Welcome to “Back in Session,” a podcast focused on exploring various state-level policies and legislation shaping our nation, one state at a time. Join our hosts, Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara from Duane Morris Government Strategies, as they engage a diverse range of guests to bring you behind the scenes of the legislative process.
Whether you are a policy wonk looking to dive into recent legislative developments, or a curious citizen interested in getting to learn more about the issues in your state and beyond, “Back in Session” is the podcast for you. Each episode offers fresh perspectives, shedding light on challenges and opportunities that shape policy landscapes in states around the country.
Subscribe now to stay informed on the always- evolving policy landscape in states around the country.
In this episode of Back In Session, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara dive deep into the work of the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) with guests Drew Dehoff and Stacey Hanrahan. From managing AI’s impact on water usage to restoring American eel populations, the SRBC plays a critical role in the health and sustainability of one of America’s most vital waterways. You’ll hear about the Commission’s unique structure, its real-world impact on local communities, and why protecting the Susquehanna isn’t just about the environment—it’s about the future.
About the SRBC:
The mission of the Commission, which is defined in the Compact, is to enhance public welfare through comprehensive planning, water supply allocation, and management of the water resources of the Susquehanna River Basin.
To accomplish this mission, the Commission works to: reduce damages caused by floods; provide for the reasonable and sustained development and use of surface and ground water for municipal, agricultural, recreational, commercial and industrial purposes; protect and restore fisheries, wetlands and aquatic habitat; protect water quality and instream uses; and ensure future availability of flows to the Chesapeake Bay.
Learn more:
Join hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara on this episode of the Back in Session podcast as they chat with Pennsylvania State Representative David Rowe, Chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee. Dive into Rowe’s unconventional path to politics, from teaching English in Taiwan and running CrossFit gyms to local township service and now tackling state issues. He breaks down the Policy Committee’s recent hearings on critical topics like welfare and benefit integrity, burdensome regulations stifling small businesses, childcare challenges amid closures and red tape, and government efficiency reforms showcased by State Treasurer Stacy Garrity. Plus, hear fun stories about sneaking pianos into the Capitol rotunda for impromptu performances and exploring the state’s historic vault full of unclaimed treasures. Whether you’re interested in policy insights or lighthearted Harrisburg anecdotes, this episode delivers all you’re looking for, and more.
Unconventional Beginnings
- Rep. David Rowe’s career started far from Harrisburg—in Taiwan, teaching English to underserved students. Later, he ran CrossFit gyms before entering local government. That real-world experience now shapes his legislative goals.
What Makes the Policy Committee Unique
- Rather than pushing legislation from a desk, the Policy Committee hits the road, listening to Pennsylvanians firsthand and shaping policy around their concerns.
Cracks in the Safety Net
- Rowe highlighted how improper Medicaid and SNAP payments waste up to 25% of taxpayer funds. He argues that work requirements and modern tech can restore trust and effectiveness.
Crushing Burden of Regulation
- Pennsylvania has over 160,000 regulations. According to Rowe, “it would take 18 weeks of full-time reading just to get through them.” Small businesses are folding under compliance costs.
Childcare at a Breaking Point
- With five centers closing in just four counties this year, childcare is in crisis. The committee’s hearings revealed how bizarre and conflicting regulations, from flowerbeds to swing sets, are driving providers out of business.
Treasury Shows What’s Possible
- Rowe discusses a recent hearing where State Treasurer Stacy Garrity testified. According to Rowe, the Treasurer’s efficient, transparent, tech-savvy approach, including AI assistants and fraud recovery, proves that government can work smarter.
Music & Memory in the Rotunda
- The episode closes on a festive note, literally, with Rep. Rowe recounting the time he and a colleague snuck pianos into the Capitol to play Christmas duets.
Latest News
In this insightful episode of the Back In Session podcast, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara chat with Drew Dehoff and Stacey Hanrahan from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC). The conversation covers everything from [...]
In the latest episode of Back in Session, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara talk with Anne Gingerich, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO), about how budget uncertainty at both the [...]
In this episode of Back in Session, Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara welcome New Jersey Assemblyman Mike Inganamort for a wide-ranging and energizing conversation about life in the Garden State and the real challenges facing small-town [...]
Inside the Vault: Unclaimed Property, 529 Plans & PA’s Fiscal Health with PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity
In this episode of Back in Session, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara sit down with Pennsylvania State Treasurer Stacey Garrity for a wide-ranging conversation. From her 30-year military service to her rise in the private [...]
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