Feb. 07, 2025
HARRISBURG – Rep. Mark Gillen (R-Berks) responded to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget address on Tuesday, expressing his concerns over its affordability and emphasizing that the proposal is only the beginning of the budget process.
"While I commend Gov. Shapiro’s focus on increasing funding for state troopers, the overall proposed spending plan requires significant withdrawals from our savings account, threatening our financial stability," said Gillen. "Pennsylvanians - including families, seniors and small business owners - are already facing mounting challenges. We cannot afford to overspend and face future tax hikes."
Shapiro's $51.47 billion spending plan comes with a projected deficit of $1.6 billion.
Gillen emphasized the need for a more responsible approach that upholds fiscal discipline without depleting our savings. "As your state representative, I am committed to advocating for policies that will use taxpayer dollars wisely in order to drive economic progress, protect essential services, promote economic growth, create jobs and safeguard Pennsylvania’s financial future," he concluded.