York County News

Rep. Dawn Keefer, a representative from Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, is pushing for the implementation of zero-based budgeting in the state. Keefer believes that the time is ripe for this budgeting practice to be introduced in Harrisburg, especially with Governor Josh Shapiro's positive experience with it. She introduced House Bill 1133, which would require state agencies that account for at least 20% of the General Fund budget to prepare and submit a zero-based budget plan. The bill was unveiled during a press conference on the "Back to Basics" government reform bills based on feedback from state agencies during the 2024 budget hearings.

As a former Montgomery County commissioner, Governor Josh Shapiro successfully implemented zero-based budgeting when the county was facing financial challenges. Keefer highlighted Shapiro's achievement, stating, "Within a year, Montgomery County had a balanced budget with no new taxes... the county ended the year with a $1.6 million surplus and had decreased overall spending by 10 percent." Keefer emphasized the effectiveness of zero-based budgeting in saving taxpayers money and improving financial efficiency.

Keefer expressed her belief that adopting a zero-based budgeting approach at the state level will lead to new cost efficiencies and more accountable government spending. She stated, "I believe adopting a zero-based budgeting approach will result in new cost efficiencies and streamlined, accountable government spending."

For more information, individuals can visit RepKeefer.com or Facebook.com/RepKeefer or contact Media Representative Greg Gross at 717.260.6374 or ggross@pahousegop.com.