Nov. 12, 2025
HARRISBURG - Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) issued the following statement explaining his “no” vote on the $50.1 billion budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year:
“While this plan includes several positive elements, I could not support a budget that spends $6 billion more in recurring spending than we have in recurring revenue. That kind of imbalance will ultimately force future tax increases on Pennsylvania families, and I cannot support a budget that places that burden on hardworking taxpayers.
“I appreciate this budget includes important decisions such as removing Pennsylvania from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). Ending this carbon tax will help lower energy costs, protect good-paying jobs, and strengthen our economy. Additionally, permitting reforms included in this plan will help streamline the approval process for businesses, encouraging economic growth and investment across the state.
“This budget also makes strides in supporting school choice, giving families more options to find the right educational environment for their children, whether that’s public, charter or private schools. Expanding access to school choice empowers parents and improves outcomes for students across Pennsylvania.
“However, we cannot ignore the reality this budget commits to levels of spending that are not sustainable in the long term. Without structural reforms to control costs, these decisions will only make it harder to balance future budgets without turning to taxpayers for more of their hard-earned money.
“My ‘no’ vote was to ensure Pennsylvania’s finances remain strong and responsible for years to come.”
Representative Aaron Bernstine
8th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Rick Leiner
717.260.6437 (office), 717-497-8478 (cell)
Rleiner@pahousegop.com
RepBernstine.com