Most local lawmakers back new state budget
By Eric Seiverling
eseiverling@yourmvi.com
Pennsylvania lawmakers approved the state’s 2021-22 budget last week, and residents and businesses will not see a tax hike for the upcoming year.
The budget also paves the way for the state to end the current fiscal year with $2.5 billion in surplus revenue.
The General Assembly passed the $40.8 billion budget late Friday with votes of 140-61 in the House and a vote of 43-7 in the Senate.
Gov. Tom Wolf has stated he supports the budget and is expected to sign it this week.
“Our economy has weathered the pandemic, and now is roaring forward. We are a commonwealth on the comeback,” Wolf said. “This budget will help our state move forward and rebuild a strong, equitable economy that works for Pennsylvanians.”
Highlights of the budget include:
• $416 million increase in public education funding.
• $728.9 million in American Rescue Plan funding to help stabilize the child care industry.
• $450 million in ARP funding for rental assistance.
• $350 million in ARP funding for homeowner mortgage assistance.
• $282 million in ARP funding to help nursing homes and long-term care facilities to recover from the pandemic and improve patient safety.
• $36 million in ARP funding to help pay water bills.
• $30 million in new state dollars for violence intervention and prevention.
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