Colleagues,
 
I am introducing legislation designed to ensure certainty for Pennsylvania taxpayers and allow the state government to continue operations during a budget impasse.
 
As seen in recent years, budget discussions are arduous, complex and often result in negotiations going past the end of a fiscal year. This leaves Pennsylvania taxpayers wondering which, if any, of the prior fiscal year’s programs and services will continue. We can do better for our constituents. The good people of our Commonwealth don’t get a break in paying taxes to Harrisburg, so why should Harrisburg get a break in funding education, making sure our communities are safe or that our senior programs are operating?
 
To help alleviate this uncertainty:
 

• A proposal to establish the Temporary Budget Continuity Act to provide the necessary authority for the State Treasury to continue operations of the Commonwealth during a budget impasse at 85% of the prior fiscal year’s state appropriations.

 
Under this legislation, payments may only be issued upon a warrant issued by an officer for which the payment was enacted in the General Appropriations Act issued in the prior fiscal year. Once a new General Appropriations Act is enacted for the ensuing fiscal year, any amount paid will be deducted from the amount appropriated for that fiscal year.
 
Providing certainty and predictability for all Pennsylvania taxpayers is paramount for individuals and businesses alike. This legislative effort allows Harrisburg to continue to meet the needs of Pennsylvanians during a budget impasse, but also ensures the General Assembly can negotiate and decide the best use of valuable resources for the fringe issues that comprise the remaining 15%.
 
I respectfully ask for your consideration to join me as a co-sponsor of this legislation.