State Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, R-134th, joined the House majority June 27 in approving a 2015-2016 state budget proposal that it is on time, balanced and focused on the core functions of government.

Specifically, Mackenzie noted the House budget would strengthen education, protect taxpayers and support the Commonwealth's most vulnerable citizens.

"A government that works requires a budget that's signed," Mackenzie said. "The House has passed an on time, balanced budget that will fund our schools, serve individuals in need and keep state government operational. I call upon the governor to sign this budget. It's a strong proposal that moves Pennsylvania forward."

The Senate was expected to take up the House budget and send it to the governor's desk by the June 30 deadline.

"The House budget would allocate $370 million in new education funding, bringing total education spending to $11 billion – a record level of investment – that includes $100 million in new basic education funding," Mackenzie said.

Locally, schools in the 134th District would see the following funding increases:

ŸBrandywine Heights Area - $48,082

ŸEast Penn - $276,782

ŸFleetwood Area - $103,534

ŸParkland - $290,275

ŸSalisbury Township - $53,301

ŸUpper Perkiomen - $93,960

Mackenzie also said, "I applaud this budget's investment in early childhood education. Programs such as Pre-K Counts and Head Start will see significant funding increases, giving children the necessary tools for educational success in their most formative years."

Pre-K Counts would see $25 million in new funding under the House budget, while Head Start would see $5 million in new funding – a move that would expand access to these proven programs for about 3,500 additional Pennsylvania children.

The House budget closes a $1.2 billion projected shortfall without raising taxes and by limiting the growth of government spending.

"This budget is successfully balanced without tax increases," Mackenzie said. "Instead, lawmakers went item by item through the budget to maximize efficiency and eliminate wasteful spending."

Under the proposal, state spending would not exceed the guidelines established by the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.

The House budget would expand home and community services by $96 million, increasing access to more than 3,700 individuals. Additionally, services to individuals with disabilities would be increased by $41 million, while long-term managed care would receive $16 million in additional funds.

Please see www.RepMackenzie.com or www.Facebook.com/RepMackenzie for more information.