The Pennsylvania Independent
@thepaindependent.tainews.com
The Pennsylvania Independent is a project of American Independent Media, a 501(c)(4) organization whose mission is to use journalism to educate the public.
The U.S. Department of Education announced on Nov. 6 that it concluded rulemaking negotiations to make a host of substantial changes to student aid that were required by provisions in President Donald Trump’s budget law, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”
Nursing no longer a professional degree under Trump’s Education Department
The department introduced a host of proposed changes, including reclassifying nursing degrees, eliminating the Grad PLUS loan, and creating a new repayment program.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 18, 2025 at 9:00 PM
The U.S. Department of Education announced on Nov. 6 that it concluded rulemaking negotiations to make a host of substantial changes to student aid that were required by provisions in President Donald Trump’s budget law, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”
Pennsylvanians can now cast their vote online for the 2026 River of the Year.
Through Jan. 16, you can choose from three waterways in the annual contest: the Chillisquaque Creek in central Pennsylvania, the Conestoga River in Lancaster County, and the lower portion of the Schuylkill River.
Through Jan. 16, you can choose from three waterways in the annual contest: the Chillisquaque Creek in central Pennsylvania, the Conestoga River in Lancaster County, and the lower portion of the Schuylkill River.
How to vote for Pennsylvania’s 2026 River of the Year
The competition celebrates the state’s waterways and raises awareness around conservation needs in the commonwealth.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 13, 2025 at 11:00 AM
Pennsylvanians can now cast their vote online for the 2026 River of the Year.
Through Jan. 16, you can choose from three waterways in the annual contest: the Chillisquaque Creek in central Pennsylvania, the Conestoga River in Lancaster County, and the lower portion of the Schuylkill River.
Through Jan. 16, you can choose from three waterways in the annual contest: the Chillisquaque Creek in central Pennsylvania, the Conestoga River in Lancaster County, and the lower portion of the Schuylkill River.
Pennsylvania Democratic Sen. John Fetterman voted for the proposal to renew insurance subsidies. Republican Sen. David McCormick voted no.
Pennsylvanians who buy insurance through the marketplace will see average monthly premium increases of more than 21% on Jan. 1.
Pennsylvanians who buy insurance through the marketplace will see average monthly premium increases of more than 21% on Jan. 1.
Senate Republicans block bill to renew health insurance subsidies
Americans who purchase health insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace will pay higher premiums due to the expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits at the end of 2025.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 12, 2025 at 11:01 AM
Pennsylvania Democratic Sen. John Fetterman voted for the proposal to renew insurance subsidies. Republican Sen. David McCormick voted no.
Pennsylvanians who buy insurance through the marketplace will see average monthly premium increases of more than 21% on Jan. 1.
Pennsylvanians who buy insurance through the marketplace will see average monthly premium increases of more than 21% on Jan. 1.
As a legal appeal to force factory farms to disclose hazardous emissions continues to play out, environmental advocates are calling attention to a new Trump administration rule that could limit reporting on those same farms...
Trump EPA ends program that required reporting on hazardous factory farm emissions
The move reduces even further federal oversight of pollutants such as ammonia and hydrogen sulfide, advocates say.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 11, 2025 at 1:03 PM
As a legal appeal to force factory farms to disclose hazardous emissions continues to play out, environmental advocates are calling attention to a new Trump administration rule that could limit reporting on those same farms...
“Unfortunately, President Trump refuses to see how millions of Americans are struggling with skyrocketing costs for health care, for food and more, just basic necessities,” Lt. Gov. Austin Davis said.
‘Forced to make terrible choices’: How Trump policies are harming Pennsylvanians
As Trump arrived in the commonwealth, critics said his policies are leaving residents with soaring costs.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 10, 2025 at 8:00 PM
“Unfortunately, President Trump refuses to see how millions of Americans are struggling with skyrocketing costs for health care, for food and more, just basic necessities,” Lt. Gov. Austin Davis said.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing changes experts said would weaken reporting and monitoring rules for toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS.
