Southwest PA News

Pennsylvania House Republican leaders have strongly criticized Governor Josh Shapiro's budget proposal, likening it to a fiscal phishing scam that may appear appealing but harbors hidden dangers. House Republican Leader Bryan Cutler described the budget proposal as deceptive, stating, "It looks good, it draws you in, and it makes you believe it is something it is not." He cautioned that buying into this budget proposal would result in higher taxes, stagnant ideas, and irresponsible decisions.

House Republican Appropriations Chairman Seth Grove expressed concerns about the affordability and responsibility of the governor's proposal. He warned that it could lead to fiscal failure and ultimately burden Pennsylvanians with tax hikes in the coming years. Grove criticized the inclusion of over $2.5 billion in spending on new or expanded government programs, emphasizing the need for a government that lives within its means.

House Republican Whip Tim O'Neal emphasized the negative financial consequences that Shapiro's budget would impose on Pennsylvania. He stated, "This proposal will have Democrats spending the state's surplus, draining the Rainy Day Fund, and finally increasing taxes on families across Pennsylvania." O'Neal likened the budget to a tax-and-spend agenda, comparing it to the politics of California.

House Republican Policy Chairman Josh Kail, drawing from his experience holding hearings across the state, expressed disappointment in the budget proposal. He argued that it fails to address the needs and expectations of the people of Pennsylvania. Kail accused Governor Shapiro of relying on empty words and lacking concrete action, stating, "It is all talk, no action. And this budget proposal is a continuation of borrowing political capital on the backs of working Pennsylvanians."

In response to the criticisms, Governor Shapiro's office has not yet issued a statement. However, it is expected that the governor will defend his budget proposal and highlight its potential benefits for the state. The clash between the House Republican leaders and Governor Shapiro underscores the contrasting visions for Pennsylvania's fiscal future and sets the stage for further debates and negotiations in the coming weeks.

For media inquiries, please contact:

- Rep. Seth Grove: Charlie O'Neill - coneill@pahousegop.com

- Rep. Tim O'Neal: Tracy Polovick - tpolovick@pahousegop.com

- Rep. Josh Kail: Nancy Nilson - nnilson@pahousegop.com

Republican Leader Bryan Cutler represents the 100th Legislative District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. For media inquiries regarding Bryan Cutler, please contact Jason Gottesman at 717-512-0620 or jgottesman@pahousegop.com. More information can be found at RepCutler.com, Facebook.com/RepBryanCutler, and Twitter.com/RepBryanCutler.