North Central PA Times

Rep. Robert Leadbeter, a Republican from Columbia, has voiced his concerns following Governor Josh Shapiro's budget proposal for the 2025-26 fiscal year. During a joint session of the General Assembly in Harrisburg, Leadbeter shared his views on the governor’s financial plan.

Leadbeter stated, "Gov. Shapiro has turned away from the values that matter most to Pennsylvania families. Inflation is rising, costs are climbing, and the state is spending more than it can afford. We need to focus on fiscal responsibility, just like Pennsylvania families do every day."

The proposed budget includes a 7.5% increase in spending while revenue collections are expected to grow by only 2.5%. According to Leadbeter, this $51.47 billion budget could deplete the state's $2.89 billion surplus by the end of this fiscal year and may require using funds from the Rainy Day Fund.

Leadbeter warned that such actions might lead to higher taxes for Pennsylvania families, which would be detrimental to senior citizens on fixed incomes and future generations who will shoulder this burden. He remarked, "When we see how the governor is wasting taxpayer dollars, it's clear we’re not being fiscally responsible."

He further criticized what he sees as mismanaged spending: "For example, more than 1 million able-bodied adults are receiving Medicaid benefits," suggesting that responsible choices should prioritize residents' well-being over increased expenditure.

The governor’s address marks only the beginning of an annual state budget process. The House Appropriations Committee will begin hearings on Tuesday, February 18th to scrutinize the details of Shapiro's plan and evaluate departmental funding use across state agencies. The General Assembly and governor must finalize the budget by June 30th.