September 18, 2009

 

     HARRISBURG -  After 80 days, Pennsylvania Gover Ed Rendell and legislative leaders reached a budget agreement Friday evening.

     Lieutenant Governor Joe Scarnati says the resolution ensures funding will be restored for important state and local services people depend on.

     The proposed budget spends $400 million less than last year, and reduces revenues to reflect the current economic downturn. It also restores support for higher education and student aid, but without any broad-based tax increases.

     "It is my hope that as quickly as possible we can get a signed budget so that we can begin that money flow to the many groups and organizations that are in desperate need of that infusion of cash to keep doing the things that they do so well for us," said Governor Rendell.

     The rank and file legislators must still vote on the proposal. Pennsylvania was the last state to reach a budget deal, after its fiscal year began July first.