Press Releases

PA Chamber Foundation Unveils New Executive Leadership Training Program

January 22, 2019 | Tricia Harris

Every day 10,000 experienced Baby Boomers leave the workforce, creating a “silver tsunami” that will result in a shortage of executive talent, less-experienced workers transitioning into decision-making roles and high rates of millennial turnover.  As part of its multi-pronged workforce development effort, the PA Chamber Foundation is proud to partner with Solutions 21 and their “Next Leader Now” program to help companies address the “silver tsunami” by preparing their next generation of leaders.

PA Chamber Expresses Condolences on Passing of Karen Coates

January 18, 2019 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement today following news of the passing of Karen Coates, chief of staff to House Speaker Mike Turzai:

PA Chamber Urges Balance in Greenhouse Gas Regulations

January 8, 2019 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement following Gov. Tom Wolf’s signing of an Executive Order calling for a reduction in the state’s greenhouse gas emissions: 

PA Chamber Applauds Trump Administration Replacement of “Waters of the United States” Regulation

December 11, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement today regarding the federal Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement that it will be replacing the Obama administration’s controversial “Waters of the United States” rule with a new regulation:

New Members Elected to PA Chamber Board of Directors at Annual Meeting

December 3, 2018 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber Expresses Disappointment with Amazon’s HQ2 Decision

November 13, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding Amazon’s decision to split its second headquarters between New York and northern Virginia.

PA Chamber Unveils 2017-18 Legislative Scorecard

November 2, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Ahead of the 2018 General Election, the PA Chamber of Business and Industry today unveiled its 2017-18 Legislative Scorecard.  This new publication, which is available online, highlights elected officials’ voting percentages on several business-centric public policies over the course of the two-year session.   

PA Chamber Applauds Commonwealth Court Decision in Zoning Case

October 30, 2018 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement today in response to the Commonwealth Court’s decision in the case of Dolores Frederick, et al, v. Allegheny Township Zoning Hearing Board. The Court upheld a local municipality’s zoning ordinance that allowed oil and gas drilling.

PA Chamber Statement on Mass Shooting at Pittsburgh Synagogue

October 29, 2018 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement following the mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh on Saturday:

Governor Tom Wolf’s Veto of Senate Bill 1172 Puts Pennsylvania Consumers, Manufacturers, Distributors, and Retailers at Risk

October 25, 2018 | Tricia Harris

A diverse coalition of the state’s leading business and trade associations issued the following statement regarding the Governor’s veto of S.B. 1172, which aimed to bring clarity to the Price Gouging Act for the state’s business community.

PA Chamber Applauds Enactment of Critical Cost-Saving Workers’ Comp Legislation

October 25, 2018

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding the passage and enactment of H.B. 1840, significant workers’ comp legislation that provides a fix to a state Supreme Court decision in the Protz v. Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board case, which has been financially detrimental to employers.  Last year, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court removed Impairment Rating Evaluations from the law, which for more than 20 years has provided a structured process for state-designated physicians to determine a patient’s level of impairment and how long wage-loss benefits should be paid. As a result of the ruling, the Pennsylvania Compensation Rating Bureau took the unprecedented action of filing for a mid-year loss cost increase, which industry experts are conservatively estimating is costing employers hundreds of millions of dollars each year in higher insurance costs.

PA Chamber Urges Governor to Sign Important Workers’ Comp Legislation

October 18, 2018 | Tricia Harris

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry applauded the General Assembly for passing significant workers’ comp legislation that will save employers hundreds of millions of dollars and urged the governor to quickly sign the bill into law. 

PA Chamber Applauds Passage of Legislation Addressing Price Controls During Emergencies, Urges Governor to Sign Bill

October 16, 2018 | Tricia Harris

The PA Chamber applauds the General Assembly for passing S.B. 1172 – legislation that would bring more clarity and certainty to employers during disaster emergencies.

Forge The Future: Pennsylvania Business Leaders Call For A New Era Of Economic Growth

October 11, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Forge The Future, an initiative of Pennsylvania businesses across the state, today called for a new era of economic growth in Pennsylvania, releasing Ideas for Action, a report that highlights specific actions the Commonwealth can and should implement to capitalize on its world-class energy assets and grow its way to more revenue, population and job growth.

