HARRISBURG, PA – February 3, 2026 – Following Governor Shapiro’s budget speech, Senator Lisa M. Boscola highlighted several areas where the General Assembly can build on the work it has done to strengthen the economy, protect consumers and support Pennsylvania’s workforce.
“Budget speeches are always hopeful, and this one reassured us that Pennsylvania is moving in the right direction without raising taxes,” Boscola said. “I am encouraged by the priorities outlined by the Governor and look forward to working with him to turn these goals into results.”
Boscola noted the governor’s emphasis on economic development and workforce investment, highlighting Eli Lilly’s recent $3.5 billion announcement in the Lehigh Valley. The project, supported in part by EDGE tax credits, PA Sites grants and workforce development funding totaling approximately $100 million, will create 850 enduring jobs and approximately 2,000 construction jobs. It represents the largest economic development investment in Lehigh Valley history and the largest life sciences investment in Pennsylvania.
“I’m grateful that the governor mentioned me in this part of his speech,” Boscola said. “I smiled because this project means jobs, opportunity and long-term growth for the Lehigh Valley. Eli Lilly’s investment shows what is possible when the Commonwealth works closely with local communities and the private sector to deliver real results.”
Boscola also noted that the governor continues to focus on workforce issues, including the need to address Pennsylvania’s stagnant minimum wage at $7.25 an hour. She stressed the importance of finding a responsible escalate that would pass both houses and be linked to cost-of-living adjustments.
Building on the workforce topic, Boscola highlighted the governor’s emphasis on occupational licensing reform, including faster approval timelines and guidance to identify additional improvements.
“Streamlining licensing is critical to retaining skilled workers in Pennsylvania,” Boscola said. “As chairman of the Senate committee overseeing occupational licensing, I stand ready to work with the governor to turn these recommendations into commonsense reforms that help skilled professionals get to work faster.”
Turning to affordability, Boscola welcomed the governor’s renewed focus on re-enacting Chapter 14 of the Public Utilities Customer Protection Act, which expired after no legislative action in 2024.
“When Chapter 14 expired, families lost key statutory protections, including protections for health-vulnerable households and clear rules around cut-off notices,” Boscola said. “I applaud the governor for revisiting this issue and engaging utilities to restore these protections.”
Boscola also addressed the governor’s comments on managing the rapid growth of data centers, emphasizing the need to protect payers and preserve local decision-making.
“Data centers offer real economic opportunity, but that growth cannot come at the expense of families and small businesses,” Boscola said. “Payers should not foot the bill for grid upgrades driven by massive new demand. That’s why I support the Pennsylvania Electric Conservation Act to ensure these projects pay their fair share and communities have a voice.”
Finally, Boscola emphasized the importance of continuity.
“The governor raised important issues,” Boscola said. “It is now the job of the General Assembly to take action, work together and deliver tangible results for Pennsylvania families.”
###
The post Senator Boscoli highlights jobs, workforce and consumer protections after Shapiro’s budget speech appeared first on Pennsylvania Senate Democrats.
