PAOLI, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro this week signed into law a significant bipartisan state budget for 2023-24. The legislation includes major funding initiatives that will serve to propel Pennsylvania forward. State Representative Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, has lauded the successful passage of the budget, which she describes as a testament to effective compromise in the commonwealth.
The final budget includes a major expansion of the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit program. It also earmarks $100 million for student mental health services, $50 million to support struggling community hospitals, and $50 million to enhance 911 services. Additional investments have been made towards public safety, community colleges, libraries, teachers, and police.
Shusterman, who co-prime sponsored House Bill 1259 enhancing the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit program, expressed her pride at this legislative achievement.
“Pennsylvania is unique in being the only state where the House and Senate are controlled by different political parties. Despite past legislative gridlock, it’s an honor to have my sponsored legislation signed into law. This law will financially benefit nearly a quarter million families and facilitate parents returning to the workforce. It’s a historic investment in Pennsylvania families that has garnered bipartisan support,” said Shusterman.
The school code bills also include measures to bolster education in the state. Besides a $567 million increase in basic education funding – the largest in history – and a $46.5 million hike to provide universal free breakfast to 1.7 million K-12 students, the bills allocate $261 million for community colleges, $100 million for student mental health services, $70.5 million for libraries, and $10 million for stipends for student teachers.
“Education investment is a sound strategy for our future. Skilled teachers, accessible community colleges, and knowledgeable librarians can create opportunities for students. With an increasing need for skilled workers, we are committed to funding education and apprenticeships to help Pennsylvania businesses stay competitive. It’s also crucial to alleviate some financial burden for student-teachers to encourage their continued service in the profession,” Shusterman elaborated.
The budget also aims to build safer communities by supporting law enforcement and first responders, promoting anti-violence initiatives, and implementing smart reforms for safety.
Shusterman concluded, “This fiscally responsible budget funds vital community programs. We are assisting state police recruitment and training of nearly 400 new troopers and we’re bolstering 911 services statewide. This funding will address staffing gaps for critical public safety roles, ensuring our communities remain safe.”
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