State Rep. Russ Diamond | Pennsylvania 102nd Legislative District
State Rep. Russ Diamond | Pennsylvania 102nd Legislative District
HARRISBURG – The $47.6 billion budget passed today was negotiated behind closed doors by House Democrats, leaving GOP representatives uncertain about the reasons for missing the June 30 deadline, according to Rep. Russ Diamond (R-Lebanon).
“It’s the most frustrating budget season of the last decade,” Diamond said.
A General Appropriations bill serves as the foundation of the state’s annual spending plan, with other components like a Fiscal Code structured around it. Diamond voted “no” on all measures to signal his concerns that the proposal sets up Pennsylvanians for future tax increases needed to keep pace with ever-increasing spending.
The budget that passed the House and Senate today authorizes $2.7 billion more in spending over the previous fiscal year.
“It’s bad enough this budget spends 6% more than last year, but on top of that, it spends $3.3 billion more than it takes in,” Diamond said. “Could you imagine trying to run a small business like that? Now, try to wrap your head around how that can be feasible for the country’s fifth largest state. This budget sets a dangerous precedent for future generations.”
Diamond, who hears regularly from constituents losing their homes because of skyrocketing tax bills, said he could not in good conscience support the spending levels set by House Democrats.
A video of Rep. Diamond’s thoughts on the budget can be downloaded here.
Representative Russ Diamond
102nd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jennifer Fitch
717.260.6563
jfitch@pahousegop.com
RepDiamond.com
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