Last month, the Pennsylvania General Assembly approved the state budget after a four-month delay. One of the most significant outcomes for small businesses was the decision by lawmakers to remove Pennsylvania from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) stated that this move will benefit small businesses in the state.
With the budget process concluded until next year, legislators are now considering various bills. NFIB recently expressed concerns about House Bill 274, which would increase unemployment compensation rates as part of legislation intended to assist victims of domestic violence. State Director Greg Moreland commented, “It’s a shame that Pennsylvania legislators are using domestic violence legislation as their vehicle to increase unemployment compensation rates on small businesses.”
The House and Senate are scheduled to reconvene in early January. NFIB’s Pennsylvania team plans to continue monitoring legislative developments that could affect small businesses.
Additionally, Pennsylvania was again included on the American Tort Reform Foundation’s annual list of ‘Judicial Hellholes.’ The Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas ranked fifth in the report, highlighting ongoing calls for legal reform within the state.
The General Assembly is also considering a bill that would allow individuals who voluntarily go on strike to receive full unemployment benefits. NFIB is encouraging members to contact lawmakers and voice opposition to this proposal.
Those interested in becoming more involved with NFIB activities in 2026 can reach out to Grassroots Manager Bre Mapston for information about upcoming opportunities.
