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WASHINGTON: AN “ON TIME” BUDGET IS TOP
PRIORITY
HARRISBURG,
February 9
—
State Sen. LeAnna Washington
(D-Montgomery/Philadelphia) is hopeful that
budget negotiations begin promptly in an
effort to ensure a state spending plan is in
place by July 1.
Gov. Ed Rendell delivered his
$29 billion state spending proposal today.
“Today the governor unveiled his
proposal for a state spending plan that did
not include broad-based tax increases,”
Washington said. “I am pleased that the
governor recognizes the financial hardship
that a tax increase would have on many
citizens of the Commonwealth and instead has
suggested alternatives to increase state
revenue.
“It is my hope that budget
negotiations will begin soon and that all
four caucuses can come to an agreement on an
equitable state spending plan in adequate
time this year. It is my belief that by
omitting a broad-based tax increase, the
governor has given us a springboard to
passing a budget on time.”
Washington added that she is
pleased to see the governor’s commitment to
the elderly, children, education and
economic development remains steadfast.
“Creating good paying jobs,
investing in our children and ensuring our
elderly are well taken care of remain top
priorities of mine. I am happy to see the
governor shares this commitment.”
Washington added that now that
the governor has given the legislature a
springboard to begin negotiating, she
believes that the time is now to end
political posturing and get to work on the
business of the people.
“Our constituents are looking to
us to ensure that their needs are met in
this state budget,” Washington said. “We
cannot let them down by placing partisan
ploys above our commitment to the people.”
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