Feb. 06, 2024
HARRISBURG – Today, Rep. Rob Mercuri (R-Allegheny) released the following statement regarding Gov. Josh Shapiro’s 2024-25 state budget address. Shapiro’s initial proposal is a $48.34 billion budget for the fiscal year, increasing state spending by $3.7 billion, or 8.4%, over the current fiscal year.
“Included in today’s proposal are plenty of initiatives I can agree with, including increases in Basic Education Funding, as well as significant investment in health care programs, including mental health services.
“At the forefront of the budgetary process should be the focus on economic competitiveness and a goal to make Pennsylvania an increasingly competitive state. It is essential to remain financially responsible and maintain balance through our spending. This is a goal that can be achieved, and I look forward to working with the governor and my colleagues to see that become a reality.
“Over the coming months, work will be done to find common ground on these initiatives, but as the current proposal stands, massive spending will only lead to taxing increases and fiscal failure in the future.
“The more we allow state spending to grow out of control, the harder it becomes to reign in. Today’s budget proposal included over $2.5 billion in new government spending for expanding or creating more government programs. Broken programs do not need more funding but rather solutions to fix their existing shortcomings. Spending more will not fix existing problems.
“Gov. Shapiro’s budget proposal reverses past House Republican efforts to build a balance in the Rainy Day Fund to address any future economic downturns, and entirely avoids the practice of fiscal responsibility.
“I believe we can do big things in Pennsylvania, but when we aim to spend money we do not have, it simply leads to future financial obstacles and tax hikes. We are well poised economically to tackle these issues without increasing taxes or placing future funds in jeopardy.
“Fortunately, today’s address is just the beginning of the budgetary process. Over the course of the next few months, members from both sides of the aisle will work vigilantly through this proposal to find the best outcomes for our Commonwealth of today and the future.
“I look forward to taking a more in-depth look at the fine print of this budget and finding much- needed common ground in order to deliver the best results for the 28th House District and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”
Representative Rob Mercuri
28th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tim Craine 717.609.7331
tcraine@pahousegop.com
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