North Allegheny News

Jul. 12, 2024

HARRISBURG – Rep. Rob Mercuri (R-Allegheny) released a statement discussing his positions and votes on the passage of the annual state budget and higher education funding bills. The 2024-25 state budget represents a 5.9% increase, or about $47.6 billion, over the prior fiscal year.

“Unfortunately for PA taxpayers, the budget passed this week by the General Assembly overspends irresponsibly and creates a fiscal cliff next year that will force difficult choices," said Mercuri.

"While we agree on many priorities here, this budget is structurally unsustainable, and over time it will lead to increased taxes, putting further strain on our families and small businesses."

"As inflation continues to soar, we could have provided direct relief to families through my taxpayer dividend program to combat rising costs on gas, groceries and other essentials. It is disappointing to not see this relief come to the people of PA."

Mercuri expressed satisfaction with Senate Bill 1150's passage: "I am pleased with the passage of Senate Bill 1150, which would create the Grow Pennsylvania Scholarship Grant Program."

"The Grow PA program is a direct investment into our young people, encouraging them to stay in Pennsylvania to put down roots and grow our economy. This is a significant step in expanding our workforce and combatting the relative population declines we are facing."

He also highlighted changes in higher education funding: "Additionally, Pennsylvania’s state-funded institutions of higher education will now operate under performance-based budgeting. This mandates more transparency and accountability from these institutions to ensure we are providing the strongest educational value for our students."

"No state budget is ever perfect," he concluded, "but I am grateful to see aspects of the 2024-25 budget process lead to significant opportunities for our young people with the Grow Pennsylvania Scholarship Grant Program and performance-based budgeting."

Rob Mercuri

28th Legislative District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Media Contact: Tim Craine 717.609.7331

tcraine@pahousegop.com

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