AGP Executive Report

Capitol Roundup: Gov. Josh Shapiro used Independence Day to urge Pennsylvanians to keep “the work” of the founding era moving—warning that today’s political chaos is testing the “guardrails” of 1776 and calling for citizens to protect freedoms and push back on “petty tyrants.” Public Safety: A brutal heat wave disrupted America 250 plans, with Philadelphia and Washington canceling major parades and organizers postponing events; utilities reported power outages affecting more than 842,000 homes as temperatures and storms strained the grid. Civil Rights & Extremism: In Washington, white nationalist group Patriot Front marched near Capitol Hill ahead of the anniversary, drawing condemnation from legal and human-rights voices. Immigration & Law Enforcement: Pennsylvania State Trooper Michael Pahira Jr. was killed in a crash tied to an illegal immigrant truck driver, renewing scrutiny of commercial-driver rules and enforcement. Elections & Courts: A GOP candidate sued Washington County officials, alleging retaliation that included canceling his voter registration during a contentious state Senate primary. Local History: Lancaster residents held a Declaration of Independence reading at the George Ross Monument as the region marked 250 years since the document’s adoption.

State Budget Stalemate: Pennsylvania missed the June 30 budget deadline for a fifth straight year, with Senate Republicans leaving Harrisburg while Democrats stayed—renewing pressure over funding delays and last year’s fallout. Election Integrity Fight: Democrats and a coalition of governors urged the U.S. Postal Service to withdraw a proposed rule tied to Trump’s “citizenship list” plan for mail ballots, arguing it would undermine states’ control and disenfranchise eligible voters. Security Oversight: A DHS inspector general report says the Secret Service missed 102 radio calls and failed to detect or respond to key threats before the 2024 Butler rally shooting—raising fresh questions about staffing, communications, and counter-drone readiness. America 250, Pennsylvania in the Mix: As Trump kicked off the 250th with a partisan “communist menace” message at Mount Rushmore, Pennsylvania’s own Independence Day events and celebrations faced disruption from record heat, including parade cancellations and health warnings. Immigration and Birthright Citizenship: A legal immigrant business owner criticized “birth tourism” as a “slap in the face” to people who immigrated through the legal process, adding to the national debate after recent court rulings.

Extreme Heat & July 4 Disruptions: A deadly heat wave is breaking records across the East, straining the grid and forcing changes to America 250 events, including a temporary Great American State Fair closure in Washington and Philadelphia canceling outdoor parade plans. State Budget Relief: Gov. Josh Shapiro’s expanded Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is set to send $226.4M to nearly 376,000 Pennsylvanians, boosting the maximum rebate to $1,000 and raising income eligibility. Election Rules Fight: Democratic governors, including Shapiro, are pressing the U.S. Postal Service to withdraw a proposed rule tied to Trump’s federal voter-list push, arguing it would undermine voting rights. Secret Service Scrutiny: A DHS watchdog report says local law enforcement radioed 102 transmissions about the Butler shooter, but the Secret Service didn’t receive them due to communications setup failures. Immigration & Public Safety: DHS says a truck driver charged in a fatal Pennsylvania trooper crash is in the U.S. illegally, raising questions about CDL status and enforcement. Pennsylvania at America 250: Pittsburgh hosted a flag pilgrimage stop with Scouts raising the flag as part of the 13-colony route, while Pope Leo XIV accepted the Liberty Medal in Philadelphia, tying the anniversary to religious liberty and conscience.

DEP PFAS Update: Pennsylvania’s DEP proposed permit changes to curb “forever chemicals” (PFOS/PFOA) in biosolids used on farms, adding monitoring and reduction plans for facilities above thresholds. Secret Service Accountability: A DHS watchdog report says the Secret Service missed 102 local radio transmissions and other key chances to prevent the 2024 Trump rally attack in Butler, highlighting major communication and counter-drone failures. Election Administration Fight: Democratic governors, including Pennsylvania’s, urged the U.S. Postal Service to withdraw a rule tied to Trump’s plan for a federal “citizenship list” that could limit mailed ballots. Extreme Heat Response: With triple-digit heat pressing into the holiday weekend, officials in the region extended emergency alerts and adjusted public events to reduce heat risk. America 250 in Philly: Philadelphia’s Independence Hall celebrations included a historic July 1, 1951 “hallowed earth” ceremony mixing soil from Revolutionary War battlefields with Independence Square earth. Food Safety Inspections: Lancaster County restaurant inspections flagged issues like improper hot-holding temperatures and sanitizer test-strip availability.

