Jul. 12, 2024
HARRISBURG – State Rep. Robert Leadbeter (R-Columbia) issued the following statement on the $47.6 billion state budget for fiscal year 2024-25:
“Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget inherently hurts Pennsylvanians once again by spending more than what comes into the Commonwealth. I am extremely against this budget and voted ‘no.’ This budget spends $3.3 billion more than anticipated revenues for the fiscal year, further exacerbating the structural deficit the Commonwealth already faces, selling out future generations.
“The governor and progressive Biden House Democrats have an agenda that only suits their wants, not the needs of taxpayers across Pennsylvania, who elected us to ensure fiscal responsibility; fight back against Biden’s open border policy; create economic growth; oppose tax increases and wasteful spending; promote parental rights; and help our seniors, veterans, and families who call this Commonwealth home. This budget is made by politicians, for politicians, and is a clear example of fiscal mismanagement that will burden our taxpayers and harm our Commonwealth’s economic future.
“The budget will create an unstainable path that jeopardizes the financial stability of our Commonwealth. During times of record inflation and soaring prices on everyday items, our responsibility is to ensure every dollar is spent wisely and that we do not leave future generations with a mountain of debt.
“Hard-working Pennsylvanians, like the hard-working folks in Columbia County, deserve a budget that is responsible and reflective of their needs, not one that caters to the whims of a few. We must prioritize sustainable spending and long-term financial health over short-term political gains.
“We are aware Republicans and Democrats have different priorities, especially regarding the financial health of our taxpayers. However, we can all agree that Pennsylvania taxpayers deserve a budget that ensures the government is spending taxpayer money effectively. In the present, we must focus on the future.”