ChamberPAC Endorses Scott Wagner for Governor

October 11, 2018 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its endorsement of Scott Wagner for governor.  Wagner, the Republican candidate, is running on a pro-jobs, pro-growth platform.

ChamberPAC Endorses Todd Polinchock for 144th House District

October 11, 2018 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its endorsement of Todd Polinchock for state representative of the 144^th House District.  Polinchock, a Republican, is vying for the seat currently held by retiring Rep. Kathy Watson.  The 144^th House District consists of parts of Bucks County.

ChamberPAC Endorses Tom McGarrigle for 26th Senatorial District

October 10, 2018 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its endorsement of Tom McGarrigle for state senator of the 26^th Senatorial District. 

PA Chamber Recognizes October as Local Chamber of Commerce Month

October 4, 2018 | Tricia Harris

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is proud to join Gov. Tom Wolf in recognizing October 2018 as “Local Chamber of Commerce Month” in the Commonwealth. 

PA Chamber’s 28th Economic Survey: Despite Record Confidence, Concerns Over Skills Gap, Healthcare and State Tax Structure Continue to Burden Employers

October 3, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Employers are reporting record high confidence in the state’s business climate, and are making investments in their facilities and workers that reflect this optimism.   However, a jobs skills gap was listed for the first time as the biggest hurdle facing their business, and ongoing concerns about the state’s tax structure and rising healthcare rates still create barriers to economic opportunity.  These indicators are among the responses from the PA Chamber’s 28^th Annual Economic Survey, which was conducted in August 2018 by Susquehanna Polling and Research, a Harrisburg-based public opinion polling company.

Former Cong. Charlie Dent and Auditor General Eugene DePasquale Honored With ‘Allegheny College Prize for Civility in Public Life in Pennsylvania’ at 34th Annual Chamber Dinner

October 1, 2018 | Tricia Harris

At tonight’s 34^th Annual Chamber Dinner, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry was proud to partner with Allegheny College to present the second annual “Allegheny College Prize for Civility in Public Life in Pennsylvania” award to former Republican U.S. Rep. Charlie Dent and Democratic state Auditor General Eugene DePasquale.  The pair was presented with the prize for their efforts to work across the political aisle to get things accomplished for the betterment of the Commonwealth, an increasingly rare action in today’s hyper partisan climate.  

ChamberPAC Announces Endorsements for 2018 General Election

September 11, 2018 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its candidate endorsements for the Pennsylvania General Assembly in the upcoming 2018 General Election.  ChamberPAC supports pro-job, pro-growth candidates and incumbent lawmakers who are dedicated to improving Pennsylvania’s business climate and growing the economy.

PA Chamber: Study Shows State’s Tax Structure a Barrier to Growth

September 5, 2018 | Tricia Harris

A new study unveiled today by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry highlights the uncompetitive nature of the Commonwealth’s Tax Code.  The report, “Pennsylvania: A 21^st Century Tax Code for the Commonwealth” – which was authored by the Tax Foundation and funded via a grant by the PA Chamber – delves into how the Commonwealth’s tax structure compares to other states and provides a menu of policy options to improve Pennsylvania’s overall competitiveness.      

PA Chamber: New EPA Rule a Welcome Change Compared to Clean Power Plan

August 24, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement following the release of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed Affordable Clean Energy rule.  The proposal was authored by the Trump administration to replace the Obama Administration’s Clean Power Plan.  

Wolf, Wagner Confirm Participation in Chamber Dinner Gubernatorial Debate

August 20, 2018 | Tricia Harris

The PA Chamber is pleased to announce the 34^th Annual Chamber Dinner’s gubernatorial debate will feature Gov. Tom Wolf and Republican nominee Scott Wagner.  The event will take place on Monday, Oct. 1 at the Hershey Lodge.  JEOPARDY! host Alex Trebek will serve as moderator.  Since 2002, the PA Chamber has featured a debate as part of the Annual Dinner program in each gubernatorial election year.  This marks the first scheduled gubernatorial debate for the 2018 General Election. 

PA Chamber of Business and Industry and Ontario Chamber of Commerce Unite in Support of Free Trade

August 16, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Recognizing the strong economic ties that have long existed between Pennsylvania and Canada, today the PA Chamber of Business and Industry joined the Ontario Chamber of Commerce in calling for the renewal of the North American Free Trade Agreement in order to strengthen cross-border trade.

