Mako Supports Reforms Included in Budget Package
HARRISBURG — Rep. Zach Mako (R-Lehigh/Northampton) today issued the following statement in response to passage of a $50.1 billion state budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26:
“While I voted against the General Appropriations bill due to its high spend level, I supported some of the related legislation which addresses three main priorities I have been advocating for along with my colleagues – exiting from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), supporting efficient government and supporting student-centered education.
“Under the Tom Wolf administration, Pennsylvania joined RGGI without legislative approval. We have been fighting this gubernatorial overreach ever since, and the issue is now pending before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. As a result of the budget package, the governor has agreed to drop the court case and remove the Commonwealth from RGGI. This now puts the authority back where it belongs – with the General Assembly. Exiting from RGGI will help jumpstart the energy industry in Pennsylvania and prevent further hikes in utility bills for residents.
“I also supported language that puts permitting reform into law. For too long, the state Department of Environmental Protection has dragged its feet in issuing permits. Also, amazingly state government never had a tracking system for permits. The changes that will soon be put into place to address these concerns will signal Pennsylvania is open for business, which will allow for growth of the economy.
“Two other areas of change I supported add benefit integrity to Medical Assistance and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and improve educational opportunities. More specifically, Pennsylvania will now cross-reference death certificates, and income and employment records so that those truly in need are getting the benefits they deserve. One of the key educational reforms requires schools to use evidence-based reading instruction, literacy screening and interventions so all students learn to read. Shockingly, about only a third of Pennsylvania fourth grade students read at grade level. This lack of literacy skills affects learning in all subject areas.”
For more information on the 2025-26 budget, visit
www.pabudget.com.
The 183rd District includes Lowhill and North Whitehall townships and Slatington Borough in Lehigh County. It also consists of Allen, East Allen, Lehigh and Moore (part) townships, and Bath, North Catasauqua, Northampton and Walnutport boroughs in Northampton County.
Representative Zachary Mako
183rd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives