Upper Bucks Today

Rep. Craig Staats has voiced concerns over Governor Josh Shapiro's proposed $51.47 billion budget, describing it as unsustainable and potentially harmful to Pennsylvania's financial future.

The proposed budget reflects an increase in spending by $3.57 billion, which is a 7.5% rise from the current year. To fund this, the plan includes utilizing one-time funds by depleting the remaining $2.89 billion budget surplus and transferring $1.6 billion from the Rainy Day Fund, which Staats argues could leave the state vulnerable to economic challenges.

"This approach sets Pennsylvania up for serious fiscal challenges in the years ahead," stated Staats. "Pennsylvania families and businesses budget responsibly. They expect the same from their government. This budget is built on wishful thinking rather than fiscal responsibility, and taxpayers deserve better."

Staats also criticized the energy policies outlined in Shapiro's proposal, specifically referencing the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction Act (PACER). He claimed that PACER imposes an "unfair carbon tax" on coal and natural gas power plants, suggesting that these costs would ultimately be transferred to consumers through increased energy bills.

Governor Shapiro’s proposal marks the beginning of a detailed budget process involving weeks of Appropriations Committee hearings and negotiations among the House, Senate, and governor.

Representative Craig Staats represents Pennsylvania's 145th Legislative District in the House of Representatives.