Pennsylvania

Pa. marijuana laws: Here’s what you need to know

Published

2 years ago

June 8, 2024

Pa. marijuana laws: Here’s what you need to know

Last year, a comprehensive bipartisan bill co-sponsored by state Sen. Dan Laughlin, a Republican who represents Erie, and state Sen. Sharif Street, a Democrat who represents Philadelphia, was introduced. The Pennsylvania Legislature operates on a two-year cycle, so bills can stay alive for that long.

The bipartisan bill would legalize marijuana for adult use, ban marketing to children, create a state regulatory board and a social equity program, and impose an 8% sales tax in addition to a 5% excise tax on dispensary sales, among other things.

“We’re negotiating what the form and function of adult use is going to look like. I think most folks recognized that Pennsylvania is moving towards recreational adult use,” said Street. “I’m cautiously optimistic that there will be an amendment and there’s a good possibility that a bill will be passed this session. We haven’t quite reached consensus on all the language of the bill.”

In July 2023, the bill was referred to the Law and Justice Committee.

State Sen. Mike Regan, a York County Republican, is the chair of the Law and Justice committee. Regan has publicly supported marijuana reform bills and recreational legislation but has not scheduled the bipartisan bill for a hearing.

Meanwhile, a companion bill to legalize adult-use marijuana was introduced in the House by state Rep. Amen Brown, a Philadelphia Democrat. It was referred to the Health Committee.

State Rep. Dan Frankel, a Democrat who serves Allegheny County, is the chair of the Health Committee. While Rep. Frankel supports adult-use legalization, his committee has not held a hearing on Brown’s companion bill for a vote.

“We wanted to take a very deliberative approach in the health committee about doing this so we’ve now had six hearings on the issue,” Frankel said, “to hopefully avoid some of the mistakes we’ve seen in other states.”

Instead, Frankel expects to introduce his own legislation for adult-use marijuana in the coming weeks for consideration, which could be referred to the same committee he chairs.

Another issue at stake concerns smoke shops that take advantage of a legal loophole and sell hemp-derived Delta-8 THC products, which are unregulated in Pennsylvania. These products “undermine the medical marijuana marketplace and would be a problem moving forward with respect to the adult-use market,” he said.

Frankel was similarly concerned about the quality of a social equity program that forced independent dispensaries to compete with established multi-state operators when the start-up cost was high and existing medical dispensaries could easily sell adult-use products immediately.

“It’s going to be very hard in the long run to prevent vertical integration of this industry similar to what we’ve seen in the tobacco industry, I think ultimately it’s going to consolidate,” he said. “The idea that there’s going to be a lot of independent players in the marketplace is unrealistic.”

Frankel suggested earmarking revenue for communities most impacted by the criminalization of marijuana and creating more laboratory testing for marijuana products to ensure safety.

“I think there’s a grudging sense that this needs to be done now, whether [all Republicans] end up voting for it or not.”

Buettner, of the Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition, an industry advocacy group, said she’s optimistic this year is “the closest we’ve ever been” to adult-use legislation.

“I think it’s more likely that we see the House take this issue up and get a vehicle through committee,” she said.

If any recreational marijuana bill passes through the state legislature, Gov. Josh Shapiro said he would sign it into law.

How much does medical marijuana cost in Pa.?

The retail cost of medical marijuana has declined from $14.90 per gram in 2021 to $8.26 in 2024.

The average cost for one-eighth of an ounce of medical marijuana — a common quantity — ranges between $40 and $50. For edible medical marijuana products, it costs between $20 and $40 for a package of 10 gummies or dissolvable pills.

Buettner, of the Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition, attributed the price reduction as multifaceted: increased supply, larger and more experienced growing operations and more customers in the market.

Is there a Pa. medical marijuana dispensary near me?

There are 181 medical marijuana dispensaries statewide and 32 medical marijuana growers and processors.

Zoning restrictions limit where dispensaries can operate, even inside the city of Philadelphia.

How much is marijuana taxed in Pa.?

For patients, there’s no tax levied on medical marijuana sales.

The state collects 5% of the gross receipts of medical marijuana sales from the grower or processor to the dispensary. That wouldn’t change under any recreational marijuana proposal.

Gov. Shapiro has included recreational marijuana in his budget for the past two years with an estimated tax rate of 20%. But the current proposed recreational marijuana bill in the legislature would levy an 8% sales tax in addition to a 5% excise tax for a total of 13%.

Industry advocate Buettner said that an effective tax rate of 13% is feasible considering what the surrounding states are charging, and there would be room for local municipalities to add their own taxes without scaring away consumers.

“We want to try and pull those consumers that we already know are traveling out of state to purchase cannabis and bring them back here to Pennsylvania,” she said.

Can you be hired or fired for using medical marijuana in Pa.?

The law passed in 2016 gas some labor protections for patients, barring employers from refusing to hire or firing individuals based on their status as a medical marijuana patient. But employers are allowed to enforce rules around use at work.

Can you grow medical marijuana plants at home in Pa.?

