HARRISBURG – Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-27) today said members of the state legislature will closely review the governor’s budget proposal and work toward a final spending plan that is fiscally responsible, sustainable long-term, and mindful of the pressures Pennsylvania families face.
The governor’s 2026-27 $53.3 billion budget proposal would increase spending by $2.7 billion, a 5.4% increase over the current year. Culver said that rate of spending growth could put additional pressure on taxpayers at a time when many households are still dealing with rising costs for everyday necessities.
“Pennsylvanians expect us to fund priorities responsibly, but we also have a duty to be honest about what is sustainable,” Culver said. “I will be looking closely at the governor’s proposal, asking tough questions, and working with colleagues to keep spending in check while protecting taxpayers and supporting core services that communities rely on.”
The growth in spending is primarily driven by the Department of Human Services (nearly a $1.4 billion increase) and the Department of Education (more than a $900 million increase). Costs for the Department of Corrections would also increase by $140 million under the proposal despite the closure of two state correctional facilities.
As Chair of the Senate Education Committee, Culver welcomed several education initiatives highlighted in the governor’s address, including a cell phone restriction in schools, support for career and technical education, increased special education funding, workforce readiness efforts, and student teacher stipends. She said she is encouraged to see the governor joining priorities the Senate has been advancing to strengthen classrooms and better prepare students for their futures. “When we invest in education, it must be done with fiscal responsibility, transparency for taxpayers, and high standards focused on student success,” Culver said. “I’m glad to hear these ideas echoed today, and I look forward to working together to move them forward in a way that delivers results and respects the people who pay the bill.”
The spending plan would also take $4.6 billion out of the state’s emergency reserves in the Rainy Day Fund. The Rainy Day Fund is designed to help the Commonwealth weather economic downturns and unexpected challenges, and large withdrawals should be approached with caution.
Senate Republicans noted that spending restraint and pro-growth reforms enacted over the past several years helped position Pennsylvania to avoid broad-based tax increases, and they said those principles should remain part of the budget conversation as the legislature reviews the governor’s plan.
Senator Culver said she will continue to review the details of the governor’s proposal in the weeks ahead and work to ensure the final budget reflects responsible spending, transparency, and accountability for taxpayers.
Contact:
Sam Clepper