment in housing and critical infrastructure to speed up new home construction across Pennsylvania and provide vital rehabilitation funding to maintain existing homes.
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Pittsburgh, PA - Today, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger helped cut the ribbon on the newly renovated YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, highlighting the critical need for housing infrastructure investments across the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth previously invested in the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh renovation project with a $32,500 award through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), and awarded $1.5 million through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) in 2023, which provides tax credits and grants to businesses that contribute to efforts to revitalize communities and continue economic activity across Pennsylvania.
Under current projections, Pennsylvania will face a shortage of roughly 185,000 homes by 2035 without further action. Housing costs continue to rise at a rate faster than wages, with over one million households in Pennsylvania spending more than 30 percent of their income on housing, and more than 50 percent of the Commonwealth's housing stock is over 50 years old -- making it increasingly more expensive to maintain.
To address these issues, Governor Josh Shapiro created Pennsylvania's first ever Housing Action Plan, which will build and preserve more homes, modernize housing regulations and zoning rules, and break down barriers preventing people from finding stable housing -- all to grow the Commonwealth's economy and improve Pennsylvanians' quality of life.
"Access to safe and affordable housing is essential for communities to thrive," said Secretary Rick Siger. "This renovation project at the YMCA provides new housing spaces and services for the community and supports the Governor's bold housing priorities in Allegheny County and across the Commonwealth. I look forward to continuing the progress we have made towards implementing Pennsylvania's first housing action plan."
The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh offers 89 single room occupancy (SRO) housing for men, accounting for roughly 18 percent of all such units in the City of Pittsburgh. This project expanded and improved SRO housing, renovating four bathrooms, a resident lounge, and new laundry facilities on each floor.
The project also introduced community-focused amenities including bringing the building into ADA-compliance with new elevators and wheelchair-accessible ramps, and updating security systems, plumbing, and air conditioning. Additionally, the memberships spaces were modernized and include all brand-new equipment, updates to the pool, and offer new community services.
"Secretary Siger's leadership and the Commonwealth's investment through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program made this transformational project possible. We are profoundly grateful for this partnership and for the confidence it reflects in the YMCA's mission," said Amy Kienle, President and CEO, YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh. "While this project restored a historic building, its true purpose is much more personal: helping a child discover their potential, providing a senior with a safe and affordable home, improving health and well-being, and creating a place where neighbors can find community. That is the lasting impact of this investment."
The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh will also have a patient exam room, open to the public through a partnership with Allegheny Health Network, Children's Hospital, and Adagio Health to support primary care, behavioral health, and telehealth appointments.
"This incredible renovation project is an investment in not just a community institution here on the North Side, but also in the families and people it brings together," said Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O'Connor. "This is another great example of what we can accomplish when organizations, community leaders and public partners come together with a shared commitment to neighborhood investment and opportunity."
"It is so exciting to be a part of today's ribbon cutting. This very needed renovation at the YMCA has been years in the making, and I'm so happy that today we can celebrate the $26M project," said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato. "Expanding and improving single-room occupancy housing is an important part of making sure affordable housing can be accessible to all. Thank you to the Shapiro Administration for your commitment and contributions to making this project a reality as you expand housing options statewide."
"It's a profound honor to attend today's ribbon cutting as we celebrate state-of-the-art renovations to a cornerstone of the North Side," said Senator Jay Costa. "The Allegheny YMCA has a decades-long track record of helping men find healthcare, permanent housing, education, work, and a sense of community when they need it most. Senate Democrats are proud to have allies in the YMCA, DCED, PHFA, and Governor Shapiro as we fight for safe, affordable housing for all in this year's budget and beyond."
"The Allegheny YMCA is a perfect example of a holistic approach to meeting the needs our community," said Senator Wayne Fontana. "I am proud have advocated for the state investment in the project and I applaud Governor Shapiro's continued investments in essential services, impactful community programs, and projects to make affordable housing accessible to those who need it. I always say that when we all work together, we can do great things and Shapiro Administration's support of this project is proof of that.
Governor Shapiro's Housing Action Plan calls for new affordable housing options and reforms that will help meet the demand across the Commonwealth's housing markets and outlines a plan to address the housing supply, improve affordability, and stabilize housing outcomes.
