Dauphin News

State Representative Sheryl M. Delozier has expressed her concerns and disappointment with Governor Josh Shapiro's budget address for the 2024-25 fiscal year. Delozier believes that the speech was more of a political statement rather than a comprehensive budget plan that addresses the needs of the people in her district.

In response to the governor's proposed $48.34 billion plan, Delozier stated, "The governor presented a starting point, but it fails to address the issues that are important to the people in my district." Her main concern lies in the significant increase in state spending of 8.4% from the previous year. Delozier argues that the governor's proposal utilizes one-time federal stimulus funds for recurring costs, leaving taxpayers burdened with the bill.

However, Delozier acknowledges that there are aspects of the governor's proposal that she supports. She emphasizes the need to work towards a more responsible budget through the upcoming Appropriations Committee hearings. During these hearings, state agency leaders will provide testimony about their funding requests, leading to a collaborative effort to find a compromise.

Delozier highlights the shared goals of funding new Pennsylvania State Police cadet classes and supporting fire and EMS companies. However, she believes that overspending on new and expensive government programs is not the most effective approach. Instead, Delozier advocates for investing in programs that have proven to work and finding ways to pay for the proposed spending.

In her statement, Delozier raises concerns about the budget's impact on the state's reserve funds. She asserts that the budget adds new government programs, spends beyond the available resources, and depletes the reserve funds. Delozier concludes by expressing her commitment to advancing responsible solutions and priorities in the coming months.

Delozier's dedication to creating a more responsible budget aligns with her role as a representative of the 88th District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. She encourages constituents with questions or concerns regarding the budget proposal or any state-related matter to contact her district office.

As the budget discussion unfolds, it remains to be seen how Delozier's concerns will be addressed and if a compromise can be reached to ensure a responsible budget for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.