States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Ohio State Auditor: Finding for Recovery of $44,222.08 Issued Against Former Wayne Local Schools Treasurer Over Late Fees and Penalties
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 21 (TNSrep) -- Ohio State Auditor Keith Faber issued the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
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Finding for Recovery of $44,222.08 Issued Against Former Wayne Local Schools Treasurer over Late Fees and Penalties
A finding for recovery of $44,222.08 was issued Thursday against a former treasurer for Wayne Local Schools after he failed to pay taxes and other bills on time, resulting in late fees, interest, and penalties.
Ron James and his bonding company are jointly and severally liable for the finding, which was included in a special audit that covered financial
... Show Full Article
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 21 (TNSrep) -- Ohio State Auditor Keith Faber issued the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
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Finding for Recovery of $44,222.08 Issued Against Former Wayne Local Schools Treasurer over Late Fees and Penalties
A finding for recovery of $44,222.08 was issued Thursday against a former treasurer for Wayne Local Schools after he failed to pay taxes and other bills on time, resulting in late fees, interest, and penalties.
Ron James and his bonding company are jointly and severally liable for the finding, which was included in a special audit that covered financialactivities at the Warren County district from Jan. 1, 2019, through Jan. 25, 2024.
The full report is available online at ohioauditor.gov/auditsearch/search.aspx.
The Auditor of State's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) launched an investigation in February 2022 after receiving information from an anonymous source that James was not paying invoices in a timely manner, among other allegations.
SIU identified $41,692.21 in penalties and interest paid by the district to the Internal Revenue Service, the Ohio Department of Taxation, and the Village of Waynesville due to James' negligence in performing his responsibilities as treasurer.
An additional $2,529.87 in interest and late fees was paid to various vendors after James failed to timely pay more than 60 invoices.
Thursday's audit report details SIU's investigation into other allegations, which led to indictments against James and his daughter. Both were acquitted on all charges following a bench trial in Warren County Common Pleas Court.
Since 2019, the Special Investigations Unit has assisted in 147 convictions resulting in more than $16 million in restitution (see Map of SIU Convictions since January 2019). The team receives hundreds of tips of suspected fraud annually. Tips can be submitted anonymously online or via SIU's fraud hotline at 866-FRAUD-OH (866-372-8364).
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The Auditor of State's Office, one of five independently elected statewide offices in Ohio, is responsible for auditing more than 5,900 state and local government agencies. Under the direction of Auditor Keith Faber, the office also provides financial services to local governments, investigates and prevents fraud in public agencies, and promotes transparency in government.
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Original text here: http://ohioauditor.gov/news/pressreleases/Details/7727
N.Y. Comptroller DiNapoli: Despite Labor Force Gains, Disparities Remain for Workers With Disabilities
ALBANY, New York, Nov. 21 (TNSbrep) -- New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
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DiNapoli: Despite Labor Force Gains, Disparities Remain for Workers With Disabilities
A new report by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli shows the labor force participation rate for those with a disability age 16 and over rose by 4.6 percentage points between 2019 and 2024, while it dropped 0.5 percentage points for the state's nondisabled workforce. Despite this progress, only 28.8% of individuals with disabilities participated in the labor force in
... Show Full Article
ALBANY, New York, Nov. 21 (TNSbrep) -- New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli issued the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
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DiNapoli: Despite Labor Force Gains, Disparities Remain for Workers With Disabilities
A new report by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli shows the labor force participation rate for those with a disability age 16 and over rose by 4.6 percentage points between 2019 and 2024, while it dropped 0.5 percentage points for the state's nondisabled workforce. Despite this progress, only 28.8% of individuals with disabilities participated in the labor force in2024, less than half the rate of people in New York without a disability (69.9%) and 3.5 percentage points below the national rate for people with disabilities (32.3%).
"This year marks the 35th anniversary of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act and while we've made some progress, challenges remain and more effort is needed to ensure people with disabilities have equal opportunities in the workplace," DiNapoli said. "Providing accommodations for workplace flexibility and encouraging employers to practice inclusive hiring can help improve employment outcomes for people with a disability. By championing inclusion, we create progress, prosperity and a stronger New York."
