Rep. Jim Christiana (R-Beaver) issued the following statement today in response to the passage of the state’s general spending budget for 2010-11 by the House:

“Today, I voted against a $29 billion state budget that overspends, calls for additional taxes, and is completely irresponsible. This budget is nothing more than a mirror image of what the governor proposed back in February.

“It actually INCREASES spending over last year by more than $1billion even though the state’s current revenue is approximately $500 million in the hole. This budget also depends on an additional $850 million in handouts from Washington.We’re not sure we’ll ever see a dime of this money, yet the governor is already spending it.

“I am elated that this year’s budget process is off to a more timely start than last year. It’s clear that the Democrat leadership heard the call of, not only rank and file Republicans AND Democrats last year, but of the people of Pennsylvania who demanded that this year’s budget be passed on time. However, a timely budget is only the beginning. I am deeply concerned that this version of the budget will do much more harm than good if signed into law.

“Make no mistake, I am ready to support a budget that includes responsible spending and does not increase taxes. I will not, however, support this budget as it stands.”

Rep. Jim Christiana

15th Legislative District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(717) 260-6144

(724) 728-7655

Contact:  Joseph Pistorio

jpistori@pahousegop.com

(717) 787-2932

House Republican Public Relations

Member Site:  RepChristiana.com

Twitter Site:  Twitter.com/repchristiana