Santarsiero Statement on Budget

From the inbox:

State Rep. Steve Santarsiero, D-Bucks, released the following statement regarding his opposition to S.B. 850, a stopgap budget measure approved today by the House of Representatives:

"I sympathize with the desire to get our state workers paid. However, a stopgap measure will only prolong the budget impasse. And as the process drags on into the fall, it will jeopardize long-term funding for our schools, colleges and universities, state police and a host of other critical programs upon which the people of our state, and in particular the 31st District, rely.

"Both sides should be engaged in around-the-clock negotiations until a final deal is done.

"Moreover, I cannot support Senate Bill 850 as a vehicle for any budget proposal, temporary or otherwise. It is a draconian spending bill that would negatively impact ordinary Pennsylvanians and our economy. Among other things, it would severely cut funding for education, causing property taxes to rise.

"While I understand it is the governor's intent to use the bill in a dramatically reduced form as a temporary measure, I believe using it for even that purpose sends the wrong message about what our budget priorities should be.

"I support a budget that is balanced, avoids any increase in the Personal Income Tax, holds state government accountable by tightening our belt, and protects our commitment to education, economic development, seniors and veterans."