Shapiro Budget Proposal Unsustainable, Rader Says

February 3, 2026

HARRISBURG –Rep. Jack Rader (R-Monroe) attended a joint session of the Pennsylvania General Assembly today to hear Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal for the 2026-27 fiscal year.

Rader issued the following statement in reaction to the governor’s nearly $53.26 billion spending plan, which is a $2.72 billion increase over the current fiscal year:

“The governor is proposing a 5.4% increase in the state budget with a projected revenue increase of just 1.9%. This is unsustainable, and it will not work. The spending plan needs to be adjusted. We must expand opportunities for significant economic growth while at the same being serious about how much we spend.

“The proposed budget will reduce the Rainy Day Fund balance by approximately 60%, taking funding away from any emergency needs that may arise. This puts Pennsylvania in a precarious situation and is cause for concern moving forward.

“I look forward to working toward a budget that works for all Pennsylvanians. We must expand opportunities for significant economic growth. I believe a more balanced, commonsense approach to government is the solution to make Pennsylvania a better place to live.

The General Assembly and governor face a June 30 deadline to finalize the budget.

Representative Jack Rader
176th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Kalie Morrow
717-772-9824
KMorrow@pahousegop.com
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