Balancing the Budget

By Jason G. White

Tom Corbett and the Republican-lead legislature balance the budget by cutting education funding and essential services, while cutting corporate taxes.

It is estimated by some that the "Delaware Loophole" costs Pennsylvania nearly $500 million in revenue. This practice shifts the financial burden to small businesses and working citizens. Efforts to close this gap have been unsuccessful thus far. Combined reporting can close this loophole. Along with other initiatives, this would help restore funding to education and other programs. Add in cost saving measures and Pennsylvania can remain fiscally responsible while continuing to providing necessary services.

Tom Corbett and the Republican-lead legislature balance the budget by cutting education funding and essential services, while allowing tax loopholes that reduce revenue.

We all see the need to balance the budget. You, the citizen of the 5th district, have to live within your means. That doesn't mean that you cut back on food and then accept half of your paycheck. Yet Governor Corbett and the republican legislature would like you to believe that PA should do exactly that. Pennsylvanians are being asked to sacrifice to balance the budget. Cutting education funding, cuts to services for citizens in need, no investment in roads and bridges, cuts to job creation programs, children and youth services, and mental health services are just a few of the sacrifices we are being asked to make. Where is the shared sacrifice from those who can most afford it?

If you elect me to the state legislature, I will tell the Corbett Republicans that they can no longer balance the budget on the backs of working Pennsylvanians. I will work to close loopholes in tax codes. I will not be afraid to ask special interests to share the burden of improving our infrastructure and pay their share for the services they use.