The Governor's proposed 2026-27 budget calls for targeted investments to support the Housing Action Plan by:
* Investing $1 billion through the Pennsylvania Program for Critical Infrastructure Investment to build and strengthen Pennsylvania's critical infrastructure.
* Launch a $1 million Investments in Health pilot program to expand stable housing options and reduce homelessness.
* Reducing barriers to residential development by modernizing local planning, zoning, and permitting processes.
* Protecting homeowners and communities from sudden cost increases of manufactured housing options.
* Strengthening housing leadership, coordination, and data sharing across the Commonwealth, increasing partnerships and collaboration at every level to address the critical housing need.
For more information about the Pennsylvania Housing Plan or DCED, visit the agency's website (https://dced.pa.gov/).
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Original text here: https://dced.pa.gov/newsroom/shapiro-administration-celebrates-opening-of-newly-renovated-ymca-of-greater-pittsburgh-highlights-the-need-for-critical-infrastructure-funding-for-housing/
Pa. Auditor General DeFoor Releases Audits of Municipal Pension Plans in 19 Counties
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, June 9 -- Pennsylvania Auditor General Timothy DeFoor issued the following news release:
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Auditor General DeFoor Releases Audits of Municipal Pension Plans in 19 Counties
Auditor General Timothy L. DeFoor today announced the release of audits of 28 municipal and police pension plans in Allegheny, Armstrong, Berks, Bucks, Butler, Carbon, Chester, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Cumberland, Dauphin, Erie, Lancaster, Luzerne, Mercer, Northumberland, Tioga and Wyoming counties.
"Municipal pension plans are a critical way we make sure that our local police, fire and
... Show Full Article
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, June 9 -- Pennsylvania Auditor General Timothy DeFoor issued the following news release:
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Auditor General DeFoor Releases Audits of Municipal Pension Plans in 19 Counties
Auditor General Timothy L. DeFoor today announced the release of audits of 28 municipal and police pension plans in Allegheny, Armstrong, Berks, Bucks, Butler, Carbon, Chester, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Cumberland, Dauphin, Erie, Lancaster, Luzerne, Mercer, Northumberland, Tioga and Wyoming counties.
"Municipal pension plans are a critical way we make sure that our local police, fire andcommunity workers receive the retirement benefits they were promised," Auditor General DeFoor said. "We audit the plans to ensure they use the money they receive from the state according to the law. I encourage everyone to visit our website to see whether their local pension plan is funded properly and managing public dollars responsibly."
State aid for municipal pension plans is generated by a 2 percent tax on fire and casualty insurance policies sold in Pennsylvania by out-of-state companies. In 2025, the Department of the Auditor General distributed nearly $442 million in aid to 1,482 municipalities and regional departments to support pension plans covering police officers, paid firefighters and non-uniformed employees.
The department is required by law to audit municipal pension plans and volunteer fire relief associations that receive state aid from the department; liquid fuels tax usage by municipalities; various county offices and numerous other state government entities.
The department has created a Be Audit Smart section on its website to help inform Pennsylvanians about how their tax dollars are being spent. The municipal pension plan audit reports are linked below or available online at www.PaAuditor.gov/audit-reports.
Where applicable, the audit reports note any necessary adjustments and include recommendations for stronger internal controls.
