Lycoming News

HARRISBURG – State Rep. Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming/Union) issued a statement on the $47.6 billion state budget for fiscal year 2024-25.

“In February, I was extremely hopeful that my House colleagues on both sides of the aisle would craft a spending plan that moves Pennsylvania forward without placing a heavier burden on taxpayers by the state budget’s June 30 deadline."

“A budget bill was presented in the second week of July. With my background in business, I know that budget deadlines are non-negotiable and must be met. It’s incredibly frustrating that, in both of my first two years in office, the state’s June 30 deadline has passed without a budget deal in place."

“Today, the budget passed, and we’ve seen the total spending figure, just under $47.6 billion, nearly 6% more than last year’s budget. With spending increasing at this rate, Pennsylvania’s budget surplus could be eliminated within two fiscal years, eliminating any buffer the Commonwealth will desperately need should we face economic emergencies."

“The reality is this budget is extremely expensive, and Pennsylvania cannot afford it. To afford it, we will inevitably have to raise taxes in just a few short years, placing an unfair strain on hardworking Pennsylvanians. The final spend number was too high for me to vote yes. We need a more balanced approach that considers the long-term economic health of our Commonwealth without overburdening our citizens.”

Representative Jamie Flick

83rd District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Media Contact: Huntre Keip

717.772.9837

Hkeip@pahousegop.com

RepFlick.com