Pennsylvania's Hottest Legislative Issues on Hold

Pennsylvania’s lawmakers won’t finish up two major issues before the end of the year, but still could complete work on redistricting and state construction project funding. Two of Gov. Tom Corbett’s top priorities, which are to approve a Marcellus shale regulatory measure and to create a school voucher program, are likely on hold until after the first of the year, said the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

 

Closed-door negotiations on a gas drilling bill have not solved several disputes between Corbett and the legislators. Kevin Harley, speaking for the governor, said the private discussions are continuing and the administration wants a resolution soon.

 

Concerning vouchers, the House does not have enough votes to approve the program. The House Republican majority also did not succeed in attempts to expand a business tax credit for those contributing to private school scholarships.

 

The Corbett administration says it will keep pushing for a bill for vouchers, charter-school reforms, tax credits for scholarship contributions, and a revamped teacher-evaluation program.

 

Meanwhile, the bills for the congressional redistricting and for funding state projects could still get through before this week’s session ends.