October 2026 Pennsylvania GRAC Update
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Both chambers of the Pennsylvania State Legislature have convened for six of their nine session days that are left in the 2025-2026 session. With the election around the corner, there has been an influx in pieces of legislation introduced to respond to some of the political issues raised by voters. The three most prominent issues have been those regarding data centers, AI, and skill games/gaming. Even with the flurry of bills dropping from candidates in seats that may be tough to hold, it is unclear what will actually get done by the end of this session.
On October 7th, Governor Josh Shapiro and candidate Stacy Garrity took the stage for their first and only debate ahead of the November election. Unsurprisingly to viewers, the opening question focused directly on data centers. Garrity sought to highlight clear differences between herself and the Governor regarding skill games, data centers, and education. Meanwhile, Shapiro has built a formidable $55 million campaign fund since last year, enabling him to significantly outspend Garrity and her $5 million raised. Speaking at a press conference earlier in the month, Shapiro shared his intent to direct key financial resources toward supporting Senate Democrats as they aim to achieve a legislative trifecta for the upcoming 2027-2028 session.
Earlier this month, Senate Bill 1260 reached the House which aims to establish a statewide licensing framework for apprentices, electricians, and electrical contractors, allowing them to practice anywhere in the Commonwealth under a single license. The body voted on a host of amendments, only two of which passed, that added definitions and made some small technical changes to clean up the bill. It has yet to go before the full House for third consideration and final passage, but is expected to make its way to the Governor’s desk by the end of the last three session days ahead. We know NESPA has historically been interested in statewide licensure similar to that seen in Connecticut and New Jersey.