Jun. 25, 2021
HARRISBURG – Rep. Lori Mizgorski (R-Allegheny) announced that the House of Representatives has passed the 2021-22 state budget.
The budget promises funds to support core government services, and prioritize education and those most vulnerable, while saving for the future of the Commonwealth. The state’s Rainy Day Fund will receive a deposit of more than $2.52 billion, growing the fund total to $2.76 billion. The budget also promises no new taxes or fees.
“These funds are important to ensure fiscal responsibility for Pennsylvania,” said Mizgorski. “We have thought about long-term spending and saving this money for future spending and emergencies just makes sense.”
Children of Pennsylvania are winners with the budget plan as it supports traditional public schools, public charter schools and private/parochial schools. It sets a record high of $13.55 billion for PreK-12 education.
“Our students’ schoolwork suffered during the pandemic as they struggled to keep up with virtual and hybrid learning,” Mizgorski continued. “These kids are the future of our Commonwealth and funding the institutions that educate them is important.”
The 2021-22 budget also invests in infrastructure and jobs. It allocates $279 million in federal relief funds for transportation infrastructure. Pennsylvania agriculture is supported with an increase of $3 million to the PA State Food Purchase Program. Career and technical schools will receive $44 million of federal relief funds to ensure that students can learn the skills needed for the jobs that are available today.
The budget ensures the state’s most vulnerable citizens and communities will be protected with this budget. Ongoing costs related to COVID-19 still hit nursing homes, assisted living and personal care homes hard, so they will receive $282 million in federal relief funds. Funding is also allocated to support an additional 180 state troopers, as well as violence intervention and training programs.
“This budget promises help for those who need it most after the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mizgorski concluded. “We are focused on economic recovery while also protecting our Commonwealth.”
Representative Lori Mizgorski
30th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Michelle Swab
717.260.6325
mswab@pahousegop.com
RepMizgorski.com /
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