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For Immediate Release
May 6, 2009
Contact: Rita Zielonis
(717) 787-3280

Senator Gene Yaw Comments on Senate Republican Budget Proposal  

HARRISBURG, PA – As the Pennsylvania State Senate is considering final passage of a Senate budget version for the fiscal year 2009-10, Senator Gene Yaw (R-23), issued the following statement: 

"The Senate Republican leadership has taken a fiscally aggressive approach to balancing the state budget.  It is unique in that there are no tax increases or one-time transfers but, instead it is balanced by spending cuts.  Undoubtedly there will be negotiations and changes as we progress toward passing a final state budget," said Yaw. 

"While I'm not completely satisfied with the funding levels of certain programs that will be cut, the bottom line is we can either make cuts or raise taxes.  This is a tough year all around and there are "wants" and there are "needs" across the spectrum of what our state government has been funding.  I am confident that we will be funding what is necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of our constituents," he continued. 

"Senate Republicans are committed to passing a budget that is based on reduced spending.  This version of the FY09-10 budget does that by holding the line on taxes and leaving the State's emergency reserve fund untouched.  I am open to new and creative suggestions to find funding for certain programs, but not at the expense of taxpayers who already pay too much." Yaw said.