Waugh Co-sponsors Legislation Calling for Return of Legislative Surplus to General Fund

HARRISBURG – Senator Mike Waugh (R-York) has agreed to co-sponsor legislation being introduced by Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) that calls for the transfer of unused funds from legislative accounts to the General Fund.

"Considering the significant revenue shortfall the Commonwealth is currently facing, we must explore all possible funding options in order to fulfill the state's fiscal obligations," said Waugh.  "Returning unused legislative dollars to the General Fund is one way to do this."

Each fiscal year, the four legislative caucuses in the General Assembly are appropriated funds for their annual operations.  At the end of the fiscal year any unused dollars remain available for use by the caucuses in subsequent years, rather than being returned to the General Fund.  Senator Scarnati's proposed legislation would change this procedure.

"I believe that the legislature should retain sufficient funds to allow continued operations in the event of an emergency or budget impasse," said Scarnati.  "Funds in excess of that reserve should be returned to the General Fund for other Commonwealth needs."

With the Governor having presented his budget proposal on Wednesday, which included deep cuts while increasing spending over the current fiscal year's budget by $1.26 billion, Waugh is cognizant of the challenges the legislature will face in its efforts to reach a compromise with the Governor and to pass a balanced budget within the current financial restraints.

"Obviously, we are heading into an unprecedented budget year, but we must work together to rein in spending and find alternative forms of funding in order to prevent tax increases," said Waugh. "Hence the reason I'm supporting such initiatives as Senator Scarnati's proposal."
 

Contact:

Senator Waugh – Erin Marsicano
(717) 787-3817
Senator Scarnati – Casey Long
(717) 787-7084