Pennsylvania restricts use of PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam
A new law prohibits the manufacture, distribution and sale of PFAS in firefighting foam starting July 2027.
Health
As black lung surges in Appalachia, Trump administration halts enforcement of new dust rules for coal mines
One in three Appalachian coal miners surveyed by federal researchers are now testing positive for black lung disease, the highest level since the late 1970s.
What Trump’s fuel efficiency rollback means for Pennsylvanians
Advocates say the loosening fuel efficiency standards for cars and light trucks will worsen air pollution and climate change.
Advocates call new law allowing more lead in school drinking water a ‘backslide’
A Pennsylvania state budget provision loosens schools' reporting requirements for lead in water, from zero to 5 parts per billion.
What you can do to protect yourself from wildfire smoke
Wildfire smoke exacerbates the air quality and poses a significant risk for people with asthma. But there are some ways to stay safe.
PA man treks from Georgia to Maine, hits halfway point and home
About one in three hikers who attempt a thru-hike complete the entire trail, according to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. In 2025, 834 succeeded in that quest.
What a court ruling on upholding a Biden-era air quality standard means for Pennsylvania
A federal appeals court upheld a Biden-era air quality standard for soot. Allegheny County and other areas in PA could be out of compliance with the new standard.
Pa. Rep. Lee introduces bill to boost black lung disease payments
Lee put forward the Support Our Miners Act in response to resolutions from municipalities across Allegheny County and Appalachia.
Tick bites up in U.S., Pennsylvania, this spring, prompting renewed emphasis on prevention
Besides Lyme disease, ticks can carry other diseases like alpha-gal syndrome, which can cause an animal product allergy.
How Trump’s $700M to the coal industry could impact Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania could see increased coal mining and more air pollution coming from neighboring states.
