HARRISBURG, PA – November 12, 2025 – During today’s return to session, Senator Lisa M. Boscola (D-Northampton/Lehigh) voted in favor of the bipartisan 2025-26 state budget, which passed with broad support in both chambers.
Boscola said, “Today I proudly voted for a budget that keeps Pennsylvania moving forward. There are no tax increases, it protects the Rainy-Day Fund, and it invests in the pillars of a strong economy, quality education, and affordable energy.”
Acknowledging frustration over the delay, more than four months past the June 30th deadline, Boscola said she is relieved to see a final plan that delivers real results.
On the economy, the budget makes important progress through permitting reform. It cuts red tape while maintaining environmental safeguards, an effort long supported by Boscola. These changes will help attract new business and development in Pennsylvania. It also includes $25 million to recruit and retain childcare workers, helping childcare centers stay open and ensuring working parents can stay on the job.
On education, the plan delivers long-awaited cyber charter school reform and meaningful increases in basic and special education funding, bringing nearly $13.5 million more to public schools in the 18th District. It also provides $2 million in recurring funding for St. Luke’s University’s medical school, ensuring ongoing support for the Lehigh Valley’s only four-year medical program.
On energy, Boscola called the budget a turning point, ending the RGGI stalemate and opening a path for bipartisan energy policy discussions that can lead to lower costs for Pennsylvania households. Included in the budget is a significant policy proposal she supported, directing the PUC to improve electric load forecasting, a tool that will help reduce inflated demand projections and ultimately lower customer bills.
Boscola added, “This budget delivers balanced, forward-looking investments that support working Pennsylvanians by lowering energy costs, strengthening our schools, and keeping business competitive. I was proud to vote for it.”
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