Budget Supports Schools, First Responders, Mehaffie Says

July 12, 2026

HARRISBURG – The 2026-27 state budget approved today by the House of Representatives sets historic levels of public education funding, provides cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) for retired police officers and firefighters, and funds long-delayed transportation projects, according to Rep. Tom Mehaffie (R-Dauphin), who voted in favor of the proposal.

The $50.8 billion spending plan increases overall state spending by less than 1.5% over the current fiscal year, a level Mehaffie said reflects a disciplined approach to budgeting while continuing to invest in Pennsylvania’s priorities.

“Difficult negotiations yielded a thoughtful, reasonable proposal that makes investments in our preK-12 schools and supports those who served their communities with distinction,” Mehaffie said.

One of the budget’s most significant provisions establishes COLAs for eligible pre-Act 9 retirees in the police, firefighter and teacher pension systems. The plan dedicates $170 million annually over the next 10 years for retirees whose benefits have not kept pace with inflation.

“Our retired first responders and educators devoted their working years to serving Pennsylvanians,” Mehaffie said. “Providing these COLAs is an important way to recognize their commitment and help ensure their retirement benefits better reflect today’s costs.”

The budget increases school funding by $903 million, with a particular emphasis on the Ready to Learn Block Grants for academic achievement and equality. It also invests an additional $10 million in career and technical education centers to expand access for students seeking hands-on training and workforce development opportunities

“Our economy depends on a highly skilled workforce,” Mehaffie said. “Expanding access to career and technical education gives students more pathways to success while helping employers find the workers they need.”

An extra $775 million is being set aside for rural road and bridge projects that were approved and never started.

Another key accomplishment, Mehaffie noted, is that lawmakers reached a budget agreement without relying on the Commonwealth’s reserve accounts.

“Importantly, we reached a general consensus much more expediently than in some recent years,” Mehaffie said. “Protecting our financial reserves while moderating spending growth positions Pennsylvania well for the future and provides greater stability for taxpayers.”

The budget now heads to the governor’s desk for his consideration.

Representative Thomas L. Mehaffie III
106th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jennifer Fitch
717-260-6563
jfitch@pahousegop.com
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