What's Ahead in Pennsylvania's State Budget Fight

Last week, I wrote an op-ed on Pennsylvania's upcoming state budget for Real Clear Pennsylvania. With a deadline of June 30, the process should be in its final stages, but looming obstacles, longstanding policy disputes, and an unclear fiscal situation will likely lead to a budget impasse. I took a look at the players, the politics, and the policies at stake this year.

Pennsylvania has been in a strong budget position for the last few years, but the persistent budget deficits faced by the Commonwealth in the 2010s are resurfacing as the federal dollars that propped up recent budgets go away. The Commonwealth is facing a projected $4.5 billion deficit this year, setting a more difficult fiscal backdrop for negotiators. 

At the same time, several key issues linger for lawmakers to solve: the legalization of regulated skill games in bars and convenience stores; funding public transit agencies across the Commonwealth; legalization of recreational marijuana; and a potpourri of education issues, including higher education reform, K-12 funding, school vouchers, and health care.