PA Senate Democratic Leadership Shares Statement on Latest House Budget Legislation

PA Senate Democratic Leadership Shares Statement on Latest House Budget Legislation

October 8, 2025

Harrisburg PA − October 8, 2025 − Today, Senator Jay Costa, Senate Democratic Leader, and Senator Vincent Hughes, Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair, shared the following statement after the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed a 25-26 budget for the second time.

"Yet again, Senate Democrats are standing ready with votes to pass a budget and stop this budget impasse that is causing real hurt to counties, schools, health and safety programs, and many others who rely on state funding.

"The House passed a budget today that represents compromise and responsible spending. Senate Democrats are ready to get this done.

"And while the House was in session passing a budget, for the second time, Senate Republican leadership decided to send members home. We could have passed a budget today if Senate Republicans weren't so carelessly standing in the way.

"Instead of getting a budget deal done, Senate Republicans spent three days playing gubernatorial politics on behalf of the State Treasurer. Senate Republicans have demonstrated multiple times that they are not serious about getting a budget passed. They are more interested in playing political games with no regard for the individuals and organizations they hurt along the way.

"They continue to finger point, yet the state House passed a budget today and Senate Democrats are ready to vote to end this unnecessary impasse. What have they done? It's far past time to put the people first."

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