Public Union Democracy

SB 166: Restoring Integrity to PA Government

  • Jessica Barnett
  • December 6, 2017

Pennsylvania has a golden opportunity to enact good government reform, so it’s worth reiterating why SB 166, which House lawmakers continue to debate, deserves legislative approval and the governor’s…

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Government Accountability

Something Pennsylvania Government Does Pretty Well

  • Nathan Benefield
  • August 19, 2015

A new report on state spending transparency websites gives Pennsylvania’s site—PennWatch—a solid ‘B’ grade. Created through legislation passed in 2011, PennWatch offers data—down to the “checkbook level”—on state…

Media

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Public Union Democracy

Sherlock Investigates: Politics on the Public Dime

  • July 18, 2014

On Tuesday, former House Speakers Bill DeWeese and John Perzel were issued public demerits in the form of gold plaques hung beneath their Capitol portraits. That same day, a…

Media

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Government Accountability

Bring PA Toward the Mainstream in Limiting Lawsuit Abuse

  • April 13, 2011

Having defeated a slew of trial-lawyer amendments, Pennsylvania's House of Representatives approved the Fair Share Act for the third time on Monday. The legislation, which has passed both chambers of the…

Commentary

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Spending Transparency Coming to Pennsylvania?

  • Elizabeth Stelle
  • March 2, 2011

PennWATCH (House Bill 15), sponsored by Rep. Jim Christiana, would create a user-friendly database with searchable information on all state government spending. The bill passed the Pennsylvania House unanimously on…

Commentary

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Government Accountability

PA Election Fun Facts

  • Nathan Benefield
  • November 3, 2010

In case you missed our Election Night Live Blog last night, here are some highlights and fun facts. While Pat Toomey won the election for US Senate, he trailed…

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Education

Who Got PSEA Money?

  • August 18, 2010

The Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) remains one of the most powerful special interest groups in Harrisburg, whether it be fighting school choice and merit pay for teachers,…

Media

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Government Accountability

Are All Lawmakers Crooks?

  • Nathan Benefield
  • June 21, 2010

This past Friday, former State Rep. Mike Veon, who had served as PA House Democrat Whip, was sentenced to 6 to 14 years in prison for his role in…

Media

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Government Accountability

The 70s Called, and Wants Its Legislators Back

  • Nathan Benefield
  • February 15, 2010

State Rep. Frank Oliver announced he will be retiring at the end of his term.  This retirement – along with those of Sen. Bob Mellow, Sen. Barry Stout, and…

Media

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