Government Relations Updates
The Mayor had a busy week this with a number of public appearances, and City Council continued its FY27 budget hearings, discussing Parks & Libraries, Children, Families & Human Services, and Administrative & Government Operations. The PA House and Senate were not in session this week, but a number of committees met and Governor Shapiro held a statewide pep rally at Cherry Street Pier in Philadelphia to build excitement about 2026 events.
The Bellevue Compass
Congress left for a two-week recess with no deal in place to fund DHS. Meanwhile, President Trump directed the agency to use emergency funds to pay TSA. What happens next? Maybe another reconciliation bill—if the GOP can decide what to put in it.
In Case You Missed It
Job growth “surged past expectations” in March and the unemployment rate dropped, a surprise to some economists after February’s number saw job shedding. Guy Berger, a senior fellow at the Burning Glass Institute, called it an “incredible zig-zagging employment situation”.
Iranian state media reported that the country shot down an F-15 fighter jet, and search and rescue is now underway for two service members.
The federal government on Thursday sued Connecticut, Arizona and Illinois, challenging their efforts to regulate prediction market operators such as Kalshi and Polymarket, according to AP News.
Pennsylvania lawmakers could begin requiring employers to provide paid parental and medical leave—but there’s major disagreement on who bears the cost of it, and if the bill is ready.
The first photos are emerging from Artemis II’s mission as the spacecraft heads towards the moon.
Go Phillies! ⚾️
See you next week!
The Bellevue Team