Experts: EPA’s proposal to weaken PFAS rules is bad for environment
According to the Environmental Working Group, nearly 70 million acres of farmland across the U.S. could be contaminated by PFAS.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 10, 2025 at 6:00 PM
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing changes experts said would weaken reporting and monitoring rules for toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS.
Whether you want to dress up in festive gear and go running for a good cause, make sure your fellow Pennsylvanians have enough food for a holiday meal, or provide gifts for families in need, there are many ways to give back this year...
Where to volunteer in Pennsylvania this holiday season
From providing gifts for families in need to making sure your fellow Pennsylvanians have enough to eat, there are many ways to lend a hand in the coming weeks.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 9, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Whether you want to dress up in festive gear and go running for a good cause, make sure your fellow Pennsylvanians have enough food for a holiday meal, or provide gifts for families in need, there are many ways to give back this year...
Maggie Gladson says that without Medicaid for her son Charlie, the family would be financially wiped out.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/health-care/...
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/health-care/...
Pennsylvania mom says Medicaid pays for the vital support that keeps her son alive
'We absolutely would have been bankrupted very quickly after his birth without Medicaid,' Maggie Gladson said.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 5, 2025 at 9:01 PM
Maggie Gladson says that without Medicaid for her son Charlie, the family would be financially wiped out.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/health-care/...
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/health-care/...
Over the years, tax credits and other subsidies included in the Affordable Care Act have helped lower premiums and made it easier for farmers to access reliable care. Now, though, farmers across the country are bracing for new difficulties ahead.
Pennsylvania farmers face rising health care costs as ACA subsidies expire
The loss of the enhanced tax credits will impact entire communities across farm country.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 5, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Over the years, tax credits and other subsidies included in the Affordable Care Act have helped lower premiums and made it easier for farmers to access reliable care. Now, though, farmers across the country are bracing for new difficulties ahead.
Military veterans, elected officials, and other people across the country are voicing their support for Pennsylvania Democratic U.S. Reps. Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan after Trump accused them and four other Democratic lawmakers of “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH.”
Deluzio and Houlahan receive public support after Trump says they should be jailed
The president is calling for six Democratic lawmakers to be arrested after they urged military members to ‘refuse illegal orders.’
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 4, 2025 at 11:01 AM
Military veterans, elected officials, and other people across the country are voicing their support for Pennsylvania Democratic U.S. Reps. Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan after Trump accused them and four other Democratic lawmakers of “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH.”
This holiday season, Pennsylvania shoppers may be caught off guard by what’s for sale, online and on store shelves.
Retail experts have said people should expect to see less variety for popular holiday gift categories like toys, electronics and clothing, due to new federal policies.
Retail experts have said people should expect to see less variety for popular holiday gift categories like toys, electronics and clothing, due to new federal policies.
Tariffs, import limits may affect Pennsylvania holiday shoppers
Jason Miller of Michigan State University said tariffs are pushing importers to be more selective, reducing options for shoppers.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 3, 2025 at 10:00 PM
This holiday season, Pennsylvania shoppers may be caught off guard by what’s for sale, online and on store shelves.
Retail experts have said people should expect to see less variety for popular holiday gift categories like toys, electronics and clothing, due to new federal policies.
Retail experts have said people should expect to see less variety for popular holiday gift categories like toys, electronics and clothing, due to new federal policies.
A new report shows Pennsylvania is seeing its highest number of uninsured children in a decade.
PA uninsured children hit 153,000 as federal funding cuts loom
Advocates say consistent health coverage is essential to ensure kids get the preventive care, treatment and support they need to stay healthy and succeed in school.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 3, 2025 at 6:00 PM
A new report shows Pennsylvania is seeing its highest number of uninsured children in a decade.
Did you know that Adams County, PA has some of the best apples in the nation?
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/features/ada...
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/features/ada...
Adams County is celebrated for some of the best apples in the nation
Known as ‘Apple Country USA,’ the region grows over 100 varieties of apples each year.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
December 2, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Did you know that Adams County, PA has some of the best apples in the nation?
