🛍️ Plastic bag use widespread, despite ban

PA Adopts $50.8 Billion Budget

The budget, which Gov. Josh Shapiro signed into law on Sunday, sends more money to schools, gives thousands of retired workers a pension bump, and requires data centers to report their energy and water consumption. But it fails to address pressing questions like how to fund public transit and whether to regulate skill games. [Spotlight PA]

Some North Philly Officers Ignore Body-Cam Protocol

An audit released by the city's police watchdog organization found that many officers in the 22nd Police District didn't follow mandates on when to turn on their body-worn cameras. Around a quarter of incidents were recorded, which the Citizens Police Oversight Commission found to be the lowest rate of the four districts that were reviewed. [🔒 The Inquirer]

• Related: What does this commission have power to investigate? [🎧 City Cast Philly]

Plastic Bag Ban Who?

Many local businesses are not complying with bag laws that began with a 2021 ban on single-use plastic bags. The PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center found that 55% of 80 surveyed businesses were not following the law, either by still providing plastic bags or not charging 10 cents for approved bags. [6abc]

Cool Down at These Nearby Water Holes

Want to swim with horses or tube down the Delaware River? The region has waterways, beaches, and lakes where you can do much more than just swim. Get your feet wet with these water-focused recommendations and safety tips for the summer. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

• Related: Here's where you can learn to swim locally. [📝 City Cast Philly]

John Fetterman x Dave McCormick

A collab no one expected has been announced between Pennsylvania Sens. John Fetterman, a (supposed) Democrat, and Dave McCormick, a Republican. The two have created a joint fundraising committee called Common Ground PA. The senators haven't always been friendly, but with Fetterman spending more time boosting Republican priorities, the joint venture seems less out of left field (or should I say right?). [The Center Square]