Dauphin News

The Pennsylvania Senate has approved a 2024-25 state budget, described as fiscally responsible and aimed at creating new job opportunities without introducing new taxes. The $47.59 billion budget addresses economic and demographic challenges facing the state, according to Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-46).

Key measures in the budget include the continued phasing out of the Corporate Net Income Tax, which is seen as a barrier to business expansion in Pennsylvania. "Pennsylvania has sacrificed billions in lost capital investment opportunities throughout the years," Bartolotta stated. She emphasized that addressing permitting delays was a significant achievement: "I have been passionate about this reform since I was elected in 2014."

A new program, Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED), will establish permit review timelines by the Department of Environmental Protection and conservation districts. This initiative includes a new permit tracking system and an option for third-party review of air, earth disturbance, and water permit applications.

"Changes included as part of this budget ensure Pennsylvania is competitive with other states that don’t face the high cost of developing industrial and business sites like we do, literally paving the way for more investment and growth," Bartolotta added.

The budget also allocates significant resources to empower parents and families in meeting their children's educational needs. It increases K-12 education funding by over $1 billion to fulfill Pennsylvania’s Constitutional mandate for a thorough and efficient education system. Senate Republicans ensured these funds are distributed fairly across all schools.

"As the former chair of Senate Labor and Industry Committee, I know how critical it is that we encourage students to focus on high-demand industries," Bartolotta noted. "This budget will serve students by connecting them to family-sustaining jobs."

Additionally, the budget invests significantly in transportation infrastructure, including an additional $80.5 million for road and bridge repairs. It also supports agriculture, water quality initiatives, law enforcement funding, and community health improvements.

Contact: Katrina Hanna, 717-787-1463

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