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Legislative Update - Week Ending April 11, 2025
In this issue: COLA for retired Pa. teachers and state employees advances; Pennsylvania plan for first-time homebuyers benefit; Pa. property tax and rent rebate amendments move out of committee; and more.
by PICPA Government Relations
Apr 11, 2025, 10:48 AM
- State House OKs COLA for Retired Teachers and State Employees
- CPA-PAC 2024 Annual Report Now Available
- Bill to Cut Taxes for First-Time Homebuyers Advances
- Finance Committee Advances Property Tax/Rent Rebate
- Bill Would Increase Local Funding to Help First Responders
- House Welcomes New Member; Chamber Now at Full Strength
- IFO Releases FY 2024-2025 Interim Revenue Update
State House OKs COLA for Retired Teachers and State Employees
By a vote of 131 to 72, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed legislation that would provide a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to retired teachers and state employees. Pension benefits for many of these retirees had been unchanged since 2002.
House Bill 411, introduced by Rep. Steve Malagari (D-Montgomery), would authorize a benefit increase for members of the Public School Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS) and the State Employees’ Retirement System (SERS) who retired prior to July 2, 2001. The legislation provides for a COLA ranging from 15% to 24.5% of the members’ monthly benefit as of July 1, 2025, with the increase taking effect in the first monthly payment after that date.
Here is the Independent Fiscal Office’s actuarial note on House Bill 411. The bill now goes to the state Senate for consideration.
The next session for House lawmakers will be April 22. The Senate’s next session day is May 5.
CPA-PAC 2024 Annual Report Now Available
The CPA-PAC is your political voice in Pennsylvania. As a bipartisan, member-driven organization, the CPA-PAC represents CPAs across public practice, industry, and government – whether you are just starting out or have decades of experience. It is the only political action committee solely focused on protecting and promoting the interests of Pennsylvania CPAs.
With your support, the CPA-PAC helps elect candidates to statewide office – including the Pennsylvania House and Senate, governor, attorney general, auditor general, and statewide courts – who understand and value the CPA profession. The CPA-PAC also contributes to caucus and party committees, as well as state organizations that share PICPA’s legislative priorities. The CPA-PAC’s 2024 Annual Report is now available on PICPA’s website.
In 2024, $231,350 was disbursed to support the campaigns of 116 candidates who endorse positions favorable to PICPA members. While our fundraising was down slightly this year, the CPA-PAC and its board of trustees – with your help – is looking to bounce back strong in 2025 as we push for enhancements to the CPA Law and licensing in Pennsylvania.
Thank you for standing behind the profession and making our advocacy efforts possible.
Bill to Cut Taxes for First-Time Homebuyers Advances
Legislation that would help young people realize the American dream by cutting taxes for first-time homebuyers advanced out of a state House committee.
House Bill 818, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie), was reported from the House Housing and Community Development Committee by a vote of 24 to 2.
The bill would allow first-time homebuyers to deposit money into a savings account for the exclusive purpose of purchasing a home. Money could be deducted from state income tax, and family or friends can also contribute. Money deposited can be used for the down payment or closing costs on the purchase of a single-family home in Pennsylvania.
House Bill 818 advances for consideration to the full House chamber.
Finance Committee Advances Property Tax/Rent Rebate
The state House Finance Committee reported two bills at its voting meeting this week that amend the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate (PTRR) program.
House Bill 32, sponsored by Rep. Steve Samuelson (D-Northampton), would increase the amount excluded for life insurance benefits from $5,000 to $10,000 when calculating income eligibility for the PTRR program. The committee also approved House Bill 1072, sponsored by Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D-Berks) and Rep. Eric Davanzo (R-Westmoreland). Under this bill, the Department of Revenue would be permitted to make PTRR payments at any time after an application is filed and approved by the DOR. Under this legislation, beneficiaries would no longer have to wait until July 1 or later to receive rebates.
The committee also approved House Resolution 120 by Rep. Carol Hill-Evans (D-York), which designates April as Financial Literacy Month in Pennsylvania.
House Bills 32 and 1072 and Resolution 120 are now before the full House for consideration.
Bill Would Increase Local Funding to Help First Responders
The state House Local Government Committee advanced legislation that would raise the annual tax limit for second-class counties in an effort to increase funding for fire and emergency services. The bill would expand on Act 54 of 2024 – which currently applies only to certain second-class townships – by making it easier for more municipalities to increase taxes in support of these critical services.
House Bill 393, sponsored by Rep. Pielli (D-Chester), would allow all second-class counties to increase their annual tax limit through an ordinance to increase funding for fire and emergency services. Currently, only a limited group of second-class townships are permitted to institute these annual taxes. Under the proposed legislation, the current 3 mills limit would be allowed to rise up to 10 mills and an EMS tax hike would be allowed to go up from the current 0.5 mills limit to 5 mills.
The bill, which passed out of committee by a vote of 14 to 12, now goes to the full House for consideration.
House Welcomes New Member; Chamber Now at Full Strength
State Rep. Dan Goughnour (D-Allegheny) was officially sworn in at the state Capitol this week, becoming the newest member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Goughnour represents the 35th Legislative District in Allegheny County following his victory in a March special election held after the death of Rep. Matthew Gergely earlier this year.
With Goughnour’s swearing-in, the House returns to its full complement of 203 members, including all 102 in the majority Democratic caucus.
“I’m honored and privileged to advocate for the rights and needs of western Pennsylvanians and those across the Commonwealth. I would also be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the great achievements and example set by my predecessor, Matt Gergely,” Goughnour said.
A veteran of public service, Goughnour brings more than 16 years of experience as a law enforcement officer with the McKeesport Police Department, most recently serving as captain of police detectives. He has also served on the McKeesport Area School District board and is a member of Teamsters Local 205.
Goughnour’s legislative assignments include the Finance, Aging & Older Adult Services, Game & Fisheries, Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations, and Liquor Control committees.
IFO Releases FY 2024-2025 Interim Revenue Update
The Pennsylvania Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) released its Interim Revenue Update for April 2025, providing an analysis of the state’s fiscal health.
The report indicates that Pennsylvania’s budget surplus is projected to be depleted by the next fiscal year, with a general fund deficit expected to reach $3.4 billion for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Among the contributors to the deficit are the plans to allocate $1 billion annually to education until 2028 and an increase in expenditures for the Department of Human Services.
Additionally, the IFO’s analysis suggests that the Shapiro administration’s revenue projections may be too optimistic. Discrepancies have been noted in anticipated revenues from measures such as mandatory combined reporting, taxes from legalized recreational marijuana, and expanded gambling, all of which have not yet been enacted by the legislature. The overestimation could lead to significant budget shortfalls in the coming years.
The IFO expects the state’s Rainy Day Fund to be depleted by the 2026-2027 fiscal year if current spending trends continue. This would leave Pennsylvania without a fiscal cushion to address unforeseen economic challenges.
Legislative Update - Week Ending April 11, 2025
In this issue: COLA for retired Pa. teachers and state employees advances; Pennsylvania plan for first-time homebuyers benefit; Pa. property tax and rent rebate amendments move out of committee; and more.
by PICPA Government Relations
Apr 11, 2025, 10:48 AM
- State House OKs COLA for Retired Teachers and State Employees
- CPA-PAC 2024 Annual Report Now Available
- Bill to Cut Taxes for First-Time Homebuyers Advances
- Finance Committee Advances Property Tax/Rent Rebate
- Bill Would Increase Local Funding to Help First Responders
- House Welcomes New Member; Chamber Now at Full Strength
- IFO Releases FY 2024-2025 Interim Revenue Update
State House OKs COLA for Retired Teachers and State Employees
By a vote of 131 to 72, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed legislation that would provide a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to retired teachers and state employees. Pension benefits for many of these retirees had been unchanged since 2002.
House Bill 411, introduced by Rep. Steve Malagari (D-Montgomery), would authorize a benefit increase for members of the Public School Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS) and the State Employees’ Retirement System (SERS) who retired prior to July 2, 2001. The legislation provides for a COLA ranging from 15% to 24.5% of the members’ monthly benefit as of July 1, 2025, with the increase taking effect in the first monthly payment after that date.
Here is the Independent Fiscal Office’s actuarial note on House Bill 411. The bill now goes to the state Senate for consideration.
The next session for House lawmakers will be April 22. The Senate’s next session day is May 5.
CPA-PAC 2024 Annual Report Now Available
The CPA-PAC is your political voice in Pennsylvania. As a bipartisan, member-driven organization, the CPA-PAC represents CPAs across public practice, industry, and government – whether you are just starting out or have decades of experience. It is the only political action committee solely focused on protecting and promoting the interests of Pennsylvania CPAs.
With your support, the CPA-PAC helps elect candidates to statewide office – including the Pennsylvania House and Senate, governor, attorney general, auditor general, and statewide courts – who understand and value the CPA profession. The CPA-PAC also contributes to caucus and party committees, as well as state organizations that share PICPA’s legislative priorities. The CPA-PAC’s 2024 Annual Report is now available on PICPA’s website.
