State Rep. Valerie Gaydos | Pennsylvania 44th Legislative District
State Rep. Valerie Gaydos | Pennsylvania 44th Legislative District
The Pennsylvania state Senate reconvened to finalize the General Appropriations bill, a key component of the state's 2023-24 budget. Governor Josh Shapiro subsequently signed it into law. However, Representative Valerie Gaydos expressed concerns regarding certain aspects of the budget.
"Enacting the budget bill into law will provide the necessary funding to schools, counties and organizations. That’s the good news," stated Rep. Gaydos. She pointed out that without accompanying code bills, which dictate spending procedures, $1.1 billion earmarked for programs and grants remains inaccessible until further legislative measures are taken.
Rep. Gaydos criticized Governor Shapiro for removing $100 million intended for lifeline scholarships from the budget, funds she believes would assist students in underperforming schools across Pennsylvania. "It is disappointing to see Gov. Shapiro turn his back on struggling students and their families by specifically eliminating from the budget $100 million for lifeline scholarships," she remarked.
Despite these challenges, Rep. Gaydos pledged her commitment to advancing related budget legislation to ensure taxpayer money is used effectively and transparently: "The 2023-24 state budget process is far from over. I will work hard for you, the taxpayers, to finalize important budget-related bills and ensure your tax dollars are spent wisely and transparently."
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