Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility House Majority Policy Committee demonstrates how hearings help impact state budget

House Majority Policy Committee demonstrates how hearings help impact state budget

Committee hosted several hearings on issues addressed in spending plan

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    November 14, 2025 | 9:42 AM

HARRISBURG, Nov. 14 – From Erie to Philadelphia, the House Majority Policy Committee traveled the Commonwealth this year to hear directly from workers, researchers, organizers, and business leaders about the challenges facing Pennsylvania communities. Those conversations helped shape a state budget that delivers meaningful solutions for working people.

“The hearings we hold and the conversations we have with real, impacted people help us effect real change in Harrisburg,” said House Majority Policy Chairman Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie). “These vital provisions in the budget will make a real difference in the lives of working Pennsylvanians. The Policy Committee is committed to driving solutions that strengthen communities and fuel opportunity across our state.”

Delivering for Working Families

Affordability was a top concern throughout the year, whether at hearings on tax credits in Luzerne County or rising energy costs in Bucks County. In response, House Democrats passed a budget including a $193.5 million Working Pennsylvania Tax Credit, benefiting roughly 1 million households and putting $400 to $1,000 back into workers’ pockets.

Driving Economic Growth

The committee also focused on economic development, holding hearings in Allegheny County and beyond to explore how state investments can create jobs and attract new businesses. This year’s budget builds on that feedback by:

  • Cutting corporate taxes and red tape to streamline business permitting.
  • Investing $38 million in job creation.
  • Earmarking $8.9 million to help small businesses grow.
  • Dedicating $1.32 million to attract new employers to Pennsylvania.

Fighting Hunger and Supporting Families

In Philadelphia, hearings on food insecurity underscored the need for stronger state support. The new budget answers that call with increased funding for the State Food Purchase Program and other anti-hunger initiatives.

To address the ongoing child care crisis, the committee held a Harrisburg hearing that informed a $25 million investment to recruit and retain child care workers across the Commonwealth.

Preparing for Major Events

The committee also examined how Pennsylvania can maximize upcoming national and international events—including America250, the World Cup, and the NFL Draft. The budget includes $2.5 million for America250 preparations and $50 million to ensure Pennsylvania is ready to welcome millions of visitors in 2026.

Continuing the Work

So far this year, the House Majority Policy Committee has hosted 42 hearings and roundtables across 32 ZIP codes in 13 counties, on track to exceed 100 hearings this legislative session.

Information about past House Majority Policy Committee hearings can be found here.