State Budget and Tax Policy

Income or Sales Tax: Which Is the Better Option?

July 22, 2009

As state lawmakers consider ways to raise new revenues, PBPC examines whether a 0.5% increase in the personal income tax or a 1% sales tax increase is a better option for Pennsylvania.

Expanded Tax Forgiveness Would Soften Impact of PIT Increase

July 21, 2009

Making more working families eligible for tax forgiveness could blunt the impact of a PIT increase and still raise revenue to prevent cuts to schools, libraries, hospitals and other public services.

Senate Amends House Budget Bill to Look Like SB 850

July 21, 2009

The Senate amended and passed the House budget bill, slashing $2 billion in funding and remaking it into a newer version of the cut-heavy Senate Bill 850.

Price of Service Cuts: Tracking the Local Impact of State Budget Cuts

July 20, 2009

Deep cuts to public services are being considered in Harrisburg as lawmakers and the Governor work to resolve the budget crisis. PBPC is tracking news reports on the impact of these cuts on local communities across Pennsylvania.

Comparing State Budget Proposals

July 16, 2009

PBPC explains the differences between the Governor's budget proposal, House Bill 1416 and the House Republicans' plan, known as the Civera amendment.

Better Choices for Pennsylvania: Rallies Call for Revenue to Avert Budget Cuts

July 16, 2009

Advocates for education, children's programs, people with disabilities, the environment, labor, housing, workforce development, and others turned out in force this week to press for new revenue to prevent deep cuts to state services that will halt Pennsylvania's progress.

Event Highlights Need to Raise Revenue for Workforce, Higher Education, Housing

July 15, 2009

Advocates say investments grow communities and the economy, in addition to providing essential services for Pennsylvanians.

How Do State Budget Proposals Compare?

July 15, 2009

PBPC has put together a spreadsheet detailing funding levels by major department for budget proposals introduced by the Governor, Senate Republicans (SB 850), House Republicans and House Democrats.