New Crime Numbers: Here’s How Pennsylvania is Trending
Crime is always a hot topic. Of course, everyone wants to be as safe as possible in Pennsylvania and beyond. If you have kids, then you really want to rest…
Getty Images / MattGush
Getty Images / MattGushCrime is always a hot topic. Of course, everyone wants to be as safe as possible in Pennsylvania and beyond. If you have kids, then you really want to rest easy knowing they're safe, too. So, it's always good to be aware of where crime is in your area and the safest places to live. Well, a new crime report is out for the United States, and it's surprising. The reason it's surprising is because it's the opposite of a lot of public perception. Let's check out the new crime numbers in Pennsylvania.
Right now, more than three-quarters of Americans believe there is a higher crime rate in the U.S. than a year ago. Also, more than half of Americans say the same for local crime where they live, reports a recent Gallup poll. But, what's the reality?
The reality is that the U.S. had its biggest annual drop in homicides on record in 2023, reports ABC News. "The homicide rate in the United States is expected to plummet nearly 13% compared to 2022, meaning more than 2,000 fewer people were the victims of homicide this year," Jeff Asher, a national crime analyst, said in an interview with ABC News. Asher also details the decline, which is happening in both large and small cities, in his own report on Substack.
So, what direction are the new crime numbers going in Pennsylvania and, particularly, Philadelphia? ABC News did a review of preliminary crime data from the 10 largest U.S. cities. It showed that many of the "municipalities have seen double-digit year-over-year declines in 2023 homicides." That includes "an 11% drop in New York City, a 16% decrease in Los Angeles, and a 13% reduction in Chicago." They add that, "Homicides in Philadelphia, the nation's sixth biggest city, have fallen by 21%, according to the preliminary data." It's so great to see a double-digit decline in homicide rates in our own backyard. Let's keep it up and keep our streets as safe as possible.
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.