In 2024, $231,350 was disbursed to support the campaigns of 116 candidates who endorse positions favorable to PICPA members. While our fundraising was down slightly this year, the CPA-PAC and its board of trustees – with your help – is looking to bounce back strong in 2025 as we push for enhancements to the CPA Law and licensing in Pennsylvania.
Thank you for standing behind the profession and making our advocacy efforts possible.
Bill to Cut Taxes for First-Time Homebuyers Advances
Legislation that would help young people realize the American dream by cutting taxes for first-time homebuyers advanced out of a state House committee.
House Bill 818, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie), was reported from the House Housing and Community Development Committee by a vote of 24 to 2.
The bill would allow first-time homebuyers to deposit money into a savings account for the exclusive purpose of purchasing a home. Money could be deducted from state income tax, and family or friends can also contribute. Money deposited can be used for the down payment or closing costs on the purchase of a single-family home in Pennsylvania.
House Bill 818 advances for consideration to the full House chamber.
Finance Committee Advances Property Tax/Rent Rebate
The state House Finance Committee reported two bills at its voting meeting this week that amend the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate (PTRR) program.
House Bill 32, sponsored by Rep. Steve Samuelson (D-Northampton), would increase the amount excluded for life insurance benefits from $5,000 to $10,000 when calculating income eligibility for the PTRR program. The committee also approved House Bill 1072, sponsored by Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D-Berks) and Rep. Eric Davanzo (R-Westmoreland). Under this bill, the Department of Revenue would be permitted to make PTRR payments at any time after an application is filed and approved by the DOR. Under this legislation, beneficiaries would no longer have to wait until July 1 or later to receive rebates.
The committee also approved House Resolution 120 by Rep. Carol Hill-Evans (D-York), which designates April as Financial Literacy Month in Pennsylvania.
House Bills 32 and 1072 and Resolution 120 are now before the full House for consideration.
Bill Would Increase Local Funding to Help First Responders
The state House Local Government Committee advanced legislation that would raise the annual tax limit for second-class counties in an effort to increase funding for fire and emergency services. The bill would expand on Act 54 of 2024 – which currently applies only to certain second-class townships – by making it easier for more municipalities to increase taxes in support of these critical services.
House Bill 393, sponsored by Rep. Pielli (D-Chester), would allow all second-class counties to increase their annual tax limit through an ordinance to increase funding for fire and emergency services. Currently, only a limited group of second-class townships are permitted to institute these annual taxes. Under the proposed legislation, the current 3 mills limit would be allowed to rise up to 10 mills and an EMS tax hike would be allowed to go up from the current 0.5 mills limit to 5 mills.
The bill, which passed out of committee by a vote of 14 to 12, now goes to the full House for consideration.
House Welcomes New Member; Chamber Now at Full Strength
State Rep. Dan Goughnour (D-Allegheny) was officially sworn in at the state Capitol this week, becoming the newest member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Goughnour represents the 35th Legislative District in Allegheny County following his victory in a March special election held after the death of Rep. Matthew Gergely earlier this year.
With Goughnour’s swearing-in, the House returns to its full complement of 203 members, including all 102 in the majority Democratic caucus.
“I’m honored and privileged to advocate for the rights and needs of western Pennsylvanians and those across the Commonwealth. I would also be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the great achievements and example set by my predecessor, Matt Gergely,” Goughnour said.
A veteran of public service, Goughnour brings more than 16 years of experience as a law enforcement officer with the McKeesport Police Department, most recently serving as captain of police detectives. He has also served on the McKeesport Area School District board and is a member of Teamsters Local 205.
Goughnour’s legislative assignments include the Finance, Aging & Older Adult Services, Game & Fisheries, Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations, and Liquor Control committees.
IFO Releases FY 2024-2025 Interim Revenue Update
The Pennsylvania Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) released its Interim Revenue Update for April 2025, providing an analysis of the state’s fiscal health.
The report indicates that Pennsylvania’s budget surplus is projected to be depleted by the next fiscal year, with a general fund deficit expected to reach $3.4 billion for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Among the contributors to the deficit are the plans to allocate $1 billion annually to education until 2028 and an increase in expenditures for the Department of Human Services.
Additionally, the IFO’s analysis suggests that the Shapiro administration’s revenue projections may be too optimistic. Discrepancies have been noted in anticipated revenues from measures such as mandatory combined reporting, taxes from legalized recreational marijuana, and expanded gambling, all of which have not yet been enacted by the legislature. The overestimation could lead to significant budget shortfalls in the coming years.
The IFO expects the state’s Rainy Day Fund to be depleted by the 2026-2027 fiscal year if current spending trends continue. This would leave Pennsylvania without a fiscal cushion to address unforeseen economic challenges.
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