Independence Hall near-miss: A new history report says Pennsylvania lawmakers in the 1800s seriously considered demolishing Philadelphia’s Old State House—before Philadelphians and preservation-minded voices helped save what’s now Independence Hall. America 250 in Philly (and the heat): As the nation’s 250th ramps up, Philadelphia’s July 2 commemorations still moved forward despite sweltering temperatures, with smaller crowds and some events adjusted. ICE custody vigil in Philly: Political and interfaith leaders held a vigil at Christ Church honoring people who died in ICE custody, tying the moment to the Supreme Court’s move ending TPS for Haitians and Syrians. State Police tragedy on I-81: A Pennsylvania trooper was killed during a commercial vehicle inspection in Schuylkill County; the driver faces homicide charges. Local governance: Joseph T. Fleming was sworn in as DuBois city manager as the consolidated city begins a new chapter. Public health: Cyclospora cases are rising across the U.S., with warnings that routine testing often misses the parasite. Courts and law enforcement: A new filing raises questions about the lead-up to the fatal shooting of a Border Patrol agent in Coventry.

Independence Hall Spotlight: Gov. Josh Shapiro told members of Congress meeting in Philadelphia for America 250 that the birthplace of democracy comes with a duty to “constantly perfect our union,” framing Congress as a check on the executive and urging lawmakers to live up to the founders’ design. State Government & Courts: Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court set a 120-day moratorium after ruling skill games are operating illegally, and lawmakers are now racing to craft a legal path forward before the clock runs out. Public Safety: The Shapiro administration launched a statewide Wildlife Connectivity Work Group to cut wildlife-vehicle crashes, pairing PennDOT and DCNR with 11 agencies and using a federal grant to build a corridor plan. Budget/Benefits Watch: SNAP payment error rates remain high in Pennsylvania, raising the odds of state cost-sharing next year unless error rates drop below 6%. Crime & Justice: Police and the U.S. Marshals Service are seeking two teens wanted in the killing of a Penn State student in South Philadelphia. Energy & Weather: A heat dome is stressing the region’s power grid as lawmakers weigh electricity tax changes ahead of the holiday weekend.

York City Governance: The brother of York Mayor Sandie Walker pushed back against a federal lawsuit claiming he helped get a Redevelopment Authority boss fired after ethics concerns tied to a housing project and $3 million in federal ARPA funds. Labor & Utilities: With a July 4 strike deadline looming, Peco and IBEW Local 614 returned to bargaining this week as extreme heat raises the stakes for keeping the grid running. Energy/Climate & Permitting: A new report says “behind-the-meter” gas plants built to power U.S. data centers could drive greenhouse emissions on par with major countries—while also raising local air-quality risks. Retail Competition: Kroger agreed to buy Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion, a deal that will reshape grocery options across Ohio, western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana. Federal Courts & Tax: The 3rd Circuit upheld tax evasion convictions tied to hidden bank accounts, reinforcing that concealment during IRS collection efforts can land in criminal court. Local Government HR: Bucks County approved its first paid parental leave policy for county employees—up to eight weeks—after years of union pressure. Public Safety: Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Michael Pahira was killed on I-81 during a commercial vehicle safety inspection, prompting flags to fly at half-staff. Pennsylvania Courts/Telecom: A state appellate ruling set new standards for how wireless providers pursue zoning variances, revisiting older FCC guidance.

Birthright Citizenship Ruling: The U.S. Supreme Court struck down President Trump’s order limiting birthright citizenship, a 6-3 decision that will reverberate in Pennsylvania’s immigration and election debates. Trans Sports: The court also upheld state bans on transgender athletes in school sports, with Pennsylvania advocates watching for knock-on effects. Pennsylvania Budget & Utilities: As lawmakers miss the June 30 deadline, negotiations continue over a major electric-bill tax cut and utility-profit changes—plus the looming question of how to fill the budget gap. Data Centers: Pennsylvania lawmakers advanced measures tied to data center development, including moratorium-related moves and transparency pressure, as communities weigh power, water, and local impacts. Public Safety: The PA Fish and Boat Commission launched “Operation Dry Water” for July 4 weekend, stepping up patrols against boating under the influence. State Politics & Courts: A federal judge rejected a DOJ bid for Pennsylvania voters’ private information, dealing another blow to the administration’s election-control push. Consumer Protection: Egg producers agreed to a $3.3M settlement and 53 million egg donations after price-fixing allegations. Local Government & Culture: Pennsylvania’s America 250 planning continues with state funding, county-level efforts, and July 4th event guides as Philadelphia prepares for extreme heat and major festivities.

