Improving Pennsylvania’s competitiveness—both now and for future generations—is the PA Chamber’s top priority. One way we’re working with lawmakers to achieve this is through our work with the Competitiveness Caucus, a bipartisan, bicameral legislative coalition focused on advancing policies that grow the Commonwealth’s economy and strengthen its ability to attract and retain jobs across all industries and business sizes.
Throughout this year, the caucus has held meetings across the state, engaging directly with businesses and economically impacted groups to inform legislation aimed at improving Pennsylvania’s business climate.
Most recently, the caucus convened at Pfizer’s Collegeville facility for a roundtable discussion on the life sciences sector—an increasingly vital part of Pennsylvania’s economy. The conversation centered on opportunities for future growth and how the Commonwealth can better position itself as a national leader in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and advanced technology.
Caucus co-chairs Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York) and Rep. Paul Friel (D-Chester) were joined by fellow lawmakers from both parties, as well as representatives from Pfizer, Life Sciences PA, the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry, and other stakeholders. Topics included:
- Strategies to attract and retain investment
- Support for early- and growth-stage companies
- Connecting university research with commercialization
- Industry challenges related to cost and project timelines
The roundtable participants – including PA Chamber President and CEO Luke Bernstein and Director of Government Affairs Neal Lesher – shared various pro-growth solutions, including expanding research and development tax credits, creating a more business-friendly tax structure, and modernizing Pennsylvania’s permitting process. They emphasized that while Pennsylvania has strong assets in life sciences, other states are moving quickly to attract jobs and investment—underscoring the urgency of action.
Formed in January, the Competitiveness Caucus now boasts more than 50 legislators and was created in response to Pennsylvania’s poor rankings across several national competitiveness metrics:
- CNBC ranks Pennsylvania 41st in business friendliness
- Forbes ranks the state 40th in growth prospects
- U.S. News places Pennsylvania’s overall economy at 41st nationally
To reverse these trends, the PA Chamber launched the Keystone Initiative—a long-term strategic blueprint with more than 100 policy recommendations to improve the state’s business climate. Priorities include tax reform, permitting reform, and workforce development, all aimed at reducing uncertainty for employers and supporting economic growth.
Together, the Keystone Initiative and the Competitiveness Caucus are fostering collaboration among elected officials, business leaders, and stakeholders to advance pro-growth policies, promote job creation, and enhance Pennsylvania’s competitive edge in both national and global markets.