HARRISBURG – For the second time this year, Senate Republicans approved a state budget that respects taxpayers and protects the financial stability of our commonwealth while ensuring that counties, school districts, and other state government partners receive needed funding, said Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20).
The amended budget bill, Senate Bill 160, totals $47.9 billion, a responsible spending level that represents an increase of $300 million from the plan passed by the Senate in August. The new Senate budget plan continues to meet the Senate Republican requirement of imposing no tax hikes on Pennsylvania families while taking the added step of fully funding the commonwealth’s debt service and its share of school employees’ retirement. These steps will ensure Pennsylvania’s credit rating remains strong and the school employees’ pension system meets its obligation to current and retired teachers.
“This is another good-faith effort to address the vast majority of programs and spending responsibilities to get Pennsylvania moving again,” Baker said. “This is not just a stand-firm budget. Instead, it includes an additional $300 million to deal with circumstances arising during the deadlock. Regrettably, the governor has seemed more concerned about leverage, narrative and national profile than about reaching a sensible and supportable agreement on a realistic and fiscally responsible state budget. Our action today does not close the door on further negotiations to complete a full-year budget. Our purpose is to remove the extreme brinksmanship that is inflicting needless uncertainty and tangible harm on families, workers and communities.”
Leading by example, the Senate-passed budget includes a 5% cut in spending for the General Assembly, reflecting the Senate Republican priority of drawing down excess reserves and right-sizing legislative spending.
Senate Republicans have once again passed a responsible state budget. In one day and with one vote from House Democrats, this budget can get to the governor’s desk. The Democrats’ budget impasse should never have happened, and those who rely on government services and programs should not be facing hardship.
CONTACT: Jennifer Wilson