]aNo. It’s a felony to cultivate marijuana in Pennsylvania as an individual. Violators face a $15,000 fine and jail time.

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Pennsylvania

Gas prices continue climb across Pennsylvania as averages near $4 per gallon

Published

7 hours ago

March 23, 2026

Press Room

Gas prices continue climb across Pennsylvania as averages near per gallon

HARRISBURG, DAUPHIN CO. (WOLF) — Gas prices across Pennsylvania are nearing $4 per gallon, reaching their highest point in several years.

As of March 23, the statewide average stands at about $3.94 per gallon, according to AAA.

Analysts say current prices are now at their highest level since late 2023, with national averages also approaching levels last seen during the 2022–2023 surge.

The last time prices were significantly higher in Pennsylvania was in June 2022, when the average peaked at around $5.07 per gallon, the highest on record.

The increase marks the 24th consecutive day of rising gas prices across the Commonwealth.

The national average has also climbed, reaching approximately $3.96 per gallon, as global energy markets remain volatile.

Diesel prices have surged even more sharply. AAA reports the Pennsylvania average is now about $5.67 per gallon, reflecting significant increases tied to global supply concerns.

Analysts point to ongoing tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to key shipping routes as major factors driving prices higher. Oil prices have climbed above $90 per barrel, adding pressure across all fuel types.

Across the country, California continues to have the highest gas prices, while states in the Midwest remain among the lowest. Current prices are now the highest seen since late 2023.

Pennsylvania Gas Price Trend

Prices have steadily climbed since late February:

Feb. 27 — about $3.10 per gallon
Feb. 28 — above $3.15
March 1 — surpassed $3.20
March 2 — near $3.24
March 3 — about $3.28
March 4 — above $3.30
March 5 — around $3.35
March 6 — high $3.30s, some above $3.40
March 7 — about $3.45
March 8 — about $3.50
March 9 — near $3.55
March 10 — around $3.60
March 11 — about $3.65
March 12 — about $3.66
March 13 — around $3.67
March 14 — about $3.69
March 15 — about $3.70
March 16 — about $3.72
March 17 — about $3.74
March 18 — about $3.80
March 19 — about $3.81
March 20 — about $3.82
March 21 — about $3.85
March 22 — about $3.93
March 23 — about $3.94

Gas Prices in Nearby States

Drivers in Pennsylvania continue to pay slightly more than those in surrounding states, though prices are rising across the region:

New Jersey: about $3.88 per gallon
New York: about $3.90 per gallon
Ohio: about $3.74 per gallon
Delaware: about $3.70 per gallon

Northeast Pennsylvania Prices

Northeast Pennsylvania remains among the most expensive regions in the state, with many stations now charging between $3.90 and $4.10 per gallon, especially along major roadways and in metro areas.

Lowest Gas Prices in Pennsylvania

Prices still vary widely by region, with the lowest prices remaining in western Pennsylvania:

$3.15/gallon — Valero, Dixonville (Indiana County)
$3.17/gallon — Sunoco, Aliquippa (Beaver County)
$3.18/gallon — 7-Eleven, Pittsburgh area
$3.20/gallon — Citgo, Smock (Fayette County)

Cheapest Gas in Northeast and Central PA

Scranton / Lackawanna County:

Conoco — Clarks Summit — about $3.70/gallon
Dileo’s — Wyoming — about $3.71/gallon
Fuel Up — Wyoming — about $3.71/gallon
Kwik Fill — Nicholson — about $3.71/gallon

Wilkes-Barre / Luzerne County:

Best — Wilkes-Barre — about $3.72/gallon
US Gas — Kingston — about $3.75/gallon

Hazleton area:

Fuel On — Hazleton — about $3.78/gallon
7-Eleven — Hazleton — about $3.78/gallon

Schuylkill County:

Turkey Hill — Shenandoah — about $3.45/gallon
Pilot/Conoco — Pine Grove — about $3.48/gallon
Pereira’s — Tamaqua — about $3.52/gallon

Monroe County:

BrightStar Fuel — Brodheadsville — about $3.80/gallon
Gulf — Brodheadsville — about $3.80/gallon
Wawa — East Stroudsburg — about $3.85/gallon

Lycoming County:

Sam’s Club — Muncy — about $3.10/gallon
Exxon — Williamsport — about $3.12/gallon

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Pennsylvania

🗳️ Roll reversal on voter trends | Morning Newsletter

Published

19 hours ago

March 23, 2026

Press Room

Hi, Philly. After our sunny Sunday, the rest of this week is expected to be cloudier and chillier.

Republicans were on track to lead Pennsylvania voter registrations for the first time in 30 years. Democrats think they’ve stopped the trend.

And Penn Medicine launched its Lynch syndrome center as cases of the cancer-risk condition have nearly tripled in recent years.

Plus, sneakerheads lined up for Nike’s new Lower Merion-inspired Kobe Bryant shoes, and more news of the day.

— Julie Zeglen (morningnewsletter@inquirer.com)

If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

With less than eight months until the midterm elections, national eyes are turning once again to purple Pennsylvania, where Democrats last year slowed and eventually began to narrowly reverse Republican voter registration gains.

