🥦 When will cannabis be legal in PA?

PPS Seeks Advice on Underused Schools

Pittsburgh Public Schools will hold 10 community meetings this summer to discuss ways to better utilize the district’s 61 school buildings. In August, administrators are expected to present the school board with recommendations that could include consolidations or closures. The state requires public hearings before a final vote on any school closings. [90.5 WESA]

• 🏫 Half empty: In its annual report in September, A+Schools said there were as many seats unfilled as there were students in the district. [A+Schools]

New Safety Proposal for Uber & Lyft

Bucks County Rep. Tim Brennan wants ride-hail drivers to better identify themselves by displaying an ID with the driver’s name, photo, and license plate number. This information would have to be visible along with illuminated signs and a credential placard in the vehicle. Brennan says that these steps are necessary to prevent criminals and predators from posing as drivers. [WTAJ-TV]

BNY Mellon To Drop Pittsburgh Name

The New York-based financial firm is rebranding, but not cutting its local ties. Bank of New York (BNY) merged with Mellon Financial of Pittsburgh in 2007. A company spokesperson said the logo will be simplified to BNY, but they’ll keep the signage on the building Downtown. He added Pittsburgh is their largest U.S jobs center, and that the firm is looking to expand in southwestern Pennsylvania. [TribLive]

Water Everywhere, But Not Available

Get ready to pack your own water bottle because most of the city’s 200 public fountains aren’t turned on. A city public works spokesperson said they only have one plumber and he has to prioritize readying the pools, spray parks, and bathrooms ahead of the water fountains. However, they’re trying to enlist plumbers from PWSA and Pittsburgh Public Schools. [KDKA-TV]

Owners Furious Over Planned Pet Limits

West Mifflin Borough Council is holding a public hearing June 18 on a proposed ordinance that would limit residents to three dogs or five cats, or a combination of five total. A borough spokesperson said they want to eliminate nuisance problems. Critics claim the borough is punishing responsible owners and their pets. [WPXI]

Gov. Shapiro Wants To Legalize Weed. What’s the Holdup?

There's actually a good reason to visit Ohio now! We jest, but newly available recreational cannabis might make your to-do list. Now that our western neighbors will have expanded access to legal cannabis products, what should Pittsburgh expect? Spotlight PA reporter Ed Mahon is here with some answers and to remind us where we stand.