Allegheny County
City of Clairton Firemen's Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/city-of-clairton-firemens-pension-plan-allegheny-county-audit-period-january-1-2022-to-december-31-2024/)
City of Clairton Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/city-of-clairton-non-uniformed-pension-plan-allegheny-county-audit-period-january-1-2022-to-december-31-2024/)
Armstrong County
West Franklin Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/west-franklin-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-armstrong-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Berks County
Womelsdorf Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/womelsdorf-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-berks-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Bucks County
New Hope Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/new-hope-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-bucks-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Butler County
Marion Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/marion-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-butler-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Carbon County
Kidder Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/kidder-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-carbon-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Mahoning Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/mahoning-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-carbon-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Chester County
West Brandywine Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/west-brandywine-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-chester-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Clarion County
Porter Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/porter-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-clarion-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Clearfield County
Penn Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/penn-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-clearfield-county-audit-period-january-1-2021-to-december-31-2024/)
Crawford County
Cochranton Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/cochranton-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-crawford-county-audit-period-january-1-2021-to-december-31-2024/)
Cumberland County
Wormleysburg Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/wormleysburg-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-cumberland-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Dauphin County
Dauphin Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/dauphin-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-dauphin-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Erie County
Edinboro Borough Non-Uniformed Defined Contribution Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/edinboro-borough-non-uniformed-defined-contribution-pension-plan-erie-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Edinboro Borough Non-Uniformed Defined Benefit Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/edinboro-borough-non-uniformed-defined-benefit-pension-plan-erie-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Lancaster County
Mount Joy Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/mount-joy-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-lancaster-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Luzerne County
City of Wilkes-Barre Aggregated Pension Trust Fund (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/city-of-wilkes-barre-aggregated-pension-trust-fund-luzerne-county-audit-period-january-1-2023-to-december-31-2024/)
Conyngham Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/conyngham-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-luzerne-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Jenkins Township Firemen's Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/jenkins-township-firemens-pension-plan-luzerne-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Lake Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/lake-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-luzerne-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Salem Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/salem-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-luzerne-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Mercer County
Stoneboro Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/stoneboro-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-mercer-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Northumberland County
Ralpho Township Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/ralpho-township-non-uniformed-pension-plan-northumberland-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Tioga County
Blossburg Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/blossburg-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-tioga-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Tioga Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/tioga-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-tioga-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
Wyoming County
Factoryville Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/factoryville-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-wyoming-county-audit-period-january-1-2021-to-december-31-2024/)
Tunkhannock Borough Non-Uniformed Pension Plan (https://www.paauditor.gov/audits/tunkhannock-borough-non-uniformed-pension-plan-wyoming-county-reduced-period-engagement-period-ended-december-31-2025/)
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Original text here: https://www.paauditor.gov/auditor-general-defoor-releases-audits-of-municipal-pension-plans-in-19-counties-6/
Mont. DEQ Publishes Final Decision and Environmental Assessment for Columbia Gold Project
HELENA, Montana, June 9 -- The Montana Department of Environmental Quality issued the following news release:
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DEQ publishes final decision and Environmental Assessment for Columbia Gold Project
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has approved an Exploration License Amendment from Sentinel Metals and issued a final Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Columbia Gold Project, near Lincoln, Montana in Lewis and Clark County.
DEQ accepted public comment from March 20, 2026, through April 13, 2026, on the draft EA for Sentinel Metal's proposed amendment to the exploration
... Show Full Article
HELENA, Montana, June 9 -- The Montana Department of Environmental Quality issued the following news release:
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DEQ publishes final decision and Environmental Assessment for Columbia Gold Project
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has approved an Exploration License Amendment from Sentinel Metals and issued a final Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Columbia Gold Project, near Lincoln, Montana in Lewis and Clark County.
DEQ accepted public comment from March 20, 2026, through April 13, 2026, on the draft EA for Sentinel Metal's proposed amendment to the explorationlicense. In total, DEQ received 8,736 public comments from 1,713 individuals and corporations on the draft EA. Of those comments many were similar and 26 broad themes were identified and responded to as substantive comments. A substantive comment is relevant, fact-based, and specific and may offer insight, analysis, or constructive feedback on the draft document. All comments were reviewed by the agency and responses to the comments were incorporated into the final EA for the proposed exploration project.
Sentinel Metals posted a performance reclamation bond on May 26, 2026, with a request that DEQ apply the bond funds to the proposed exploration project if the amendment was approved. DEQ accepted the bond on June 3, 2026, and issued an Approval to Proceed for the project on Friday, June 5, 2026. The Exploration License Amendment authorizes collection of subsurface geological information through core drilling to characterize mineralization at the Columbia Gold Project area, building on prior exploration conducted in 2016.
The exploration activities are authorized to take place near Lincoln, with up to 1.53 acres of surface disturbance on ground previously disturbed by exploration activities. Proposed surface drilling is authorized to total up to 14,359 feet in drill holes, may reach a maximum depth of 2,296 feet, and is anticipated to intersect the groundwater table. No new access roads are authorized to be constructed, but operations may include overland travel. Reclamation of the disturbance is required.
In the final EA, DEQ discloses potential environmental impacts from the project and DEQ's determination that the proposed project meets the requirements of the Metal Mine Reclamation Act. The final EA is not a decision document but discloses potential impacts from the project.
