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For Immediate Release
June 20, 2001

SENATOR WHITE VOTES TO APPROVE NEW STATE BUDGET; HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE MORE MONEY FOR EDUCATION, TAX CUTS

HARRISBURG -- The State Senate today approved a $168 million increase in basic education funding and a $78 million increase in special education costs as part of the 2001-2002 state budget, according to Senator Mary Jo White (R-21st).

The 4.5 percent increase in basic education funding, for a total appropriation of $3.96 billion, is one of the largest increases in 10 years, she said.

The spending plan also includes an unprecedented 10 percent increase in special education funding, amounting to a $78 million boost.  “School superintendents in my district have expressed to me that increased funding for special education is one of their biggest priorities,” said White.

Vocational education will receive a 4.4 percent increase of $2.3 million for a total of $53.4 million, the senator noted.  Safe schools and alternative education programs will also see renewed support with a 3 percent increase, worth just over $1 million, for a total of $36.3 million.

"I’m very pleased that we are continuing record levels of investment in Pennsylvania’s schools,” White said.

White noted that she worked with her Republican colleagues to restore the Small School District Assistance program, which was not in the Governor’s proposed budget.  School districts with fewer than 1,500 students will share a $10.1 million additional appropriation. 

The budget also includes $3.7 million under the New Choices/New Options program to fund centers that provide job and skill training to displaced homemakers. 

The budget also includes $100 million to fund the third year of the Growing Greener program.  “With this investment, we keep our commitment to protect and restore Pennsylvania’s natural resources,” said White. 

The budget continues the phase-out of the capital stock and franchise tax.  Small businesses will save approximately $172 million in the coming year.  The budget also eases the burden on low-income families by increasing the state’s tax-forgiveness program.  A family of four earning $30,000 or less will pay no state income tax. 

 “Despite a slowing economy, this budget cuts taxes, holds spending to a responsible increase, and targets significant resources to crucial areas,” White said.