Business challenges in rural communities subject of PA Chamber testimony

Pennsylvania Chamber Director of Government Affairs Kevin Sunday testified during a public hearing last week about the ongoing challenges facing employers in rural communities.

The hearing, hosted by Penn College and the Center for Rural Pennsylvania, brought together leaders from Pennsylvania’s energy and healthcare sectors, as well as educators, government officials, and non-profit leaders.

Sunday said tax and regulatory policy were an important part of improving the state’s economic competitiveness and that the state needs modernized infrastructure that supports economic growth.

“Our goal at the PA Chamber is to make Pennsylvania the most economically competitive state in the nation. This requires a tax and regulatory environment that encourages investment into the state,” Sunday said. “We need modernized infrastructure across the state – from a safe and efficient system of roads and bridges to world-class airports and ports to reliable gas, electric, and water infrastructure, and, just as important, access to high-speed broadband.”

Additionally, Sunday said, the legislature needs to address barriers for residents to enter the workforce, like affordable childcare, occupational licensing requirements, and re-entry into the workforce after incarceration.

Sunday cited IRS data that showed residents are leaving the state for other areas with better economic climates. By targeting regional marketing efforts and collaborating with local chambers of commerce and economic development groups, the state could help attract more residents, Sunday said.

Other participants at the hearing included Coterra Energy, Penn College, Penn State, Shippensburg University, and the University of Pittsburgh. Senator Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming), chairman of the board for the Center for Rural Pennsylvania – chaired the hearing.