Feb. 08, 2022
HARRISBURG – In response to Gov. Tom Wolf’s plan to increase state spending by $6.2 billion, Rep. Barb Gleim (R-Cumberland) issued the following statement:
“During times of economic uncertainty, we need to be prudent in our spending. That is why I am stunned the governor is proposing to increase the state budget by a whopping 16% over the current fiscal year’s budget. Almost every line item has a marked increase in spending. He is also proposing to spend the entire remaining balance of the federal ARPA funds, which are $2.2 billion.
“That kind of spending is disappointing and short-sighted. The Commonwealth is on solid financial footing finally because of strong Republican fiscal policy such as historic investments in the state’s Rainy Day fund and education. Most constituents also don’t know there is still almost $5 billion in education federal pandemic money that has not yet been released by the governor for when schools need capital project upgrades. Yet, this governor is proposing another $2 billion on top of that funding, which are not one-time funds.
“In addition, the governor is suggesting funding at least a dozen NEW state programs and initiatives. That means his proposed spending increase isn’t just about this year, while inflation rages, but will set Pennsylvania up for bigger budget deficits to be handed down to the next administration.
“Simply put, this budget massively expands government. I am committed to working on a budget plan over the next couple of months that will keep spending in check and respect the hard-earned tax dollars residents and businesses send to Harrisburg each year.”
For more information on the governor’s state budget proposal, go to
pahousegop.com.
Representative Barbara Gleim
199th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives