Nov. 12, 2025
HARRISBURG – Rep. Marla Brown (R Lawrence) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the $50.1 billion budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year:
“As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I take seriously the responsibility to make sure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and directed to where they are truly needed. This budget does that. It ensures funding for programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid are available to help families, seniors and individuals who rely on them for their basic needs, while also holding state government accountable for how those dollars are used.
“I am also encouraged this plan gets Pennsylvania out of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). For years, this carbon tax has driven up energy costs and pushed good-paying jobs out of our state. By stepping away from RGGI, we are opening the door for job growth, energy independence and a stronger economy here at home. This decision should also have a positive impact on utility bills, which have been escalating out of control in recent years. Combined with long-overdue permitting reform, Pennsylvania will become more attractive to new business investment and better positioned for long-term economic growth.
“The budget invests in our schools and ensures students have access to a quality education, while promoting programs that support working families and strengthen communities. It is also important we continue to increase scholarship opportunities so more students can pursue higher education or career training without taking on overwhelming debt. Investing in our young people is investing in the future of Pennsylvania.
“I am also pleased that this budget does not include any plan to legalize recreational marijuana. Legalizing marijuana would not only harm our communities and public safety, but it would also create a false promise of new tax revenue that comes at a high social cost. I believe we can strengthen our economy without relying on new taxes or risky policies that hurt families.
“This is a responsible budget that reflects the priorities of our communities: supporting families in need, growing jobs, improving education and protecting taxpayers. There is still work to do, but this is a solid step in the right direction.”
To view Rep. Brown’s comments following the vote,
click here.
Representative Marla Brown
9th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Rick Leiner
717.260.6437 (office), 717.497.8478 (cell)
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