AGP Executive Report

Nor’easter Disrupts PA: A powerful nor’easter slammed the East Coast with heavy rain, strong winds, major flooding risk, and widespread power outages, leaving tens of thousands without electricity in Pennsylvania and nearby states and forcing hundreds of flight cancellations. State Politics: A new poll finds Pennsylvania voters are split on whether Gov. Josh Shapiro should run for president in 2028, with Democrats more supportive than Republicans. Medicaid Changes: Pennsylvania is preparing for Medicaid eligibility changes in 2027, raising concerns for people with disabilities and chronic illness about more frequent re-checks. Public Health Watch: The measles outbreak continues to grow in Pennsylvania, with officials reporting new cases and deaths tied to the outbreak. Food Safety: Dauphin County restaurant inspections Sept. 27 flagged issues including a foul odor in a walk-in cooler at one site. Local Community & Culture: Philly’s The Wardrobe is expanding access to free career clothing for people experiencing homelessness, including new arrivals. Sports: Pitt routed Bucknell 59-0, while Penn State’s football season included a major comeback game involving Wisconsin.

Nor’easter Disrupts PA: A powerful nor’easter is battering the East Coast with heavy rain, strong winds, coastal flooding, and widespread outages. In Pennsylvania, wind advisories hit multiple counties, and the storm has already left tens of thousands without power and caused major travel problems, including flight cancellations. Local Policing Shake-Up: Liberty Township’s police chief was absent from a supervisors meeting, with officials citing potential litigation and saying the matter will be handled in executive session. Carroll Valley Infrastructure Push: Carroll Valley Borough is moving forward on multiple projects after receiving a $500,000 Local Share Account grant to extend sewer service, plus plans for a new ADA restroom and other community upgrades. Underground Railroad Discovery: A Quaker meeting house in the region is reportedly tied to the Underground Railroad—and recent restoration work uncovered a hidden space beneath the building. Pitt Football Rolls On: Mason Heintschel threw for 403 yards and six touchdowns as Pitt beat Bucknell 59-0, keeping the Panthers perfect. PennDOT Road Repairs: Gov. Josh Shapiro and PennDOT announced $250 million for 79 Rapid Deployment Projects to speed up state road work across Pennsylvania. AI and Work in NEPA: A new report says tens of thousands of jobs in the Scranton–Wilkes-Barre area are “AI-exposed,” with impacts more likely to change tasks than eliminate entire occupations. Starbucks Closures in Pittsburgh: Starbucks plans to close 250 locations across North America, including a unionized Pittsburgh store in Bloomfield.

Nor’easter & Power Outages: A nor’easter slammed the Northeast, knocking out power for more than 70,000 residents, including about 4,975 in Pennsylvania, as officials urged people to shelter in place and conserve energy. Butler Rally Shooting: James Copenhaver, a spectator wounded in the 2024 Trump rally attack in Butler, has died, two years after the shooting. Data Center Fight in Delco: A proposed data center near a Delaware County municipal line is drawing backlash, with residents saying they’re being “punished” and questioning whether zoning rules allow it. Measles & Flu Season: Lancaster County remains a measles hotspot, and a local editorial warns the county’s reputation is hurting tourism and urges families to protect kids before flu season. Harrisburg Lawmakers Return: Pennsylvania lawmakers head back to Harrisburg with less than 14 days before Thanksgiving to pass major priorities, including overdue second-degree murder sentencing fixes. Public Health Recalls: The FDA announced recalls tied to potential lead in ground cinnamon sold in six states, including Pennsylvania. Opioids: A new synthetic opioid, cychlorphine, has been detected in 18 states, including Pennsylvania, raising overdose concerns.

Pennsylvania Politics: Gov. Josh Shapiro and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer rallied Democrats at a South Philly diner as midterms near, pushing turnout for key House races and a possible Senate flip. Public Health: Shapiro’s administration will rescind a disease-tracking and vaccination proposal after more than 10,000 comments sparked backlash tied to the state’s measles response. Measles Watch: Pennsylvania reported 835 confirmed measles cases and four deaths as the outbreak keeps spreading, with most cases among people not fully vaccinated. Local Government: East Whiteland approved a new data center ordinance after residents fought a massive project; the rules won’t change the current build but tighten future proposals. Jobs & Business: Pep Boys plans to eliminate about 169 jobs at its Bala Cynwyd corporate offices as part of a merger-linked reorganization. Community & Education: Philly Youth Basketball announced a $50M workforce hub, The Generator, aiming to train 18-to-29-year-olds for skilled trades and careers starting in 2029. Consumer Protection: The state Banking and Securities Department will hold free October events to help seniors spot fraud and scams.

