Westmoreland Review

Rep. Eric Nelson from Westmoreland County has expressed concerns following Governor Josh Shapiro's 2024-25 budget proposal. In a statement, Nelson criticized the governor's approach to state spending, suggesting that it would lead to increased financial burdens on working families.

Nelson stated, "Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget opens the barn doors and shouts ‘Spend! Spend! Spend!’ across just about every government agency." He voiced his opposition to the governor's reliance on sin taxes through recreational marijuana and expanded gambling, as well as using one-time savings for ongoing expenses. According to Nelson, these measures set the stage for significant tax hikes.

Despite his criticism, Nelson acknowledged some positive aspects of the budget proposal. "I agree with his proposals for economic development, improvements in senior care, and enhancing our state police," he said. However, he emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility: "We MUST live within our means, prioritize programs and be balanced in our budget."

Higher education funding is a key concern for Nelson. He appreciated that Governor Shapiro is addressing this issue but remains cautious about increased spending without addressing underlying problems. "Revamping higher education funding is a priority for me and I am glad to see the governor taking the subject seriously," Nelson remarked.

He also pointed out that responsible spending transcends party lines but warned against depleting reserves built over more than a decade of fiscal management by the General Assembly. Nelson concluded by cautioning that new government programs requiring annual funding could result in future tax increases: "Today’s proposal spends the greater portion of those funds on new government programs that will need annual funding. That will all but guarantee a tax increase in the coming years."