Supreme Court & Immigration: The U.S. Supreme Court struck down President Trump’s executive order ending birthright citizenship, ruling a 14th Amendment promise applies to nearly all children born in the U.S., a 6-3 decision that’s already bringing relief and renewed political heat in Pennsylvania communities. Medicaid & Health Policy: Twenty-five Democratic-led states (plus D.C.) sued the Trump administration over Medicaid work requirements, arguing the “medically frail” exemption is too narrow for ill and disabled people—an issue Pennsylvania is tied to through its own legal challenges. Sports & Civil Rights: SCOTUS upheld state bans on transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s sports, a 6-3 ruling expected to reinforce similar laws nationwide, with Pennsylvania watching closely. Pennsylvania Budget: Pennsylvania lawmakers added session days as the state budget deadline loomed again, with disputes over spending and revenue sources still unresolved. Public Safety & Fireworks: Police and local officials pushed July 4 safety messaging, including reminders that illegal fireworks can bring citations and fines. Business & Consumer Protection: DOJ and multiple states reached an egg price-fixing settlement, requiring millions in payments and donated eggs—another reminder that enforcement is moving fast on corporate pricing. Local Government: The Lackawanna County Democratic Party officer fight is escalating, with the state party stepping in to manage the reorganization process.

Medicaid Fight: Twenty-five Democratic-led states (including Pennsylvania) sued the Trump administration over new Medicaid work requirements, arguing the “medically frail” exemption is too narrow and would push disabled and seriously ill people off coverage. Elections & Courts: Pennsylvania remains in the crosshairs of federal election power grabs as judges continue blocking efforts to seize voter information and reshape mail-ballot rules. State Budget Pressure: With deadlines looming, Pennsylvania lawmakers are again facing the prospect of missing a state budget deal, keeping Harrisburg’s fiscal calendar in limbo. Great American State Fair Fallout: Pennsylvania senators say the commonwealth will still show up at Trump’s America 250 fair without taxpayer funding, after earlier reports of the state skipping the event. Crime Trend Watch: A new look at national data says the U.S. murder rate is near record lows, with violence falling in major cities. Public Safety Notes: Police reports include a serious crash involving a vehicle and a horse-drawn buggy in Beech Creek and an electric scooter injury in Lamar. Local Governance & Infrastructure: DuBois Regional Airport’s authority recommended Contour Airlines for Essential Air Service, aiming to expand nonstop options and regional economic development.

Housing & Utilities: Pennsylvania House lawmakers voted 202-0 to curb utility “return on equity” and cut electricity bills by 6.5%, sending HB 2224 to the Senate. Federal Courts & Elections: The Supreme Court upheld Mississippi’s mail-ballot grace period, while signaling more election-integrity cases ahead, including a Pennsylvania mail-ballot dispute and questions about late ballots. Medicaid Work Rules: 25 Democratic-led states (plus D.C.) sued the Trump administration over Medicaid work requirements, arguing the “medically frail” exemption is too narrow; Pennsylvania’s AG also filed suit. SNAP Data Fight: DOJ sued Pennsylvania and three other states for allegedly refusing to turn over SNAP application data to USDA. Tech & Privacy: A new report highlights how Pennsylvania agencies are using cloud and AI for public services; separately, concerns are raised about camera-free smart glasses and potential surveillance risks. Local Governance: Juniata County schools will add student representatives to the board as non-voting members starting 2026-27. Defense & Readiness: Air Force Reserve and France’s air and space forces used a RAPP engagement at Pittsburgh Air Reserve Station to boost interoperability. Public Safety: Police charged a man after he told Turnpike troopers he had a bomb in his truck, leading to a search warrant. Health & Care: A national caregiving analysis looks at whether family caregivers can be paid, including Medicaid and VA programs.

Election & Party Politics: Bernie Sanders endorsed Sen. Ed Markey over Rep. Seth Moulton in the US Senate Democratic primary, framing Markey as a “strongest progressive voice” and sharpening the contest over the party’s direction. Pennsylvania Federal Courts: A federal judge dismissed the Justice Department’s lawsuit seeking Pennsylvania voters’ private information, dealing a blow to the administration’s election-security push. State Government & Elections: Pennsylvania’s voter rolls are safe from the DOJ’s grab, a judge ruled, keeping the focus on how far federal officials can go in election data demands. Public Safety & Courts: In Wayne County, defense lawyers asked to remove the death penalty in the Hideout homicide case, arguing aggravating factors don’t apply as charged. Local Governance: Clearfield Township approved an ordinance allowing ATVs on marked township roads, while limiting where they can operate and requiring compliance with state ATV rules. Gaming & Compliance: Centre County treasurer warnings to fire companies over online raffles highlight a state-law gap that leaves counties and volunteer groups at odds over licensing and enforcement. US 250th Politics & Culture: Reuters reports Pennsylvania residents split on celebrating America’s 250th amid Trump-era polarization, with some refusing to join the festivities. Pennsylvania at the Great American State Fair: Fetterman and McCormick stepped in to secure Pennsylvania’s presence after the state said it couldn’t find sponsors for the booth.