Butler County & Public Safety: James Copenhaver, a rally attendee wounded in the 2024 Trump assassination attempt in Butler, died in Pittsburgh at 76, two years after surgeries left him with lasting injuries. State Police Training: Pennsylvania State Police Acting Commissioner George Bivens highlighted the new Callout Village tactical training area at the State Police Academy, part of a $400 million rebuild aimed at more realistic, hands-on emergency training. Elections & Voting Access: A new report says about 30,000 noncitizens were mistakenly registered to vote since 2000, prompting Sen. Mike Lee to argue enforcement is too hard under current systems. Health: Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak continues to surge, with doctors in Amish communities warning hospitals could be strained as cases spread. Local Grants & Housing: Butler County approved a $930,012 CDBG application for sewer, housing rehab, and road improvements across multiple townships. Skill Games: Cranberry Township will vote Oct. 1 on a conditional use request for skill game machines after a state Supreme Court ruling reshaped how the devices are treated.

Data Privacy & Surveillance: Philadelphia City Council urged Pennsylvania to regulate or ban Flock and other automatic license plate readers, citing concerns that the tech is surveilling residents rather than improving safety. Politics & War Powers: The U.S. Senate rejected an Iran war powers measure 49-50, with Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman voting no and several Republicans joining Democrats. Local Tragedy: James “Jim” Copenhaver, 76, one of the 2024 Butler rally shooting victims, died in Pittsburgh after years of injuries. Public Health: Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak remains severe, with reports of hundreds of cases and multiple deaths as CDC and state counting practices draw scrutiny. Higher Ed: Wharton Dean Erika James was reappointed through 2032. Business & Tech: Pennsylvania joined a multistate settlement with Labcorp over a 2019 data breach tied to a debt collector. Energy & Growth: Lawmakers return Sept. 28 with unresolved issues including skill games, data center regulation, utility costs, and school cell phone restrictions. Sports & Community: EMU reported gains in freshman enrollment, while Penn women’s soccer looks to carry momentum into Ivy League play.

Measles Surge in Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania’s outbreak keeps climbing, with the state reporting 835 cases across 39 counties and four measles-associated deaths, while the CDC lists one death nationally without naming where it occurred—leaving families and officials frustrated by mismatched counts. Elder Abuse Oversight Audit: Pennsylvania’s auditor general released a scathing report saying the Department of Aging’s supervision of elder abuse investigations has serious gaps, including weak training and missed deadlines that can leave older adults at risk. Election Watch: New campaign finance filings show Gov. Josh Shapiro raised $13M more than GOP challenger Stacy Garrity, widening a major cash advantage as down-ballot races draw attention. Healthcare Pipeline in Butler: Butler Area School District launched a Healthcare Pathways Career Readiness Program, pairing students with Butler County Community College and Independence Health System for hands-on experience. Public Safety: A bicyclist died after being struck by an 18-wheeler in Lancaster County, and police are investigating. Local Economy & Community: Lancaster unveiled a 10-year tourism master plan, while Clearfield’s American Motor Fest kicks off with free admission.

Measles Surge: Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak keeps climbing, topping 800 cases and reaching 835 across 39 counties, with 164 hospitalizations and four measles-associated deaths reported by the state—while the CDC’s national count still shows only one death, leaving families and lawmakers pressing for clarity. Public Health Pressure: Health officials say the outbreak is likely undercounted and that MMR vaccination is the best protection; in the meantime, providers report treating cases in ways they haven’t seen before, including congenital measles. Local Government Funding: Wilkes-Barre City Council approved more than $2.2M in Local Share Assessment grant applications, including work tied to Public Square and city facility renovations. Elder Care Oversight: A Pennsylvania audit found weaknesses in the Department of Aging’s monitoring system for elder abuse investigations, raising concerns about vulnerable seniors “falling through the cracks.” Politics & Accountability: A whistleblower lawsuit alleges Shapiro administration procurement violations tied to governor’s residence renovations, including bypassing bidding rules and firing a staffer who raised concerns. Community & Culture: Wilkes-Barre will celebrate Dolly Parton Day with United Way’s Imagination Library, and Pennsylvania Horticultural Society is moving its office to West Market Street ahead of its 200th anniversary.

