State Rep. Joe Hogan, R-Penndel, is pictured speaking during a meeting earlier this winter.

Warren’s Fourth of July celebration could become easier to pay for under legislation being drafted in the state Legislature.

Rep. Joe Hogan, R-Penndel, is drafting a bill that would create a new tax credit program allowing local businesses to help local governments and non-profit organizations to pay for Fourth of July events and parades. The program will be based on the Earned Income Tax Credit program.

“Recognizing the ratification of the Declaration of Independence and establishment of the United States of America, the Fourth ofJuly is many Americans’ favorite holiday,” Hogan wrote in his legislative memorandum. “From family barbecues, fireworks, or just a local parade, this is a day for all of us to come together and celebrate our shared values. Unfortunately, these events come at a cost that is sometimes too prohibitive for local governments”

Hogan has his eye on 2026, when the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary. Pennsylvania will play host to the FIFA World Cup and Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game. Hogan said if the tax credit program works well in 2025 that perhaps it could be scaled up to help with bigger events for 2026. .

“At a time when there is so much focus on what differentiates us from each other, we need to celebrate what unites us,” Hogan wrote. “This legislation will help do that by starting at the local level so that every community can celebrate the 4th of July in its own way.”

Warren’s Fourth of July parade celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023. In addition to the parade, thousands attend the city’s annual weekend Fourth of July festival each year.