North Lancaster News

The Pennsylvania House and Senate have approved a state budget totaling nearly $48 billion. Representative Dave Zimmerman, representing Lancaster and Berks counties, opposed the spending plan, citing concerns over its sustainability and lack of accountability.

Zimmerman expressed his dissatisfaction in a statement following the vote. He noted that "this budget spends $2.7 billion more than the current fiscal year" and warned that it surpasses revenue predictions from taxes and other sources. According to Zimmerman, this shortfall would necessitate using reserves and the Rainy Day Fund to cover expenses. He further cautioned that future tax increases might be required to sustain the new levels of spending.

Zimmerman also criticized the absence of accountability measures within the budget, particularly in education funding. "To blindly increase spending without ensuring how and where that money is specifically being used is foolish," he stated. Additionally, he lamented the lack of permitting and regulatory reforms in the budget, which he believes could have had significant impacts both immediately and in the long term.

In summary, Zimmerman described the budget as "simply unsustainable" and lacking in accountability for taxpayers.