With the House of Representatives set to vote on House Bill 325, the revenue code for fiscal year 2010-11 today, Rep. Gordon Denlinger (R-Lancaster) condemned Gov. Ed Rendell and House Democrats for attempting to impose a $317 million tax increase on Pennsylvanians so they can increase state spending to $29 billion in the new budget. 

“Pennsylvania is finally showing the early signs of recovery from the worst economic recession in generations,” said Denlinger.  “It is unbelievable to me that the governor and House Democrats would even consider making it harder for Pennsylvanians who are struggling to make ends meet.” 

Denlinger noted that the bill’s $317 million in tax increases include a new tax on the extraction of natural gas.  This tax, which industry officials believe would be the highest such tax in the nation, would have a crippling impact on Pennsylvania’s burgeoning natural gas industry.  In addition, the bill would increase Pennsylvania’s cigarette tax and impose the tax on smokeless tobacco products, cigars and loose tobacco. 

“Pennsylvania has a budget deficit of more than $1 billion.  Despite that fact, the governor wants to increase our spending even more, and he wants to raise taxes to pay for it,” Denlinger continued.  “Enough is enough.  We should be looking for opportunities to reduce state spending, not demanding more from taxpayers so government can keep on spending.  This bill is irresponsible and I intend to oppose it.” 

Denlinger added there is little appetite in the Legislature to increase taxes given the financial difficulties most Pennsylvania families are facing. 

“This bill is a clear indication the governor and House Democrat leaders have lost touch with the people we represent.  Most members are hearing from their constituents that they cannot afford to send more of their paychecks to Harrisburg,” Denlinger said.  “I have serious doubts the governor will be able to muster the votes he needs to get this bill through the Legislature.” 

Rep. Gordon Denlinger
99th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(717) 733-4002
(717) 787-3531
Contact:  Sean Yeakle
syeakle@pahousegop.com
(717) 787-3406
Member Site:  RepDenlinger.com
Caucus Site:  PAHouseGOP.com