The Pennsylvania General Assembly’s 2023-2024 session is coming to an end. While a few session days remain on the calendar, it is unlikely major legislation will get a vote. Several important LAMPa-identified bills and budget priorities passed, yet the majority of priorities and programs that could make improvements in the daily lives of our neighbors and our care for creation have failed to make it to through both chambers, which are controlled by different parties. As we look past the election and toward a new session beginning in January, LAMPa will continue to equip disciples for advocacy and bring the voices of the vulnerable, marginalized, and most affected by state policies to those leaders in the hopes of moving forward together.  

Celebrations 

In both budget negotiations this term, incremental increases in funding for important programs were key to achieving bipartisan support. In 2023, that included universal free school breakfast, an increase in the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, a $1million investment for the delivery of Senior Food Boxes, and support for indigent defense services. 

In 2024, after years of advocacy, the General Assembly voted to lift the cap on the Pennsylvania House Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) fund to $100 million by 2026.  Hundreds of postcards from LAMPa advocates helped advance a $3 million investment in providing menstrual products in public schools. 

The Solar for Schools grant program, allocating $25 million dollars for schools to invest in solar energy, was a priority for legislative visits during Lutheran Day in the Capitol that saw passage. It was the biggest investment in clean, renewable energy made this session.  

 Work Still to Do 

As LAMPa looks toward the 2025-2026 session, we need your help to advance policies to better the lives of our neighbors and steward our common home. Look for a survey from LAMPa in the coming weeks. Please take time to prayerfully respond and help us determine priorities for the 2025-2026 session. 

Here are other priorities LAMPa identified for the 2023-2024 session, and where in the process those bills ended:  

Hunger Funding (State Food Purchase Program, PA Agricultural Surplus Supplement, Senior Food Boxes) – Minor increases in 2023; Flat Funded in 2024 

Whole Homes Repair Act – Flat Funded  

Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards – Introduced in the House and Senate 

Climate Emissions Reduction Program – Introduced in the House and Senate 

Filter First – Introduced in the House 

Community Solar – Passed the House 

Energy Efficient Appliances – Passed the House 

Driver’s Licenses for All – Introduced in the House 

Fairness Act – Passed the House 

Hate Crimes Update – Passed the House 

End the Death Penalty – Introduced in the House 

Universal Background Checks – Passed the House 

Emergency Removal Protection Orders – Passed the House 

Relieving Medical Debt – Passed the House 

Preventing Local Hospital Closures – Passed the House