HARRISBURG , Pa. -- The $31.5 billion state budget passed by legislatures last month became law Tuesday without Governor Tom Wolf's signature or a revenue package to help pay for it.
This is the second year in a row Governor Wolf has allowed a budget to pass without his signature. In a press conference earlier this week, the Governor said he would not sign a spending plan until it included a responsible and sustainable revenue package.
Legislatures are working to try and compromise on how to pay for the roughly $1.3 billion in new spending. A House Republican spokesperson says they are considering several options including a tobacco tax. Despite falling short of a revenue package on Monday, lawmakers remain optimistic they will reach a deal.
"Our leadership and Democrat, Republican...House and Senate, had a meeting with the Governor for an extended period today (Monday) and I know they are working arduously to try to reach a deal," said Rep. Kevin Schreiber, York.
"We have been continuously narrowing the field of issues," said Steve Miskin, House Republican caucus spokesperson. "We hope to have this wrapped up within the next 24 hours."
The $31.5 billion budget includes historic funding for education and significant funding to treat the opioid epidemic. The House reconvenes Tuesday afternoon.