[View chart in the link at bottom.]
In 2024, more than 2.5 million New Yorkers 16 and older had a disability, representing 15% of the working-age population. Due to the daily challenges facing people with disabilities, they are less likely to graduate high school or earn a bachelor's degree and tend to have lower rates of labor force participation and employment. As a result, they earn far less on average than those without a disability. In 2024, one in four New Yorkers with a disability lived below the poverty line compared to one in five nationally.
Increases to Labor Force Participation Rate
Nationally, the labor force participation rate for people with a disability age 16 and over rose by five percentage points from 2019-2024, with the greatest gains between 2019 and 2021. Research has noted post-Covid labor market patterns differ from previous recessions in which employment recovery for people with disabilities lagged the nondisabled population, largely due to expanded remote work options for those who would have difficulty taking an in-person job, and a tighter labor market that encouraged more inclusive hiring.
State Policy Efforts
New York State has taken several steps to improve employment outcomes for people with disabilities. The state's "Employment First" initiative requires state agencies to adopt plans to increase competitive integrated employment (CIE) in the workforce and encourages businesses to adopt inclusive hiring practices. The initial goals of Employment First in 2015 were to increase the employment rate of people with disabilities by 5% and reduce their poverty rate by 5% statewide. 2024 data show employment gains over the past ten years exceed this goal, though reductions in poverty have been more modest.
State agencies are required to develop an annual plan that details how they will improve the percentage of people with disabilities they hire, and the Chief Disability Officer is required to annually collect data from each agency and report on and evaluate the state's progress on improving the employment rate of state employees with disabilities.
Other state programs that help overcome barriers to employment for people with disabilities include enacted legislative changes in 2022 to its Preferred Source Contracting Program that were intended to foster more inclusive jobs in the nonprofit sector and increase CIE. The state also runs specialized hiring programs within the state workforce for people with disabilities under Civil Service Law 55-b and 55-c. In addition, since 2015, businesses in New York that employ people with disabilities have been authorized to claim either a personal income tax or corporate franchise tax credit.
DiNapoli emphasized the importance of leveraging existing vocational programs, improving transportation services for jobs that cannot be done remotely, and educating employers about the benefits of hiring people with disabilities, measures that could significantly diminish barriers to employment for people with disabilities.
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Report
Economic and Policy Insights - Workers with Disabilities Achieve Labor Force Gains, but Disparities Remain (https://www.osc.ny.gov/files/reports/pdf/workers-with-disabilities-achieve-labor-force-gains-but-disparities-remain.pdf)
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Original text here: https://www.osc.ny.gov/press/releases/2025/11/dinapoli-despite-labor-force-gains-disparities-remain-workers-disabilities
Maine House Democrats: Ankeles' Bill to Protect Private Wells From Toxic Chemicals to Be Considered by Legislature
AUGUSTA, Maine, Nov. 21 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
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Ankeles' bill to protect private wells from toxic chemicals to be considered by Legislature
A new bill from Rep. Dan Ankeles, D-Brunswick, could provide private well owners with greater support during and after environmental emergencies like chemical spills.
Ankeles is introducing the measure for the upcoming legislative session as a follow up to his other bills passed in response to a major toxic firefighting foam discharge on the former Brunswick Naval Air Station in August 2024.
... Show Full Article
AUGUSTA, Maine, Nov. 21 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
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Ankeles' bill to protect private wells from toxic chemicals to be considered by Legislature
A new bill from Rep. Dan Ankeles, D-Brunswick, could provide private well owners with greater support during and after environmental emergencies like chemical spills.
Ankeles is introducing the measure for the upcoming legislative session as a follow up to his other bills passed in response to a major toxic firefighting foam discharge on the former Brunswick Naval Air Station in August 2024.
"Maine needs the ability to respond quickly and completely on behalf of residents who aren't connected to a water district," said Ankeles. "Clean, safe drinking water is fundamental to our health and our basic standard of living. This bill will allow Maine to keep that essential commitment to its citizens and provide peace of mind during an environmental crisis."
