Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro presented his proposed budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year to a joint session of the General Assembly, outlining $53.26 billion in spending, which represents a 5.4% increase over the previous year’s budget.
Rep. Marla Brown (R-Lawrence) responded to the proposal by expressing concern about its sustainability and potential long-term tax implications. In her statement, Brown said, “As with any budget address, this proposal is a starting point. The conversation begins and my hope is it ultimately leads to a fiscally responsible budget Pennsylvanians can afford.”
Brown criticized the scale of the proposed spending increase, stating, “The overall spending level the governor proposed today is simply too high. We need to start dealing in reality. Our economy is not growing fast enough to sustain this level of spending, yet the budget lacks a meaningful focus on policies that would drive long term economic growth, job creation and competitiveness.”
She also noted rising energy costs as a key issue facing Pennsylvania residents and businesses: “Energy costs have skyrocketed for families, seniors and employers across Pennsylvania. Instead of addressing these rising costs and supporting affordable, reliable energy production, the governor’s proposal misses an opportunity to provide relief and strengthen our economic foundation.”
Addressing concerns about future taxes, Brown said: “Although the governor claims this budget does not raise taxes, it absolutely risks doing so in the future. To balance his plan, the governor relies on $6.46 billion in new revenue, including transferring $4.58 billion from the Rainy Day Fund, nearly 60% of that fund. The Rainy Day Fund exists to protect taxpayers during economic downturns, not to support ongoing spending that cannot be sustained long term.”
She further opposed certain measures suggested in the proposal: “The governor is again proposing nearly $1.9 billion in new revenue through changes to our tax structure, including taxing skill games and legalizing recreational marijuana. I will never vote for a budget that legalizes adult use recreational marijuana. Any potential revenue would be outweighed by the societal costs, including increased addiction, health care demands, workplace accidents and lost productivity. I strongly oppose this direction.”
Brown also commented on remarks made by Governor Shapiro regarding legislative efforts related to sexual abuse cases: “I was also disappointed by the governor’s remarks regarding expanding the statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases, especially his decision to single out the Catholic Church and suggest legislators are being influenced by lobbyists. These are serious issues that deserve respectful discussion, not rhetoric that divides or undermines the legislative process.”
Brown concluded her statement by emphasizing her commitment as a member of the House Appropriations Committee: “As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I look forward to working with my colleagues and the governor to ensure a fiscally responsible budget is passed and that it benefits all Pennsylvanians.”
For more information on Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 state budget process or details about current appropriations discussions can be found at official government sources.
