Rep. Nelson tours Williamsport, calls for action on banking investments
Rep. Napoleon Nelson October 13, 2026 | 4:29 PM
WILLIAMSPORT, Oct. 13 – As part of his ongoing tour of rural communities across Pennsylvania, state Rep. Napoleon Nelson, D-Montgomery, today toured downtown Williamsport to discuss how small-town communities would benefit from the creation of a state-level Community Reinvestment Act.
In Harrisburg, Nelson has introduced legislation, H.B. 2822, which would preserve equitable banking opportunities for rural and underserved communities across Pennsylvania. The bill comes following proposed cuts to similar measures at the federal level, which would lower the amount that banks need to invest in the community they serve.
“Every community, no matter its size or its proximity to our largest cities, deserves strong financial partners right at home,” said Nelson. “Williamsport has been a significant economic generator for our state, welcoming 70,000 people and generating $40 million for our state every year through the Little League World Series.
“Small towns like those that make up Lycoming County are critical to the success of our Commonwealth, and it is important that communities like Williamsport get the investments they need to continue thriving.”
During the tour through downtown, Nelson stopped at Sweetspire Coffee, Otto Bookstore, and met with small business owners to discuss how the Community Reinvestment Act has historically helped communities like Williamsport, and how a Pennsylvania version of the CRA will continue that support.
“Thank you to Representative Nelson for taking the time to tour a few of our small businesses and see firsthand what makes Williamsport thrive,” said Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter. “Banking investments and strong partnerships with community banks are essential to helping small businesses grow, creating opportunities, and building a stronger local economy.”
Nelson’s tour of Williamsport marks his second stop in touring rural communities across Pennsylvania in support of H.B. 2822, following his visit to Meadville in Crawford County on Oct. 8.