Gaydos Opposes Shapiro’s Overspending, Praises Cell Phone Ban, Making Data Centers Accountable for their Own Energy Use
HARRISBURG - Rep. Valerie Gaydos (R-Allegheny) joined her colleagues today in a joint session of the General Assembly as Gov. Josh Shapiro delivered his budget address, proposing a $53.26 billion budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, a 5.4% increase over last year.
Following the address, Gaydos issued the following statement:
“The governor’s budget proposal is just the beginning. The House and Senate will carefully review it and make necessary improvements. Just like in our own households, there’s often a difference between what we want and what we can actually afford. The same goes for government spending.
“One highlight of the governor’s address is he agrees with me on banning cell phones in schools. House Bill 1238, of which I am the co-prime sponsor, gives schools the authority to limit cell phone use during the school day so students can stay focused and teachers can teach without distractions.
“While the governor’s budget proposal is well-intended, he is not being completely honest about the impact on families. Government spending continues to rise. Relying on the revenue from liquor, gambling and marijuana is not a sound fiscal strategy, and it is not healthy for the people of the Commonwealth. The budget also relies on unrealistic growth projections, and taking billions from the Rainy Day Fund to cover ongoing spending is not acceptable.
“There are positive elements in the governor’s proposal, including increased funding for Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, police, basic and special education, the Earned Income Tax Credit and energy initiatives. Let’s not forget about the astronomical energy costs due to the weather conditions. We must continue to work on energy affordability. I’m glad to see this was on the governor’s wish list.
“I voted for the current year’s budget on the promise spending would be addressed and under control; however, that has not held true in this proposal. I kept my promise to find solutions, including my improper payment bill which I would like to see the governor implement but it seems like he has failed to keep his promise. Overall, this budget spends far more than our economy can sustain, and I will be opposing it in its current form.
“I have fought for increased mass transit funding and will continue to do so because public transportation is critical to our communities and workforce. But we have to fund it responsibly and honestly, so we don’t put the state on an unsustainable financial path.
“I look forward to working with my colleagues and the governor to pass a fiscally responsible budget that protects taxpayers, strengthens our economy, and benefits all Pennsylvanians, but I will be opposing this budget as it is currently proposed.”
For more information on the 2026-27 state budget, go to
www.PABudget.com.
Representative Valerie Gaydos
44th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives