Banta, Policy Committee Host Second Hearing on Widespread Impact of Inflation
10/4/2024
MCKEAN TOWNSHIP — Today, Rep. Jake Banta (R-Erie) and the House Republican Policy Committee, led by Rep. Josh Kail (R-Beaver/Washington), convened the second hearing in a series on the widespread impact of inflation on local communities, small businesses and households across the Commonwealth.

The hearing, titled “Relief is Possible: Combatting the Crisis of Cost,” featured testifiers Ken Fisher, owner of Great Lakes Automation; Logan Therasse, realtor at Agresti Real Estate; and Kurt Couchman, senior policy fellow for fiscal policy at Americans for Prosperity.

As revealed by the testifiers, every segment of Pennsylvania’s population is stressed because of inflation. Small businesses face skyrocketing prices, labor shortages and supply chain disruptions, while many households struggle to afford housing prices, energy, child care and groceries. Pennsylvanians need relief. 

According to Pennsylvania’s Joint Economic Committee (JEC) State Inflation Tracker, in 2024, “the average household in Pennsylvania is paying $984 more per month to purchase the same basket of goods and services as in January 2021.” Also, compared to January 2021, the average household in Pennsylvania is currently spending $140 more on food per month.

“With the increased prices of gas, groceries, and other goods and services, Pennsylvanians are struggling to make ends meet. My constituents should not have to decide between paying the electric bills or purchasing medicine,” said Banta. “Having the Policy Committee in our district is just one way we are working to help Pennsylvanians. By listening to the challenges Pennsylvanians are facing due to inflation, we can uncover solutions without stifling growth.”

“Inflation is out of control, making life unaffordable for the people of Pennsylvania. We must foster an environment that encourages economic growth and prosperity for the people of Pennsylvania before more lives are negatively impacted by this economic devastation,” said Kail. 

To watch the complete hearing, click here.

Representative Jake Banta
4th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Media Contact: Tim Craine 717.609.7331
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