Nov. 12, 2025
HARRISBURG—State Rep. Thomas Kutz (R-Cumberland) released the following statement after final passage of the 2025-26 state budget, which ended a months-long impasse:
“This year’s budget strikes a responsible balance by protecting the Rainy Day Fund while putting Pennsylvania’s economy on more stable footing. At $50.09 billion, this budget represents a modest increase in state spending. This number is higher than I had hoped, but it avoids new taxes, preserves our Rainy Day Fund, helps energy affordability, and keeps business taxes stable. These are responsible choices that will benefit both our Commonwealth and families here in Cumberland County.
“In the 87th District, this budget restores state education funding to schools like Cumberland Valley and Mechanicsburg School Districts, which will codify the funding reforms I have championed since day one as your state representative and have worked collaboratively with my House and Senate colleagues to achieve. In addition to investing in education, the Commonwealth is also investing in childcare recruitment and retention to ensure Pennsylvania remains a place where young families can plant roots and build their future. This investment is a good start to making Pennsylvania a better place to raise a family.
“Pennsylvanians will see additional wins in the energy and permitting sectors, where this budget helps lower household costs and improves our business climate. By re-examining outdated energy policies that have driven up utility bills, and by expanding permitting reform to include faster approvals and online transparency, Pennsylvania can once again become a strong competitor for new jobs and investment.
“This plan also strengthens accountability and oversight in benefit programs, ensuring state resources serve those who truly need them. The new Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) Tax Credit Program provides working Pennsylvanians with a credit equal to 10% of their federal Earned Income Tax Credit, which will offer real relief for families striving to make ends meet while working hard and contributing to our economy and our communities.
“Most importantly, this budget safeguards the Commonwealth’s long-term fiscal stability. By targeting investments that deliver measurable results, it strengthens education, supports families, and promotes economic growth while keeping the Rainy Day Fund intact and maintaining Pennsylvania’s strong credit rating.
“While no budget is ever perfect, this compromise reflects Pennsylvania’s diverse interests. Long-term budgeting will require additional conversations in the coming year to ensure progress is made on lasting reforms and spending is appropriated thoughtfully and with the next generation in mind.
“I’m encouraged by the progress this year’s budget represents, and I was proud to cast my vote in support of our Commonwealth’s economic future and our children. By investing in our communities and families, we can continue our work to make Cumberland County and Pennsylvania the best places to live, work, and raise a family.”
Representative Thomas Kutz
87th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Katelin Morrison
717.260.6502
kmorrison@pahousegop.com
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