Banta Votes ‘Yes’ on 2026-27 Budget, Citing Long-Awaited Collaboration Among the General Assembly

July 16, 2026

HARRISBURG – Rep. Jake Banta (R-Erie) today issued the following statement after voting “yes” on the $50.8 billion state budget deal for Fiscal Year 2026-27:

“The budget we were presented with was almost unrecognizable from the outrageous, irresponsible spending plan introduced by the governor in February. The proposal we passed was not perfect, but it did demonstrate something we as a General Assembly need to work toward more often: compromise.

“We have $50.8 billion outlined for spending in the next fiscal year without putting new tax burdens on Pennsylvanians or draining the state Rainy Day Fund. If we can learn anything from this year as we did the previous fiscal year, the Commonwealth could again see revenues exceeding $1 billion above estimation. 

“But what I find most compelling about this year’s budget is it increases funding where Pennsylvanians want to see it most.

“This proposal delivers more money for our local schools, representing an investment in our children and the next generation of Pennsylvanians. I was incredibly impressed with $10 million going toward our career and technical education programs to support students who are pursuing careers in high-demand fields.

“It also works to resolve one of the biggest issues I hear about the most – Pennsylvanians want to see their roads fixed. This budget invests $775 million in funding for shovel-ready projects that will make roads and bridges easily passable for residents and visitors.

“I appreciated both sides of the aisle revisiting items, like removing the legalization of recreational marijuana, combined reporting and the digital ad tax that was previously included in the budget. This shows professional debate that demonstrates the fundamental responsibility of the General Assembly to negotiate. 

“But no proposal is ever perfect, and this budget is no exception. I do have concerns regarding the unfunded cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for some retired government employees. The state pension system is already struggling, which means the only way to make up the funding would be to increase taxes on Pennsylvanians. We’re able to celebrate no new taxes this year, but this measure means that might not be the same case for the next fiscal year.  Residents of the Commonwealth cannot afford this adjustment and neither can our government. 

“Residents of the Fourth District elected me to the House to fight for affordability, constitutional values and for their voice to be heard in Harrisburg. Although there is room for improvement, I am confident this budget deal serves their best interest and that of entire Commonwealth. It also sets the framework for a more cooperative Pennsylvania Legislature in the future.” 



Representative Jake Banta
4th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Lindsey Cook
Lcook@PAHouseGOP.com