The newly enacted state budget contains a record investment in public education and appropriately funds the core functions of government, including helping our state's most vulnerable residents and promoting public safety.

Each budget cycle presents its own unique challenges and this year was no different as we were facing a shortfall of more than $1.5 billion. By responsibly managing our assets at hand and maximizing every dollar to its fullest potential, we have avoided any new taxes.

To help fund public education, the budget invests $10.5 billion for schools to pay for basic education and special education needs, which amounts to about 36 percent of the overall state budget. This plan marks the first time special education funding has been increased in six years, adding $20 million to such programs.

The education budget also includes $200 million for the new Ready to Learn Block Grant program, which gives schools more flexibility in where to direct state resources as a way to support academic achievement.

For early learners, this budget increases funding for the Pre-K Counts program to $97.2 million and funds the Head Start Program with $39.17 million.

In the higher education realm, state support for Pennsylvania's state-related universities and State System of Higher Education schools was maintained at the 2013-2014 budget level. Community colleges will receive an increase of $4.7 million.

To assist middle-income families better afford the rising cost of higher education, a new program will be implemented by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency. The Ready to Succeed Scholarship includes a $5 million investment in merit-based scholarships for students who demonstrate academic achievement and come from families with household income of less than $110,000.

The budget also increases funding to help our state's most vulnerable citizens.

Funding was increased helping to reduce the waiting list for services for people with intellectual disabilities. More than $13 million in new funds will help provide home and community-based services to an additional 1,250 individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism.

The new budget also enhances public safety by funding four new classes of state police cadets, helping bring on 350 new troopers to fill the ranks. Specifically, the Pennsylvania State Police will receive $897 million in overall funding support from both the General Fund and the Motor License Fund– an increase of $63.4 million or 7.4 percent.

More information on the budget is available at www.PAHouseGOP.com.

I would like to hear from you.

Please contact me through my website at www.RepMackenzie.com or call my office at 610-965-9933.