Beaver County News

The state Senate approved the 2024-25 state budget today, emphasizing taxpayer respect, expanded opportunities for Pennsylvania families, and increased educational prospects in a responsible manner, according to Sen. Elder Vogel, Jr. (R-47).

"As a caucus, we have stood firm throughout the budget process that this budget would need to reflect a pro-growth, pro-jobs and pro-family strategy while also maintaining fiscal responsibility – the final product we achieved does just that," Vogel stated.

The $47.59 billion spending plan not only cut $740 million from the governor’s initial proposal but also added the same amount to the state Rainy Day Fund. This brings the fund’s total to $7 billion, which exceeds the national average.

To continue breaking down barriers hindering job growth in Pennsylvania, this budget includes creating the Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development Program and allocating $400 million toward the PA Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites Program. It also further phases down the Corporate Net Income Tax.

Vogel highlighted that in focusing on providing students with supportive resources, empowering parents in their children's education, and improving educational approaches, specific investments were made in education.

In agriculture, funding was allocated to address avian influenza threats and establish a new western animal diagnostics lab. Additionally, $10 million was dedicated to a new Agricultural Innovation and Development program aimed at providing farmers and agribusinesses with resources for adopting new technological practices.

"Overall," Vogel said, "this budget was crafted with the express intent of expanding Pennsylvania jobs, providing more opportunities for Pennsylvanians to plant their roots, and better addressing current economic and demographic challenges – all to create a brighter future for our children and grandchildren."

For further information: Abby Chiumento at 717-787-3076