Shaffer Highlights Need for Structural Reform in State Government After Five Straight Years of Late Budgets

July 12, 2026

HARRISBURG – Rep. Jeremy Shaffer (R-Allegheny) issued this statement following his vote on the 2026-27 state budget, which was completed late again:

“For the fifth year in a row, we failed to pass a state budget by the June 30 deadline. There is a structural issue in Harrisburg that lets this missed deadline cycle continue year after year.

“The approved budget is by no means perfect, but it represents a bipartisan compromise needed to move Pennsylvania forward and prevent further delays, which is why I voted ‘yes.’

“While I do have concerns, I am glad the budget reflects some fiscal responsibility, as it does not use the Rainy Day Fund. There are also measures to improve our energy issues that would increase the capacity, efficiency and reliability of existing grid infrastructure, along with lowering future energy costs.

“This budget sets up tough decisions ahead, and that reality means we may continue experiencing missed deadlines.

“Harrisburg is broken, and we need top to bottom reforms in state government to prevent continued failures in missed deadlines. I’ve introduced House Bill 1906. The legislation would suspend automatic pay raises for the Legislature, the governor and lieutenant governor during any year in which a state budget is not passed by July 1. House Bill 1906 is a form of accountability that reminds lawmakers we must meet the deadlines we expect others to follow.

“I’ve also co-sponsored additional pieces of bi-partisan legislation that would help hold state government accountable for completing the budget on time, including:
• House Bill 1682, which would suspend the pay for the governor, lieutenant governor and members of the General Assembly during a budget impasse.
• House Bill 2483, which would require the General Assembly to remain in session every weekday after June 30 until a state budget is passed.
• House Bill 2484, which would require the governor to call a special session if a general appropriations bill is not enacted by the June 30 deadline, subject to voter approval of a constitutional amendment.

“I’m also a co-sponsor of House Bill 1010, legislation that would reduce the size of the General Assembly and help make the legislative process more efficient, accountable and effective.

“Let’s move toward a system that meets deadlines and improves how we operate as a Legislature.”

View Rep. Shaffer's comments here.


Representative Jeremy Shaffer
28th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives