WILKES-BARRE — Gov. Josh Shapiro this week announced the “Lightning Plan” — a comprehensive, all-of-the-above energy plan to secure Pennsylvania’s energy future.
Supported by labor and industry leaders, environmental advocates, and consumer groups, Gov. Shapiro said his commonsense energy plan will create jobs, lower consumer costs, protect Pennsylvania from global instability by building next-generation power, and position the Commonwealth to continue to be a national energy leader for decades to come.
Shapiro said the project, aimed at accelerating hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, could position the region as a hub for next-generation energy solutions while supporting 3,000 construction jobs. He said the project is a prime example of the type of innovation the Lightning Plan will drive all across the Commonwealth.
“Pennsylvania has long been a national energy leader, from Ben Franklin to today, but right now, we’re letting other states out-compete us, and we’re losing out on jobs, new investment and innovation — that has to change,” said Gov. Shapiro.”
The Governor said Pennsylvania needs an energy plan to power the Commonwealth forward.
Rep. Meuser co-sponsors legislation to expand educational freedom
U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Dallas, this week co-sponsored two initiatives aimed at expanding educational freedom — the Educational Choice for Children Act and H.Res. 63, which recognizes National School Choice Week (Jan. 26–Feb. 1).
National School Choice Week (NSCW) raises awareness about K-12 education options, empowering parents to choose the learning environment that best fits their children — whether it’s a traditional public school, charter school, magnet school, online program, private institution, faith-based school or homeschooling.
In Pennsylvania, which is home to more than 2.7 million children, families benefit from a diverse range of educational pathways, ensuring students can thrive in settings tailored to their needs.
Meuser said H.Res. 63 formally acknowledges NSCW and highlights the importance of school choice in broadening access to high-caliber education nationwide.
Meanwhile, Meuser said the Educational Choice for Children Act incentivizes charitable donations toward scholarships that help cover K-12 education expenses — including tuition, fees, books and supplies — by offering donors a federal tax credit. Meuser said this initiative is expected to benefit two million students across various educational settings, ensuring greater access to enriched learning environments.
“Every child deserves access to a quality education that meets their unique needs, regardless of zip code or financial background,” Rep. Meuser said. “By expanding school choice, we empower parents to make the best decisions for their children’s future. The Educational Choice for Children Act will provide vital scholarship funding, helping ensure more families can access the resources they need. I’m happy to support this commonsense legislation and National School Choice Week as we work to give every student the opportunity to succeed.”
Meuser said 34 states, including Utah, Indiana, Florida and Louisiana, offer school choice programs, allowing parents to select the best education for their children’s future.
The Educational Choice for Children Act is currently under review by the House Ways & Means and Education & Workforce Committees, while H.Res. 63 awaits further consideration in the Education & Workforce Committee.
State and local leaders highlight investments in 911 system
The Shapiro Administration this week joined county and local leaders to discuss the transition to Next Generation 911 (NG911) — the most significant technological upgrades in the history of Pennsylvania’s 911 system.
“As technology changes, people expect their 911 system to keep up with new capabilities for communication and the transfer of information,” said PEMA 911 Deputy Greg Kline. “Our 911 system is the backbone of emergency services in Pennsylvania, and these investments are proof that the Shapiro Administration takes public safety seriously.”
In 2023, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed legislation to extend support of the Commonwealth’s 911 system through Jan. 31, 2029. The legislation also increased the 911 monthly surcharge by 30 cents through Jan. 31, 2026 — a small change that promised to support the ever-growing costs associated with providing quality 911 services across the Commonwealth.
As of Dec. 31, 2024, 97% of Pennsylvania’s counties have migrated to NG911. The remaining counties are expected to complete their migration in early 2025.
The 911 system is the critical link between people who need help and the people who are trained to help. NG911 is a modernization of our 911 system to keep pace with changing consumer technology.
The Commonwealth’s PSAPs employ approximately 2,500 public safety telecommunicators who answered more than 14 million calls for assistance in 2023.
Rep. Watro sponsors ‘National Medal of Honor Day’ resolution
A resolution recognizing March 25, 2025, as “National Medal of Honor Day” in Pennsylvania, sponsored by Rep. Dane Watro, R-Hazleton, this week was unanimously approved by the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee.
House Resolution 2 will next be considered by the full House of Representatives.
“This resolution serves as a heartfelt tribute to our esteemed Medal of Honor recipients and their unwavering commitment to the nation,” said Watro. “The medal is the pinnacle of valor in combat and is bestowed upon military members who have demonstrated extraordinary courage beyond the call of duty.”
Since it was first awarded on March 25, 1863, the Medal of Honor has been awarded to 3,517 individuals who exemplify selflessness and bravery.
“Pennsylvania has 379 accredited Medal of Honor recipients and proudly stands second only to New York in this distinguished honor,” Watro said. “Their legacy inspires us all.”
Watro, who is a committee member and an Army veteran, spoke in support of his resolution prior to the vote.