LR 2820 creates a rapid response fund within the Department of Environmental Protection designed to assist residents on private wells with testing, remediation, installation and maintenance of filtration systems, connecting to local water districts when possible and the provision of bottled water.
The funding is primarily intended for PFAS-related emergencies, though the legislation as drafted does not specifically limit the use of the funds to any single chemical or family of chemicals. The Legislature will likely send the bill to the Environment and Natural Resources Committee for a public hearing once it reconvenes in January.
Ankeles is serving his second term in the Maine House and represents House District 100, a central portion of Brunswick that includes the former Brunswick Naval Air Station. He serves on both the Transportation Committee and the Environment and Natural Resources Committee.
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Original text here: https://www.maine.gov/housedems/news/ankeles-bill-protect-private-wells-toxic-chemicals-be-considered-legislature
MIA Launches the Largest Single Deployment of Automated Passport Screening in the U.S.
MIAMI, Florida, Nov. 21 -- Miami International Airport issued the following news on Nov. 20, 2025:
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MIA launches the largest single deployment of automated passport screening in the U.S.
Initiative brings automated and more secure border processing to one of the U.S.'s busiest international gateways
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As North American airports race to modernize border processing, Miami International Airport (MIA) this month introduced U.S. Customs and Border (CBP) Protection's Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), which leverages SITA Smart Path technology to deliver faster and more secure arrivals for
... Show Full Article
MIAMI, Florida, Nov. 21 -- Miami International Airport issued the following news on Nov. 20, 2025:
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MIA launches the largest single deployment of automated passport screening in the U.S.
Initiative brings automated and more secure border processing to one of the U.S.'s busiest international gateways
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As North American airports race to modernize border processing, Miami International Airport (MIA) this month introduced U.S. Customs and Border (CBP) Protection's Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), which leverages SITA Smart Path technology to deliver faster and more secure arrivals forU.S. citizens. MIA, in collaboration with CBP, is one of several U.S. airports to go live with EPP this year and is home to CBP's largest single deployment of EPP.
"CBP is actively expanding biometric processing at major U.S. ports of entry to enhance security and streamline the arrival process for travelers. Collaborations like the one at MIA are essential for ensuring secure and efficient borders while delivering a seamless experience for international travelers."
- Daniel Alonso, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director at Customs and Border Protection.
At MIA, CBP's EPP initiative leverages SITA's Smart Path platform to capture and process biometric photos during inspection, verifying travelers by matching images against CBP's records within three seconds[LP1] . This automation reduces wait times while upholding the highest security standards. At MIA, the process involves 12 biometric face pods across MIA's three passport control facilities, located in concourses D, E, and J, making it CBP's largest single EPP deployment to date. MIA's broader digital transformation strategy may include future expansion.
"Miami is one of America's busiest international gateways and the door to Latin America and beyond. This EPP launch is setting a new standard for efficiency at the border by using biometrics to make arrivals smoother, faster, and more secure for everyone, and can easily scale over time to additional terminals and to handle increased capacity."
- Shawn Gregor, President Americas at SITA.
The mobile wireless-enabled pods can be repositioned as passenger flow changes, helping CBP optimize staffing and throughput. Each unit is equipped with agent-facing screens for real-time monitoring, ensuring that the technology enhances both passenger experience and officer oversight.
According to SITA's latest Air Transport IT Insights, 53% of North American airlines are already investing in biometric and digital identity management, outpacing the global average. Meanwhile, nearly 60% of airports have implemented touchless passenger flow technologies, indicating that the region is at the forefront of aviation's digital transformation.
The introduction of EPP at MIA directly supports this trend, enabling more efficient processing without the need for new infrastructure, and demonstrating how biometrics and mobile connectivity can help alleviate congestion as passenger volumes increase.
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Original text here: https://news.miami-airport.com/mia-launches-the-largest-single-deployment-of-automated-passport-screening-in-the-us/
LCRA Awards $50,000 Grant for Inclusive Playground at Eastland City Park
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 21 -- The Lower Colorado River Authority issued the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
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LCRA awards $50,000 grant for inclusive playground at Eastland City Park
New all-abilities play equipment creates a welcoming space for families
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EASTLAND, Texas - The Eastland Lions Club has purchased and installed new all-abilities play equipment at Eastland City Park, thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority.
