Major Winter Storm Coming to Pennsylvania – What You Need to Know
This winter has been mild, but that could change very soon. A major winter storm is brewing for parts of the Northeast and East Coast. It looks to be a…
(Photo by Tom Dahlin/Getty Images)
This winter has been mild, but that could change very soon. A major winter storm is brewing for parts of the Northeast and East Coast. It looks to be a doozy. I've been loving the warm winter weather, so I'm not happy about this potential storm. I keep praying it misses us. But, whether you're happy about it or not, you should be prepared. Here's what you need to know about the major winter storm coming to Pennsylvania.
Right now, according to Weather.com, the upcoming storm appears to be on track to significantly impact Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; and New York City. However, other areas are also on track to be part of the storm. This could actually be the biggest winter storm in our area in two years. The storm would run from Saturday (Jan. 6) through Monday (Jan. 8) and hit pretty much everyone in the Northeast, New England and mid-Atlantic.
While it appears very probable that a significant storm is coming, it's too soon to predict exactly where it will fall and snowfall totals. Moreover, what could really change things is if temperatures are just a bit too warm for snow to either form or stick. It's possible that show falling overnight could melt by midday. It could also be a mix of rain and snow, as well as ice. Of course, ice is terrible for driving. So, this storm would still have significant impacts, even if the snow totals aren't super high.
Current projections from Weather.com have the most snow falling north and west of the I-95 corridor, with the corridor serving as a divider between rain and snow. So, if you're located north and west of the I-95 corridor, you're more likely to see snow. But, if you're south or east, you're looking at lighter snow or a mix or rain and snow. That said, cities such as Philadelphia and Boston look like they could avoid the worst of this storm, in terms of heavy snowfalls and accumulations. But, it's still looking to be a pretty major winter storm in Pennsylvania. It could even be the most major winter storm in our area in two years. We'll keep you posted.
It's almost a New Year, and that means it's time to make those New Year's Resolutions and start looking to the future. It's also time to look at what new laws will be going into effect in Pennsylvania. Now, it's worth noting that not all new laws always go into effect on Jan. 1. Throughout the year, plenty of new laws have snuck their way into our lives. But, most major new laws do seem to roll out on Jan. 1, and this year is no exception.
There's one law that isn't changing this year, which I'm going to address, because people often ask about it. The minimum wage will remain at its rate of $7.25 in Pennsylvania, as no change from 2023 has been announced. According to Paycor.com, "While some states are on a schedule for annual increases to eventually reach $15 an hour, others still adhere to the federal minimum. Although the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 has not budged since 2009, more than 20 states have provided additional increases in 2024." Meanwhile, more than 20 states have announced minimum wage increases for 2024. In the majority of these states, the minimum wage is scheduled to increase on Jan. 1, 2024.
Two nearby states have actually passed legislation to reach a $15 minimum wage between 2025 and 2026. Those states are Delaware (2025) and New Jersey (2024). Other states that have passed legislation for a $15 minimum wage include Florida (2026), Illinois (2025), Maryland (2025), New York state (2025) and Rhode Island (2025). Also, according to Paycor.com, "The state with the highest minimum wage in 2024 is Washington, at $16.28. If Washington, D.C. were a state, it would have the highest minimum wage at $17.00."
Enough about the minimum wage. Let's get to the laws that are changing in Pennsylvania in 2024. We have five of them. Depending on your lifestyle, these could directly impact you, so read on to ensure you're staying legal.
Pennsylvania Laws Going Into Effect on January 1, 2024:
Preferred Organic Program Trademark
I love a good local farm, especially when it comes to their fresh food. This bill helps farmers identify which items are from them grocery stores. Items that have the PA Preferred Organic brand "will give consumers confidence they are getting a quality product that meets the high standards they expect."
Flood Insurance Premium Assistance Task Force
Ever been in a flood? This bill is for you. Well, if you have a future flood, at least. This bill will help homeowners obtain flood insurance, which is mandatory by the state.
Enforcement of Failure to Stop for School Bus With Flashing Red Lights, Imposing a Penalty and Editorial Change
Keep those kiddies safe. This bill will "extend and revamp the school bus stop arm automated enforcement program." It's all in an effort for increased safety.
Military Personnel - Residency Status for Students
This one helps our beloved military. This bill gives limited residency to people stationed at a military outpost in Pennsylvania.
Dog Law - Omnibus Amendments
Dog lovers, unite. This bill changes to the state dog law. For those who want a dog, this new bill alters how licenses are issued, kennel rules and penalties against violators. Keep those dogs safe.
