Altoona Times

When Governor Josh Shapiro presented his 2024-25 budget address, it included funding for important programs but failed to acknowledge the detrimental impact of overspending on the state's savings, according to Representative Jim Gregory. Gregory, a Republican from Blair/Huntingdon, criticized the budget proposal for potentially decimating the state's surplus and Rainy Day Fund.

In his statement, Gregory highlighted the efforts of House Republicans in setting aside money to prevent tax increases during future economic downturns. He expressed concern that the governor's proposed budget would consume nearly $16 billion of the General Fund surplus and Rainy Day Fund balances. Gregory also pointed out that the governor's plan to fund his spending spree, in part, through the legalization of marijuana and the implementation of a new sales tax, was an issue of contention for him.

"My promise to a family whose son died of overdose mixing suboxone and Xanax with his marijuana is why I will not support legalizing marijuana," Gregory stated firmly.

Gregory also criticized Governor Shapiro's previous inability to efficiently govern and move beyond rhetoric. He mentioned that the finalization of the 2023-24 state budget was delayed due to the governor's shortcomings. These delays not only affect funding for important programs, particularly in human services, but also hinder school board members' ability to plan effectively.

"I'm hopeful we don't find ourselves in a quagmire similar to the previous year. Passing a budget is our main task every year, and I'm committed to doing my part because the delays do real harm," Gregory emphasized.

Despite his concerns about overspending, Gregory commended the governor for addressing an issue close to his heart – the removal of the statute of limitations for survivors of sexual abuse seeking justice through civil lawsuits. Gregory acknowledged the importance of shedding light on this cause and maintaining momentum for its progress.

Representative Jim Gregory, representing the 80th Legislative District of Pennsylvania, has raised valid concerns about the potential detrimental effects of overspending in Governor Shapiro's proposed budget. While the budget includes funding for important programs, Gregory worries that it would deplete the state's savings, hinder future economic stability, and negatively impact the lives of Pennsylvanians.