Fritz: The Governor Should Be Focused on Protecting the Health of Pennsylvanians and Bolstering Our Fragile Economy

February 3, 2021

HARRISBURG – Rep. Jonathan Fritz (R-Susquehanna/Wayne) issued the following statement regarding the budget after Gov. Tom Wolf delivered his annual budget address via pre-recorded video on Wednesday.

“One of the initiatives Gov. Tom Wolf shared in this year’s budget address is his proposal to enact new taxes in the Commonwealth. First, he wants to increase the Personal Income Tax (PIT) by almost 50% – raising that rate from 3.07% to 4.49%!. Knowing that so many Pennsylvanians are struggling during this pandemic, we should be talking about reducing financial burdens, not additional taxes.

“The governor continued the theme of additional taxes, as he revealed that he wants to triple the tax already paid by natural gas industry. This proposal adds to the Commonwealth’s debt by borrowing $3.5 billion and uses the new tax revenue to pay back that loan. Borrowing, taxing and additional spending is, frankly, a prime example of irresponsible government. Furthermore, we continue to drive away business investment. Other states roll out the red carpet for businesses, while Pennsylvania brings out the red tape.

“Rather than thinking of ways to further tax businesses, which will undoubtedly pass those higher fees on to customers, the governor should be thinking about the best way to protect the health of Pennsylvanians and bolstering our fragile economy. Our primary focus right now must be getting the COVID-19 vaccines off shelves and into arms. That is the real way to restore Pennsylvania.

“Our state is currently ranked 44 out of all 50 states for the percentage of available vaccines administered. What is more critical than expeditious vaccine distribution?

“My colleagues and I continue to call on the governor to focus on what matters. This week, we’re working on legislation that would put the National Guard in charge of vaccine distribution logistics. We need leadership and critical mission focus, and I’m confident that our National Guard members would do an incredible job.”

Representative Jonathan Fritz
111th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Abby Chiumento
717.260.6617
achiumento@pahousegop.com
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