PA Chamber: Attention on Opioid Epidemic is Appreciated but Response is Insufficient

July 16, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement following a PA Department of Health press conference announcing opioid prescribing guidelines for the state’s workers’ compensation system.  In April, the governor vetoed S.B. 936 – legislation that would have implemented a prescription drug formulary for Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system.  Standard in other states, drug formularies have been shown to address overuse of and addiction to prescription drugs among injured workers.

PA Chamber:'Card Check' Legislation a Threat to Workers

July 10, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding the announcement of proposed legislation to effectively eliminate the right of public sector workers in Pennsylvania to vote by private ballot during a union certification process.  The legislation would instead impose a “card check” process wherein employees may be publicly presented by union organizers with a ballot card and urged to make a decision at that moment – a situation that unacceptably risks public workers being pressured, coerced and harassed to “check the box” to  unionize.  A co-sponsorship memo was circulated the same week that the U.S. Supreme Court issued its ruling in the Janus v. AFSCME case, which struck down the practice of public sector unions forcibly collecting fees from public workers who do not wish to be a member of the union.

PA Chamber Praises Supreme Court Ruling in Janus v. AFSCME Case as a Victory for Worker Freedom, First Amendment Rights

June 27, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the Janus v. AFSCME case, which strikes down the practice of public sector unions collecting an agency fee from the paychecks of government employees who are not members of the union. As background, a 1977 court decision allowed public sector unions to collect fees from every employee considered part of the collective bargaining unit, even those who did not wish to be members of the union. In a 5-4 decision released today, the Supreme Court ruled in Janus that compulsory fee collections did indeed constitute a violation of workers’ First Amendment rights.  As a result of the ruling, public sector unions will no longer be able to forcibly collect agency fees from non-union members.

PA Chamber Applauds House Passage of Important Measure to Address Workers’ Comp Cost Increases

June 25, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding House passage of H.B. 1840 – legislation that would provide a fix to a financially devastating state Supreme Court decision related to the state’s workers’ compensation system.  As background, last year, in the Protz v. Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board case, the Court threw out the Impairment Rating Evaluation process, which for more than 20 years had been a fair and effective way for state-designated physicians to determine a patient’s level of impairment. As a result of the ruling, the Pennsylvania Compensation Rating Bureau took the unprecedented action of filing for a mid-year loss cost increase which is increasing employer workers’ comp insurance costs by hundreds of millions of dollars.

PA Chamber: Tax Code Change Regarding Bonus Depreciation Will Improve PA’s Tax Structure, Competitiveness

June 22, 2018 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding the enactment of S.B. 1056 – legislation that reverses a recent ruling by the Department of Revenue that prohibited Pennsylvania taxpayers from taking advantage of 100 percent bonus depreciation when filing their corporate taxes; and also stripped away the depreciation benefits in the recently enacted federal Tax Cuts & Jobs Act. 

PA Chamber Applauds PUC’s Mariner East I Pipeline Decision

June 14, 2018 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding the Public Utility Commission’s vote to restart operations of the Mariner East 1 pipeline.  The project was previously shut down following an injunction by an administrative law judge.  Earlier this week, the PA Chamber sent a letter to the PUC raising concerns that the administrative law judge set aside long-standing precedent for granting an injunction; along with the fact that much of the material included in the judge’s opinion was never introduced into the record.

PA Chamber Issues Statement on Governor’s Gender Wage Executive Order

June 6, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding Gov. Tom Wolf’s signing of an Executive Order that prohibits state agencies from asking job applicants to provide salary history and his calling on lawmakers to pass gender wage legislation.

State Budget, Upcoming Elections Discussed at 2018 Chamber Day

June 5, 2018 | Tricia Harris

With the state budget deadline quickly approaching and the General Election right around the corner, more than 100 state and local chamber representatives from across the Commonwealth gathered in Harrisburg today for the 2018 Chamber Day at the State Capitol. The annual event, which is co-hosted by the PA Chamber of Business and Industry and the Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals, provides a forum for constructive dialogue between local chamber officers and key policymakers on key issues important to the state’s business community and the best ways to improve the Commonwealth’s business climate.

ChamberPAC Endorses Jim Struzzi for State House of Representatives

May 8, 2018 | Lindsay Andrews

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its endorsement of Jim Struzzi for the state’s 62^nd legislative House District.

