LANCASTER, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro is making waves across Pennsylvania with his relentless push to cut taxes, slash red tape, and spark an economic revival for families and small businesses. During a visit to vibrant downtown Lancaster, Shapiro showcased his administration’s efforts to empower Main Streets and invest in communities, urging Pennsylvanians to take pride in their local economies while enjoying tangible financial relief.
“Pennsylvanians deserve an economy that works for them,” Shapiro stated while touring small businesses, including Sweetish Candy, J.A. Sharp Custom Jeweler, and gift store Madcap & Co. Flanked by local leaders and business owners, the Governor emphasized his administration’s success in delivering tax cuts and direct support to residents and small enterprises, which he called the “backbone of our Commonwealth.”
Cutting Taxes, Boosting Wallets
Since taking office, Shapiro has united both Democrats and Republicans to bring about sweeping tax reforms aimed at boosting family incomes and business growth. Under his leadership, Pennsylvania has put over $3 billion in private-sector investment on the books by cutting bureaucracy and making the state a fertile ground for development. The administration dramatically streamlined business processes to benefit entrepreneurs, reducing filing times from eight weeks to just two days.
For families, relief came in the form of a robust Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit, saving more than 218,000 households $136 million. Seniors and residents with disabilities benefited from an expanded Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, injecting over $311 million in assistance into communities. And for those burdened by student loans, a new deduction allows up to $2,500 in interest to be tax-deductible. These efforts are not just policy—they’re lifelines.
“Every tax cut, every credit, every investment in our Main Streets isn’t just about economics,” Shapiro explained. “It’s about putting more joy and security into people’s lives during the holidays and beyond.”
Revitalizing Main Streets
Shapiro’s vision is clear—revive the heart of Pennsylvania towns by championing small business owners and creating thriving Main Streets. His administration’s “Main Street Matters” program allocates $20 million to directly support these hubs of community life. Meanwhile, the $500 million PA SITES initiative focuses on building “shovel-ready” locations for business expansion, offering bipartisan solutions to lure companies and generate good-paying jobs.
“Innovative funding isn’t just abstract policy—it translates into opportunities,” said Marshall Snively, President of the Lancaster City Alliance. “Our Main Streets, like the ones in Lancaster, are a reflection of what makes our cities unique, and programs like these are essential to their survival.”
Across Pennsylvania, these investments are bearing fruit, not just in revitalized retail spaces but in stronger communal infrastructure, cleaner streets, and a reinvigorated sense of pride.
Supporting Small Businesses from the Ground Up
Shapiro made it a priority to show his administration stands firmly behind small businesses, whether through financial incentives, policy advocacy, or streamlining operations. The Net Operating Loss Deduction Limit is increasing, enabling businesses to offset 80 percent of taxable income by 2029 and maintaining Pennsylvania’s competitive edge. Additionally, initiatives like the PA Fast Track Program, a national first-of-its-kind system for project-based permitting, set the tone for faster approvals and smarter governance.
Local business owner Marty Hulse of Madcap & Co. spoke about the direct benefits of these policies during the Governor’s visit. “Small businesses are the soul of their communities,” Hulse said. “The challenges we face—from rising costs to economic uncertainties—can feel insurmountable without leadership that truly understands how to meet us where we need help. Governor Shapiro’s policies not only spur growth but also foster resilience in towns like Lancaster.”
Rebuilding for the Future
At its core, Shapiro’s economic blueprint is about shaping a Pennsylvania where families can thrive, small businesses can innovate, and Main Streets remain the lifeblood of their cities. His reforms extend far beyond holiday sales or one election cycle—they’re paving the way for generational prosperity.
With bipartisan support and bold leadership driving these initiatives, residents are being handed the tools to regain confidence in their future. Shapiro isn’t shy about his ambitions. By directing resources into local economies and slashing bureaucratic barriers, he’s sending a clear message to Pennsylvanians—economic growth begins at home.
“This is about more than economics,” Shapiro declared. “This is about building a Pennsylvania where everyone has a chance to succeed, from the family buying holiday gifts to the entrepreneur chasing their big dream. We’re not just looking at today—we’re building for the economy of tomorrow.”
As Pennsylvania heads into 2025, Governor Shapiro’s efforts to empower families and revitalize Main Streets are already shaping a narrative of hope and opportunity, one that isn’t just about survival but about building a stronger, better future for all.
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