The community grant, along with $129,990 in matching funds raised by the Lions Club, helped create an inclusive play area where children
... Show Full Article
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 21 -- The Lower Colorado River Authority issued the following news release on Nov. 20, 2025:
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LCRA awards $50,000 grant for inclusive playground at Eastland City Park
New all-abilities play equipment creates a welcoming space for families
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EASTLAND, Texas - The Eastland Lions Club has purchased and installed new all-abilities play equipment at Eastland City Park, thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority.
The community grant, along with $129,990 in matching funds raised by the Lions Club, helped create an inclusive play area where childrenof all abilities can play side by side. The new playground complements other recent park improvements, including updates to older play equipment and improvements to paths so caregivers and children using mobility devices can move through the space together.
"Our goal is to make sure every child in Eastland and the surrounding area has a safe and welcoming place to play," said Bill Moore, president of the Eastland Lions Club. "The Eastland community and LCRA pulled together to make this happen. The grant got us across the finish line, and local businesses, churches and individuals donated money, materials and many volunteer hours, and our vendors and contractors gave generous rates for their services. It's a true community project that gives every child in Eastland a place to play."
Supporters say the new community playground is already making difference.
"We are already seeing what this means to the community," said Nakita McBride, treasurer of the Eastland Lions Club. "The other day a little boy spotted the new equipment and just took off, screaming with joy as he ran toward it. The bright, colorful design stands out like a beacon, and the accessible layout keeps kids together instead of leaving anyone behind. It's exactly the kind of playground Eastland needs."
The city-owned park will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026.
This is one of 41 grants awarded recently through LCRA Community Grants. These grants are awarded twice a year as part of LCRA's effort to give back to communities in its wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas.
Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted in January. More information is available at lcra.org/cdpp.
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About LCRA
The Lower Colorado River Authority serves customers and communities throughout Texas by managing the lower Colorado River; generating and transmitting electric power; providing a clean, reliable water supply; and offering outdoor adventures at more than 40 parks along the Colorado River from the Texas Hill Country to the Gulf Coast. LCRA and its employees are committed to fulfilling our mission to enhance the quality of life of the Texans we serve through water stewardship, energy and community service. LCRA was created by the Texas Legislature in 1934 and receives no state appropriations.
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Original text here: https://www.lcra.org/news/news-releases/lcra-awards-50000-grant-for-inclusive-playground-at-eastland-city-park/
ICYMI: One Week After Signing the 2025-26 Budget, Pa. Gov. Shapiro Highlights Investments in Agriculture, Tax Cuts for Working Families, Support for Child Care Workforce, and New Economic Development Wins Across Pennsylvania
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Nov. 21 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release:
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ICYMI: One Week After Signing the 2025-26 Budget, Governor Shapiro Highlights Investments in Agriculture, Tax Cuts for Working Families, Support for Child Care Workforce, and New Economic Development Wins Across Pennsylvania
In the week since signing the 2025-26 budget into law, Governor Josh Shapiro has traveled across Pennsylvania to highlight how the new state budget delivers for working families, grows the Commonwealth's economy, tackles workforce shortages, and keeps Pennsylvania
... Show Full Article
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Nov. 21 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release:
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ICYMI: One Week After Signing the 2025-26 Budget, Governor Shapiro Highlights Investments in Agriculture, Tax Cuts for Working Families, Support for Child Care Workforce, and New Economic Development Wins Across Pennsylvania
In the week since signing the 2025-26 budget into law, Governor Josh Shapiro has traveled across Pennsylvania to highlight how the new state budget delivers for working families, grows the Commonwealth's economy, tackles workforce shortages, and keeps Pennsylvaniacompetitive.
From increasing funding for Pennsylvania farmers and strengthening food security, cutting taxes for nearly one million working Pennsylvanians, investing in the child care workforce, and announcing major economic development projects -- Governor Shapiro has made clear that Pennsylvania is on the rise and that this budget builds on two years of progress to keep it moving forward.
