Schlossberg lauds governor’s proposed investments in education, out-of-school programs, mental health services
Rep. Mike Schlossberg February 4, 2025 | 1:38 PM
HARRISBURG, Feb. 4 – State Rep. Mike Schlossberg offered the following statement in response to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s 2025-26 state budget that he proposed today before a joint session of the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
“Gov. Shapiro presented a budget that continues to build on our commitment to do right by Pennsylvania’s students. This has a tremendous impact on students in Parkland, and to a greater extent, Allentown. The governor’s proposal makes progress that started when we approved my first Level Up initiative in 2023 and bolstered again in 2024. In the end, the combination of funding for basic education and investing in challenged schools is a win for students, families, and property taxpayers throughout Parkland and Allentown. Further, these investments help to take pressure off property taxes for homeowners and small businesses.
“I am excited to see Gov. Shapiro give a boost to my BOOST program, adding more funding to efforts that will serve students and families with important out-of-school learning opportunities. It has been a pleasure to work with Gov. Shapiro and Lt. Gov. Austin Davis to make out-of-school opportunities a high priority.
“This proposal also offers us a roadmap to increase resources necessary to deliver more and better mental health care services. The governor’s plan follows through on his plan to allocate more money for county mental health services, 988 suicide prevention efforts and mental health crisis centers. Perhaps most important, the budget would include increased reimbursement rates for mental health and behavioral health providers who work on the front lines delivering care and services in our community. Until Pennsylvania is able to support the mental health care needs of our residents, we will continue to struggle to unlock the potential our state has for a strong economy.
“The budget proposal also takes steps to help make housing more affordable for Pennsylvania families with more resources for first-time homebuyers, housing improvements, and to create more affordable housing throughout Pennsylvania.
“Every budget process begins with the governor’s address and that is where we are today. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to deliver a responsible budget that meets our moral obligations and a stronger Pennsylvania. Gov. Shapiro’s proposal takes important steps to address issues of real concern for Parkland and Allentown, Lehigh County, and all of Pennsylvania.”