HARRISBURG, PA — On Thursday, the state’s House and Senate approved a budget amounting to $47.59 billion. This ground-breaking budget, much touted for its significant earmarks in education, public safety, health services, and economic development, was passed only two weeks beyond the constitutional deadline and demonstrated a commitment to addressing critical issues that directly affect Pennsylvania’s populace.
Democratic senators Jay Costa and Vincent Hughes celebrated the budget. “This budget makes significant investments in the issues Pennsylvanians find important and impactful,” stated Costa, who leads the Senate Democrats. He highlighted the over $1 billion new funds for Pre-K to 12 education and the $900 million increase to address education adequacy needs.
This budget is especially notable for its focus on economic development. More than $45 million will be allocated for new programs aimed at supporting new jobs and businesses, including funding for the PA SITES program. Additionally, the PHARE Housing Program will receive a $40 million increase for affordable housing spread over four years.
Costa took pride in sharing that the Nonprofit Security Grant Program has seen a doubling in its investment, now totaling $10 million, to protect vulnerable communities. Costa acknowledged, “There is so much more to celebrate, and also much more work to do.”
For Senator Hughes, the budget symbolizes a “historic downpayment” on their responsibility to improve Pennsylvania’s education system. Referring to the massive increase of over $1 billion for Pre-K to 12 education funding, he said, “we’re taking an important step to right that egregious wrong.”
While the budget proposal has landmark provisions such as long-overdue investments for higher education reform and substantial increases in areas like education, affordable housing, and economic development, it also points to some missed opportunities. Some initiatives like recreational marijuana, increasing the minimum wage, more funds for public transportation, and a first-time homebuyers’ savings program were left out.
This substantial budget reflects a significant increase in spending of about $2.7 billion, marking a 6% growth over last year’s plan, and was signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro.
The 2024-2025 state budget illuminates the potential of what can be achieved through compromise and dedication. Though it does carry the weight of missed initiatives, the important strides that have been made for Pennsylvania, especially within its education system and economic development, set a hopeful tone for the future.
Pennsylvania citizens can anticipate the transformative power that this budget holds in addressing their needs across the Commonwealth. Although some areas still require attention, the budget symbolizes a giant leap forward while also setting a roadmap for the future.
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