Jul. 08, 2022 / Press Release
HARRISBURG – Rep. Eric Nelson (R-Westmoreland) issued the below statement following the passage of legislation to finalize the 2022-23 budget:
“This budget invests in Pennsylvania’s citizens without growing government while also cutting taxes and stabilizing our financial future. It prioritizes programs for seniors and those with intellectual disabilities, education and public safety, and also improves the Commonwealth’s business climate by reducing taxes paid by small businesses.
“On top of this being a solid fiscal plan, the House also advanced policy initiatives that constituents have been seeking, such as an opportunity to implement pro-life policies, voter identification requirements and improve election audit standards through the constitutional amendment process.
“Hosting fair and secure elections was also prioritized as funding will be provided to county election offices and the acceptance of private election funds will be prohibited. This move was to address issues revealed during the 2020 election when Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg provided $21 million to selective counites, seemingly to tilt election results. There is still much more work to be done but stopping the flow of private election funds is a big first step.
“Combining this budget with cutting the Corporate Net Income Tax in half, from 9.99% to 4.99% over the next few years, as well as enabling small businesses to expand their expense deductions, will greatly improve Pennsylvania’s business climate. This will translate to job growth and long-term prosperity.
“Benefits will be realized by populations that have been hit hard by inflation. The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program will see a one-time 70% enhancement for low-income seniors. Also expanded is funding for agriculture programs, including grants to support the expansion of Pennsylvania cattle farming.
“Public safety is also enhanced with the hiring of 200 additional state troopers. In addition, federal monies are allotted to support local police forces and violence prevention programs.
“Because the Pennsylvania Independent Fiscal Office is predicting a budget deficit in the future, this plan also saves $3.5 billion for the next fiscal year and places $2 billion in the Rainy Day Fund. By taking these measures, as well as paying off $1.4 billion in debt from previous years, we are placing the Commonwealth on a solid, fiscally responsible pathway.”
Representative Eric Nelson
57th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jordan Frei
724.875.8450
jfrei@pahousegop.com
RepNelson.com /
Facebook.com/RepNelson