Adjust Text Size

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 21, 2007
CONTACT:
Lee Derr
717-787-6538
Back to Releases

Senator Orie Announces the Senate Passes a Fiscally Responsible Budget

Senator Jane Clare Orie (R-40) announced that the Senate passed a state budget yesterday that included no tax increases, while funding important programs and holding the line on spending.

Under this budget, the Senate left the Rainy Day Fund intact with no plans for borrowing or depleting the funds.  The budget passed the Senate with bipartisan support by a vote of 49-1.

"This budget is about holding the line on taxes and maintaining a control on spending," said Orie.  "We have the responsibility to listen to the citizens of Pennsylvania who are tired of higher taxes, more expensive government programs, and increased spending year after year.

The budget bill held spending to a conservative 2.7% increase, which eliminates the need for a tax increase, nor creates a deficit that would require a tax increase next year.

"At a time when we are looking at a potential deficit of a $1 billion we cannot raise taxes by over $2 billion and also create millions of dollars in new spending," she said.  "As a member of Senate leadership, I have made a commitment to fiscal responsibility and to keeping state spending in line, because state taxpayers are demanding it."          

The proposed budget now goes to the House for consideration.  The deadline to adopt a final budget is July 1.