Berks County News

After Governor Tom Wolf delivered his final annual state budget address to a joint session of the Pennsylvania House and Senate, Representative Mark Gillen expressed his perspectives on the governor's fiscal strategy. Gillen, who serves parts of Berks and Lancaster counties, acknowledged concerns about what he described as the governor's "aggressive overall spending approach." However, he also noted potential areas for consensus on issues that resonate with many Pennsylvanians.

Gillen emphasized his role as secretary of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee. He stated, "I will as always take a special interest in programs and services tailored to meet the specific needs of the men and women who serve or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces."

Additionally, Gillen highlighted his commitment to maintaining Pennsylvania's financial reserves, specifically referencing the Rainy Day Fund. "I am committed to preserving the money we set aside in the state’s version of a savings account known as the Rainy Day Fund," he affirmed.

Gillen characterized Governor Wolf's budget proposal as an initial step in what promises to be an extended negotiation process. He explained that "the House Appropriations Committee will hold hearings to look at the specifics of the proposal and identify ways to improve some parts while trimming others." Ultimately, Gillen predicted that "the final product will look substantially different from what the governor outlined today."