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/features/ada...
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/features/ada...
Krysten Xanthis knows her life would be very different without Medicaid. Most likely, she said, she would have lost a leg after years of surgeries to address injuries from a fall...
After Medicaid saved her leg, Scranton resident fights GOP health insurance cuts
'I’m thinking to myself, Well, what am I going to do? I don’t have the money. I literally have nothing in the bank right now,' Krysten Xanthis said.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
November 28, 2025 at 11:01 AM
Krysten Xanthis knows her life would be very different without Medicaid. Most likely, she said, she would have lost a leg after years of surgeries to address injuries from a fall...
Across the state, Pennsylvania transforms into a holiday wonderland this time of year. From free holiday light shows to markets featuring local artists and the annual “It’s a Wonderful Life” festival, there’s something that will make these dark winter days brighter for everyone...
Lights, markets and alpacas: How to celebrate the holidays in Pennsylvania this season
The commonwealth transforms into a holiday wonderland this time of year.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
November 26, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Across the state, Pennsylvania transforms into a holiday wonderland this time of year. From free holiday light shows to markets featuring local artists and the annual “It’s a Wonderful Life” festival, there’s something that will make these dark winter days brighter for everyone...
Reposted by The Pennsylvania Independent
The denizens of one of Pittsburgh’s most affluent neighborhoods have taken sides on a Very Important Issue — whether the Walnut Street holiday tree was worthy of gracing the alleyway across from the abandoned Apple store...
Walnut Street's Christmas #Treegate is vexing a Shadyside Facebook group
Drama ensued when a post in a Shadyside Facebook group expressed "embarrassment" over a decorated tree on Walnut Street.
www.pghcitypaper.com
November 25, 2025 at 7:48 PM
The denizens of one of Pittsburgh’s most affluent neighborhoods have taken sides on a Very Important Issue — whether the Walnut Street holiday tree was worthy of gracing the alleyway across from the abandoned Apple store...
Enhanced tax credits that have subsidized the cost of premiums for people who buy health insurance through ACA marketplaces are set to expire.
If Congress does not act to renew the credits, some 22 million Americans will see sharp increases in the cost of their health insurance.
If Congress does not act to renew the credits, some 22 million Americans will see sharp increases in the cost of their health insurance.
Anti-abortion lobbying plays role in GOP opposition to ACA premium credit extension
‘This attempt is from a really strong lobbying push from the anti-abortion movement to even further restrict plans,’ said Anna Bernstein of the Guttmacher Institute.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
November 20, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Enhanced tax credits that have subsidized the cost of premiums for people who buy health insurance through ACA marketplaces are set to expire.
If Congress does not act to renew the credits, some 22 million Americans will see sharp increases in the cost of their health insurance.
If Congress does not act to renew the credits, some 22 million Americans will see sharp increases in the cost of their health insurance.
There’s an affordability crisis in Pennsylvania as residents face mounting costs for health care, groceries, energy, and more due to economic policies implemented by Trump and congressional Republicans:
Trump’s policies have spurred increases in costs of food and health care, report says
'This is like the worst corruption and decadence of Roman emperors. We must reverse course for the sake of our health, economy, and democracy,' state Rep. Arvind Venkat said.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
November 19, 2025 at 5:00 PM
There’s an affordability crisis in Pennsylvania as residents face mounting costs for health care, groceries, energy, and more due to economic policies implemented by Trump and congressional Republicans:
Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a $50.1 billion state budget on Nov. 12 that provides hundreds of millions of dollars for underfunded schools, creates a tax credit for low-income families, and secures money to combat gun violence throughout the commonwealth.
Education funding, a new tax credit and more: What’s in Pennsylvania’s new budget?
Shapiro signed a $50.1 billion state budget that provides support for working class families struggling under the weight of Trump policies.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
November 15, 2025 at 1:00 PM
Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a $50.1 billion state budget on Nov. 12 that provides hundreds of millions of dollars for underfunded schools, creates a tax credit for low-income families, and secures money to combat gun violence throughout the commonwealth.
