Jun. 25, 2021
HARRISBURG – The $39.8 billion budget approved by the House of Representatives and Senate on Friday makes important investments in public schools, early childhood education, state police and services for those with intellectual disabilities, according to Rep. John Hershey (R-Mifflin/Juniata/Franklin).
“Possibly the most important aspect of the budget is that we are setting aside more than $2.5 billion in the Rainy Day Fund, which will help to provide services and prevent against tax increases during any future economic downturn. I’m proud of my role on the Appropriations Committee, which crafted this historic spending plan,” Hershey said.
The budget, which now goes to the governor’s desk, includes a $30 million increase in Pre-K Counts and Head Start, an additional $300 million for basic education funding, an additional $50 million for special education funding, allocations to serve 832 more people with intellectual disabilities, and training funds for two new cadet classes for the Pennsylvania State Police.
Lawmakers targeted $1 billion in federal relief funds for nursing homes, transportation infrastructure, career and technical schools, emergency medical services, and the ongoing pandemic response.
Representative John Hershey
82nd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives