Southwest Allegheny News

Rep. Jason Ortitay has responded to Governor Josh Shapiro's budget proposal for the 2025-26 fiscal year, expressing concerns about its potential impact on Pennsylvania residents. Ortitay, a Republican representing parts of Washington and Allegheny counties, criticized the plan for increasing spending by 7.5% and depleting the state's budget surplus.

Ortitay stated, "Right now, Pennsylvanians are already dealing with rising property taxes, inflation and an uncertain economy. The governor’s plan includes a lot of new spending but relies on one-time surplus dollars and could set us up for tax increases down the road." He emphasized the need to support working families and small businesses.

The representative also raised issues regarding public education funding, noting that increased investments have not improved student performance in reading and math. He said, "Reading and math scores have actually decreased dramatically. Two-thirds of our kids can’t read at grade level. It’s time to focus on and invest in proven, evidence-based early literacy programs."

Ortitay called for genuine bipartisan efforts to address these challenges, stating, "Real bipartisanship means rolling up our sleeves and having meaningful conversations."

He outlined several priorities he believes should be addressed in the budget process: cutting taxes for families and businesses, streamlining regulations, investing in early literacy programs, making smart infrastructure investments, supporting law enforcement, and balancing the budget responsibly.

As the budget process begins, Ortitay expressed his readiness to collaborate with colleagues from both parties to finalize a budget by June 30 that benefits all Pennsylvanians.

The 46th Legislative District represented by Ortitay includes areas in Allegheny County such as South Fayette Township and McDonald boroughs as well as regions in Washington County like Cecil township.