Feb. 06, 2024
HARRISBURG — In response to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal for the 2024-25 fiscal year, Rep. David Rowe (R-Snyder/Union/Juniata/Mifflin) issued the following statement:
“Today the governor proposed a $48.34 billion spending plan that increases our level of state spending 8.4% over the current fiscal year,” said Rowe. “While most Pennsylvanians are tightening their belts, Governor Shapiro is going on a spending spree at the expense of the taxpayer.
“Over the next three years, the Governor’s proposal would eviscerate the General Fund of more than $8 billion before raiding the Rainy Day Fund savings account. With looming economic uncertainty and the difficult conditions already facing Pennsylvania families, this spree is unaffordable, irresponsible and only exacerbates the existing structural deficit. The cost to cover Shapiro’s $3.4 billion deficit in 2026 equals a tax hike of $1,000 per family of four.
“In the face of the property and Personal Income tax increases such reckless spending will inevitably cause, the governor is also asking the hard-working taxpayers of the 85th District to foot the bill for a $1.53 billion mass transit overhaul. My constituents are reaching deep into their pockets every time they fuel up, shop for groceries, and pay energy bills, yet the Governor wants our rural community to foot the bill for his urban, special-interest bailout.
“The people of Pennsylvania live within their means, and the Commonwealth budget should do the same.”
The governor’s “wish list” is the beginning of the state budget process. The House Appropriations Committee will soon begin its budget hearings to get a true sense of Pennsylvania’s financial standing. Through the budget hearing process, Rowe is hopeful the General Assembly and governor can work together to craft a balanced budget that respects taxpayers and funds the core functions of government. He is also a vocal advocate for legislation, like the Taxpayer Protection Act, that would put guardrails on increases in state spending, preventing the sort of “tax and spend” plan proposed today by Governor Josh Shapiro.
Representative David Rowe
85th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives