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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Jaret Gibbons |
  
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Gibbons discusses 2008-09 budget
HARRISBURG, July 4 – State Rep. Jaret Gibbons, D-Lawrence/Beaver/Butler, said he's pleased with the priorities set forth in this year's state budget. Gibbons released the following statement on the 2008-09 spending plan.
"I'm proud we have passed another no-tax-increase budget, which mirrors the priorities of Pennsylvania's working families. The state's businesses also were aided with a business tax reduction by a continued phase-out of the Corporate Stock and Franchise Tax."
On Education
Gibbons said the schools in his legislative district will receive funding increases across the board. Total state funding for area school districts is as follows:
· Ambridge Area School District: $10.1 million – a 4.37 percent increase;
· Freedom Area School District: $7.7 million – a 3 percent increase;
· Riverside Beaver County School District: $7.6 million – a 3.55 percent increase;
· Slippery Rock Area School District: $7.97 million – a 4.13 percent increase;
· Ellwood City Area School District: $10.97 million – a 3 percent increase;
· Laurel School District: $7.3 million – a 3 percent increase;
· Shenango Area School District: $7 million – a 3 percent increase; and
· Wilmington Area School District: $5.4 million – a 3.59 percent increase
"Nothing is more important than our investment in education. This new funding, along with the money coming from slots revenue, will help ease school boards' dependency on school property taxes – something that helps all Pennsylvania homeowners."
On Energy
"With the current state of the economy and gas prices at staggering heights, the need for an energy strategy that will push Pennsylvania toward independence from foreign oil is without question. This year's budget includes a $650 million investment to help consumers and businesses lower their energy costs and encourage development of renewable energy sources."
On Economic Stimulus
"I'm happy that this budget makes investments in economic revitalization and infrastructure improvement programs. The budget will allow us to repair roads and bridges, upgrade water systems and dams, and improve airports and railways – as well as invest in projects that will create and maintain thousands of good-paying jobs."
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