State Capitol Roundup for December 12

Here's this week's State Capitol Roundup courtesy of Rep. Bob Mensch (R-147):

Mid-Year Budget Briefing Highlights Fiscal Concerns

With state revenues currently $658 million below estimates, the Commonwealth's budget shortfall for the year is now projected to be about $1.6 billion. While the Rendell administration pins its hopes on a $450 million federal bailout, House Republicans are calling for cuts to under-performing programs and a responsible budget for the upcoming year that does not increase state spending. When pressed on the issue by House Republican Leader Sam Smith, even Gov. Ed. Rendell acknowledged that the budget for the next fiscal year must be, at maximum, a zero growth budget. Republican House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rep. Mario J. Civera Jr. (R-Upper Darby) and other House Republicans see the budget crisis as an opportunity to pare down the budget to core funding needs and re-evaluate programs that are not working. The House Republican Caucus has led the charge in this respect, reducing its own appropriation by more than $7 million in each of the last three budgets.

$75 Million Tax Credit to Hollywood Producers Under Fire

Noting the state's dismal fiscal situation and ongoing economic challenges throughout the nation, Rep. Ron Marsico (R-Dauphin) is calling upon the governor to re-evaluate the Film Tax Credit, which, at $75 million, is the largest tax credit appropriation in the 2007-08 budget. According to a report prepared by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), the state has awarded nearly $75 million in tax credits for the current fiscal year and has only generated $18 million in return. Marsico has introduced bills to repeal the Film Tax Credit in the past, and has promised to re-introduce legislation when the House reconvenes in January.

Deadline for Changes to Medicare Coverage Nears; Counseling Services Available

Medicare beneficiaries are running out of time to make changes to Medicare coverage for 2009 as the Dec. 31 deadline approaches. For individuals who have questions about making changes to their coverage, the APPRISE Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program might be helpful. APPRISE is a free service provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and is designed to provide Medicare beneficiaries with free and impartial information and assistance with Medicare benefits, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medigap policies, Medicare prescription benefits, long-term care insurance and programs that can save individuals money on their health care expenses. APPRISE can also help individuals with various paperwork, such as filing a claim or appealing an existing claim. For more information, individuals can visit RepMensch.com or call APPRISE, toll free, at 800-783-7067.