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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Sean Ramaley |
  
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Ramaley: Budget works to keep Pennsylvanians working
New spending plan also makes smart investment in education
HARRISBURG, July 4 – State Rep. Sean Ramaley, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said Pennsylvania's 2008-09 budget package invests in the state's failing infrastructure, spurs economic growth and increases spending for education.
The budget package, which the governor is expected to sign into quickly, includes:
· $350 million to repair the state's most dangerous bridges,
· $15 million for railroad and airport capital improvements,
· $800 million for high-hazard dam and water and sewer infrastructure improvements,
· $800 million in redevelopment capital assistance over four years.
The budget also includes a nearly $275 million increase in overall education funding, without raising taxes.
Ramaley released the following statement on the 2008-09 state budget:
"This budget package includes money to fix high-hazard dams, and repair our roads, bridges and rail lines which is not only important to the safety of our residents, but is necessary so Pennsylvania companies can move their goods.
"The new budget strives to create jobs by including the $650 million Energy Independence Fund that will help companies specializing in development of alternative energy choose to move to and stay in Pennsylvania, creating family-sustaining jobs and stimulating local economies. We also invest in such economic stimulus programs as the Keystone Opportunity Zone program that encourages development of under-used land and buildings through tax breaks, breathing new life in neglected neighborhoods and growing local economies. We continue to invest in expanded opportunities in high tech, life sciences and biotech industries, creating the next generation of jobs vital to Pennsylvania’s future.
"The biggest winners with the new state budget are our children. Schools across the Commonwealth will see a minimum of a 3 percent increase in their basic education subsidy. Locally, our basic education funding has increased by more than $1.6 million. The budget also keeps proven programs such as Classrooms for the Future, Pre-K Counts and Dual Enrollment viable.
"This year's budget process was difficult because of the sluggish national economy. But through fiscally prudent decisions, we are making smart investments in jobs, our economy and education."
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