Cook: Spending Shapiro Continues Crusade Against Our Surplus

February 4, 2025

HARRISBURG – Rep. Bud Cook (R-Greene/Washington) issued the following statement in response to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s $51.47 billion budget proposal for the 2025-26 fiscal year.

“The governor’s proposal would be a 7.5% increase over the current fiscal year, an irresponsible and short-sighted approach that has no regard for the long-term growth of Pennsylvania. If Shapiro gets his way, the remaining General Fund surplus will be spent.

“Additionally, Shapiro’s proposal continues his trend of pushing harmful energy taxes that kill jobs here in Western Pennsylvania and would directly tax coal and natural gas power plants, which would force customers into higher energy bills.

“Shapiro’s spending dreams remain out of touch with the needs of the hardworking taxpayers of Greene and Washington counties, and prove he has no regard for the financial well-being of the future of our Commonwealth.

“Today’s proposal is just the beginning of the budget process, and I look forward to pushing back against this overspending and ensuring our Commonwealth returns to operating within our means.”

Representative Bud Cook
50th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives