State Rep. Dan Moul | Pennsylvania 91st Legislative District
State Rep. Dan Moul | Pennsylvania 91st Legislative District
HARRISBURG, April 30 – State Reps. Eddie Day Pashinski, D-Luzerne, and Dan Moul, R-Adams, alongside state Sen. Gene Yaw, R-23, unveiled their proposal for a Rural Population Revitalization Commission in Pennsylvania. The legislators, who are also members of the Center for Rural Pennsylvania Board of Directors, initiated this effort in response to a population projection report indicating a decline in rural population compared to urban areas.
Pashinski emphasized the need for additional support to address the challenges faced by rural communities in Pennsylvania. He stated, “As members of the Center for Rural Pennsylvania Board of Directors, we’ve heard at hearings across the Commonwealth that our rural leaders are already taking action to maintain and enhance their quality of life – but they need more help to meet the unique challenges they face.”
Yaw highlighted the purpose of the proposed commission, stating, “By establishing a Rural Population Revitalization Commission, we will be able to connect policymakers, local officials, industry leaders and others to examine policy solutions and offer recommendations aimed at addressing challenges facing rural Pennsylvania.”
Moul echoed the sentiment by acknowledging the lack of amenities in rural communities compared to urban areas. He expressed the commission's focus on monitoring rural growth and assessing the needs in these regions to attract residents and employers.
Schwank emphasized the importance of tailored solutions for rural challenges, stating, “Rural communities are the bedrock of our Commonwealth, but they have unique challenges that require specialized solutions.”
The proposed commission aims to bring together stakeholders from various sectors to develop strategies for supporting rural communities, including addressing education, healthcare, housing, and economic development needs. The legislators aspire for Pennsylvania to lead nationally in revitalizing its rural population.
The commission plans to provide regular reports on population shifts, policy recommendations, and best practices to ensure the long-term prosperity of rural Pennsylvania. The legislators noted this initiative as a first-of-its-kind in the state and anticipate progress towards a vibrant future for rural communities.
Video footage of the press conference is available for viewing and download, with further information and media contacts provided for additional inquiries.
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