Public Union Democracy

Bringing Democracy to Pennsylvania Labor Unions

Priya Brannick
January 19, 2016

In the public’s eyes, labor unions have traditionally been the voice of working people. However, a closer look at how unions run their own…

Fact Sheet

Education

Do Record-High Graduation Rates Matter?

James Paul
January 18, 2016

In America’s high schools, test scores are stagnant while graduation rates are soaring. How can both be true? A December press release from the Department of Education…

Media

Government Accountability

Shhh… State’s Fiscal Code Hides Earmark Secrets

January 13, 2016

Shhh… State’s Fiscal Code Hides Earmark Secrets Budget Companion Bill Picks Winners at Lobbyists’ Behest January 14, 2016, HARRISBURG, Pa.—On Tuesday, the Pa. House passed a “fiscal code” which…

Press Release

Government Accountability

Fiscal Code Packed with Earmarks

James Paul
January 12, 2016

Pennsylvania's fiscal code is intended to provide lawmakers with instructions for spending funds appropriated in the state budget. But it is also ground-zero for a host of earmarks that funnel limited…

Media

State Budget

Fiscal Code Protects Kids and Jobs

Elizabeth Stelle, Nathan Benefield
January 12, 2016

Today, the Pennsylvania House passed a revised fiscal code, HB 1327, to implement parts of the state budget. The fiscal code explains how revenues will be distributed, including transfers…

Media

Public Union Democracy

Pay Up or Get Fired

Gina Diorio
January 12, 2016

Imagine being told you have a choice: Write a check for $450 to an organization you don’t support, or lose your job. For tens of thousands of teachers across Pennsylvania…

Media

Education

Freedom on the Horizon for Pa. Teachers?

January 12, 2016

How much money will you have to pay a private political organization just to keep your job this year? If this question sounds ridiculous, that’s because it is—unless you…

Commentary

Freedom on the horizon for Pa. teachers?

Brittney Parker
January 12, 2016

Media

State Budget

Charting Pennsylvania’s Budget Future

January 11, 2016

Believe it or not, the state is approaching the unofficial start of a new budget cycle. Gov. Wolf plans to roll out his proposal for the 2016-17 budget on February…

Media