Reposted by The Pennsylvania Independent
WESA: Pittsburgh Water Authority Begins Construction On $193 Million Project To Upgrade Pittsburgh’s Drinking Water System www.wesa.fm/development-...
Construction kicks off on $193 million work to upgrade Pittsburgh’s drinking water system
Local leaders on Friday kicked off construction on a major piece of Pittsburgh Water’s nearly $500 million overhaul of the city’s pumping and distribution system.
www.wesa.fm
November 10, 2025 at 12:55 PM
WESA: Pittsburgh Water Authority Begins Construction On $193 Million Project To Upgrade Pittsburgh’s Drinking Water System www.wesa.fm/development-...
Reposted by The Pennsylvania Independent
Pittsburgh 1878-1888.
November 10, 2025 at 1:31 PM
Pittsburgh 1878-1888.
President Donald Trump’s administration announced on Nov. 3 that it was canceling the IRS Direct File program for the 2026 tax filing season, according to an ABC News report.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/economy/trum...
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/economy/trum...
Trump administration kills popular free tax return program, raising costs for taxpayers
The IRS Direct File program was expected to save American taxpayers $11 billion annually, but was opposed by tax preparation companies.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com
November 7, 2025 at 7:00 PM
President Donald Trump’s administration announced on Nov. 3 that it was canceling the IRS Direct File program for the 2026 tax filing season, according to an ABC News report.
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/economy/trum...
pennsylvaniaindependent.com/economy/trum...
Reposted by The Pennsylvania Independent
We've collected a list of every local resource for food assistance we could find. These resources include pantries, free fridges, food banks, and free grocery programs by neighborhood or region:
With SNAP in jeopardy, here's where to find food assistance across Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh City Paper | News, Dining, Music, Best Of, Arts, Film
These resources include pantries, free fridges, food banks, and free grocery programs by neighborhood or region.
www.pghcitypaper.com
October 28, 2025 at 1:18 PM
We've collected a list of every local resource for food assistance we could find. These resources include pantries, free fridges, food banks, and free grocery programs by neighborhood or region:
Reposted by The Pennsylvania Independent
Corey O'Connor, change agent? @publicsource.org asked people what they expect and hope the next Pittsburgh mayor will address across public safety, finance, development, the nonprofit sector, education and community relations www.publicsource.org/oconnor-mayo...
A wish list for Mayor-elect O’Connor
From voices across Pittsburgh’s civic landscape, here’s what may change as Corey O’Connor steps into the role of mayor.
www.publicsource.org
November 6, 2025 at 12:02 PM
Corey O'Connor, change agent? @publicsource.org asked people what they expect and hope the next Pittsburgh mayor will address across public safety, finance, development, the nonprofit sector, education and community relations www.publicsource.org/oconnor-mayo...
Reposted by The Pennsylvania Independent
Oh, what’s that? You need some free or cheap stuff to do in Philly? I got you.
Mon 11/10
Bad Art for Good
Make art that encourages action on imp you issues!
Wed 11/19
Native Plant Prep Party
Help me pack native seeds for free distribution!
Fri 11/21
Drink & Draw
Get all links at Lu.ma/dgs
Mon 11/10
Bad Art for Good
Make art that encourages action on imp you issues!
Wed 11/19
Native Plant Prep Party
Help me pack native seeds for free distribution!
Fri 11/21
Drink & Draw
Get all links at Lu.ma/dgs
November 6, 2025 at 11:38 AM
Oh, what’s that? You need some free or cheap stuff to do in Philly? I got you.
Mon 11/10
Bad Art for Good
Make art that encourages action on imp you issues!
Wed 11/19
Native Plant Prep Party
Help me pack native seeds for free distribution!
Fri 11/21
Drink & Draw
Get all links at Lu.ma/dgs
Mon 11/10
Bad Art for Good
Make art that encourages action on imp you issues!
Wed 11/19
Native Plant Prep Party
Help me pack native seeds for free distribution!
Fri 11/21
Drink & Draw
Get all links at Lu.ma/dgs