Supporting Farmers, Strengthening Food Security & Investing in Agriculture
In Philadelphia, Governor Shapiro joined WMMR's Preston & Steve Show and volunteers at Camp Out for Hunger, highlighting the budget's historic food security investments. In Hershey, he spoke at the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau's 75th Anniversary Banquet about how his Administration is delivering for farmers and rural communities.
Cutting Taxes for Nearly 1 Million Working Pennsylvanians
Governor Shapiro, Lt. Governor Davis, Revenue Secretary Pat Browne, and legislative and community leaders visited Widener University Commonwealth Law School's tax clinic to highlight the new Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit (WPTC) created in the 2025-26 budget. This is the seventh tax cut Governor Shapiro has enacted in three years.
The WPTC will deliver $193 million in tax relief to more than 940,000 working Pennsylvanians beginning next tax season. Modeled after the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, it equals 10 percent of the federal credit, and anyone who qualifies for the federal EITC will automatically receive the state credit. Here is a county-by-county breakdown of how many working Pennsylvanians will benefit from the new tax credit.
Strengthening the Child Care Workforce & Expanding Access
Governor Shapiro and Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visited Children of God Educational Services in Bucks County to highlight budget investments addressing child care workforce shortages. Pennsylvania currently has 3,000 unfilled child care jobs. This budget includes $25 million for a Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, providing a $450 bonus per employee to support 55,000 workers; $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to stabilize wages for early educators and $10 million for Early Intervention services.
The Governor's Advisory Commission on Women also hosted a virtual discussion between business and government leaders and child care advocates about Pennsylvania's child care crisis.
Announcing Major Economic Development Projects
Continuing to build momentum behind the Commonwealth's first Economic Development Strategy in nearly two decades, Governor Shapiro announced two significant private-sector investments: First Quality Retail Services will invest $142.2 million to expand manufacturing operations in Mifflin County and US Durum Products LTD, the nation's leading couscous manufacturer, will invest more than $8 million to relocate and expand into Harrisburg. These projects underscore Pennsylvania's growing competitiveness as a place where businesses want to invest, expand, and hire.
Here's what elected leaders from across the Commonwealth are saying about the 2025-26 budget:
Chris Hoffman, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau President: "We are truly excited to have Governor Shapiro with us to help us celebrate our 75th anniversary. Over the last three years, Governor Shapiro has promised that he would continue to be committed to serving agriculture and to keep Pennsylvania's top industry strong. That commitment was reflected in the 2025-26 budget with the $10 million dedicated to the Ag Innovation Grant, while fully funding the Pennsylvania Farm Bill. We are extremely grateful for his partnership in helping to advance Pennsylvania agriculture."
Heidi Neuhaus, Director of the Volunteer Center, United Way of the Capital Region: "I've seen firsthand how meaningful the federal Earned Income Tax Credit is for the clients we serve. I'm honored to stand with Governor Shapiro as we highlight a brand-new, state-level Earned Income Tax Credit that was just signed into law. This credit will help nearly a million Pennsylvanians and put more money back into the pockets of the working individuals and families we support every day. Our volunteers were proud to testify before the House Finance Committee in favor of creating a state-level credit, and we are eager to see the positive impact it will have in communities across the Commonwealth. We are grateful to Governor Shapiro and his Administration for making this a priority."
Karen Showalter, Senior Director, MomsRising: "We know this tax credit will make a real difference because we hear it from our members every day, in every corner of the state. So many of them tell us that even though they're working hard and caring for their families, they still can't get ahead. More and more are juggling paid work while also caring for young children or aging parents -- often both -- and struggling to keep everything afloat. Programs like this provide meaningful relief. One of our members in Pittsburgh, a single mom, told us, 'An extra $700 isn't just a number on paper -- it's groceries that stretch a little further, gas in the tank without holding my breath at the pump, and the kind of breathing room that keeps the lights on and the stress down.'"
