Conklin: Shapiro budget will make key investments for PA
Says education, environment key to commonwealth’s future
Rep. Scott Conklin March 7, 2023 | 3:05 PM
HARRISBURG, March 7 – As a key leader of the new Democratic majority in Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Rep. Scott Conklin today said he supports many aspects of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s inaugural state budget, including key investments proposed for education and the environment.
“Today we heard a proposal for a commonsense budget that builds on our previous successes while making the investments we need to build a bright future for our commonwealth,” said Conklin, D-Centre. “I am especially encouraged by the governor’s proposals for education and the environment – investments that won’t just impact our communities today but will pay dividends in the future as well.
“In Centre County we have seen first-hand how supporting education and the environment can help attract and create businesses, revitalize rural communities, increase tourism, and help entire regions reinvent themselves. As a leader in the House Democratic Caucus, I look forward to working with my fellow members and the governor to support his agenda, and make sure the interests of Centre County, the people I represent, are part of the discussion.
“This proposed budget doesn’t just mean more money for schools, state parks and capping abandoned gas wells – it would expand the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program to nearly 175,000 additional people. It would increase the minimum wage; it would invest directly in teachers, nurses and police officers. In short, it is a budget that invests in our communities, in our hospitals and neighborhoods. But it is a budget that doesn’t just invest in things – but in the people of our commonwealth.”