Hackett Issues Statement on Passage of State Budget

HARRISBURG – Rep. Joe Hackett (R-Delaware) released the following statement following the passage of a 2013-14 state budget:  

“I am pleased we were able to pass a budget that is sensible and sustainable,” Hackett said.  “It properly prioritizes spending and does so without raising taxes.  

“This budget is also good for education as it establishes a record high of $10 billion in K-12 education.   

“But as a former police officer and a member of the House Select Committee on School Safety, I am particularly pleased to see the state dedicating $6.5 million in additional funds to Safe Schools Initiatives to find the smartest ways to protect our children from tragedy.  That’s a 321 percent increase over last year.

“These programs will help us avoid blanket policies that create the illusion of safety without the real benefits.  They will help us understand the minds of those who, under the stress of mental illness, may pose a danger to our kids.  And they will help our schools find better ways to guard our children if and when terror strikes.

 “At a time of economic challenge, this budget allows us to live within our means while funding programs that will help our schools and our children.”