Rep. Zach Mako, representing the Lehigh and Northampton areas, has announced his support for the newly approved $39.78 billion state budget for Fiscal Year 2021-22. The budget passed on Friday includes several key financial decisions aimed at benefiting Pennsylvania’s taxpayers.
Mako expressed satisfaction with the budget, stating, “This budget is a win for Pennsylvania’s taxpayers. We stopped the governor’s proposed $7 billion Personal Income Tax proposal. We are putting $2.52 billion in the state’s Rainy Day Fund.” He highlighted the prudent use of federal stimulus funds to avoid future deficits similar to those experienced in previous administrations.
The allocation of federal relief funding will target specific one-time expenditures while saving over $5 billion for upcoming budgets. Key areas of focus include $282 million allocated to support nursing homes and other care facilities impacted by COVID-19 costs, $279 million designated for critical road and bridge projects affected by decreased gasoline tax revenue during pandemic-related travel restrictions, and $350 million dedicated to educational enrichment programs addressing student learning loss due to the pandemic.
Education funding sees a significant increase with an additional $380 million earmarked for prekindergarten through 12th grade students. The Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program will also receive a boost of $40 million, supporting families in accessing private education options and fostering innovative public-school initiatives.
Public safety is addressed with provisions for two state police cadet classes, which will introduce 180 new troopers to address forthcoming retirements within the force.
For further details on the budget, individuals can visit www.pahousegop.com.
The 183rd District encompasses parts of South Whitehall, Washington, Whitehall townships, Slatington Borough in Lehigh County, Allen Township, Lehigh Township, Moore Township (part), North Catasauqua Borough, Northampton Borough, and Walnutport Borough in Northampton County.