To view the Approval to Proceed (https://deq.mt.gov/files/Land/Hardrock/Sentinel/00816_2026-06-05_AtP.pdf) and the final EA (https://deq.mt.gov/files/Land/Hardrock/Sentinel/00816_AMD2_Columbia%20Gold_2026-06-05_Final%20EA.pdf) for the Columbia Gold Project, please visit the Hardrock Mining page (https://deq.mt.gov/mining/Programs/hardrock#accordion1-collapse1) on DEQ's website.
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Original text here: https://deq.mt.gov/News/pressrelease-folder/final-ColumbiaGold-06-2026
Miss. Education Dept.: State Ranks 16th in Education Again in Latest Kids Count National Report
JACKSON, Mississippi, June 9 -- The Mississippi Department of Education issued the following news release:
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Mississippi ranks 16th in education again in latest Kids Count national report
Mississippi has maintained its 16th national education ranking, according to the 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book released today, and was recognized as being one of two states to post improvements from 2019-2024 in education.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation releases the KIDS COUNT(R) Data Book annually. KIDS COUNT(R) indicators capture what children and youth need most across four domains: economic well-being,
... Show Full Article
JACKSON, Mississippi, June 9 -- The Mississippi Department of Education issued the following news release:
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Mississippi ranks 16th in education again in latest Kids Count national report
Mississippi has maintained its 16th national education ranking, according to the 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book released today, and was recognized as being one of two states to post improvements from 2019-2024 in education.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation releases the KIDS COUNT(R) Data Book annually. KIDS COUNT(R) indicators capture what children and youth need most across four domains: economic well-being,education, health, and family and community.
For the first time, states receive a comprehensive score (from 0 to 1,000) in the Data Book -- not just a ranking -- tracking 16 indicators over a five-year period from 2019 to 2024. National data trends during that time period find state education scores are the lowest of the four domains, with only Mississippi and Louisiana posting improvements.
Mississippi ranks 50th overall with a score of 271, but scored 448 in the Education domain, an improvement of 17 points in this area between 2019-2024. The Literacy-Based Promotion Act, passed in 2013, focuses on reading proficiency by third grade and making consistent investments in public schools. The state also invested in teacher training and early childhood education infrastructure.
"Mississippi's continued progress is the result of effective work by our educators, supportive families throughout the years, and strong policies," said Dr. Lance Evans, state superintendent of education. "Being one of only two states in the nation to improve in education over a five-year period reflects the strength of investments in literacy, building the capacity of educators, and preparing our youngest learners. We are proud of this milestone and remain committed to building on it for Mississippi students."
Mississippi was first ranked 16th for education in the 2025 KIDS COUNT Data Book, marking the state's highest education ranking ever. The education rankings have steadily increased over the years. The state ranked 48th in 2014, 39th in 2022, 32nd in 2023 and 2oth in 2024. The statewide graduation rate has risen from 74.5% in 2013 to 90.8% in 2024-25, higher than the national average.
Review the 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book here (https://www.aecf.org/resources/2026-kids-count-data-book).
Find all MDE news releases at mdek12.org/news.
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Original text here: https://mdek12.org/communications/2026/06/08/mississippi-ranks-16th-in-education-again-in-latest-kids-count-national-report/
La. Education Dept.: Louisiana K-3 Reading Proficiency Climbs 16.5 Points During 2025-2026 School Year
BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, June 9 -- The Louisiana Department of Education issued the following news release:
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LOUISIANA K-3 READING PROFICIENCY CLIMBS 16.5 POINTS DURING 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR
Two-thirds of K-3 students finish the year reading on or above grade level
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Louisiana students in kindergarten through third grade posted strong reading gains during the 2025-2026 school year. Literacy screener results released today by the Louisiana Department of Education show a 16.5 percentage-point increase in students reading on or above grade level from the beginning to end of the school year.
Every
... Show Full Article
BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, June 9 -- The Louisiana Department of Education issued the following news release:
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LOUISIANA K-3 READING PROFICIENCY CLIMBS 16.5 POINTS DURING 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR
Two-thirds of K-3 students finish the year reading on or above grade level
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Louisiana students in kindergarten through third grade posted strong reading gains during the 2025-2026 school year. Literacy screener results released today by the Louisiana Department of Education show a 16.5 percentage-point increase in students reading on or above grade level from the beginning to end of the school year.
Everygrade level improved during the school year. Kindergarten students posted the largest gains, increasing nearly 40 points from the beginning to the end of the school year.