PA Chamber Applauds House Passage of Key Regulatory Reform Legislation

May 1, 2018 | Lindsay Andrews

PA Chamber President Gene Barr issued the following statement today following the state House’s passage of three bills that aim to improve Pennsylvania’s regulatory climate:

PA Chamber: Severance Tax Proposal Misses the Mark – Again – on What’s Needed to Grow Pa.’s Economy

April 30, 2018 | Lindsay Andrews

PA Chamber President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement in reaction to Gov. Tom Wolf’s most recent proposal to levy a punitive energy tax on job creators and consumers:

PA Chamber Decries Veto of Opioid Abuse Prevention Bill

April 27, 2018 | Lindsay Andrews

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry today expressed dismay with Gov. Tom Wolf’s veto of S.B. 936, which would have helped fight the state’s devastating prescription drug and opioid epidemic as it relates to injured workers.  This legislation would have improved Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system by implementing a prescription drug formulary, an approach already standard in nearly every other private and public sector health insurance program.

PA Chamber Applauds Senate Passage of Bill to Fix Anti-Business Department of Revenue Ruling

April 25, 2018 | Lindsay Andrews

HARRISBURG - PA Chamber President Gene Barr issued the following statement in response to the state Senate’s passage of S.B. 1056. The bill would reverse a recent anti-business ruling by the Department of Revenue that prohibits Pennsylvania taxpayers from taking advantage of 100 percent bonus depreciation when filing their corporate taxes, and would provide for a generally accepted depreciation schedule:

ChamberPAC Announces Endorsements for 2018 Special, Primary Elections

April 24, 2018 | Lindsay Andrews

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its endorsement of four state House candidates, three of whom are running in the upcoming Special Election and one candidate who is running in the Primary Election on Tuesday, May 15.

PA Chamber, Keystone State Businesses Create Partnership to Forge the Future With Energy-Enabled Growth

April 23, 2018 | Lindsay Andrews

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, the largest, broad-based business advocacy organization in the Commonwealth, has announced a partnership through its 501(c)(3) Educational Foundation with Forge The Future, a project of Pennsylvania businesses designed to help the state advance and accelerate an energy-enabled economy based on the use of its world-class natural gas reserves. The focus of the project, which will be completed by the third quarter of 2018, is to engage business and other leaders across the state to build on initial economic development ideas and direction set forth in an econometric study: Forge the Future: Pennsylvania’s Path to an Advanced, Energy-Enabled Economy.

PA Chamber Applauds Legislature, Urges Governor Wolf to Sign Important Prescription Drug Bill

April 17, 2018 | Lindsay Andrews

PA Chamber President Gene Barr issued the following statement in response to the state House’s passage of S.B. 936, which passed the state Senate last October and would implement a prescription drug formulary for Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system:

PA Chamber Applauds House Lawmakers for Passing Bill to Reverse Anti-Business Department of Revenue Ruling

March 14, 2018 | Lindsay Andrews

PA Chamber President Gene Barr issued the following statement about the House’s nearly unanimous passage of H.B. 2017, legislation that would reverse a recent state Department of Revenue ruling that prohibits taxpayers from claiming a full 100 percent bonus depreciation deduction for Pennsylvania purposes:

PA Chamber Unveils New Member Benefit to Help Increase IT Security

March 6, 2018 | Tricia Harris

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is pleased to highlight a recently added benefit for its member businesses that will help businesses of all sizes avoid data breaches by ensuring the security of online communications and interactions. 

2018 State of Politics Dinner to Feature Keynote Speaker Salena Zito

March 5, 2018 | Tricia Harris

PEG PAC, a pro-business political action committee under the PA Chamber, is pleased to announce that national political reporter Salena Zito will be the keynote speaker at the 2018 State of Politics Dinner – formerly known as the PEG PAC Dinner. A Pittsburgh native, Zito boasts a more than two decade-long career in journalism and has interviewed every U.S. president and vice president since 1992, as well as numerous other policy leaders in Washington, D.C. She worked for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review for 11 years and is currently a reporter for the Washington Examiner and columnist for the New York Post; a CNN contributor; the host of “Main Street” on the SIRUS XM POTUS Channel; and co-author of the new book “The Great Revolt: Inside the Populist Coalition Reshaping American Politics.”