House Speaker Joanna McClinton: "As the Trump Administration drives up prices for the average family, we're responding with policies to help Pennsylvania's working families save more of their hard-earned income. I am proud to have steered the Working Pennsylvanian Tax Credit through the House twice this year, because it is good for everyone -- saving people money while boosting local economies and helping small businesses."
Senator Patty Kim: "I am so honored to have voted for this tax credit -- it is truly essential. As many of you know, we recently went through a SNAP snafu and saw far too many working families struggling. In the midst of that darkness and uncertainty, Governor Shapiro fought hard to protect them, and we're grateful for that leadership. Now it's our turn as a state to step up, do our part, and give something back to the people who are working to feed their families."
Representative Christina Sappey: "All across Pennsylvania, working families are doing everything they can to make ends meet. Many are dual-income households earning modest wages, juggling rent or mortgage payments, child care, health care and everyday essentials. When those basic costs outpace paychecks, families struggle -- and our entire economy feels the impact. This new tax credit will support working families and benefit our economy."
Representative Justin Fleming: "The Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit is a real win for Pennsylvanians -- it puts more money back in the pockets of working families who need it at a time when costs keep rising. Most Pennsylvanians living in poverty are children, and one of the best ways to secure their future is by making smart, targeted investments like this tax cut that support families and strengthen local economies."
Valerie Hamilton, Founder and Executive Director of Children of God Educational Services: "Today, we are celebrating a truly monumental investment in child care. Child care providers are the workforce behind the workforce. They deserve competitive wages, families deserve affordable, high-quality care, and our children deserve safe, nurturing places to learn and grow. Governor Shapiro understands that child care is essential to Pennsylvania's economy, and this budget reflects that understanding. These new recruitment and retention bonuses will help stabilize this field and strengthen communities across the Commonwealth."
Madison Peneguy, a senior at Bristol High School who works at Children of God: "I've been working in child care for over a year, and even as a high school student, I know how important this work is. My mom has worked in child care for nearly 16 years, and while I've always wanted to follow in her footsteps, the low wages in this field have made me hesitant. This new recruitment and retention incentive gives me hope for the future -- it makes me excited to stay in this career and keep growing in it. The children I work with brighten my day, every day. I appreciate Governor Shapiro for recognizing how hard we work and making this field a priority."
Senator Steve Santarsiero: "Affordability is the throughline of our new budget in Pennsylvania. As working families face higher costs, we are working to lower their tax bills, provide greater support for childcare programs, and make sure people in Pennsylvania have access to fresh and healthy food."
Representative Tina Davis: "It takes a village to raise a child -- and our child care workers, teachers, and caregivers are the heart of that village. I'm grateful to them for the essential work they do every day, and I'm grateful to Governor Shapiro and Secretary Arkoosh for working tirelessly to deliver a budget that truly supports working families. The Governor never gave up -- this bipartisan, compromise budget delivers real results for the people of Pennsylvania."
Cara Ciminillo, Executive Director of Trying Together: "Ensuring affordable, high-quality child care depends on bold, ongoing investment in the educators who power our Commonwealth. Early educators are the workforce behind every thriving community. By continuing to invest in them, Pennsylvania can strengthen its economy, support families, and build a child care system that positions our state for long-term prosperity."
Alex Halper, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for the PA Chamber of Business and Industry: "Employers throughout the Commonwealth continue to struggle finding workers and child care access is a barrier preventing many Pennsylvanians from entering the workforce. Lawmakers should pursue a comprehensive agenda to support child care providers, who are strained by many of the same challenges impacting the broader small business community, including overly burdensome regulations, rising insurance costs and their own staffing shortages."
Kevin Schreiber, President and CEO of the York County Economic Alliance: "Access to quality, affordable child care isn't just a family issue -- it's a workforce issue and an economic competitiveness issue. In York County, employers are feeling the strain as parents are forced to choose between reliable care and reliable work. If we want to grow our labor force, strengthen our businesses, and keep our local economy thriving, we have to ensure that every working family has the child care support they need to succeed."
