Southwest PA News

Rep. Bud Cook of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives has criticized Governor Josh Shapiro's proposed $51.47 billion budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The budget represents a 7.5% increase over the previous fiscal year. Cook expressed concerns about what he sees as an irresponsible and unsustainable budget plan. In a statement, he said, "The governor’s proposal would be a 7.5% increase over the current fiscal year, an irresponsible and short-sighted approach that has no regard for the long-term growth of Pennsylvania."

Cook argued that the proposal could deplete the remaining General Fund surplus and accused Shapiro of continuing to introduce policies that impose energy taxes harming Western Pennsylvania's economy. "Additionally, Shapiro’s proposal continues his trend of pushing harmful energy taxes that kill jobs here in Western Pennsylvania and would directly tax coal and natural gas power plants, which would force customers into higher energy bills," Cook stated.

Cook believes the budget plan does not align with the interests of taxpayers in Greene and Washington counties and fails to consider Pennsylvania's financial future adequately. "Shapiro’s spending dreams remain out of touch with the needs of the hardworking taxpayers of Greene and Washington counties, and prove he has no regard for the financial well-being of the future of our Commonwealth," he added.

Cook indicated his intent to oppose the proposed budget, hoping to ensure that Pennsylvania adheres to a more budget-conscious approach. "Today’s proposal is just the beginning of the budget process, and I look forward to pushing back against this overspending and ensuring our Commonwealth returns to operating within our means," he said.