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Does More State Funding Guarantee a Reduction in School Property Taxes?
This week during budget hearings, I asked the Secretary of Education the question on everyone’s mind—does increasing state funding guarantee lower school property taxes? You can watch our full exchange here. Last year, the 2024-2025 state budget continued my commitment to securing education funding for our school districts. As a result, schools in the 40th Senatorial District saw state funding increases of over 30% in the last budget cycle. This builds on my track record as a state representative for Monroe and Pike counties (2010-2022), where I helped secure state education funding increases ranging from 23% to 79%, depending on the district. When our school districts prepare their budgets, they rely on a combination of federal funding, state funding, and local property taxes. By providing more state funds, school districts should rely less on local property taxes. But, as you can see from my exchange with the Secretary of Education this week, there is no requirement that school districts lower property taxes when they receive additional state funding. This is why I continue to encourage residents to get involved at their local school board meetings, where school spending and school tax decisions originate. In response to my question, the Secretary referenced the Tax Equity Supplement, a program that provides additional state funds to school districts with higher-than-average local tax rates. This means, several school districts in the 40th Senate District received additional state funding on top of their Basic Education Funding appropriation. Here are the school districts in our Senate District that received Tax Equity Supplement funding:
Given this additional funding, I asked the Secretary whether receiving it mandates a reduction in property taxes. Her response: “I believe there are four allowable uses.” The four allowable uses of these funds are:
While these are important options, none of them explicitly require a reduction in school property taxes. This is why it is critical for residents to stay engaged with their local school boards. State funding for education is essential, but without action at the local level, property tax relief is not guaranteed. While I will continue working to secure fair education funding for our schools, real change happens when residents make their voices heard. I encourage you to stay informed, attend school board meetings, and advocate for responsible budgeting that prioritizes both quality education and taxpayer relief. Together, we can ensure that increased state funding translates into meaningful benefits for homeowners and families in our community. Strengthening Support for Alzheimer’s Care in Pennsylvania
I was thrilled to meet Meaghan Abbot in Harrisburg today outside our Department of Aging hearing. As the newly appointed Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (ADRD) division, Meaghan will lead the implementation of Act 111 of 2024—legislation I initiated to enhance care and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s and related disorders. This new division within the Department of Aging marks a significant step forward in improving resources, research, and assistance for families across Pennsylvania. I look forward to working alongside Meaghan as we continue advancing these critical efforts to support our seniors and caregivers. Transportation Update Coming Soon!
Thank you to PA Secretary of Transportation Mike Carroll for joining me on my legislative report this morning. We had a great discussion about a key transportation issue impacting our district, and I’m looking forward to sharing this factual update with you soon. Stay tuned! Scenes from the 40th District
This week’s photo winner comes courtesy of Bethany of Beach Lake, who took this gorgeous photo of the Delaware Highlands Conservancy and the Van Scott Nature Reserve. Bethany’s photo has been shared on my social media and posted to the 40th Senatorial District Photo Gallery. Interested in showcasing your photography skills? I am inviting residents of the 40th Senatorial District to share their photography and help capture the beauty and character of our community. Whether it’s a stunning landscape, a lively community event, or a cherished historical landmark, I encourage you to submit photos that highlight the unique aspects of our district, which includes parts of Lackawanna and Wayne counties, and all of Monroe County. Click here to submit your work and learn more. Reporting State Fraud and Waste
Commonwealth employees and private citizens can take action to stop fraud and misconduct in Pennsylvania state government. Complaints can be made online with the Office of the State Inspector General (OSIG) against a commonwealth employee, agency or contractor regarding an issue related to an executive agency of the commonwealth. The OSIG works to maintain public confidence in government by combating fraud, waste, misconduct and abuse in commonwealth programs, operations and contracts. Connect with Employers at the Commonwealth Job Fair on March 5
The Commonwealth Job Fair offers the opportunity to connect with more than 30 Pennsylvania state agencies and to learn more about public service. There are openings in transportation, finance, health care, wildlife management, public safety and more. You can also learn about career growth and other benefits. It will be held Wednesday, March 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, 2300 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg. See open positions, learn more and register here. Delaware River Named Pennsylvania’s 2025 River of the Year!
The Delaware River has been recognized as Pennsylvania’s 2025 River of the Year—a well-deserved honor for this vital waterway. Home to the stunning Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, one of the nation’s most-visited park areas, the river continues to play a crucial role in conservation and recreation. Many of its tributaries are also under review for national protection under the Wild & Scenic Rivers program. Beyond its natural beauty, the Delaware River holds deep historical significance. It was the site of Washington’s famous crossing during the Revolutionary War and later became a driving force behind the Industrial Revolution. Today, it supports the world’s largest freshwater port and provides drinking water for over 14 million people. Once heavily polluted, the Delaware River has made a remarkable recovery and now boasts more National Wild and Scenic designations than any other river in the country. This recognition highlights the importance of preserving and protecting our waterways for future generations to enjoy!
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