State Budget Invests in Pennsylvania’s Future, Helm Says

HARRISBURG – The $42.8 billion budget passed by the House this week pays off debt, saves money for the future, and makes critical investments in programs that help older adults, children and low-income families, according to Rep. Sue Helm (R-Dauphin/Lebanon).

The House advanced a spending plan that awaits a concurrence vote from the Senate before going to the governor’s desk. It not only pays off $42 million in outstanding debt from the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund, but also deposits $2.1 billion in the Rainy Day Fund, increases rebates issued through the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program and provides additional dollars for the program that helps low-income residents pay utility bills.

“These budget negotiations dragged on longer than I would have liked, but we reached a deal that provides important relief to taxpayers,” Helm said. “The foresight in this budget positions the Commonwealth for a stronger fiscal future.”

Helm also highlighted $135 million targeted for a collaborative care mental health initiative to provide more timely delivery of psychiatric care in a primary-care setting. Schools would receive $100 million for mental health initiatives within their halls.