“Jeopardy!” Host Alex Trebek to Headline 34th Annual Chamber Dinner

February 20, 2018 | Tricia Harris

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is pleased to announce that Alex Trebek, one of television’s most enduring and iconic figures, will serve as the keynote speaker at the 34^th Annual Chamber Dinner.  Best known as the host of JEOPARDY!, Trebek has hosted the popular quiz show since it debuted in 1984 – with more than 7,500 episodes under his belt; he currently holds the Guinness Book of World Records^TM record for the “Most Game Show Episodes Hosted by the Same Presenter.”   Over the course of his career, Trebek has been honored with five Daytime Emmy awards for Outstanding Game Show Host, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.  Trebek will offer a captivating look at his unprecedented 34-year career as the face and voice of America’s Favorite Quiz Show® and will share his personal insight on longevity in business.

6th Annual Economic Forecast Summit Focuses on Workforce & Cybersecurity Challenges

February 15, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania’s business and banking communities gathered today to learn about federal and state economic trends and challenges at the 6th Annual Economic Forecast Summit.  Presented by the PA Chamber Education Foundation and the Pennsylvania Bankers Association, the event also provided insight on workforce development and cybersecurity challenges to more than 200 attendees.

PA Chamber Highlights Challenges to Manufacturing, Energy Sector at U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee Hearing; Calls for Air Quality Permitting Reform to Protect Environment, Grow Economy

February 14, 2018 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber Director of Government Affairs Kevin Sunday today testified at the United States House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee Subcommittee on the Environment. At the hearing, titled New Source Review Permitting Challenges for Manufacturing and Infrastructure, Sunday called on federal lawmakers and regulators to enact reforms to air quality permitting requirements to allow manufacturers and businesses to reinvest in their facilities to reduce emissions and compete in the global economy.

PA Chamber Urges Legislators to Reject Government Union-Driven Push to Raise Energy Taxes on Pennsylvania Households

February 12, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement today regarding the Wolf administration’s proposal to enact an additional tax on the natural gas industry: 

PA Chamber Educational Foundation, PA Bankers Association to Host Sixth-Annual Economic Forecast Summit

February 12, 2018 | Tricia Harris

The PA Chamber Educational Foundation and the Pennsylvania Bankers Association are again joining forces to present the Sixth Annual Economic Forecast Summit on Thursday, Feb. 15 at the Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey. 

PA Chamber Fights to Protect Rights of Private Property Owners

February 7, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement today regarding the PA Chamber’s participation in the case of Dolores Frederick, et al. v. Allegheny Township ZHB v. CNX Gas Company, LLC. Arguments are being heard today before an en banc panel of Commonwealth Court in Pittsburgh in a case regarding, in part, how the state’s Environmental Rights Amendment influences local zoning decisions. 

PA Chamber: Governor’s Proposed Tax Changes Could Set Back Strengthened Economy, Employer Confidence

February 6, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement in regard to Gov. Tom Wolf’s 2018-19 budget address:

PA Chamber: Wolf Administration’s Permitting and Regulatory Reforms a Step in the Right Direction

January 26, 2018 | Tricia Harris

Harrisburg – Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement following Gov. Tom Wolf’s press conference highlighting reforms in the Department of Environmental Protection to improve the department’s permitting approval and regulatory process:

New "Allegheny College Prize for Civility in Public Life in Pennsylvania" to be Awarded at 33rd Annual Chamber Dinner

September 5, 2017 | Tricia Harris

In the weeks leading up to the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry’s highly anticipated 33^rd Annual Chamber Dinner, our organization is proud to announce a new element to the evening’s program that will recognize two Pennsylvanians who have risen above the growing trend of partisan rhetoric to effectively communicate in a civil manner. This year, the PA Chamber will partner with Allegheny College to present – for the first time – the Allegheny College Prize for Civility in Public Life in Pennsylvania.

Customers Bank President and COO Richard Ehst Pledges $100,000 to PA Chamber’s “Start the Conversation Here” Workforce Initiative

August 30, 2017 | Tricia Harris

The PA Chamber Educational Foundation announced today that Customers Bank will donate $100,000 over the next five years to the PA Chamber’s innovative “Start the Conversation Here” workforce initiative. Customers Bank President and COO Richard Ehst – who also serves on the PA Chamber Board and as chair of the PA Chamber Educational Foundation – was instrumental in securing the funds for the donation.  

PA Chamber Announces Change to Annual Dinner Program Line-Up

August 25, 2017 | Tricia Harris

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is pleased to announce that former White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card will be featured in the “Perspectives from the West Wing” segment of the dinner program. He will be replacing former White House Press Secretary Dana Perino – who was slated to participate in the panel discussion, but due to a scheduling change on her Fox News show, is now unable to attend the dinner.

PA Chamber: Unprecedented PCRB Action to Lead to Workers’ Compensation Cost Hikes for Employers

August 16, 2017 | Tricia Harris

The Pennsylvania Compensation Rating Bureau yesterday took an unprecedented action in filing for a mid-year loss cost increase that could lead to significant additional burdens on Pennsylvania employers. In the filing, the PCRB proposed an overall average change in loss costs of +6.06 percent. This action resulted from a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court decision in the Protz v. Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board case, which throws out Impairment Rating Evaluations. IREs have been in existence since 1996 and are used by physicians - in tandem with guidelines from the American Medical Association - to assess an employee’s level of impairment and determine their disability status.

Multi-Industry Coalition: Tax Code Bill Would Significantly Increase Energy Taxes, Hurt Pennsylvania’s Competitiveness

August 8, 2017 | Tricia Harris

Raising concerns regarding the impact a proposed revenue package would have on the Commonwealth’s overall economy and competitive edge, a coalition of business leaders representing a wide variety of industry sectors across the Commonwealth today held a media call to urge the state House to oppose H.B. 542 – the Tax Code bill. The legislation – which narrowly passed the Senate in recent weeks – would increase taxes on Pennsylvania job creators and residents by $600 million annually. The proposal includes a number of tax increases that will significantly raise energy costs for both residential and commercial users – including a new gross receipts tax on natural gas users, an increase to the gross receipts tax on electric users and a severance tax on natural gas.

Business Association Leaders to Address Revenue Package

August 7, 2017

Please join us for a conference call to hear perspectives from a broad-based coalition of Pennsylvania business and economic leaders that will discuss the far-reaching, negative impacts of H.B. 542 – the Senate-passed Tax Code bill that has the support of the Wolf administration – on Pennsylvania’s economic climate and competitive edge.

PA Chamber: Senate Passage of Important Education Reform Would Help

August 4, 2017

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding the Senate’s recent bipartisan vote to include an important teacher seniority reform in H.B. 178 – the omnibus Education Code bill.

PA Chamber Applauds Rob Powelson’s Confirmation to FERC

August 4, 2017

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding Rob Powelson’s confirmation to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission:

PA Chamber: Wolf/Senate Revenue Package Bad for Pennsylvania’s Economic Climate

July 27, 2017

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement in regard to the Senate’s passage of a revenue package for the 2017-18 Fiscal Year. House Bill 542 – which includes a number of tax increases on Pennsylvania residents and business owners – will have far-reaching, negative impacts on the state’s economic climate and competitive edge.

PA Chamber Applauds Enactment of Critical Pension Reform That Will Shift Risk Away From Taxpayers, Rein in Unsustainable Pension Costs

June 12, 2017

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding the passage and enactment of S.B. 1, pension reform legislation that implements a hybrid defined benefit/defined contribution plan for all new state and public school employees:

Annual Chamber Day Brings Local Chamber Representatives to PA Capitol

June 6, 2017

More than 100 state and local chamber officials from across the Commonwealth came together today to participate in 2017 Chamber Day. The annual event, which is co-hosted by the PA Chamber of Business and Industry and the Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals, allows local chamber officers to meet with key policymakers and discuss ways to improve Pennsylvania’s business climate and competitive edge.

PA Chamber Unveils New Member Benefit to Help Increase Export Sales

June 1, 2017

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry today announced a new benefit for its member businesses that will help to increase their international sales presence in selected markets around the world. Stevens & Lee/Griffin International LLC (SLGI) is partnering with the PA Chamber to offer the International Trade Assistance Partnership Program (iTAPP), which will give companies ongoing trade support in key, growing export markets. This effort underscores the importance of maintaining a strong and growing export sector within Pennsylvania’s economy.

