Critics say the Post-Gazette’s decision to not publish work drawn by its popular editorial cartoonist may just be the latest in a local news trend muffling anti-GOP views. And don’t forget to check back later for the rest of this week’s Ups & Downs!
Local News Seems to be Punching Left
While many journalists can expect to have disagreements with their editors, the recent and more heavy-handed influence from above has some wondering whether liberal voices are being driven out of even traditionally left-of-center outlets.
Statewide
StateImpact: Pennsylvania, for first time, sets methane regulations on natural gas wells
Capitolwire: Rep. Metzgar unveils comprehensive prison reform package
Capitolwire: Sen. Ryan Aument: Aument offers support for legislative redistricting reform measure
Philadelphia
WHYY: More Pa. school districts feeling the crunch of mandated expenses, according to survey
Inquirer: Kenney frowns at Council budget – could tax hikes return?
SEPA
Pottstown Mercury: Officials cut ribbon to Graterford prison replacement — SCI Phoenix
Delco Times: New transportation management plan announced for I-76
Daily Local: Chesco Commissioners urge PUC to stand against pipeline projects
Bucks County Courier Times: FAA accepts Trenton-Mercer Airport updated master plan
Pittsburgh
WESA: PA Judicial Nominee Faces Tough Questions From Democrats
Tribune Review: School districts say their financial conditions are getting worse
Southwest
Beaver County Times: U.S. Rep. Keith Rothfus bill would waive permit fees for vets groups
Altoona Mirror: Safe harbor bill moves to full House
NEPA
Citizens Voice: Elevator safety bill moves forward
Times-Leader: Filing asks judge to block Jewelcor president from intervening in TIF case
News-Item: Best switches back to Democrat
Lehigh Valley
The Morning Call: Q&A: Kris Krane, president of the company behind Allentown’s first medical marijuana dispensary
Reading Eagle: Pennsylvania agriculture secretary hears from Berks farmers
WFMZ: Pennsylvania leads in farmland preservation
WFMZ: Investigation into P’burg mayor turned over to law enforcement
Lehigh Valley Live: Northampton County judge disputes $6M loan default
South Central
YDR: Medical marijuana dispensary set to open in West Manchester Twp.
Patriot News: Fired worker sues House Republican Caucus, claims he’s a victim of a culture of corruption
Patriot News: Former Rep. Jeff Coy remembered as a lawmaker who could ‘get things done’
Patriot News: School districts ‘can’t get ahead’ of mandated costs despite increases in state education funding
North by Northwest
Erie Times-News: Erie magistrate: I asked for leave. But sheriff served order
Opinions
Daily Local: The sweeping surveillance of American lives
Citizens Voice: Reform needed in naming judges
Patriot News: Will Pa. ever get reform right? The current redistricting debate is not encouraging
Post-Gazette: Grounding the Eagles: A petty disinvitation to the Super Bowl champs