Rep. Bizzarro applauds Shapiro’s 2023/24 budget priorities, stands ready to act
Plan would bolster education, economic development, emergency preparedness
Rep. Ryan Bizzarro March 7, 2023 | 2:09 PM
HARRISBURG, MARCH 7– In response to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s first budget address Tuesday afternoon, state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie) issued the following statement:
“As chairman of the House Democratic Policy Committee, I crisscrossed the state to hear the concerns and issues plaguing our local communities, workers, local businesses and first responders,” Bizzarro said. “Gov. Shapiro gave us a detailed blueprint and strong starting point, acknowledging many of these real needs and pledging to make a difference in the everyday lives of our residents.”
“He wants to improve our schools, and he wants to address Pennsylvania’s teaching, nursing and policing needs before they become a crisis,” Bizzarro said. “He wants to keep seniors in their homes by increasing the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. He doesn’t believe Pennsylvania needs to choose between good paying union jobs or clean air and water. We can have both. These have long been priorities of House Democrats.”
“I was also thrilled to see his desire to pledge money to support first responders, which will improve public safety and strengthen our communities – including the firefighters, police officers and EMS here in Erie.”
“As we work hard over the next few months to finalize the budget, I will continue to be a champion for our region and for communities across the commonwealth. I’ll fight to secure more funding for our economic drivers like Presque Isle — home to millions of visitors each year — and for more funding to support our local business owners and workers, who are essential to bolstering our ever-growing economy.”