PA Chamber President Joins Initiative to Broaden Economic Partnership with Israel

May 30, 2017

Working to promote economic ties between Pennsylvania, the United States and Israel, PA Chamber President and CEO Gene Barr was pleased to recently travel with 16 of his fellow chamber executives from across the nation to help launch the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Business Israel initiative. This multi-year program will bring executives from leading business organizations across the U.S. to Israel to encourage international collaboration between the nations and boost economic growth.

PA Chamber Applauds FERC Approval of PennEast Pipeline Project

April 10, 2017 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement in regard to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s issuance of a final Environmental Impact Statement for the PennEast Pipeline project:

PA Chamber Applauds FERC Approval of PennEast Pipeline Project

April 10, 2017 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement in regard to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s issuance of a final Environmental Impact Statement for the PennEast Pipeline project:

Fox News Sunday Anchor Chris Wallace to Headline 33rd Annual Chamber Dinner

March 28, 2017 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber Educational Foundation Partners with mikeroweWORKS Foundation to Provide Scholarships to Pennsylvania Students

March 22, 2017 | Tricia Harris

As part of its ongoing initiative to address the Commonwealth’s job skills gap, the PA Chamber Educational Foundation is proud to team up with Executive Producer and TV Host Mike Rowe to offer scholarships to Pennsylvanians interested in pursuing a career in the skilled trades as part of the mikeroweWORKS Foundation’s 2017 Work Ethic Scholarship Program. 

Innovation, Economic Trends and Crisis Management Focus of 5th Annual Economic Forecast Summit

March 2, 2017 | Tricia Harris

With the Commonwealth’s economy predicted to remain in a slow-growth pattern going into the next fiscal year, leaders from Pennsylvania’s business and banking communities gathered today at the 5th Annual Economic Forecast Summit to gain insight about upcoming economic trends at the state and national level. This annual event – which is presented by the PA Chamber Education Foundation and the Pennsylvania Bankers Association – brings together some of the nation’s most respected economic forecasters and leadership experts.

PA Chamber Educational Foundation, PA Bankers Association to Host Fifth-Annual Economic Forecast Summit

February 15, 2017 | Tricia Harris

Harrisburg – The PA Chamber Educational Foundation and the Pennsylvania Bankers Association are again joining forces to present the Fifth Annual Economic Forecast Summit on Tuesday, Feb. 28 at the Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey.

PA Chamber: While Efficiencies in Budget Plan Can Be Applauded, Proposed Business Tax Hikes Raise Concerns

February 8, 2017 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement in regard to Gov. Tom Wolf’s 2017-18 budget address:

Chambers of Commerce, Statewide Building Trades Release Joint Nuclear Industry Economic Report

December 6, 2016 | Lindsay Andrews

New Members Elected to PA Chamber Board of Directors at Annual Meeting

December 1, 2016 | Lindsay Andrews

PA Chamber's 26th Economic Survey Reveals Employers' Concerns Over Rising Healthcare Costs, Taxes

November 10, 2016 | Lindsay Andrews

PA Chamber: Governor's Veto of Important Regulatory Reform Hurts Pennsylvania's Business Climate

November 1, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding Gov. Tom Wolf’s veto of S.B. 562, legislation that would have increased legislative oversight of the regulatory rulemaking process and allowed for greater public comment and input on government regulation decisions:

State Business Groups Urge General Assembly to Return to Harrisburg, Vote on Critical Pension Reform Bill

October 31, 2016 | Tricia Harris

HARRISBURG - Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr, Allegheny Conference on Community Development CEO Dennis Yablonsky and Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia President and CEO Rob Wonderling issued the following statement regarding potential legislative action on S.B. 1071, a compromise pension reform proposal that would implement a hybrid defined benefit/defined contribution plan for all new state and public school employees:

ChamberPAC Endorses Jim Christiana for 15th House District

October 27, 2016 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, has endorsed Rep. Jim Christiana, R-Beaver, for re-election to the 15^th state House District.  Christiana will face Democrat Michael Rossi in the General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 8.  The 15^th House District comprises parts of Beaver and Washington Counties.

ChamberPAC Endorses Jack London for state Senate

September 30, 2016 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its endorsement of Jack London for state senator of the 19^th Senatorial District. 

PA Chamber Board of Directors Appoints Three New Members

September 28, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Media Registration for 32nd Annual Chamber Dinner Ends Today

September 22, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Media registration for the 32^nd Annual Pennsylvania Chamber Dinner will close today, Thursday, Sept. 22 at 5 p.m. Those interested in covering the event must register online at www.chamberdinner.com by accessing the "Register to Attend" link, followed by the "Media Registration" icon at the bottom of the page.

PA Chamber Opens Media Registration for 32nd Annual Chamber Dinner

September 14, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Credentialed members of the media may now register online to cover the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry’s 32^nd Annual Chamber Dinner on Monday, Sept. 26, 2016 at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey, PA. Hall of Fame football player, successful entrepreneur and popular national television broadcaster Michael Strahan will give the evening’s keynote address. The dinner program also will feature a dynamic dialogue with Pennsylvania’s governors – who will discuss their experiences in office and share their unique perspective on events that shaped the Commonwealth during their tenure.

ChamberPAC Announces Endorsements for 2016 General Election

September 7, 2016 | Lindsay Andrews

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its endorsements of state House and Senate candidates in the upcoming 2016 General Election.  ChamberPAC supports pro-job, pro-growth candidates and incumbent lawmakers who are dedicated to improving Pennsylvania’s business climate and growing the economy.

PA Chamber Strengthens Operations in Centennial Year as Combination with Pennsylvania Business Council Finalized

August 1, 2016 | Tricia Harris

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is pleased to announce that the agreement to combine operations with the Pennsylvania Business Council has been finalized.

PA Chamber: Despite Enactment of New Revenue Package Commonwealth Needs to Get Fiscal House in Order, Address Growing Cost Drivers

July 14, 2016 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC Endorses Chris Quinn for Special State House Election

July 6, 2016 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC Endorses John Rafferty for Attorney General

June 20, 2016 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its endorsement of state Sen. John Rafferty, R-Montgomery, for Pennsylvania Attorney General.

Pennsylvania Chamber and Pennsylvania Business Council to Combine Operations

June 16, 2016 | Tricia Harris

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry and the Pennsylvania Business Council have announced that the two organizations intend to combine their respective operations this summer. The two organizations are working to finalize the transaction on or about June 30 of this year. Upon completion, all PBC operations, programs and events will fall under the purview of the PA Chamber.

PA Chamber President Elected to Serve on U.S. Chamber Board of Directors

June 14, 2016 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr has been selected to serve on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors. Barr will serve three, two-year terms.

PA Chamber Applauds Governor for Signing Historic Liquor Reform Into Law

June 8, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Local Chamber Representatives Discuss Important Budget and Economic Growth Policies at 2016 Chamber Day

June 8, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Compromise Liquor Bill Improves Consumer Convenience, Expands Private Sector Opportunity

June 7, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding compromise legislation which headed to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk today and would improve consumer convenience and expand the private sector’s ability to sell alcohol in the Commonwealth. House Bill 1690, which is expected to generate $150 million in additional revenue for the 2016-17 fiscal year, provides for the private sector sale of wine in certain outlets and makes a number of improvements to the current state store system. The legislation was passed on concurrence today by the House of Representatives by a vote of 157 to 31.

PA Chamber Applauds Shell Decision to Build Petrochemical Facility

June 7, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding Shell’s decision to move forward with a petrochemical facility in Beaver County:  

PA Chamber Applauds Governor Wolf, PLCB for Supporting Greater Convenience in Beer Sales for PA Consumers

May 26, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Gene Barr issued the following statement regarding the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board’s decision to expand the types of outlets that are permitted to sell six-packs of beer and malt beverages:  

2016 Workforce Development Survey Shows Job Creators Struggling to Find Qualified Employees

May 23, 2016 | Tricia Harris

PA Chamber: Governor's Veto of Important Education Reform Hurts Quality Teachers and Students

May 19, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Media Registration for PA Chamber Workforce Summit Ends Today

May 13, 2016 | Tricia Harris

Media registration for the PA Chamber Educational Foundation’s Workforce Summit featuring a keynote address by Executive Producer and TV Host Mike Rowe will close today, Friday, May 13, at 5 p.m.

Executive Producer & TV Host Mike Rowe to Keynote PA Chamber Workforce Summit

May 4, 2016 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC Endorses Mike Regan for State Senate

April 5, 2016 | Tricia Harris

ChamberPAC, the political arm of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, today announced its endorsement of Mike Regan for state senator of the 31^st Senatorial District.