State Representative David H. Zimmerman | Pennsylvania 99th Legislative District
State Representative David H. Zimmerman | Pennsylvania 99th Legislative District
In a recent announcement, Rep. Dave Zimmerman (R-Lancaster/Berks) expressed his concern over the stalled state budget process and its detrimental effects on crucial sectors of the economy. Specifically, community colleges and animal health diagnostics are suffering due to the lack of funding.
Typically, the state budget bill provides funding for approximately 80% of the budget, with the remaining 20% allocated through code bills passed shortly after the budget bill. However, this year, the code bills have been delayed due to Governor Josh Shapiro reneging on his promise to provide $100 million in school choice funding.
"Five months into the fiscal year, community colleges are the only sector in higher education that have not received their funding for the year," Zimmerman stated. This delay is causing significant concerns among the state's largest providers of postsecondary education, who are responsible for educating many low-income, first-generation, and nontraditional students.
Another sector that requires immediate funding is animal health diagnostics, which plays a crucial role in supporting our farmers and ensuring healthy food production. Zimmerman emphasized the importance of this sector, stating, "Diagnostic professionals are at the front lines of protecting our livestock animals from diseases such as avian influenza, swine flu, and chronic wasting disease. Their work is fundamental to ensuring a robust food supply that is both safe and affordable."
With the budget process stalled, it is crucial that the Legislature acts swiftly to pass funding for community colleges and animal health diagnostics before recessing for the year. The consequences of further delay could have far-reaching impacts on higher education institutions and the agricultural sector.
It is clear that the current budget impasse is hindering the ability of these vital sectors to fulfill their missions effectively. The funding delay not only affects the educational opportunities for students but also poses a risk to the health and well-being of livestock animals.
Representative Zimmerman's call for action highlights the urgency of the situation. Pennsylvania's lawmakers must prioritize the funding for community colleges and animal health diagnostics to ensure the continued success of these sectors and the overall well-being of the state.
Contact:
Charles Lardner
Communications Director
Email: clardner@pahousegop.com
Phone: 717.260.6443
To find out more, go to this link: https://www.repzimmerman.com/News/33252/Latest-News/Stalled-Budget-Process-Cuts-Off-Critical-Funding-for-Community-Colleges-and-Animal-Health-Diagnostics,-Zimmerman-Says
Alerts Sign-up