Laurel Highlands Today

Today, Governor Josh Shapiro presented his budget priorities for the 2025-26 fiscal year. In response, Representative Charity Grimm Krupa of Fayette expressed concerns about the proposed financial plan.

"The governor’s proposal is nothing short of reckless," stated Rep. Grimm Krupa. She criticized the plan for increasing spending by more than $3.5 billion, marking a 7.5% rise over last year's budget. She pointed out that estimated revenues are projected to increase by only 2.8%, creating a significant gap.

Rep. Grimm Krupa noted that the governor plans to address this gap by using what remains of the surplus funds. "If he gets his way, that means he will have spent the entirety of the $8 billion surplus he inherited in just three years," she remarked.

She also highlighted that an additional $1.6 billion would be required from the Rainy Day Fund, expressing concern over the Commonwealth's ability to respond to crises under such circumstances.

Furthermore, Rep. Grimm Krupa questioned the reliance on legalizing recreational marijuana as part of balancing the budget, citing issues with the existing medical marijuana program.

Despite her criticisms, Rep. Grimm Krupa acknowledged that this proposal marks only the beginning of discussions leading to a final budget product and expressed her readiness to contribute through her role on the House Appropriations Committee.