Our policy research function is manifested in policy papers stressing that government in Pennsylvania - and government leaders in the Commonwealth - should focus on accountability, efficiency, and responsibility in providing government services and in public service.
Our 30 minute television production is seen on cable channels across the Commonwealth. The program provides insights into current events affecting Pennsylvanians, such as the economy, health care, taxes, the environment, schools, and how taxpayer money is being spent.
Various productions are available online as video or audio programs. Topics include PA History Makers, public policy and more.
The Susquehanna Valley Center for Public Policy's Mission
The Susquehanna Valley Center for Public Policy is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit public policy research organization that stresses that government in Pennsylvania - and government leaders in the Commonwealth - should focus on accountability, efficiency, and responsibility in providing government services and in public service. The Center places special emphasis on free market principles, the role of servanthood, and the responsibilities of citizenship that form the foundation of our political structure.
Recent Additions to our Policy Papers
Federal Tax Complexity Makes Pennsylvania’s Flat Rate Income Tax Look More Appealing
Complaining about taxes is part of our birthright and DNA. What is subject to taxation, what the tax rates are set at, and what the money is supposedly squandered on are all matters of considerable contention through the years. Pennsylvanians were prominent in the protests that sparked the American Revolution. Independence did not quell […]
Have Governor Pick Lieutenant Governor, Plus Give #2 More To Do
Have Governor Pick Lieutenant Governor, Plus Give #2 More To Do By David A. Atkinson When states are compared on policy issues and financial matters, Pennsylvania rarely ranks high. However, our state is counted among the league leaders in political peculiarities. Certainly that list includes choosing governors and lieutenant governors separately in the primary election, […]
Elevating Judicial Elections By Removing Political Party Control
When I came to Harrisburg as an intern, a statewide judicial race was underway. In those comparatively horse-and-buggy days, high-priced consultants were not making a living off judicial races, and party help was mostly ministerial. Judicial races ranked low on the party scorecard, making party dollars scarce. The Republican candidate dutifully brought yard signs and […]
Want To Limit School Strikes? Try Subtracting From School Contract Negotiations The Battles Over Health Care Coverage For Teachers
A new school year typically launches with optimism and enthusiasm. Regrettably, those good feelings are substantially tempered in school districts experiencing labor strife. And in those where hard feelings over past standoffs still fester. Education is a high stakes undertaking, with many interests invested financially and emotionally. It is no surprise that a disruption […]