Pippy Announces Series of Committee Hearings on Act 47
Beginning in late May, will examine fiscal health of Pittsburgh, other distressed cities.

Harrisburg – The Senate Urban Affairs and Housing Committee, chaired by Sen. John Pippy (R-37), will hold a series of public hearings on Act 47 and the fiscal health of Pennsylvania’s cities, beginning with Pittsburgh in late May.

Pippy said the hearings will focus on cities of the First, Second and Third class, as well as Act 47, the state law designed to help stabilize the finances of distressed cities.

“It’s been more than three years since Act 47 regulations took effect in Pittsburgh. We need to examine what’s working and what isn’t, and what can be done to improve the measure,” said Pippy. “Beyond Pittsburgh, we want to take a look at the fiscal health of all of Pennsylvania’s cities of the First, Second and Third classes. These cities have rich histories, but also special challenges, and it’s important to make sure state laws and policies are updated to respond to those challenges in the most effective manner.”

Pittsburgh was placed under Act 47 restrictions in December 2003. The law restricts spending and requires the city to submit a long-term recovery plan to a state-appointed panel. Of the 22 cities and communities that have entered Act 47 “distressed status,” only five have exited.

“Act 47 has been on the books for 20 years, so we have a pretty good record to review to help the committee determine what can be done better,” said Pippy.

The committee’s intention to study this issue was recently strengthened by the release of reports issued jointly by the Brookings Institution, the Pennsylvania Economy League and Penn State University that cited the shortcomings of Act 47 and the need to examine challenges faced by Pennsylvania’s cities.

The first hearing will be held in late May in Pittsburgh, with other cities to follow. Specific dates will be announced when details are worked out.

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Pippy Announces Series of Committee Hearings on Act 47 Beginning in late May, will examine fiscal health of Pittsburgh, other distressed cities.

Pippy Announces Series of Committee Hearings on Act 47
Beginning in late May, will examine fiscal health of Pittsburgh, other distressed cities.