Jailed ex-lawmaker may soon be freed

HARRISBURG — A top former Pennsylvania House Democrat serving prison sentences for corruption may be a free man soon. The Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole said Friday that Mike Veon could be paroled as soon as June 18.

The Beaver County Times reported that the board cited good behavior by the 58-year-old Veon, as well as his low risk to the community, motivation and taking responsibility for his crimes.

He is in the Laurel Highlands state prison.

Workers’ comp rate continues decline

HARRISBURG — The cost of Workers’ Compensation insurance is declining for the fourth consecutive year in Pennsylvania.

The state departments of Insurance and Labor & Industry said Friday that overall rates will decline by 5.99 percent while benefits for injured workers remain unchanged. The changes take effect Wednesday and will save businesses an estimated $140 million this year.

Officials say the effect on individual businesses will vary based on their risk classification, claims experience and other factors. Not all employers will see a decrease in rates.

Workers’ Compensation covers medical care and rehabilitation for workers injured on the job, and lost wages and death benefits for employees killed in work-related accidents.

Deal won’t change Heinz Field name

PITTSBURGH — H.J. Heinz Co. says the Steelers’ stadium will continue to be named after the Pittsburgh-based ketchup and foods company despite a planned merger with Kraft Foods Group.

If the merger announced Wednesday is approved, the new company will be Kraft Heinz Co. But the stadium, which opened in 2001, will continue to be called Heinz Field. Heinz signed a $57 million, 20-year naming rights deal when the stadium opened. That means the stadium will keep the name for at least six more years.