"These results reflect the hard work of Louisiana teachers and a back-to-basics approach grounded in the science of reading," said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. "We're proud of the progress, but far from satisfied. It's critical we stay the course and keep moving in the right direction."
Spring 2026 Results
This marks the third school year all Louisiana public school students in grades K-3 are required to complete literacy screeners, as well as the third school year of significant growth. Compared with spring 2025, the overall end-of-year proficiency rate also increased by 2.1 percentage points.
2025-2026: Percentage of Students Reading On or Above Level
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Grade ... Beginning of Year ... End of Year ... Growth
K-3 ... 49.7% ... 66.2% ... +16.5
K ... 29.1% ... 69% ... +39.9
1 ... 51.4% ... 67.5% ... +16.1
2 ... 58% ... 64.4% ... +6.4
3 ... 59% ... 64% ... +5
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"I'm especially encouraged by the strong growth among kindergarten students and the steady progress we are seeing year to year," said Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chiasson. "Teachers are using the screener results to meet students where they are, address reading gaps early, and provide support based on each child's needs."
Students with disabilities also made progress during the 2025-2026 school year, earning an increase of 10.3 percentage points. More detailed data is available on the LDOE website, including spring 2026 results for schools and systems.
Louisiana's Literacy Strategy
Louisiana continues to strengthen early literacy instruction through practices grounded in the science of reading. The state's comprehensive approach includes high-quality instructional materials, high-dosage tutoring, professional learning, coaching support, and individualized academic support plans for students who need additional help.
These efforts give teachers the tools and information to identify reading gaps early and provide targeted support during students' foundational elementary years.
Louisiana's National Momentum
Louisiana has made considerable progress since launching its comprehensive literacy plan.
* Louisiana ranked first in the nation for reading growth and was the only state to surpass pre-pandemic levels in both reading and math on Harvard, Stanford, and Dartmouth's Education Scorecard.
* Louisiana fourth graders have led the nation in reading growth for two consecutive cycles of The Nation's Report Card and now rank No. 16 overall among the states.
* Louisiana topped a national list recognizing states for adopting a comprehensive early literacy policy, which included elements like a universal K-3 screener, third grade promotion, and targeted student support.
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About Louisiana's K-3 Literacy Screener
All Louisiana public school students in grades K-3 are required to complete literacy screeners. These assessments, which increase in difficulty from beginning to end of year, provide teachers with real-time data to support students during their foundational years in school.
The screeners are given through a secure administration and measure skills predictive to reading success as a student progresses through school. Student scores are reported as Well Above Level, On Level, Below Level, or Well Below Level.
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Original text here: https://doe.louisiana.gov/about/news-releases/release/2026/06/08/louisiana-k-3-reading-proficiency-climbs-16.5-points-during-2025-2026-school-year
Gov. Shapiro Secures Major New Investment From Urban Outfitters Inc., Expanding Operations in Pennsylvania and Creating at Least 1,050 New Jobs in Philadelphia and Bucks County
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, June 9 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on June 8, 2026:
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Governor Shapiro Secures Major New Investment from Urban Outfitters, Inc., Expanding Operations in Pennsylvania and Creating at Least 1,050 New Jobs in Philadelphia and Bucks County
Homegrown, Pennsylvania-based company will add at least 450 jobs at its headquarters at Philadelphia's Navy Yard and a minimum of 600 jobs at a new, state-of-the-art Nuuly facility in Bucks County, while retaining current employment levels in Lancaster and Indiana counties.
Since taking
... Show Full Article
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, June 9 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on June 8, 2026:
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Governor Shapiro Secures Major New Investment from Urban Outfitters, Inc., Expanding Operations in Pennsylvania and Creating at Least 1,050 New Jobs in Philadelphia and Bucks County
Homegrown, Pennsylvania-based company will add at least 450 jobs at its headquarters at Philadelphia's Navy Yard and a minimum of 600 jobs at a new, state-of-the-art Nuuly facility in Bucks County, while retaining current employment levels in Lancaster and Indiana counties.
Since takingoffice, Governor Josh Shapiro and his Administration have competed for and won over $41 billion in private sector investments that are creating more than 24,000 new jobs and driving economic growth across the Commonwealth.
Under the Governor's leadership, Pennsylvania's economy is one of the strongest in the nation-and is the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy.
