Klunk: Conserving Taxpayer Money is a Top Priority

February 5, 2025

HARRISBURG – State Rep. Kate Klunk (R-Hanover) issued a statement detailing her reaction to Tuesday’s budget address by Gov. Josh Shapiro for the 2025-26 fiscal year:

“Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal can best be described as unsustainable and frivolous. He has proposed $51.47 billion in spending for the 2025-26 fiscal year, which represents a 7.5% increase over the current year. In order to balance this budget, he would deplete the state’s $2.89 billion General Fund surplus and transfer another $1.6 billion from the Rainy Day Fund. This level of overspending is simply irresponsible and a misuse of our reserve funds.

“To generate revenue to cover this massive spending, the governor has proposed economically damaging energy taxes. Whether it’s the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) or the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction Act (PACER), Pennsylvania families and small businesses simply cannot afford to pay more for energy.

“House Republicans will continue to advocate for energy diversification as we believe the answer to a bright future lies right beneath our feet. Pennsylvania has massive, untapped energy potential that will generate revenue for the state and lower energy bills, while supporting family-sustaining careers for residents across the Commonwealth.

“I look forward to advocating for a responsible budget plan that conserves the state’s reserve funds and unlocks our energy potential in the coming months. I believe together we can chart a path forward for Pennsylvania that respects taxpayers and enhances the quality of life for those who call our state home. The proposal we heard this week is merely a starting point and I’m excited to get to work on sustainable solutions.”

The deadline for this year’s budget is Monday, June 30.

For more information about the 2025-26 budget or any other state-related issue, please call Klunk’s office at 717-630-8942.

Representative Kate Klunk
169th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Katelin Morrison
717.260.6502
kmorrison@pahousegop.com
RepKlunk.com / Facebook.com/RepKlunk