As the PA state budget deadline of midnight on June 30th passed, legislators continued to attempt to iron out sticking points as they negotiate an approximate $42 billion spending plan. At issue is how much and how to use a multi-billion-dollar surplus. A particular sticking point is in education funding, where Democrats are looking to invest in safety measures with a focus on gun violence prevention, property tax relief, and fair funding for schools, including expenses that result from state and federal mandates. On the other hand, Republicans are urging caution in spending and preparing  for upcoming “rainy days.”

It is reported by CBS 21 that around $800 million could be going to public schools, which is almost nine percent higher than the present budgeted number, but less than the $1.8 B that the governor has requested.