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Philadelphia, PA - Today, Governor Josh Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis announced the Commonwealth has secured a major new investment from Urban Outfitters, Inc. (URBN), a portfolio of lifestyle brands, to expand operations in Philadelphia and Bucks County. As part of its commitment to the Commonwealth, the company will create at least 1,050 new jobs, retain existing jobs, and build a new facility for its Nuuly brand in Falls Township.
URBN will invest at least $150 million in capital, create 450 jobs at its headquarters at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, and create an additional 600 jobs at its new, state-of-the-art Nuuly facility in Bucks County. The company will also retain existing positions in Lancaster and Indiana counties.
Beyond their initial commitment, URBN may spend more than $50 million in additional capital investments that could further raise the number of new jobs created in the Commonwealth.
"Urban Outfitters was built from the ground up in Philadelphia more than five decades ago - and we are proud that this company is continuing to grow and create jobs all across our Commonwealth," said Governor Shapiro. "Pennsylvania is leading in economic development because we are focused on strengthening our skilled workforce, cutting red tape, and making smart, strategic investments that help businesses grow and succeed. That economic development strategy supports growing businesses like URBN who want to take advantage of everything Pennsylvania has to offer-and my Administration is going to continue to create jobs and opportunity all across our Commonwealth."
Founded in 1970, URBN has grown from one store in West Philadelphia into a global portfolio. Today, the company includes retail brands like Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free People, FP Movement, and Terrain, as well as a rental subscription service, Nuuly, and restaurants and event venues under the Menus & Venues banner.
"We should never forget that Philadelphia is the place where America started and where creativity and freedom have thrived for hundreds of years - so it's no surprise that an innovative company like Urban Outfitters got its start here and has grown over nearly five decades to become a global retailer," said Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis. "With the investments they're making at this facility and across the Commonwealth, this company will continue growing for decades to come. We're not just creating and retaining jobs - we're creating ladders of opportunity, so that everyone can live their American dream, whatever that looks like to them, right here in Pennsylvania."
The company relocated its headquarters from Center City to the Philadelphia Navy Yard in 2006, investing more than $100 million to transform several historic shipyard facilities into offices, meeting spaces, photo studios, a coffee shop, a cafeteria, and a gym for URBN employees. The company's presence at the Navy Yard has grown from five buildings to fifteen - including the newly -opened 117,000 square foot Building 16 - and from 500 hundred employees to more than 2,500.
"URBN's roots are firmly in Philadelphia, from our beginnings at 43rd and Locust 56 years ago, to our 20-year history here at the Navy Yard. Celebrating this anniversary alongside the opening of Building 16 is a proud moment for our company," said Richard A. Hayne, Chief Executive Officer, URBN. "Our relationship with the state has been vital to our success, and we look forward to creating more jobs and continuing our investment in Pennsylvania."
As part of URBN's commitment to growing in Pennsylvania, the Commonwealth extended state level Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ) benefits to the company.
"URBN has been a key player in transforming the Philadelphia Navy Yard back into a thriving center for economic activity and we're proud to support their continued investment in Pennsylvania," said Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger. "This new investment from the company not only retains critical jobs in Central and Western Pennsylvania, but also serves as an engine for job growth in Philadelphia and Bucks County. The Shapiro Administration will continue to support thriving businesses like URBN that help boost our economy and create real opportunity for Pennsylvanians."
Shapiro-Davis Administration's Progress to Grow Pennsylvania's Workforce and Strengthen the Economy
In every corner of the Commonwealth, businesses are expanding and creating real opportunities for Pennsylvanians - from McCarl's in Beaver County, Vylor in Delaware County, Bonduelle in Philadelphia, Mondi Bags in Allegheny County, WebFX in Harrisburg, Premier Brands of America in Lackawanna County, John Brothers Holdings in Union County, TerraPower Isotopes in Philadelphia, Schreiber Foods in Cumberland County, Berwick Industries in Columbia County, Johnson & Johnson in Montgomery County, Eli Lilly in Lehigh County, Eurofins in Lancaster County, Calgon Carbon Corporation in Pittsburgh, DrinkPAK in Philadelphia, Farm Plast in Lycoming County, US Durum in Dauphin County, First Quality in Mifflin County, Eos in Allegheny County, Nichols Portland in Elk County, Imperial Systems in Mercer County, Qualex in Venango County, and Tate in York County.
