Harrisburg, PANovember 12, 2025 − Senator Marty Flynn applauds the General Assembly’s passage of the 2025-2026 Pennsylvania state budget, emphasizing that it keeps taxes level and provides relief for working families while strengthening education, childcare and food security programs. The budget delivers on Democrats’ promise of no tax increases and delivers tax cuts for nearly one million Pennsylvanians through the new Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit.

“This budget delivers for the people of the 22nd Senatorial District. By prioritizing education and economic growth, without increasing taxes, we are laying a foundation for a brighter, more prosperous Northeastern Pennsylvania,” Senator Marty Flynn said. “I am proud to have worked with my colleagues across the aisle to get this done, and I look forward to seeing these investments translate into real progress in our region.” 

Highlights of the 2025 – 2026 Budget

Tax policy

  • No tax increases. The plan follows through on Democrats’ commitment to keep rates level. 
  • Creates the “Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit”.  This new credit cuts taxes for nearly one million working Pennsylvanians.  In the 22nd Senatorial District alone, over 28,000 households, representing nearly 42% of households in our community, are projected to be eligible for the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit.

Education funding

  • $526 million to meet the Commonwealth Court mandate for adequate and constitutional school funding (Adequacy & Equity, year two). 
  • $175 million in district savings from cyber charter funding reform. 
  • $40 million increase for special education. 
  • $125 million for school facilities improvements. 
  • $100 million for school safety and student mental health initiatives. 
  • $30 million for student teacher stipends to strengthen the educator pipeline. 

Childcare and basic needs

  • $25 million for childcare workforce retention and recruitment to stabilize programs and expand access. 
  • $11 million increase for the State Food Purchase Program and Farmers’ Market Coupons, ensuring food banks and pantries can meet growing demand. 

“At the end of the day, this budget is about people and ensuring every family, student, and community in Pennsylvania has the tools to thrive. It’s proof that when we work together, we can deliver real results that move our Commonwealth forward,” Flynn said. This plan invests in childcare, strengthens food assistance programs, and helps families manage rising costs. It is a responsible budget that reflects real priorities, focusing on education, opportunity, and stability for working people.”