HARRISBURG, PA – November 12, 2025 − State Senator James Andrew Malone (D-36, Lancaster) today applauded the passage of the 2025-2026 state budget agreement.
“Properly funding our public schools has been one of my top priorities, and this budget takes a big step in that direction while also focusing on affordability for Lancaster families,” said Senator Malone. “It works toward fulfilling our constitutional obligation to fairly fund our schools without raising taxes on Pennsylvanians, similar to Governor Shapiro’s proposal in February. It also doesn’t dip into our Rainy Day Fund. I’m proud of the bipartisan compromise it represents, but I’m disappointed by how late it arrived. We must work to deliver a budget on time next year. The harm done to Lancaster’s schools, nonprofits, local municipalities, and other programs by the budget delay is unacceptable. Senate Republican leadership should begin serious conversations with Governor Shapiro and House leadership much earlier to avoid another delay next year.”
This budget delivers for Lancaster families and supports several of Senator Malone’s priorities, including:
Properly funding public education
- $526 million in additional funding to meet Pennsylvania’s court-ordered obligation to fairly fund our public schools
- $40 million increase for special education
- $125 million for school facility improvements
- $100 million for school safety and mental health
- $30 million for teacher stipends
Supporting hard-working people
- $193 million for a new Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit (earned income tax credit)
- $25 million to support childcare retention and recruitment
- Funding increase for direct care workers who help care for patients at home
- $11 million increase for the State Food Purchase Program and Farmers Market Coupons Program to help working people struggling with food insecurity
First responders and public safety
- Additional funding for new PA State Police Cadet classes
- Increased funding for the PA Office of Attorney General to combat gun and drug crime, human trafficking, and organized retail theft
Senator Malone added, “This budget shows that we can focus on people when we work together. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to support our public schools, working people, and first responders across the Commonwealth.”
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