PLBC statement on 2022-23 state budget agreement

HARRISBURG, July 8 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus issued the following statement regarding the 2022-23 state budget bill, which passed the PA House of Representatives Thursday.

“This budget will make historic investments in education, housing and gun violence prevention. These investments will improve the quality of life and create opportunities for Black Pennsylvanians, but there is more work to do. The members of the PLBC remain diligent and committed to advancing equitable budget proposals that meet the basic needs of our most vulnerable communities and continue to invest in PLBC’s ongoing priorities.”

Some points from the $42 billion plan include a basic education funding increase of almost $750 million, including $225 million for Level Up funding to the state’s poorest school districts, as well as a special education funding increase of almost $100 million. There is another $100 million each for mental health, and school safety and security. A violence intervention and prevention grant program receives $75 million and $125 million is included for a Whole Home Repairs grant program.