IRS Free File Tax Program

All taxpayers making less than $57,000 can visit www.IRS.gov and use the industry’s top tax preparation software for free. Users get the step-by-step help they need to prepare, complete and file federal tax returns online – at no cost.

The program is made possible through a partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance – a group of industry-leading tax software providers. Since 2003, the Free File program has delivered free tax services to more than 25 million people.

Not only is the program completely free and secure, but taxpayers who use Free File with direct deposit may receive refunds in as little 10 days.

Free File is a vital service for the American taxpayer. We encourage you to help spread the word so we can serve as many taxpayers as possible. Please issue a press release, post a link to www.IRS.gov on your website, and use all of your communications tools to make sure your constituents are aware of this free tax service.

To learn more, please get in touch or visit www.freefilealliance.org.

Stout Announces Retirement from Senate

EIGHTY FOUR – February 4, 2010 – Veteran Washington County lawmaker Sen. J. Barry Stout said today that he has decided not to seek re-election to a ninth term representing the 46th Senate District and will retire from the Pennsylvania Senate at the end of his current term in November.

“At the end of this term, I will finish nearly 40 years of serving the citizens of southwestern Pennsylvania,” Stout said. “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve and to have been a part of a dynamic period in our state’s history.

“I am grateful for all the kindness and courtesy that has been extended to me over the years by so many people, but it is time to conclude my career in public service and retire,” Stout said. » Read More

DEP Urges Hybrid Vehicle Buyers to Apply for PA Rebate Before March 6

HARRISBURG, Feb. 1, 2010 - - Pennsylvanians who have recently purchased or leased a hybrid electric vehicle or are in the market for one should act quickly to take advantage of a $500 rebate from the commonwealth’s Hybrid Electric Vehicle Rebate Program while funds are available.

The rebate program is scheduled to end March 6, but applications will be accepted until early September for eligible new vehicle purchases or leases. As time passes, though, there is no guarantee that funds will be available to provide a rebate. » Read More

Stout Bill Would Name Bridge
after ‘Stan the Man’

HARRISBURG, January 28, 2010 –
State Sen. J. Barry Stout today announced that his bill designating a bridge in his district as the “Stan Musial Bridge” was unanimously approved by the Senate Transportation Committee.

The bill now goes to the full Senate for a vote. » Read More

Stout, White Announce $210 Cecil Twp. Recreation Grant

HARRISBURG, January 20, 2010 - - State Sen. J. Barry Stout and state Rep. Jesse White today announced a $210,000 state recreation grant for Cecil Township in Washington County.

The grant will be used to acquire 26 acres of property along Klinger Road which the township plans to develop into a recreation campus. The project will also provide a long-awaited connection to the Montour Trail.

» Read More

Governor Rendell: Efficient Management Allows Expansion of Home Heating Program for Low-Income Families

Harrisburg - Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced significant changes to Pennsylvania’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program - better known as LIHEAP -- that will help keep low-income families warm this winter.

The federally-funded LIHEAP helps income-eligible households pay for heat during the winter months and is administered by the Department of Public Welfare. » Read More

Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Drilling Raises Concerns Over Water and Road Issues » Listen

Applying for non-civil service state jobs just got easier!
www.employment.pa.gov

The commonwealth has improved the way you can apply for non-civil service state jobs. Paper applications are being phased out, so from now on you’ll need to apply online at www.employment.pa.gov. You will provide your contact information and work history, then select the type of job you want to apply for. Applicants say it takes about 20 to 30 minutes and you can log back on any time to update your information or apply for additional jobs.

» Read More » Download Non-Civil Service Employment FAQ

Stout, Solobay Announce Local Recycling Grants

HARRISBURG, December 3, 2009 - - State Sen. J. Barry Stout and state Rep. Tim Solobay today announced a $7,322 recycling performance state grant for Canonsburg Borough.

The grant is under the Recycling Performance Grant Program and is based on the 728.4 tons recycled for calendar year 2007 and the municipality’s population.

“Recycling is one of the most proven and successful ways to preserve our environment for future generations,” Stout said. “Canonsburg Borough runs an extremely successful recycling program and this state grant is well-deserved.” » Read More

Pennsylvania Governor Rendell Announces New Emergency Notification System
Prison Officials Enhance Emergency Warnings with AlertPA

HARRISBURG - - Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced the launch of AlertPA, an emergency notification system that helps to provide Pennsylvanians with timely information during an urgent situation.

"When emergencies, severe weather, and other life and health threatening incidents occur, Pennsylvanians can be among the first to know by signing up for AlertPA," said Governor Rendell. "The system allows citizens to choose to be notified about emergencies and other announcements." » Read More

In uncertain times, Pennsylvanians need information they can rely on. Trust Penn State Extension, with its state-wide network of educators, to provide you and your family with strategies to live well in any circumstances. » Learn More  » Download Flyer