Pennsylvania voters said ‘yes’ to all four questions on Tuesday’s statewide primary ballot, including amendments to the PA Constitution.  Pennsylvanians approved an amendment that would limit a governor’s disaster declaration to 21 days, and said ‘yes’ to an amendment that would empower state lawmakers to remove the governor’s disaster declarations with a two-thirds vote.  Voters also chose to prohibit denial of rights based on an individual’s race, and said ‘yes’ to allowing first responders and fire companies to apply for loans.

Restaurants, bars and other food establishments that suffered operational losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown orders may be eligible for funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.  Businesses are eligible for up to $10 million, and no more than $5 million per physical location. Recipients are not required to repay the funding as long as the money is used for eligible purposes no later than March 11th, 2023.  The program was established under the federal American Rescue Plan. Applications will be accepted until funds are exhausted.

Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital has earned the highest score for quality from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), joining an elite group of hospitals across the country with 5-Star ratings for 2021.  CMS rated more than 4,500 hospitals from 1 to 5 stars as part of its annual overall quality scores, with fewer than 14% of all hospitals, and only 22 facilities in Pennsylvania, receiving 5 stars.  The star ratings reflect Geisinger’s high standards of quality, and focus on improving patient outcomes.

Work to improve a portion of Route 655 in Huntingdon County begins today (May 20th).  Paving will begin on Route 655 from Wall Street to Front Mountain Road in Brady Township and Mill Creek Borough. Work will take place under daylight flagging operations.  Motorists should expect delays.