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Pennsylvania Lawmakers Pass $47.6 Billion Budget Deal Nearly Two Weeks Late with 6% Increase

Jul 12, 2024, 12:26 AM

Pennsylvania lawmakers have passed a $47.6 billion budget deal nearly two weeks into the new fiscal year, following extensive negotiations and delays. The budget, which represents a 6% increase, includes significant funding boosts for public schools and economic development. The delay, past the June 30 deadline, was primarily due to disagreements over the amount of additional funding for public schools, with Democrats pushing for more aid. Public education advocates have emphasized the importance of the school funding plan, warning that they may return to court if the budget does not adequately address the funding gap. Lawmakers in Harrisburg finally approved the budget after a series of votes, acknowledging the need to fill the gap in public school funding. The negotiations were slowed by disagreements during closed-door discussions.