It’s been over 100 days since lawmakers in Pennsylvania were unable to agree on a state budget.
So, what does this mean?
Lawmakers in Harrisburg are tasked with reaching a deal for the budget every June 30 with each fiscal year starting on July 1.
What happens if a budget is not passed?
If lawmakers cannot reach a deal and agree on a budget, then it’s known as a budget impasse.
Under an impasse, Pennsylvania cannot make many of the payments that it’s supposed to. This includes to vendors and grantees for programs used during the fiscal year 2025-26.
Any vendor who continues to work under a state contract can submit their invoices which will then be held by the Commonwealth until the impasse ends.
Does an impasse affect things that residents use every day?
Anything considered critical that impacts the health, safety and welfare of Pennsylvania of residents still happens and is accessible under an impasse.
Also, facilities that are run by the Commonwealth will continue to be open, including youth development, state parks and prisons.
The impasse does impact funding for education with payments not being processed until a budget is agreed to by lawmakers.
Will residents still get state-funded payments?
For anyone who receives money through benefits or programs through the state of Pennsylvania will still get them.
A budget impasse should not affect child care subsidy payments, support for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), various health care services, attendant care for senior and people with disabilities and other related programs.
For a more detailed breakdown of the Pa. budget impasse, click here.