Senator Pisciottano Supports Passage of Overdue State Budget

Senator Pisciottano Supports Passage of Overdue State Budget

November 12, 2025

Highlights Wins for Working Families, Education Funding, No Tax Increases

Monroeville, PA, November 12, 2025 - State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) said the newly passed state budget delivers long-overdue but meaningful progress for working families, public schools, and community safety across Pennsylvania.

"While this budget took longer than it should have, I'm proud that the final product delivers programs that will make life more affordable, invest in our schools, and create jobs," said Senator Pisciottano. "This is a responsible, balanced plan that prioritizes the needs of working families."

The $50.09 billion spending plan represents a 4.75% increase from last year's budget to keep pace with inflation, while maintaining the Commonwealth's $7.5 billion Rainy Day Fund and spending $1.3 billion less than Governor Shapiro's original proposal, a balanced compromise that invests in core priorities without raising taxes.

This year's budget follows through on commitments to affordability and opportunity, including:

• $193 million for the new Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit, a Family Earned Income Tax Credit that will provide direct relief to nearly one million working residents, including to over 70,000 households in the 45th District.
• Historic investments in public education, fulfilling the court-ordered mandate to adequately and constitutionally fund Pennsylvania schools, including more than $20 million in new funding for schools in the 45th District.
• $100 million for school safety and mental health.
• $10 million increase for student teacher stipends, helping future educators gain classroom experience without taking on additional financial strain.
• Targeted support for public safety, including grants to reduce crime, drug addiction, and human trafficking, as well as additional funding for the State Police.
• Economic development and workforce initiatives that promote good-paying jobs, workforce development, and business growth.

Pisciottano emphasized that the new budget helps shield Pennsylvanians from economic instability fueled by national dysfunction.

"This budget supports working families, better schools, safer communities, and more opportunities to succeed," Pisciottano added. "At a time when chaos and division in Washington are making life harder for everyday people, Pennsylvania is choosing to invest in stability, opportunity, and the future of our communities."