ISSUE 133 | November 17, 2021

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From Around the Region and the State Economic and Policy News

PA supports affordable housing to the tune of $10 million  During summer 2021, the state legislature allocated $10 million in Housing Tax Credit to incentivize developers to build affordable housing. Despite demand, there has been virtually no new development of single or multi-family housing has been minimal in areas like NEPA. The few developments that do take place occur primarily in urban centers, at or above market housing rates.  Click here to read the full article Commonwealth workers join the great resignation  In August, 120,000 workers quit their jobs. Many moved to new and better opportunities, but a record number of job openings remains – even despite increasing wages. Data suggests that the pandemic allowed people to determine which employment features they value most, such as: flexible scheduling remote options type of work  Click here to read the full article COVID acts as catalyst for public transit redesign  Many cities are recognizing how COVID has changed public transit ridership and destination needs, while acknowledging major inequities in their systems. These networks are undergoing major redesigns as a result. Philadelphia began an analysis of bus services in April, for instance, as part of a broader plan that also involves reevaluation of the rail system.  Click here to read the full article

In the Spotlight: The Institute's Housing Task Force as explored an array of issues that influence living dynamics in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Use the link below, and then click the red box labeled 'Housing.' Scroll down to find studies of the region's housing divide, its aging housing stock, inequities surrounding access to safe and affordable housing, and more! Click here to read more

From Around the Nation and the Globe Economic and Policy News

Nevada school district offers free lunches to all students through 2025 The federal government continues to support free school lunches in connection with pandemic aid, and many states and districts are expanding their programs in order to improve learning and equity. Nevada’s Clark County School District will do so through 2025. Like most districts around the country, the administration has noted increases in numbers of qualifying students.  Click here to read the full article California implements country’s largest prison-based drug treatment program  In response to increasing overdoses within its prisons, California has launched a large-scale treatment effort. Services include: medical care counseling peer support meditation an educational curriculum Program outcomes are being thoroughly documented and evaluated to measure success and potential for replicability.  Click here to read the full article Medical devices using biased algorithms compromise equitable health care Artificial intelligence offers great opportunities – along with substantial risks. For example, software-based medical devices sometimes use algorithms derived from secondary data that may contain hidden biases pertaining to race, income, and gender. Routine data review, clear labeling, and improved regulatory policy can reduce misinformation and inequities in patient care.  Click here to read the full article

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