Northhampton News

Rep. Zach Mako, a Republican representing parts of Lehigh and Northampton counties, voted in favor of the $42.8 billion state budget for the Fiscal Year 2022-23. The budget was approved on Thursday, and Mako expressed his support through an official statement.

“This budget is a win-win for Pennsylvanians. We are funding people not government," Mako stated. He emphasized the importance of financial responsibility by noting that the budget aims to "pay our bills, build the Rainy Day Fund and return money to the taxpayers through tax cuts and investments."

Mako highlighted education as a critical component of the budget, with an increase in the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program by $125 million. This increment is intended to provide more educational choices for children and their parents. "No child should be prevented from accessing a quality education that best addresses their needs," he said.

The budget also includes measures aimed at enhancing election integrity. It proposes two constitutional amendments: one requiring voter identification at polls and another mandating independent election audits by the Auditor General. These measures will need approval from the General Assembly in its next session before appearing on ballots.

Furthermore, Mako pointed out that the budget reduces Pennsylvania's Corporate Net Income (CNI) Tax, which is currently the second highest in the nation. The tax will be cut by 1% this year and 0.5% annually until it reaches 4.99%. According to Mako, this reduction is intended to attract businesses to Pennsylvania by removing economic barriers.

For additional details about the 2022-23 state budget, individuals can visit www.pahousegop.com/statebudget.

The 183rd District represented by Mako covers parts of South Whitehall, Washington, Whitehall townships, Slatington Borough in Lehigh County, as well as Allen, Lehigh, Moore townships, North Catasauqua, Northampton, and Walnutport boroughs in Northampton County.