Shusterman throws support behind Gov. Shapiro’s proposed budget
Rep. Melissa Shusterman February 4, 2025
HARRISBURG, Feb. 4 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman, D-Chester, is voicing her approval of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget after hearing his address today before the state legislature.
Shapiro’s proposed budget would invest a total of $215 million across all education levels with an additional $50 million to childcare centers. The proposal also calls for continued investments in infrastructure, mental health initiatives and safer communities. Shapiro also called on the legislature to raise the minimum wage in Pennsylvania for the first time in 15 years, citing how neighboring states, including West Virginia and Ohio, currently have a higher minimum wage than the Commonwealth.
"We have heard continued calls about the importance of investing in child care,” Shusterman said. “When you properly fund services to take care of children, parents can go to work confident that their children are in a safe and educational environment, as opposed to one parent having to choose between going to work or caring for their children. We plan to support Governor Shapiro by ensuring that his proposed investment in childcare and early education makes it into our budget bills.
“Pennsylvania has been woefully overdue for a raise in our minimum wage,” Shusterman said. “If we wish to remain competitive with our neighboring states, it’s about time we catch up with, and improve upon what they offer. Our workers deserve a fair wage, especially with the recent rise in prices on rent, groceries, gas and much more.
“We are excited to continue our historic investments in our schools,” Shusterman said. “Districts now have the freedom to finally update materials, explore new learning avenues, or even update aging school buildings to foster a successful learning environment for students, teachers and staff.
“Infrastructure improvements are crucial in Pennsylvania,” Shusterman added. “In Chester County alone we have seen countless improvements to our water systems, roads, bridges and more, all at no additional cost to our working families.
“This budget hits all of the priorities for the people of Chester County and all of the Commonwealth,” Shusterman said. “By investing in Pennsylvanians, young, old, and in between, we are giving all generations an opportunity to succeed and make their lives easier.”