Saying that the state budget spends $1 billion less than originally proposed, House Republican Leader Sam Smith (R-Jefferson) issued the following statement relative to the final spending plan.

“House Republicans continued our fight for the residents, employers and taxpayers of Pennsylvania,” Smith said.  “Once again, in the face of a multi-billion-dollar deficit, we fought to control spending, and we fought multiple tax increases. Pennsylvania families and employers just don’t have the extra money to pay for more or expanded government services.

“House Republicans were able to drive down the excessive $29 billion-plus spending proposed by the Governor and House Democrats. By being at the table, we were able to control spending and put together what is essentially a flat-funded budget.

“By controlling spending, we were able to balance this budget without any new or increased taxes.

“However, this budget does raise some serious concerns. It spends $850 million which has not been, and may not be, appropriated from Washington. If the money doesn’t come through, further cuts will have to be made.  This year’s budget deficit has already forced us to make some difficult decisions relative to budget cuts.  At no time did we lose sight that our choices would be affecting local communities.  As we worked through the line items, we tried to be mindful of the depth of the cuts and minimize the impact on Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable citizens.”

“The budget also does not account for the $800 million the state has been ordered to repay by the courts to the MCare fund and Health Care Provider Retention Account. It doesn’t account for $2 billion in existing stimulus funds that won’t be around next year, and it doesn’t address the pension problem.

“Frankly, this budget would look very different if Republicans held the majority in the House, but we don’t. The governor and House Democrats wielded a place at the table and pushed for more spending and taxes.

“In the end, this is what we have. There are programs which have been cut, partially so the governor could increase funding to the Philadelphia schools.

Representative Sam Smith

Republican Leader

PA House of Representatives

Contact:  Stephen Miskin (717) 787-3845

Internet:  www.SamSmithPaHouse.com