By the numbers: As of March, Democrats hold a 2% voter advantage over Republicans in Pennsylvania, with 177,000 more voters, according to Department of State data. That’s up from their 1.9% lead in November, but still down significantly from a 10.5% lead in 2016.

Shifting strategy: The change comes as Eugene DePasquale, the new chair of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party, has invested in party-led voter registration efforts. But it follows years of voter-registration deprioritization within the state party, while Republicans doubled down on it in communities seen as friendly to President Donald Trump.

State of the union: Democrats are expected to perform well in the midterms by riding a wave of anger at Trump. It’s too early to tell whether the party’s improvements will continue in the long run.

Reporters Katie Bernard, Gillian McGoldrick, and Joe Yerardi dig into the data.

In other political news: Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s $7 billion budget plan, which aims to boost revenue by hiking Philadelphia’s hotel tax and expanding its sales tax, relies in part on authorization from Harrisburg — and help from GOP allies.

A diagnosis linked to higher risks of several cancers is getting more attention at Penn Medicine through the launch of a comprehensive center dedicated to advancing research, education, and patient care for the genetic condition.

Experts at the King Center for Lynch Syndrome, which opened late last year, help patients manage their cancer risks with recommendations for screenings, risk-reducing surgeries, or medications. An estimated 95% of those who have the condition are undiagnosed.

Case study: A West Chester man found out he had Lynch syndrome after getting a call from Penn’s BioBank. Soon after, at 42, he got a colonoscopy — and learned he had stage 3 colorectal cancer. The quick diagnosis led to surgery, then chemotherapy, which he has since completed.

Health reporter Kayla Yup has the story.

What you should know today

Quote of the day

Collector Malcolm France was among the first few sneakerheads in the country to get a pair of shoes from Nike’s homage to basketball superstar Kobe Bryant’s local roots, complete with Lower Merion High School’s maroon and white jersey colors. Lapstone & Hammer in Center City released select models early, first-come, first-served on Saturday.

🧠 Trivia time

Which Philadelphia bridge will close to car traffic in July for its 100th anniversary celebration?

A) Walt Whitman Bridge

B) Falls Bridge

C) Strawberry Mansion Bridge

D) Ben Franklin Bridge

Think you know? Check your answer.

What and whom we’re…

🎨 Eager to see: Noah Davis’ retrospective at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

⚽ Learning: What to expect at Philly’s World Cup fan festival in Fairmount Park.

🤤 Anticipating: The opening of cult Japanese cream puff brand Beard Papa’s store in Chinatown.

🍳 Noting: Where to find an early breakfast in Center City and the best breakfast sandwiches in all of Philadelphia.

📣 Meeting: The HIV positive influencer whose activism starts at the corner store.

🧩 Unscramble the anagram

Hint: Healthcare institution in Delaware County

MISANTHROPY BRAWL

Email us if you know the answer. We’ll select a reader at random to shout out here.

Cheers to Liz Greco-Rocks, who solved Sunday’s anagram: KYW Newsradio. CBS News Radio is shutting down, but the impact to this AM station owned by Center City-headquartered Audacy is limited.

Photo of the day

📬 Your ‘only in Philly’ story

Think back to the night that changed your life that could only happen in Philly, a true example of the Philly spirit, the time you finally felt like you belonged in Philly if you’re not a lifer, something that made you fall in love with Philly all over again — or proud to be from here if you are. Then email it to us for a chance to be featured in the Monday edition of this newsletter.

This “only in Philly” story comes from reader Ken Derow, who shares his affinity for the local palate:

I am not a Philly lifer, but rather a transplant from metro-Washington D.C. But I’ve come to love Philly. One reason: Where else in the country or the world can such delightful foods as water ice, soft pretzels, and hoagies be consumed guilt-free and considered part of a well-rounded diet? The answer is nowhere!

You deserve a treat today. ‘Tis the season for water ice, after all. See you tomorrow.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

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Pennsylvania

Bethlehem man dead, 3 others injured in crash in Upper Saucon Township, Pennsylvania, police say

Published

1 day ago

March 22, 2026

Press Room

Bethlehem man dead, 3 others injured in crash in Upper Saucon Township, Pennsylvania, police say

March 22, 2026 / 5:51 PM EDT
/ CBS Philadelphia

A Bethlehem man died, and three other people were injured Sunday in a crash on the Center Valley Parkway in Upper Saucon Township, Pennsylvania, police said.

The crash happened at around 11 a.m. on the 3300 block of Center Valley Parkway and involved multiple vehicles, according to police.

Upper Saucon police said Brian McKenna, 62, was driving a 2020 Tesla westbound on the Center Valley Parkway when he crossed over the center median and struck multiple vehicles traveling eastbound. Seven vehicles with a total of 10 people inside were involved in the crash, according to police.

Police said officers extricated McKenna from his car, but he didn’t survive the crash. Three other people who were injured were taken to local hospitals. The conditions for the three people were not immediately available.

The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office said an autopsy to determine McKenna’s cause of death will be performed Monday.

The crash is under investigation.

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