Southwest PA News

Rep. Tim O’Neal of Washington has expressed concerns over Governor Josh Shapiro's proposed budget for the Fiscal Year 2025-26, which amounts to nearly $51.5 billion. In a statement, O'Neal criticized the budget for its spending levels and potential tax implications.

“This budget proposal is more of the same," said O'Neal. "It spends too much, eliminates our budget surplus and creates taxes." He pointed out that the current budget required using $3.3 billion from the surplus and argued against the governor's plan to increase spending by 7.5%. "This makes no sense and is not sustainable," he added.

O'Neal suggested that efforts should focus on economic investment and reforming tax and permitting processes to attract businesses to Pennsylvania or encourage existing ones to expand. He also noted his disapproval of eliminating certain tax credits, such as those for Waterfront Development and Video Game industries, which have been beneficial in western Pennsylvania.

“The only two options we have are to raise taxes or grow our economy," he stated, emphasizing his opposition to raising taxes as a solution. O'Neal plans to work diligently during the upcoming months to advocate for a growth-oriented fiscal plan for Pennsylvania.

The legislative district represented by O'Neal includes various parts of Washington County, encompassing cities like Washington and townships such as Amwell, East Finley, Morris, North Franklin, Nottingham among others.