Stender Says Governor’s Budget is Only Balanced by Raiding Rainy Day Fund

2/3/2026

HARRISBURG – Rep. Michael Stender (R-Northumberland/Montour) issued the following statement after Gov. Josh Shapiro delivered his 2026-27 budget address to the General Assembly:

“The governor’s proposal is only balanced on paper because it raids Pennsylvania’s Rainy Day Fund. His proposal robs $4.58 billion out of the fund, a reduction of nearly 60%. This is not sustainable and it puts the future stability of our state finances at risk. Using one-time funds to pay for recurring obligations creates future budget shortfalls that will have to be met by tax increases or reduced services.

We have worked hard over the past several years to build up healthy reserves that protect taxpayers during economic downturns. Draining that reserve to fund more government spending is the wrong approach.

This budget increases spending by 5.4% over the previous year. That is unacceptable and unfair to working Pennsylvanians who expect responsible budgeting and real results.

I believe every dollar matters. Families, emergency services and small businesses cannot afford this kind of reckless budgeting. I will continue to push for a commonsense budget that meets core needs, supports public safety and infrastructure, and protects taxpayers from future tax hikes.”

Representative Michael Stender
108th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Will Patterson
267-688-2590
wpatterson@pahousegop.com
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