UPDATE: Pennsylvania is on track to utilize nearly all of the $13 billion in federal pandemic relief funds by the end of 2026, according to the latest data from the U.S. Treasury. This funding, part of the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act, has been crucial for local governments grappling with the ongoing economic repercussions of COVID-19.
The federal State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds program allocated a staggering $350 billion to various government entities across the nation. This lifeline has enabled Pennsylvania and its local governments to address pressing issues such as public health, safety services, and infrastructure needs.
Recent updates from the Treasury, published in August, reveal that municipalities have reported on their spending and commitments through the end of June. These reports shed light on how local governments are deploying the relief funds to mitigate the pandemic’s impact.
Key objectives for the funds include supplementing lost revenue, providing essential public health services, and supporting local businesses. Spotlight PA’s analysis highlights the necessity for residents to stay informed about how these funds are being utilized in their communities.
Residents can access this critical data through the publicly available U.S. Treasury reports, which include an interactive dashboard and spreadsheet detailing municipal allocations and expenditures. Each recipient must submit detailed project and expenditure reports, often referred to as “P&E reports,” that outline the specific projects funded.
As the deadline to allocate these funds looms closer, the urgency to track spending in your area increases. Residents are encouraged to request copies of these reports or submit open records requests to gain insights into how their local governments are spending the relief money.
With the funding set to expire by the end of 2026, local leaders must act swiftly to ensure maximum benefit from these resources. The ongoing economic challenges posed by the pandemic make it imperative that every dollar is put to effective use.
Stay tuned for further updates on how Pennsylvania’s local governments are navigating these critical funds and what it means for communities across the state.
