HARRISBURG – The Senate Community, Economic & Recreational Development Committee, chaired by Senator John Yudichak (I-14), took action on a pair of bills today that would support Pennsylvania’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Senate Bill 797, authored by Senator Devlin Robinson (R-37), will update the statewide Neighborhood Improvement District Act to include Allegheny County, giving the tourism industry more resources to attract visitors to the greater Pittsburgh region.
Senate Bill 977, authored by Senator Lisa Boscola (D-18), will create a new $75 million economic recovery grant program within the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
“As each new COVID-19 variant hits Pennsylvania, businesses in our communities must brace for more and more economic turbulence,” said Yudichak. “I commend Senator Robinson and Senator Boscola for working to advance legislation that will help Pennsylvania businesses sustain their companies and their employees through the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“Economic recovery in the Commonwealth is essential for our businesses, especially within the tourism industry,” said Senator Robinson, a committee member. “I appreciate the support from Senator Yudichak and the committee in recognizing the importance of this bill.”
“This legislation is another step to assist our constituents by turning old vacant factories and buildings into new state-of-the-art facilities, and bringing economic security and stability back to Pennsylvania’s communities,” said Boscola, a committee member.
As a result of Wednesday’s committee deliberations, both pieces of legislation advance to the full Senate for consideration.
CONTACT: Scot Pitzer; spitzer@pasen.gov