On Friday, Governor Josh Shapiro signed a historic bipartisan budget for the fiscal year 2024-25.
Pennsylvania stands out as the only state with a divided legislature, yet Governor Shapiro successfully brought together leaders from both parties to achieve a fiscally responsible budget. “Since my first day in office, I’ve been focused on getting stuff done for the good people of Pennsylvania,” said Governor Shapiro. “I’m proud to sign this budget into law that makes historic investments in education and economic development while cutting costs and reducing taxes.”
Key highlights of the budget include:
Education: The budget allocates $1.11 billion in K-12 public education, including a $100 million increase for special education and $100 million for school facilities. It continues to support mental health services with $100 million annually and boosts early childhood education funding by $17.7 million.
Economic Development: The budget earmarks $500 million for site development, including the new PA SITES program, and $20 million for the Main Street Matters program. It also invests $20 million in small minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses and $15 million in tourism marketing.
Public Safety: Significant investments in public safety include resources for a statewide office of gun violence prevention and funding for violence intervention programs.
Agriculture: The budget provides $31 million to aid poultry farmers affected by avian influenza and $10 million for agricultural innovation.
Workforce Development: The budget includes a $30 million increase in Career and Technical Education and funds for new apprenticeship programs, supporting both vocational and higher education pathways.
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis praised the budget, stating, “We’re making big investments in public safety and revitalizing our communities. This budget shows how we can achieve great things when we work together.”