Lycoming News

State legislators have expressed strong opposition to a proposal by Penn State that could lead to the closure of its Schuylkill and Hazleton campuses. The group, consisting of State Sen. Dave Argall and State Reps. Jamie Barton, JoAnne Stehr, Tim Twardzik, Jamie Walsh, and Dane Watro, released a joint statement highlighting the potential negative impacts on local employment and the regional economy.

The statement emphasized the integral role these campuses play in the community: “Both Penn State Schuylkill and Penn State Hazleton are part of the fabric of our region. These campuses teach career-defining skills to many people who otherwise may not have access to higher education and connect them with local, in-demand jobs. They host countless events that bring our communities together and provide stable, family-sustaining wages to hundreds of our friends and neighbors."

The legislators made it clear that they would not support any plan leading to campus closures: “There is no plan to close these campuses we would accept. The opportunities they bring to Schuylkill County, Luzerne County, and beyond are life changing. Shuttering them would be a devastating loss for our region. We look forward to presenting our joint opposition directly and often to Penn State’s leadership.”

For further information, contact Jim Brugger.