Allen Bodford, President, First Quality Absorbent Hygiene Division: "First Quality is thrilled to be expanding our adult incontinence manufacturing capacity in Lewistown. We thank Governor Shapiro, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and the Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation for their continued support. We also want to thank our dedicated team in Lewistown for their continued dedication to the company and to making a quality product for our customers."
Nick Felice, President/CEO, Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation: "First Quality came to our community in 2009 and quickly became a top five private sector employer. This expansion shows their strong commitment to Mifflin County, as they continue to provide competitive wages and benefits to area residents. We are appreciative of their investments here in Central Pennsylvania and look forward to their continued positive impact on our local and regional economy."
Lauren Bryson, Executive Director, Focus Central Pennsylvania: "First Quality has proven to be a leader in the marketplace, a choice employer providing high-quality career opportunities, and a strong community supporter of education, community events, and volunteer work. Focus Central Pennsylvania is proud to partner with our local leaders like Nick Felice and MCIDC to collaborate regionally to attract investment that cultivates economic growth in Central Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is getting it done!"
Said Chergui, CEO and President, US Durum: "We'd like to thank DCED and the Shapiro Administration for their support in helping us make this move to Harrisburg. We are happy to be here and look forward to being a strong part of the local community for many years to come."
Senator Patty Kim: "This investment by US Durum Products is exactly the kind of growth we want to see in Harrisburg. Jobs are being brought to our community and we're also supporting Pennsylvania's farmers. This project creates real opportunities for working families while strengthening our local economy for the long term."
Representative Dave Madsen: "I'm thrilled to welcome US Durum Products to Harrisburg. This investment brings modern equipment, expands local manufacturing in the heart of our region, and helps protect and grow family-sustaining jobs. Projects like this strengthen our local economy and show what's possible when we support homegrown businesses and workforce development."
Here's what Pennsylvanians are watching and reading about the 2025-26 budget:
Lancaster Farming: Gov. Shapiro Lauds Pennsylvania Farm Bureau for 75 Years
South Philly Review: Shapiro Joins Annual Camp Out For Hunger
WESA: Pennsylvania's budget includes extra funds for food banks hard hit by SNAP freeze)
Philadelphia Inquirer: A new Pa. tax credit could put up to $805 in your pocket. Here's what to know.
Center Square: Families will see $193M tax credit in 2026
PennLive: Long-sought Pa. tax credit for some workers to be ready for filing season
ABC 27: 1 million Pennsylvanians will qualify for new tax credit
WGAL: Governor announces new state tax credit for working Pennsylvanians
WPXI: New Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit projected to bring $193M in tax relief
FOX43: Gov. Shapiro highlights new Working Pennsylvanian's Tax Credit in state budget
WJAC: State leaders tout new tax credit to help millions of working Pennsylvanians
Nuevo credito fiscal estatal para habitantes de Pensilvania
Delaware Valley News: Governor Shapiro Came To Bristol To Talk About Child Care
Center Square: Child care workers make $25M appearance in budget
Republican Herald: Gov. Shapiro lauded for $25M in support of retaining teachers in child care centers
ABC 27: Pennsylvania devotes $25 million to childcare industry
WFMJ: $25 million budgeted for Pennsylvania child care
Penn Live: Food manufacturer to relocate from Lancaster County to Harrisburg
Pennsylvania Business Report: First Quality makes $142M expansion investment in Lewistown manufacturing plant
WGAL: Lancaster County couscous business relocates to Dauphin County, creating new jobs
Central Penn Business Journal: Shapiro-Davis Admin secures $8M Investment from US Durum to expand manufacturing, create jobs
Governor Shapiro's 2025-26 budget will build on the foundation the Shapiro Administration has constructed over the past two years and move Pennsylvania forward as the Governor continues working across the aisle to get stuff done and ensure people across the Commonwealth have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed.
Read more about Governor Shapiro's 2025 26 budget, view the Governor's final budget remarks as prepared here (https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2025-press-releases/governor-shapiro-remarks-as-prepared-during-2025-26-budget-signi), or watch the Governor deliver remarks here (https://pacast.com/m?p=28625).
