Rep. Jamie Flick of Lycoming and Union counties attended the joint session of the Pennsylvania General Assembly where Governor Josh Shapiro presented his budget proposal for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The governor’s plan calls for $53.26 billion in spending, which is nearly $3 billion more than the previous year’s budget.
In a statement following the address, Flick said, “Today, Gov. Josh Shapiro proposed a state budget that would spend $53.26 billion, an increase of nearly $3 billion, or 5 %, from this year’s budget.”
Flick described the proposal as a starting point: “This is the governor’s wish list, and from here we will work to whittle this down to a more reasonable budget.”
He raised concerns about how the increased spending would be funded. “I’m concerned that spending levels proposed are reminiscent of last year’s budget proposal, with a heavy reliance on Rainy Day and surplus funds, and taxes on skill games and recreational marijuana. We don’t want to go down that same road for a second year.”
However, Flick noted some positive aspects in workforce development: “I do see some strategic investments to strengthen the workforce, like funding the PA WORKS Program to expand educational opportunities in the skilled and technical trades, in turn alleviating waitlists for students; and offering potential businesses tax credits to help grow the workforce in crucial industries where there are growing shortfalls in skilled workers.”
He added that local economic development remains important: “We want to make the 83rd District attractive for both employers of in-demand jobs and the employees who want to stay here and work.”
Flick also highlighted ongoing challenges facing residents: “Pennsylvanians are facing several critical issues, like childcare shortages, housing insecurity, and a lack of mental health and intellectual disability services. As a member of the House Human Services Committee, these issues are core to my work in Harrisburg, and I’ll work to make progress on policies that help bring stability and success to residents in a fiscally responsible way.”
The next step in Pennsylvania’s annual state budget process involves hearings by the House Appropriations Committee beginning February 23. These hearings will review details of Governor Shapiro’s plan as well as current departmental spending. The General Assembly must finalize negotiations with Governor Shapiro before June 30.
