State budget moves Pennsylvania forward

Historic investments in education

HARRISBURG, July 7 – This evening, state Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester/Montgomery, voted in favor of the state budget, applauding its historic investments in schools.

This budget increases education funding by almost $750 million ($525 million in Basic Education Funding and $225 million in Level Up funding). This budget also invests $100 million in Special Education, $100 million in school safety and security, $100 million in mental health resources in schools, $60 million investment in Pre-K and $19 million in Head Start programs.

School districts in the 157th Legislative District, will receive the following additional school funding:

  • Phoenixville Area School District: $600,389 (11.1% increase from last year).
  • Spring-Ford Area School District: $1,595,554 (15% increase from last year).
  • Tredyffrin-Easttown School District: $589,067 (14.6% increase from last year).

“This budget is an investment in our children’s future, providing equity in education and ensuring our most underfunded districts receive necessary funds to better their schools and provide opportunities for students,” Shusterman said. “Our children deserve a good education regardless of where they live. I am proud to see the playing field leveled for students across the commonwealth.”

The budget also creates a Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is one of 19 states that does not offer tax credits for child or dependent care.

“In September, I introduced House Bill 2053, which would create a Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit in Pennsylvania. I’m pleased this proposal is included in the budget. This credit would be 30% of the federal credit and will help parents and caregivers access quality, affordable child care.”

Shusterman said other items in the budget that she approves of include funding for clean streams and water and sewer projects, $100 million for mental health programs, and reducing the Corporate Net Income Tax from 9.99% to 8.99% on Jan. 1 and a 0.5% reduction annually until it reaches 4.99%.