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2025-press-releases/icymi--gov-shapiro-2025-26-budget-invest-ag-tax-cuts-child-care-
First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom Leads Gender Equity Summit on Technology and Well-Being
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 21 -- First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom issued the following news release:
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First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom leads Gender Equity Summit on technology and well-being
What you need to know: California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom hosted the annual Gender Equity Summit, building a safer tomorrow for all in the age of innovative technology.
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California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, in collaboration with the California Partners Project, hosted a pivotal Gender Equity Summit on Wednesday focused on the intersection of gender, technology,
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 21 -- First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom issued the following news release:
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First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom leads Gender Equity Summit on technology and well-being
What you need to know: California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom hosted the annual Gender Equity Summit, building a safer tomorrow for all in the age of innovative technology.
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California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, in collaboration with the California Partners Project, hosted a pivotal Gender Equity Summit on Wednesday focused on the intersection of gender, technology,and well-being. At a moment when rapid technological change is reshaping childhood, straining families, and exposing women and girls to new forms of online harm, this annual Summit underscored the urgent need to design digital spaces that prioritize safety, equity, and humanity.
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This year's Gender Equity Summit is about shaping our digital world with the well-being of women and children at the forefront. Our conversations across sectors and with industry leaders underscored that representation is truly a safety feature. And when you invite more women and young people into advancing technology, it will lead to better, more equitable outcomes for everyone.
- Jennifer Siebel Newsom
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In this new AI era, our first responsibility is protecting folks who are most at risk -- especially women and kids -- from the real-world harms that can come with these powerful tools. California will lead in shaping a digital future that will fortify the safety and well-being of all Californians.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
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The Summit convened cross-sector leaders in technology, education, philanthropy, and more to discuss the current digital environment and its effects on youth and women, while underscoring the need for innovative partnerships and solutions to promote online safety, equity, and well-being for all. The conversations at the Summit demonstrated that California is the home of innovation and leads globally in modernizing systems while protecting people by developing both opportunities and guardrails of AI.
This year, the First Partner also announced the release of her Nourishing Mind & Body Family Guide, the latest addition to the Tech/Life Balance parenting series created by her non-profit, the California Partners Project. This new guide offers tools to help parents have real conversations with their kids about what they are experiencing online related to bodies, fitness, and food.
Legacy of Gender Equity Summits
In 2023, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and the California Partners Project launched the annual Gender Equity Summit to bring together a cross-sector group of experts to examine critical policy issues through the lens of gender and surface new solutions for a more equitable future. The goal of these Summits is to leverage California's leadership in gender equity to increase the health, wealth, and safety of women within the state, with an awareness that what happens in the Golden State radiates across the country.
2025: Tech & Well-Being
2024: Health & Safety
2023: Women, Wealth & Power
A voice for women and children
The First Partner is a leading advocate for gender equity and the mental health and well-being of all Californian children. Through California for ALL Women, the First Partner has made it a priority to center the needs of women as she makes strides to build economic equity, equal representation, and advance a family-first agenda. Through California for ALL Kids, the First Partner champions initiatives and policies that support children's mental and physical health and works to provide families with the tools they need to ensure their children get the best start in life.
California's leadership in tech policy
This year, Governor Gavin Newsom signed landmark child safety legislation requiring platform age verification, chatbot safety protocols, social media warning labels, guidance to prevent cyberbullying, and stronger penalties for deepfake pornography and those who profit from illegal deepfakes.
California has long stood as a bold leader in protecting children from the danger of emerging technology and will continue working toward addressing social media addiction, fighting for strong privacy requirements, combating technology-facilitated gender based violence, and spearheading nation-leading transparency measures.
Governor Newsom also signed legislation to protect Californians from safety risks that may be posed by frontier AI and to protect user data privacy. The California Civil Rights Council and the California Privacy Protection Agency have also issued regulations to protect against discrimination and privacy violations by automated decisionmaking systems. As the digital world continues to evolve, Governor Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom are committed to strengthening online protections for all.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/11/20/first-partner-jennifer-siebel-newsom-leads-gender-equity-summit-on-technology-and-well-being/
