Democratic Rep. Melissa Shusterman of Chester County is among a small group of Pennsylvania lawmakers forgoing their paychecks during the state budget impasse, writes Aliya Schneider for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Shusterman, who is joined by nine colleagues, both Democrats and Republicans, is suspending her pay while funds are withheld from schools and other crucial services.
The state budget has been in limbo for over two months past the June 30 deadline, as Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro, Democratic-led House, and Republican-led Senate remain stuck in negotiations.
Facing a major financial crisis if it does not receive additional state funding, SEPTA has had to cut services while awaiting the lawmakers to resolve the budget stalemate.
Meanwhile, school districts across the state are starting the year without state funding, prompting questions about whether legislators should continue receiving pay.
“If we’re not paying school districts and nonprofits, then we should be taking the same medicine we’re making others deal with,” said Republican Rep. Jeremy Shaffer.
Only ten of 203 Pennsylvania House members paused their paychecks when offered the option by the House chief clerk’s office this summer. All senators have received pay as usual.
Read more about Melissa Shusterman and other lawmakers pausing their pay amid negotiations in The Philadelphia Inquirer.
______
