Altoona Times

Senator Judy Ward of Pennsylvania has expressed concerns over Governor Shapiro's proposed budget for the fiscal year 2025/26. In a statement released on February 4, 2025, Senator Ward criticized the proposal as "short-sighted and irresponsible." She argued that the budget relies on unrealistic estimates and would deplete both the Rainy Day Fund and General Fund balance within two years.

"The budget proposed today by Governor Shapiro is short-sighted and irresponsible," Ward stated. "Instead of a budget that puts us on sound financial footing, we were given one that spends more than it makes, is based on unrealistic estimates, and leaves our Rainy Day Fund and General Fund balance completely empty in less than two short years."

Senator Ward emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility, suggesting that taxpayers should not be expected to cover deficits through increased taxes. She urged for measures to align spending with available resources, akin to budgeting practices followed by families.

"We cannot continue on this path, expecting taxpayers to bail us out through increased taxes," she continued. "Rather, we need to get to the work of tightening our belt and living within our means just like the hard-working families that we are called to represent."

For further information or comments, Nathan Akers can be contacted at 717-787-2421.