Governor Rendell's Proposed 2008 Budget

During the past five years, Governor Ed Rendell has outlined and implemented many bold initiatives that have helped Pennsylvanians with affordable prescription drug coverage and stronger schools as well as to build newer communities with targeted and smart investments.

Today's address proposed a budget that not only protected that progress but goes further in providing even greater relief for working families, increased business development and initiatives that will stimulate our state's economy in the face of difficult times nationally.

In order to help the more than 475,000 working families in Pennsylvania who are struggling to meet day-to-day expenses, Governor Rendell proposed a one-time rebate of $400 as part of his "Protecting our Progress" tax rebate plan. According to this plan, families would have checks sent to them within eight weeks of legislative approval.

The Governor's "Rebuilding Pennsylvania" plan calls for an investment of more than $700 million, to be used to repair in excess of 1,000 bridges and dams throughout the state. The plan goes on to direct that funds be used for targeted infrastructure improvements aimed at expanding rail and aviation facilities throughout the Commonwealth.

Governor Rendell proposed a new school funding formula that will help school districts move towards adequate resource levels, leading to greater investment in early childhood education and an invigorated effort to ensure that our students have at least a high school diploma to help them succeed.

Click here to read the Governor's new release regarding his 2008/09 budget proposal. You can also click here to read his release regarding the commonwealth's efforts to improve the school system.

Feel free to contact your legislators and encourage them to approve the Governor's budget as it will strengthen not only working families but all of our communities throughout Pennsylvania.

-- T.J. Rooney, Chairman

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