Heffley Responds to Governor’s Budget Proposal
February 4, 2025
HARRISBURG – Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon) attended a joint session of the General Assembly at which Gov. Josh Shapiro presented his budget proposal for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Heffley issued the following statement in response to the governor’s plan:
“Gov. Shapiro's proposed budget totals $51.47 billion, reflecting a $3.57 billion increase in spending – roughly a 7.5% rise from the current year. This would completely deplete the remaining $2.89 billion in the General Fund surplus.
“The budget proposal is ambitious, and I am encouraged by the governor’s focus on adequately funding programs for senior citizens and our schools. However, I am disappointed by his lack of emphasis on property tax relief. The governor continues to advocate for energy taxes while discussing support for working families and job creation, yet the most pressing issue for many is the high cost of energy. Increasing energy costs will not alleviate the burden on Pennsylvania families or reduce the cost of living. It appears that the governor’s solution to every challenge is to increase spending, without offering opportunities for working-class families. This approach is not the most effective way to improve the quality of life for all Pennsylvanians.
“As Chairman of the House Human Services Committee, I believe it is crucial that we prioritize ensuring that seniors and individuals with intellectual disabilities, who depend on home care and services, receive the necessary and adequate funding for these essential programs in the budget.
“In the coming months, I will work closely with my colleagues to develop a responsible and reasonable budget plan that addresses the needs of all Pennsylvanians, while ensuring fiscal responsibility and offering real relief to working families. We will focus on balancing necessary investments with sustainable solutions, including addressing the rising costs of energy and property taxes.”
The governor’s address is just the beginning of the annual state budget process. The House Appropriations Committee will conduct a series of hearings starting Tuesday, Feb. 18, to examine the details of the governor’s plan and how state departments and agencies are spending their funding. The General Assembly and governor face a June 30 deadline to finalize the budget.
Representative Doyle Heffley
122nd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
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