Pennsylvania lawmakers

Pennsylvania lawmakers are advocating for a statewide school cellphone ban, claiming phones hinder learning. WHYY News examines schools that have implemented such bans to assess their impact on student engagement and academic focus.

Pennsylvania lawmakers advanced a $50.8 billion spending plan after a week-and-a-half delay, including funding for public education, energy policies, and teacher pensions. The bipartisan budget excludes tax code changes and recreational marijuana, with the governor's proposed funding sources now requiring legislative action due to a court ruling.

The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania ruled mandatory life-without-parole sentences for second degree murder unconstitutional, prompting lawmakers to draft new guidelines. Senate Bill 1400 proposes parole eligibility after 35 years or age 70 with 20 years served, affecting 1,100 inmates including Terri Harper, a 35-year lifer at SCI Muncy.

Pennsylvania lawmakers are pushing to regulate and tax skill games following the state Supreme Court's ruling declaring the devices illegal. The decision, which came ahead of the June 30 budget deadline, has intensified efforts to address the proliferation of skill games in stores, with bipartisan hopes for legislative action. Governor Josh Shapiro and House Democrats have emphasized the need for a resolution.