Rep. Chad Reichard, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, said on Apr. 15 that the recently proposed Pennsylvania state budget lacks realism and responsibility.
Reichard’s comments come after a vote on a budget plan he described as rushed and unlikely to become law. The issue is important because the state’s financial decisions this year will have long-term effects on residents and future generations.
“What we saw in taking up a vote on a budget was pure pageantry not set in the realities Pennsylvanians face. House Democrats again rushed through a budget, essentially a copy/paste from Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed $53.26 billion spending plan, that has no chance of becoming law,” Reichard said in his statement.
He added, “While I appreciate the need to improve government efficiency, we must not mistake quick action for the right action, especially when it comes to road mapping Pennsylvania’s finances. The decisions we make this year will have lasting impacts on all future generations. We must get it right.” Reichard also emphasized his role as a steward of taxpayer money: “My constituents sent me to Harrisburg to be a good steward of taxpayer dollars. I do not believe increasing spending to the point that necessitates dipping into the Rainy Day Fund is warranted or appropriate. We must find a better way forward.” He concluded by stating his commitment to further discussions: “I look forward to having the tough discussions in the coming weeks as we work toward a budget that respects the hardworking taxpayers.”
The debate over Pennsylvania’s state budget is expected to continue in upcoming legislative sessions.
