Feb. 04, 2020
HARRISBURG – Rep. Marci Mustello (R-Butler) issued the following statement in reaction to Gov. Tom Wolf’s budget address made before the General Assembly on Tuesday, Feb. 4.
“The governor’s budget address represents a starting point. I look forward to a deeper examination of the details of his proposal and work closely with my House colleagues to develop a budget that works for the people of Pennsylvania.
“What we have seen from the governor today is more of the same – more spending, more taxes and more debt.
“I was disappointed that the governor fails to properly fund our career and technical schools. Investing in career and technical job training is one of my top priorities. I have been heavily involved in efforts to raise awareness of jobs and careers in these fields. Not only do jobs in these industries pay well, but they are also greatly in demand and keep people in western Pennsylvania.
“I am also disappointed that our community colleges will not see an increase in funding. Community colleges offer open admission, low tuition, and a variety of educational programs that build career skills or prepare students for a four-year degree. They also have the flexibility to adjust educational programming based on local or regional needs. I am proud to have Butler County Community College in my district. The enrollment and curriculum are excellent and students have the opportunity to excel.
“The governor is once again seeking to impose a natural gas extraction tax on our region’s job-creating energy producers. Natural gas is creating tens of thousands of good paying jobs. What’s more, countless household goods produced with natural gas – everything from life-saving medicines and batteries to computers and cameras – are now more affordable for consumers.
“Given that the economy in Pennsylvania continues to get stronger, the reality of our fiscal situation is that we must reduce the proposed spending for 2020-21. I remain committed to a budget that respects taxpayers while helping continue to foster job growth and economic development across our Commonwealth. It is imperative that we continue to look for reforms and ways to make government more efficient, instead of looking for ways to spend more tax dollars.”
“The governor’s address is the traditional start of the budget process. The next step is a series of budget hearings by the House Appropriations Committee, which are scheduled to begin on Tuesday, Feb. 18.”
Representative Marci Mustello
11th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Rick Leiner
717.260.6437 (office), 717.497.8478 (cell)
Rleiner@pahousegop.com
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