Legislation designed to boost job creation and grow Pennsylvania’s economy by implementing comprehensive business tax reforms was introduced on Wednesday in Harrisburg. The bill would close the Delaware loophole, and allow for a gradual reduction in the corporate net income tax. Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford, Sullivan & Susquehanna) said this bill will allow Pennsylvania companies to compete fairly with those based in other states, and make the Commonwealth a more attractive place to operate a business. Chuck Nichols reports, wrap and stand alone bite available.

Castle Doctrine legislation that more broadly defines the circumstances where Pennsylvania citizens may choose to exercise their right of self protection was signed into law by Governor Corbett Tuesday in Harrisburg. Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford, Sullivan & Susquehanna) said she was pleased to see this legislation approved that ensures citizens who act to protect themselves and their families from criminals need not fear prosecution for their actions. Mike Davies reports... story and stand alone bite available.

The House Republican alternative to Gov. Corbett’s budget plan was unveiled this week in Harrisburg. The proposal provides additional funding for education, offset by a reduction in welfare programs, while preserving Corbett’s original $27.3 billion spending limit. Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford, Sullivan & Susquehanna) said she supports the restoration of funding to local schools and hospitals. The House Republican proposal would increase spending for higher education by $380 million and restore Basic Education funding to pre-stimulus levels. Chuck Nichols Reports – Story and Stand Alone Bite Available

Legislation that would ban synthetic versions of cocaine and marijuana now legally sold over the counter has been unanimously approved by the Pennsylvania House. The bill would put a halt to the sale of so-called “bath salts,” and Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford, Sullivan & Susquehanna) said she hopes this legislation will move quickly through the legislative process to stamp out the growing problem of synthetic drug abuse in the Commonwealth. Mike Davies Reports – Story and Stand Alone Bite Available

Governor Corbett delivered his first budget address before a joint session of the House and Senate Tuesday in Harrisburg, laying out a $27.3 billion plan that represents an overall 3.1% reduction in state spending. Rep. Tina Pickett (R- Bradford, Sullivan & Susquehanna) said the taxpayers and job creators of Pennsylvania are the winners in the governor’s budget plan. Mike Davies reports, story and stand alone bite available.