Erie County Times

Rep. Jake Banta (R-Erie) issued a statement following the House passage of a General Appropriations bill for the 2024-25 fiscal year.

“In both of my first two years in office, Democratic leadership has failed in their constitutional mandate for an on-time budget, leading to a second budget impasse in two years. While I’m relieved our chamber has finally passed something, there’s no reason not to get a deal done on time."

“Similar to last year, the budget process did not fully begin until June, giving us only one month until the deadline, a month which turned into voting for redundant House resolutions rather than budgetary measures."

“On top of poor time management, this budget is far too expensive. The total spending figure is just under $47.6 billion, nearly 6% more than last year’s budget. The spending increases at this rate will put Pennsylvania’s budget surplus in a vulnerable position, potentially eliminating it within two fiscal years, erasing a much-needed safety net for taxpayers in times of economic downturn."

“This budget is irresponsible and punishes Pennsylvanians with an inflated spending plan, giving more money to broken systems in hopes of a short-term fix. As the economy continues to struggle from government overspending, instead of cutting taxes, Democrats choose to increase spending."

“Through my tenure of serving in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, House Democrats have consistently failed the people of Pennsylvania with their fiscally irresponsible approach.”

Representative Jake Banta

4th Legislative District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Media Contact: Tim Craine 717.609.7331

tcraine@pahousegop.com

repbanta.com / facebook.com/repbanta