Westmoreland Review

On February 29, 2024, Representative Jill Cooper of the 55th Legislative District in Pennsylvania emphasized her commitment to improving business development in the state. She highlighted the need for a more efficient permitting process and tax system to attract businesses to Pennsylvania.

Cooper has been advocating for legislative changes to make it easier for businesses to thrive. "Strengthening our economy and increasing our workforce by keeping our young people here in the Commonwealth is among my highest priorities," she stated. She supports Senate Bill 350 and House Bill 734, which aim to enhance transparency and tracking in the permit application process.

According to Cooper, "The way Senate Bill 350 and House Bill 734 work is by requiring all permit-granting agencies to post permit information on their website." This would include creating a tracking system for applicants. If an application is rejected, agencies must clearly explain why.

Cooper argues that timely handling of permits is crucial: "To keep up, Harrisburg must move at the speed of business and not government." She plans to introduce legislation aimed at expediting this process.

In addition to her focus on business development, Cooper shared updates on other community initiatives. A Mobile License to Carry a Firearm event will take place on March 14 in Murrysville. The Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General is inviting applications for its Community Drug Abuse Prevention grant program. Furthermore, the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) will host webinars throughout March on financial aid and loan repayment.

For more details about these proposals or events, visit legis.state.pa.us or pheaa.org/virtual.