HARRISBURG, Pa. — About a month after the 2023 budget was approved and signed into law, legislators are looking for ways to avoid another budget impasse.
Representative Jill Cooper (R-Westmoreland County) recently introduced House Bill 1935, which would suspend paychecks for state lawmakers, the governor, and the lieutenant governor during a budget impasse. If passed, the legislation would suspend paychecks until the appropriations bill is signed.
Rep. Cooper said the bill is meant to hold lawmakers more accountable for not agreeing on a budget.
“We, as representatives, need to be held accountable," said Rep. Cooper. “If you don’t make any consequence for not completing the budget on time, then we’ll continue to drag it out and certain groups will be held hostage next year.”
Cooper was one of 12 lawmakers who didn't take a paycheck during last year's six-month impasse.
Representative Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming County) said he understands the pain budget impasses can cause, based on his own first-hand experience while working for a software company.
“I just recall those days where people were taking out loans and people were getting laid off," said Rep. Flick. "It hurts.”
Over the past 20 years, 13 budgets were passed late and four had impasses lasting 100 days.
A couple of people who spoke to FOX43 News said they believe lawmakers in Harrisburg need to be held accountable when they can’t pass a budget.
“They’re making a lot of money, and I feel like once their job is done, they should get paid for it," said Deb Boyce.
FOX43 reached out to Governor Shapiro's office to see whether he would support Representative Cooper’s bill or forgo his paycheck in another impasse. His office has yet to respond.