Here's this week's State Capitol Roundup courtesy of state Rep. Bob Mensch (R-147):
GOP Presents Bipartisan Budget Compromise to Conference Committee
In an attempt to reach an agreement to end Pennsylvania's budget stalemate, Republican Leader Sam Smith (R-Jefferson County) this week offered a Bipartisan Budget Compromise to the joint House-Senate Conference Committee. House Republicans, in conjunction with a number of House Democrat members, developed the $27.5 billion balanced budget (House Bill 1943) that adequately funds all services in Pennsylvania without the need for new or higher taxes. It ensures nearly $2 billion in recurring revenue will be available over the next several years to balance the state budget without a single tax increase. It has the support of Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi (R-Delaware County).
In contrast, House Democrat Appropriations Chairman Dwight Evans (D-Philadelphia) put forward a counter proposal to his original budget bill; this new proposal cannot be balanced without a tax increase of up to $2 billion. House Democrats have yet to identify the specific taxes they propose adding or increasing for their proposed budget, but acknowledged that their budget would also increase the state deficit significantly by 2012. House Republicans believe this plan will inhibit the state's economic recovery by taking more money from hard-working families and small businesses who are already struggling to make ends meet.
With a clear lack of support for higher taxes among Pennsylvania citizens and lawmakers, the Bipartisan Budget Compromise offers the best opportunity to end the budget impasse and ensure vital education and human service programs get the funding they need. For the latest budget news, visit PAHouseGOP.com
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