Measles Surge in Pennsylvania: Schuylkill County confirmed its first 2026 measles case as the statewide outbreak climbed to 792 cases across 39 counties, with 155 hospitalizations and four measles-associated deaths. Public Health Warning: Nationally, U.S. measles hit 3,471 confirmed cases—the worst since 1991—driven largely by low MMR coverage, and new data show adults are now a major share of cases and hospitalizations. Local Politics & Voting: A Reuters report says some states may have added 30,000+ self-declared noncitizens to voter rolls since 2000 due to processing errors, raising questions about how to fix registration systems. Immigration Enforcement: ICE documents indicate plans for “mobile detention facilities” in Pennsylvania, part of a broader detention expansion that has already faced pushback. Healthcare Costs: Pennie ACA premiums are set to rise again in 2027, with double-digit increases reported for shoppers. Community & Culture: Steelers rookies visited a youth foundation in the region, and a Harrisburg-area centennial spotlight looked at Pitt’s Cathedral of Learning through community voices.

Pennie Health Costs: Pennsylvania’s ACA marketplace is set for another hit: the state Insurance Department approved an average 16% premium increase for individual Pennie plans in 2027, with small-business plans up about 10%, as healthcare and prescription costs keep climbing. Food Safety: Buckhead Meat Company recalled 332.9 pounds of tuna distributed in Pennsylvania and other states after an FDA Class II warning tied it to scombroid food poisoning risk. Measles Watch: Pennsylvania reported measles cases rising again, reaching about 792 as the outbreak continues to spread. Elections & Voting Access: The state Department of State rolled out a toolkit for counties offering “on-demand” mail ballot voting in person, with an Oct. 27 deadline to apply. Local Health Tech: Penn Highlands DuBois installed a new Abbott lab automation system track, replacing a decade-old setup to speed and route specimens for testing. Politics & Money: Gov. Josh Shapiro’s campaign says it has raised more than $60 million for reelection, while Stacy Garrity’s filings show a much smaller haul. Public Safety: State police charged an Indiana man in the 2002 disappearance of Erie resident Sabrina Mae Kahler, alleging murder, rape, and kidnapping.

Measles Watch: Pennsylvania’s outbreak is still surging, with the CDC continuing to not count four state deaths even as cases rise and clinicians report unusual forms, including congenital measles. Healthcare Costs: Pennie premiums are set to jump about 16% on average for 2027 after regulators finalized rates and denied large unjustified increases, citing federal cuts and higher medical and prescription spending. Taxpayer Transparency: Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity highlighted $75 million in savings in the updated OpenBookPA Payment Production and Improper Payments report. Local Governance: Meadville is exploring a stormwater authority after a Supreme Court ruling that reshaped how stormwater charges are treated. Courts & Communities: A legal fight over Cheltenham’s $4.5M pool project could drag on, with a resident seeking to halt work while arguing the deal should have gone through bidding. Public Safety & Health: Pennsylvania reminded residents of the Oct. 19 voter registration deadline ahead of the Nov. 3 midterms. Sports & Culture: The 9th Annual Pa. Latino Convention kicked off in Easton, spotlighting Latino leaders and youth development.

Measles Surge: Pennsylvania reported nearly 100 new measles cases in the past week, pushing the year total to about 792, with Lancaster County leading at more than 300; officials also tied four deaths to the outbreak, while federal-state disputes continue over how those deaths are counted. Public Safety Crackdown: In Allegheny County’s eastern suburbs, Pennsylvania AG Dave Sunday said a months-long operation led to 45 arrests, 54 guns seized, and 1.6 million fentanyl doses taken off the streets. Veteran Suicide Prevention: The state DMVA and PCCD held a suicide prevention roundtable for Pennsylvania’s veterans, highlighting firearm suicide risks and available support. Power Reliability: The PUC reported fewer major outages in 2025 than 2024 (55 reportable outages), but nearly 2.9 million customers were still affected. Local Government Policing: Titusville again discussed expanding its police footprint via a proposed regional police force, potentially covering nearby townships with grant help. Election & Courts: A Delaware County case is underway after a Republican RNC delegate sued over her removal from a polling place in 2024. Community & Culture: Panda Fest brought Asian food and performances to Pittsburgh’s Station Square, drawing hundreds of vendors and families.

