Appetite from state lawmakers for additional stimulus money? Debate set to begin in PA

PITTSBURGH — The wallets of millions of Pennsylvanians will soon be a little fatter thanks to stimulus checks arriving as early as Wednesday. While the focus has been on assistance from Washington, a debate on whether additional help should come from the state is set to ignite in Harrisburg.

“We believe there are gaps that we need to fill. We have uncertainty in a number of areas that we want to supplement with what the fed is doing, but also close those gaps,” Sen. Jay Costa said.

Pennsylvania Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa sees gaps in mortgage assistance, help for local governments to avoid layoffs and money for struggling small businesses. Democrats proposed a multibillion dollar plan earlier this month, but Republicans are wary of where the money will come from.

“This isn’t a time where we can ever go out to people and ask them to send more of their money to Harrisburg. We need to be making sure we’re making decisions that have every taxpayer in mind,” Rep. Aaron Bernstine said.

Both Costa and Bernstine say they’re optimistic a compromise can be reached despite being on opposing sides of the aisle. Negotiations could begin as soon as next week.

Tinder date setup led to carjacking, shooting in Green Tree

Cox Media Group