Hearing interrupts Cyber Monday and highlights supply chain in Pennsylvania

Hearing explored complexities of strain on the supply chain today

HARRISBURG, Nov. 29 – On a day when it’s projected that online sales will top $11.5 million and the flood of goods purchased online will inevitably hit Pennsylvania ports, roads and rails, the Pennsylvania House Democratic Policy Committee hosted a hearing about Pennsylvania’s supply chain and the challenges we’re experiencing today.

“There is a strain on our supply chain – both because consumer spending has changed, and because of systemic issues happening with our workforce and infrastructure,” said Rep. Mary Isaacson, D-Phila. “As a member who represents the city of Philadelphia, I know that the pandemic continues to bring challenges to the supply chain, particularly in the Port of Philadelphia. We are committed to learning what the challenges are and how we can address them.”

Testifiers included representatives from the Port of Philadelphia, trucking labor leaders in Pennsylvania, and the retail industry in southwest Pennsylvania. The hearing shined a light on an unpredictable marketplace in Pennsylvania and around the world that is putting strain on Pennsylvania infrastructure, labor force and small businesses.

“Small businesses like ours are raising wages but that isn’t enough,” said William Reed, owner of Standard Tap, Johnny Brenda’s and International Bar. “There are things like universal health care and paid family leave that could make jobs in the restaurant industry more enticing.”

Testifiers praised the Commonwealth for making investments in infrastructure recently, while explaining that more investment is needed to make more investments, regulate worker misclassification and address inflation.

The Harrisburg hearing took place at 1 p.m. on Cyber Monday, Nov. 29 in room 418 of the Capitol building as testifiers from across the Commonwealth participated virtually. A recording from the testimony can be found at www.pahouse.com/policycommittee.

“Families across Pennsylvania are concerned during one of the busiest times for commerce in our country, and I’m grateful we were able to host this hearing to learn more about our supply chain in PA,” said Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie. “Our entire caucus is committed to understanding this issue and working on solutions in Harrisburg.”

Written testimony from past Policy hearings and information about future committee hearings can be found at www.pahouse.com/policycommittee.