Scarnati: Senate Passes Responsible Budget

WARREN—State Senator Joe Scarnati announced today that the Senate has overwhelmingly passed a 2007-2008 final budget.  The fiscally responsible budget received bi-partisan support and passed 49-1.

"Members from both sides of the aisle can be proud of passing a budget that does not increase taxes, does not create any new taxes, and does not exceed the rate of inflation," Scarnati stated.  "This budget reflects an understanding of the financial realities of Pennsylvania families and balances it with a vision for future advancement."

According to Scarnati, the budget will now move to the House of Representatives for serious debate.  It has been widely reported that the House Democrats may oppose this budget in its present form.

"It is my hope that House Democrats recognize that the citizens of the Commonwealth do not need another bill in the mail taking money out of their pockets," Scarnati added.  "The Senate has crafted a conservative budget that still maintains substantial increases in education, economic development, and medical assistance funding."

"Overall, the budget passed by the Republican-led Senate increases spending at 2.7 percent, well below the rate of inflation," Scarnati said.  "It is my sincere belief that by controlling spending and at the same time providing adequate funding for successful programs, we are moving Pennsylvania in a positive direction."

"I am confident that Governor Rendell and House Democrats will find the Senate's version of the budget solid, sound, and respectful of the citizens of the Commonwealth," Scarnati added.  "With House concurrence and a signature from the Governor, the final budget can be the consequence of financial prudence not seen in past years."

"I do want to recognize the many hours of hard work in bringing about this product by all members of the Senate, both Democrat and Republican," Scarnati stated.  "Our negotiations have been open, productive and civil.  Quite frankly, the budget process on the Senate side is reflective of the type of bi-partisan cooperation and work the citizens have been demanding for some time."

"In addition, I have stated time and time again, that when the Governor decides he  also wants to begin working on the budget, this office will be as cooperative as he is fiscally responsible," Scarnati concluded.  "It is, however, important to note, that the deadline to pass a budget is fast approaching and the Governor seems very attached to tax increases and bloated spending."