HARRISBURG – Rep. David Millard (R-Columbia) today in Harrisburg voted for
Senate Bill 255, the General Appropriations portion of the state budget, which was approved by the House of Representatives. The 2021-22 Pennsylvania budget would spend $39 billion in General Fund dollars, and $1 billion in federal relief funds, to fund the core functions of government services and invest in jobs, infrastructure and education, all while avoiding any new or increased taxes.
The spending plan would allocate $279 million in federal relief funds for transportation infrastructure to support critical road and bridge projects, and to make up for pandemic-related losses in revenue to the Motor License Fund. The budget would also provide $44 million for career and technical schools, and would eliminate overtime regulations instituted by the governor’s administration.
“Pennsylvania’s economic recovery is our foremost concern, and this budget works well to support that goal,” said Millard. “We need to make sure we maintain an environment for business to prosper and to make sure our students have the knowledge and skills they need.”
The spending plan would increase basic education by $300 million, early childhood education by $30 million, and special education by $50 million. Additionally, to support children who have suffered educational losses throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the budget allocates $350 million in federal relief funds for learning loss, summer enrichment and after-school programs.
“A record $13.5 billion in education spending reaffirms our commitment to our children and their futures. The educational experience was one of the parts of life most impacted by COVID-19 and we need to make sure our students are not left at a disadvantage because of it,” Millard continued. “All school districts in the 109th District will receive increased funding.”
In addition to keeping taxes level, the budget would secure Pennsylvania’s fiscal future by depositing more than $2.5 billion into the Rainy Day Fund and preserving more than $5 billion in federal funds to be used in future budgets.
“This last year and a half showed us there is no telling if, or when, some catastrophic event might occur, said Millard. “By being responsible with our money, we put ourselves in a great position for now, and in a better position to be prepared for such an event in the future.”
Senate Bill 255, once signed in both the House and the Senate, will be sent to the governor for his signature.
Representative David Millard
109th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
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