HARRISBURG – For the second time this year, the state Senate approved a temporary budget that ensures counties, school districts and other state government partners receive needed funding, said Sen. Dave Argall (R-29).
“This is our most important vote of the year – a state budget that fully funds essential services without massive tax hikes,” Argall said. “It’s past time for House leadership to bring this bill to a vote. If they do, I’m convinced it will be sent immediately to the governor for his signature. I was pleased to again support this legislation, on behalf of my constituents in Carbon, Luzerne and Schuylkill counties.”
The amended budget bill, Senate Bill 160, totals $47.9 billion, a spending level that represents an increase of $300 million from the plan passed by the Senate in August. The new Senate budget plan imposes no tax hikes on Pennsylvania families.
To further defend taxpayers, the Senate passed Senate Bill 1068 by a bipartisan vote of 33-17 to prevent a new electricity tax by repealing Pennsylvania’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). RGGI, a multi-state compact, would increase electricity rates on families and employers, cut energy and manufacturing jobs and cause Pennsylvania power plants to close.
“Today, I agreed 100% with my neighbor in the Senate, Lisa Boscola, on the dire need to repeal RGGI,” said Argall. Boscola, a Democrat who represents Lehigh and Northampton counties, praised this effort on the floor of the Senate, stating “RGGI is a relic. It does not reflect the realities of today’s grid or today’s cost. It’s time to move on and put Pennsylvania back in control of our energy future.”
The Senate also passed with bipartisan support a sweeping permitting reform measure to bring greater accountability, transparency and efficiency to how state agencies handle permit applications. Senate Bill 6 sets clear timelines for state agencies to review permit applications, creates a permit tracking system and ensures applicants receive timely, consistent answers not endless delays.
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry praised the bill as a positive step forward for employers looking to invest in Pennsylvania, noting that “by improving communication, ensuring accountability and reducing permitting delays, Senate Bill 6 helps build a regulatory environment that fosters business growth, innovation and long-term competitiveness.”
All three bills now head to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT: Seth Hubler