Westmoreland Review

The Senate has taken significant steps to finalize the 2023-24 state budget by approving two major bipartisan budget implementation bills. Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward, Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman, and Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Scott Martin announced the progress made in completing the state budget.

The bills in question, House Bill 1300 and House Bill 301, address the final components of the 2023-24 budget. These bills not only make major investments in the future of Pennsylvania but also prioritize the principles and priorities identified by Senate Republicans earlier this year.

According to Senator Kim Ward, "Today the General Assembly took the necessary final steps to conclude this year's state budget and moved several bipartisan bills to help Pennsylvanians. We were able to increase the child care tax credit and secure funding for community colleges while maintaining the fiscal solvency of the Commonwealth. We must all continue to work better together to ensure that Pennsylvanians have certainty to chart a prosperous path forward."

Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman expressed his satisfaction with the conclusion of the budget, stating, "We are pleased to reach the conclusion of the 2023-24 state budget today and to complete this process while maintaining our fiscal stability. The work within this budget to ensure state government respects taxpayer dollars is a hallmark of the Senate Republican Caucus. Responsible investments in this budget will strengthen our hospital community, support EMS providers, increase public safety, and empower parents through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program. With the historic transfer of $900 million made into the rainy-day fund, we are also well-prepared for the future."

Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Scott Martin emphasized the importance of completing the final components of the state budget, stating, "This will support our long-term goals of righting Pennsylvania's financial ship and building a better future for the next generation. It is also encouraging to see an increase in funding for EITC and OSTC programs to give even more students new educational opportunities that meet their individualized needs. This has been a major priority for Senate Republicans for decades, and I know this funding will make a difference for families throughout the Commonwealth."

The bipartisan support for the bills is evident, with House Bill 1300 receiving a 45-5 vote and House Bill 301 receiving a 43-7 vote in favor. Both bills have also been approved by the House of Representatives, and they are now awaiting the Governor's signature to become law.

These budget implementation bills address important and time-sensitive priorities. House Bill 1300 includes provisions such as increased funding for the child care tax credit and support for community colleges. On the other hand, House Bill 301 focuses on expanding education empowerment and access, including provisions for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program.

With the approval of these bills, Pennsylvania is one step closer to finalizing the 2023-24 state budget and ensuring that key funding is delivered to safeguard the health and safety of its residents. The responsible investments made in this budget will contribute to the long-term goals of the state and provide new opportunities for students and families throughout the Commonwealth.

For further information, please contact:

- Erica Clayton Wright (Sen. Ward)

- Kate Flessner (Sen. Pittman)

- Jason Thompson (Sen. Martin)

To learn more, click on this link: https://senatorward.com/2023/12/13/senate-takes-key-steps-to-finalize-2023-24-state-budget/