Measles & Public Health: Pennsylvania health officials are facing fresh scrutiny over how much they’ll share about measles deaths, as the outbreak grows to 767 cases across 38 counties and state leaders cite privacy limits while local coroners have provided more details. Airport Exposure Alert: Philadelphia International Airport travelers in Terminals B and F (and connecting areas) on Sept. 13–14 were warned they may have been exposed and should monitor for symptoms through early October. State Gaming Crackdown: Pennsylvania State Police reminded businesses that “skill game” machines must comply with the Supreme Court ruling by an Oct. 13 deadline, or face enforcement. Local Aging Services: Washington County’s free Senior Expo returns Sept. 24 at the fairgrounds with health screenings, flu shots, and dozens of agencies. Energy Costs & Utility Help: A Spotlight PA report says low-income utility assistance programs still reach only about a quarter of eligible customers, with regulators resisting automatic enrollment plans. Politics & Data Privacy: AG Brown led a coalition seeking to block federal access to commercial driver’s license personal data. Gas Prices: Pennsylvania average gas rose to about $4.56/g, up week over week. Community & Infrastructure: Union County received Local Share Account grants for sewer, parks, and playground upgrades.

Measles Surge in Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania’s outbreak keeps climbing, with health officials warning of more exposure risk as cases and hospitalizations rise and the state seeks federal help amid a dispute over whether measles deaths are counted. Public Safety & Hate Crime Fallout: The FBI says attacks on synagogues were part of a Pittsburgh-area man’s ISIS-inspired mass-violence plot, while York leaders condemned a racist “white power” flyer after a campus-area melee and urged residents not to spread unverified claims. Local Weather Disruptions: Heavy rains again triggered flooding in Washington County, prompting emergency management to ask residents and municipalities to report storm damage. Education & STEM Spotlight: An 8th-grader from Mechanicsburg is a national finalist for a GERD drug-delivery project, earning a spot in a competition with $100,000-plus in awards. Energy Costs & Data Centers: Reporting highlights how data-center growth could push up utility bills, including natural gas delivery charges, even when consumers focus on the “gas” line item. Sports & Community: North Schuylkill inducted its 50th Football Hall of Fame class, and a 9/11 memorial ride brought an EMT from Pennsylvania to Ground Zero.

Measles Surge in Pennsylvania: The state Department of Health reported two more measles deaths—one from Jefferson County (age 40) and one from Mifflin County (age 18)—bringing Pennsylvania’s outbreak total to four deaths, the first in 35 years, with both latest victims unvaccinated. SNAP Cost Shift: Gov. Josh Shapiro’s office says the Trump administration will force Pennsylvania to pay more to run SNAP starting Oct. 1 (75% state admin costs) and could later demand states help pay for benefits, potentially costing Pennsylvania up to $400 million. Cannabis Crackdown: Pennsylvania AG investigators allege a Pittsburgh man built a 15-vape-shop network selling marijuana products without medical cards, with stores flagged for “No Medical Card Required” signage. Politics & Access: AP reports CNN, MS NOW and Politico were denied White House access after Trump’s ban, escalating fights over press access. Local Life & Culture: A Hobbit-inspired village festival is set for Sept. 26-27 in Connersville, and a restored historic hotel in Berks County has reopened with a new restaurant.

Measles Watch: Philadelphia health officials warned of a possible measles exposure at Philadelphia International Airport (Terminals B and F, plus connectors to C/D/E) from Sept. 13 night into Sept. 14, stressing the traveler didn’t leave the airport and the case isn’t linked to CHOP. State Politics & Ads: Gov. Josh Shapiro is outspending GOP rival Stacy Garrity on campaign ads, with Shapiro topping $2.4M this week while Garrity spent far less. Local Planning: DuBois is preparing to apply for the state’s WalkWorks Program to build an active transportation plan. Public Health & Policy: Allegheny County supporters rallied for universal paid parental leave after the county revised its proposal from 18 to 12 weeks. Public Media: PBS Western Reserve and Ideastream Public Media approved a merger to serve more than 4 million people in western Pennsylvania and northeast Ohio. Higher Education: Duquesne University is mourning Dr. Mark Cantrell, who died in Nepal flooding and mudslides. Crime: Pennsylvania AG announced charges against 14 people in a $1M check fraud scheme tied to Somerset County schools. White House Access: CNN, MS NOW and Politico reporters say they were denied access and had passes seized after Trump’s White House media ban.