Harrisburg, PA – Today, Governor Josh Shapiro became the first statewide elected official to launch official channels on WhatsApp — continuing his Administration’s commitment to providing timely updates and expanding the ways Pennsylvanians can connect with state government. WhatsApp is used by over 100 million Americans – including many in the Latino community — and Governor Shapiro launched WhatsApp channels in English and Spanish, part of his Administration’s ongoing work to meet people where they are and ensure all Pennsylvanians can access state government.
Governor Shapiro believes there should be no wrong door to accessing state government — and whether you’re staying informed on your phone, catching up on social media, or finding news in the language you’re most comfortable with, the Shapiro Administration is making it easier to connect with your government wherever you are.
On WhatsApp, both the English and Spanish channels will offer timely updates Pennsylvanians can act on – like when applications open for programs such as the Property Tax/Rent Rebate (PTRR) Program, responses to trending issues, and helpful resources.
The launch of these new digital tools builds on the Shapiro Administration’s broader commitment to modernizing how Pennsylvanians interact with their government, including a text messaging resource that allows direct communication between the Governor’s Office and the people of Pennsylvania. Using Community, an SMS engagement platform, Pennsylvanians can now receive first-hand updates and share what’s impacting them and their families by texting 717-788-8990.
Governor Shapiro knows meeting people where they are is an important part of engaging with Pennsylvanians in every community across the Commonwealth – and connecting with them online through the social media platforms they use daily and collaborating with content creators is an important part of how his Administration engages in meaningful conversations and shares critical updates.
Since taking office, Governor Shapiro and his Administration have focused on delivering better government services – positioning Pennsylvania as a leader in efficiency, accountability, and digital innovation – to streamline online services and improve user experience across Commonwealth websites and platforms. By reforming the Commonwealth’s permitting, licensing, and certification (PLC) processes, launching a redesigned PA.gov, and implementing digital service and online improvements through the Commonwealth Office of Digital Experience (CODE PA), the Shapiro Administration is using technology and innovation to make government services faster, more accessible, and more effective for all Pennsylvanians.
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