The State Budget: Protecting Seniors and Supporting Families

Rep. Melissa Cerrato July 31, 2026

Dear Friends,

Two weeks ago, I shared how the 2026–27 state budget makes important investments in public education. This week, I would like to highlight another major focus of the budget by discussing how it supports older Pennsylvanians, children, and working families.

As the cost of housing, groceries, prescription medications, and other everyday necessities continues to increase, many older adults are finding it more difficult to make ends meet. This budget makes meaningful investments to help seniors remain financially secure, healthy, and independent.

In recent years, we expanded Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program to help eligible seniors, widows and widowers between the ages of 55 and 64, and adults with permanent disabilities. This year’s budget builds on that progress by strengthening several of the programs that older Pennsylvanians rely on every day.

The budget includes $155 million for PACE and PACENET, helping seniors continue to afford the prescription medications they need. It also provides additional support for Aging Our Way, PA, increases funding for the Department of Aging, and invests $3.5 million in the LIFE program. Through LIFE, eligible seniors can receive medical care and supportive services while continuing to live safely in their homes and communities.

We also increased funding for nursing homes while requiring a greater share of those dollars to be directed toward direct resident care and the dedicated workers who provide that care.

One of the most significant accomplishments in this budget is a cost-of-living adjustment for some of Pennsylvania’s longest-retired public servants, including retired teachers, police officers, firefighters, and state employees. This is the first adjustment since 2001, and it is something I have supported since I was first elected to the General Assembly.

More than 80,000 retirees will benefit from this change. Eligible retirees will receive increases ranging from 15 percent to 24.5 percent. Most recipients are between 81 and 84 years old and have spent decades managing rising living expenses without an increase in their retirement benefits. This adjustment provides long-overdue recognition for the men and women who dedicated their careers to serving our communities and our Commonwealth.

Supporting children also means making sure families have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Last year, Pennsylvania created the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program to help providers address staffing shortages. This budget increases funding for that program by 20 percent, giving childcare centers additional resources to recruit qualified educators, retain experienced staff, and keep classrooms open. Reliable childcare benefits not only children, but also parents who need to work and employers who depend on a strong workforce.

The budget also expands support for early childhood education. It provides an additional $3.75 million for Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts and approximately $1 million more for the Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program. These investments increase the amount providers receive for each student while helping more children enroll in high-quality preschool programs.

Funding for subsidized childcare remains at $422.5 million, preserving affordable care for thousands of Pennsylvania families.

Children with developmental delays or disabilities will also receive additional support. The budget invests $494.5 million in Early Intervention services for children from birth through age three, representing a 9.1 percent increase. These services help young children build important developmental skills during their earliest years.

County child welfare funding is also increasing by 3.3 percent, providing counties with additional resources to protect vulnerable children and assist families facing difficult circumstances.

To strengthen child protection efforts, the budget includes $658,000 for additional ChildLine staff and enhanced training. These investments will allow reports to be reviewed more carefully and directed to the appropriate county or agency for timely follow-up.

A state budget is more than a spending plan. It reflects the values and priorities we choose to invest in. This year’s budget demonstrates a commitment to helping seniors live with dignity, giving children every opportunity to succeed, and ensuring working families have access to the services they depend on.

There is much more included in this year’s budget, and I look forward to continuing to share how these investments will strengthen our communities, support our workforce, and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians.

Thank You!

We have to say goodbye to our incredible intern, Alexis!

Over the past few months, Alexis has been a valued member of our team, bringing enthusiasm, dedication, and a willingness to jump into every project. From helping serve constituents to supporting our day-to-day work, she has made a meaningful impact in our office, and we are so grateful for everything she has done.

While we are sad to see her go, we are excited to see what comes next. Alexis is beginning a new role with Senator Maria Collett’s office, and we know she will continue to do great things in public service.

Thank you, Alexis, for all your hard work and positive energy. We wish you the very best in this next chapter and cannot wait to see all that you accomplish. Congratulations, and good luck!

Upcoming Events

Mark your calendars, HD 151! ??

We have a busy fall ahead with several great community events coming up, and I would love to see you there. From veterans resources and paper shredding to e-waste recycling, family resources, college prep, and our holiday open house, there is something for everyone.

Save the dates, share with your neighbors, and come out to take advantage of these helpful community resources.

Hope to see you this fall! ??