Pennsylvania's Business Climate and Growing Economy is Earning National Recognition
Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has made Pennsylvania more competitive - attracting over $41 billion in private-sector investment while creating more than 24,000 good-paying jobs across the Commonwealth and earning national recognition.
* Pennsylvania is the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy, based on analysis done by Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi.
* Last year, according to a new analysis of data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Commonwealth ranked third in the nation for job growth.
* Area Development ranked Pennsylvania among the top 20 "Best States for Business" - the only Northeastern state to make the list - and placed the Commonwealth in the top 10 for "Site Readiness Programs."
* Site Selection Magazine named Pennsylvania one of the top business climates in the nation.
* Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that Pennsylvania ranks among the top states in the nation for five-year new business survival.
Governor Shapiro's 2026-27 budget proposal builds on this momentum by investing in long-term economic growth and ensuring communities across the Commonwealth can compete and win. Over the last three years, the Governor has been laser-focused on delivering results for the people of Pennsylvania - and it's working.
Learn more about the Shapiro-Davis Administration's efforts to support Pennsylvania's workers and businesses and spur the economy, to build a stronger, more competitive economy for all Pennsylvanians.
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/gov-shapiro-secures-major-new-investment-from-urban-outfitters
California Leads the Nation in Job Creation
SACRAMENTO, California, June 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on June 8, 2026:
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California leads the nation in job creation
What you need to know: California employers added approximately 131,534 jobs over the 12 months ending in the first quarter of 2026, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That was more than any other state during the same period.
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As national job growth slowed during President Trump's second term, California continued to lead the nation in job creation, adding approximately 131,534 jobs over the past year, according
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, June 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on June 8, 2026:
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California leads the nation in job creation
What you need to know: California employers added approximately 131,534 jobs over the 12 months ending in the first quarter of 2026, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That was more than any other state during the same period.
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As national job growth slowed during President Trump's second term, California continued to lead the nation in job creation, adding approximately 131,534 jobs over the past year, accordingto U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That total was the highest of any other state, while job growth nationwide has stagnated during the same time period.
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California isn't just keeping pace with the national economy -- we're driving it. From clean energy and advanced manufacturing to health care and logistics, the industries shaping the future are growing here. That's why California remains a world-leading economy and America's engine of job creation. - Governor Gavin Newsom
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"California's workforce is one of the state's greatest strengths and a key reason our economy continues to grow and adapt. California workers are powering the industries shaping the future of the national economy," said California Labor Secretary Stewart Knox
A resilient economy amid slower national growth
While national job growth slowed considerably in early 2026, California continued to outpace the nation in year-over-year payroll job growth.
Newly released Employment Development Department data shows California added 97,200 jobs since the start of 2026, an average of 24,300 jobs per month through April. California also recorded a year-over-year increase of 101,500 nonfarm jobs from April 2025 to April 2026, a 0.56 percent gain that exceeded the national rate.
California is also continuing to invest in the workforce and industries driving long-term economic growth. In 2025 alone, the state trained more than 142,000 workers and helped create more than 61,000 new jobs in strategic industry sectors through the California Jobs First initiative. This first-of-its-kind initiative will continue to advance high-impact projects and spur business development across California's 13 economic regions.
California's Long-Term Job Growth
California employers have added approximately 1.8 million jobs since 2016, accounting for roughly 12 percent of all U.S. job growth during that period. The state's economy continues to be powered by major employment sectors, including technology, health care, logistics, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Even as national job growth slowed in early 2026, California continued to lead the nation in both total job gains and year-over-year payroll growth. Additional labor market data and monthly employment reports are available through the Employment Development Department's Labor Market Information Division at https://labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/.
California's Economic Dominance
California's economy continues to outperform both the nation and global competitors. A recent report from the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) found that California's gross domestic product reached $4.3 trillion in 2025, representing 14 percent of the entire U.S. economy. Over the past 25 years, California's economy has grown by 90 percent, significantly outpacing national growth of 69 percent.
The Golden State is also driving national economic momentum. According to a recent Bloomberg analysis, California generated 40 percent of the U.S. stock market growth while accounting for less than 12 percent of the nation's population and captured two-thirds of all U.S. venture capital.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/06/08/california-leads-the-nation-in-job-creation/