Election Law Fight: A federal judge tossed DOJ’s bid to force Pennsylvania to hand over its unredacted voter-registration files, saying the request was a “fishing expedition” aimed at building a nationwide database and could be used for future political and immigration enforcement. Courtroom Pressure on Voting Rules: The ruling adds to a string of setbacks for Trump’s election-related lawsuits, with judges repeatedly blocking efforts to expand federal control over state election administration. Local Governance & Growth: East Rockhill supervisors authorized a revised data center ordinance after residents raised alarms about noise and groundwater depletion, tightening standards and adding reporting and environmental requirements. Housing Policy: Sen. Mark Warner says a major bipartisan housing bill still could become law after Trump declined to sign it, tying his move to a separate voting-access measure. Gaming Regulation: A Pennsylvania lawmaker advanced a bill to regulate “skill games” more like traditional gambling, aiming to close the gap between regulated casinos and loosely overseen machines. Community & Culture: Wilkes-Barre marked 20 years of Pride with a festival and parade themed around “Freedom looks like us,” while Bethlehem welcomed new Main Street businesses and East Waterford set its July 4 lineup.

Firearms Litigation: Clearfield County wrongful-death suit over a 2024 killing is headed for an out-of-court settlement, with Kel-Tec and Rural King named over the P-17 pistol purchase and use. Statehouse & Courts: The PA Senate advanced a bill to reshape sentencing for second-degree murder, expanding when judges can impose life terms. Reproductive Health Funding: A lawsuit challenges a new Trump administration Title X “alignment review” process that plaintiffs say could delay or deny federal family-planning money based on politics. School Choice Politics: After a 2023 fight, top House Democrats signal openness to engaging school-choice proposals tied to Trump-era federal tax credits. Elections & Federal Power: Separate reporting highlights federal court fights over election control and broader efforts to block Trump administration moves affecting state election systems. Pennsylvania at the Great American State Fair: After Pennsylvania initially couldn’t secure a sponsor, Sens. Dave McCormick and John Fetterman announced private backers will fund the commonwealth’s booth at no taxpayer cost. Tourism & World Cup: PA’s tourism office says Philly could top visitor and economic goals tied to the World Cup fan festival. Local Government/Infrastructure: PennDOT posted Juniata County’s maintenance schedule for the week of June 29, including bridge work, crack sealing, and pipe replacement.

FBI/Politics: The FBI sought and obtained phone records tied to nine Republican lawmakers, including Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis, as part of the 2020 election-overturn effort probe—renewing GOP claims of political spying. Criminal Justice/Relief: Lehigh County’s Public Defender’s Office says a resident received the first pardon through the Lehigh County Pardon Project, clearing 1990s drug charges and speeding a path to work and housing. AI & Consumer Protection: Pennsylvania’s fight over chatbot impersonation of doctors continues as a new analysis frames the legal question: what do we owe people when AI systems speak for someone who isn’t there? Public Health/Access: A lawsuit challenges a new Trump-era Title X “alignment review” that plaintiffs say could delay or deny family-planning funds based on politics. Elections/Federal Overreach: DOJ is suing Minnesota to force SNAP applicant data handover, with Pennsylvania listed among states in the dispute. State Budget/Policy: Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court upheld that “skill games” are slot machines—fueling pressure for lawmakers to tax and regulate the industry. Gov & 250th: Gov. Josh Shapiro leaned into the World Cup as a civic branding tool ahead of America’s 250th, while the Great American State Fair’s early days in D.C. drew sparse crowds and Confederate-flag controversy. Local Government/Services: Wellston reported a newly discovered water leak, extending intermittent service and keeping a boil-water advisory in place. Sports/World Cup: Croatia vs. Ghana at Lincoln Financial Field is set as Group L tightens, with both teams fighting for knockout qualification.

America250 & Philly History: Philadelphia will bury a 900-pound “America’s Time Capsule” at Independence National Historical Park next week, sealed until 2276. Election Law & Federal Overreach: Dana Nessel and a coalition of states won a federal court victory blocking Trump election executive-order efforts to restrict voting and mail ballots. Data Centers & Local Politics: A Penn State law professor highlights growing backlash to data center proposals in Venango County, with residents packing meetings over a proposed Scrubgrass facility. Child Care Funding: Pennsylvania DHS says Shapiro’s budget includes $25M in recruitment/retention bonuses and proposes another $10M for Child Care Works employees. Boating Access: The Conestoga River Club plans a universally accessible, non-motorized boat launch using a $50,000 Fish and Boat Commission grant, targeting construction in 2027. Public Safety: York County police remind residents of Pennsylvania fireworks rules ahead of July Fourth. Community & Nonprofits: Nexstar’s foundation donates $5,000 to the Spencer Davis Foundation, supporting CPR/AED training and equipment for schools.