Butler County News

Rep. Marci Mustello from Butler expressed her concerns following Governor Tom Wolf's presentation of a $43.7 billion budget plan, the largest in Pennsylvania's history. During a joint session of the General Assembly, Mustello criticized the governor's proposal, describing it as a "fiscal fantasy land."

Mustello stated, "If there’s one thing the governor has shown time and again with his budget address is his consistency. For the last eight years, he has consistently conjured up countless ways to spend more and more of your hard-earned money." She added that she will work towards investing in programs that ensure a better future for Pennsylvanians rather than supporting what she perceives as excessive spending.

The representative pointed out that the proposed budget equates to "$17 million per day and $1,055 annually per working Pennsylvanian in new state spending." She argued that this money could be used over several years to prevent significant tax increases.

Expressing disappointment over the absence of additional funding for the Rainy Day Fund, which stands at $2.76 billion, Mustello emphasized its importance for economic slowdowns. "We can use these funds to meet our obligations rather than turning to taxpayers," she noted.

Mustello also highlighted challenges faced by small businesses due to COVID-19 and criticized the potential tax increases required by Wolf's plan. "Every action that affects our economy and that we take as a government should be to help, not hinder," she asserted.

As part of the annual state budget process, hearings conducted by the House Appropriations Committee will begin on February 15 to scrutinize Governor Wolf's proposal and agency expenditures.

For further information or media inquiries, contact Rick Leiner at RepMustello.com or through their social media platforms.