Northhampton News

Rep. Zach Mako (R-Lehigh/Northampton) has expressed his concerns regarding Governor Josh Shapiro's budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2024-25. In a statement, Mako highlighted several issues with the governor's plan and emphasized the need for a more responsible approach.

Mako criticized the lack of details in the governor's budget address, stating, "Once again, the governor offered a budget address heavy on ideas and spending and thin on details." He also noted that the proposal would reduce the Commonwealth's budget surplus from $7 billion to $3.5 billion in the first year, which could lead to fiscal failure in the future. Mako added, "He would then continue his high-spending ways and move onto raiding the Rainy Day Fund."

As the co-chair of the Community College Caucus, Mako expressed his opposition to the governor's plan to merge the Commonwealth's community colleges with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). Mako, who is a graduate of both types of institutions, believes that a merger would hinder the flexibility of community colleges to adapt quickly to workforce development needs. He said, "A merger would hamstring the nimbleness of community colleges to quickly adapt and pivot based on workforce development needs."

Mako also criticized the allocation of $34 million to update state government websites to make application processes easier for businesses and residents. He argued that this expenditure is unnecessary and suggested focusing on fixing the onerous permitting processes advocated by House Republicans. Mako emphasized the importance of crafting affordable, responsible, and honest budgets that meet the needs of the Commonwealth without burdening taxpayers.

In conclusion, Mako expressed his concerns about Governor Shapiro's budget proposal, calling for a more detailed and responsible approach. He highlighted the potential fiscal risks and disagreed with the plan to merge community colleges with PASSHE. Mako also suggested focusing on improving permitting processes rather than investing in website updates. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Mako pledged to thoroughly examine the proposal in the coming months.

For more information on the 2024-25 state budget, visit pahousegop.com.