O’Neal Supports Budget to Unleash PA’s Energy Potential

November 12, 2025

HARRISBURG – Rep. Tim O’Neal (R-Washington) today issued the following statement in response to passage of the fiscal year 2025-26 state budget:

“This state budget will grow Pennsylvania’s economy for years to come and prevent tax increases across the board. It embodies what we have been advocating for over the past year – the PA Prosperity Plan, which unleashes Pennsylvanian’s energy industry, supports efficient government and supports student-centered education.

“First and foremost, this budget removes the Commonwealth from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). RGGI, a multi-state carbon tax compact which former Gov. Tom Wolf forced us into without legislative approval, has driven up energy prices on residents and businesses. Leaving RGGI will revitalize Pennsylvania’s energy industry and, in turn, will help bring down energy costs as utility bills continue to rise. In addition, this budget includes critical permitting reform, which will remove barriers to businesses in the Commonwealth and help attract new family-sustaining jobs to our communities.

“Secondly, this budget provides $50 million more in financial assistance to students in struggling schools. Students in economically disadvantaged schools cannot wait for education reforms to work. This financial assistance will help families ensure students get a quality education.

“Finally, this budget reins in out-of-control government spending. By reforming our public benefit systems, we can ensure that help is going to the Pennsylvanians that need it the most.”

For more information on the 2025-26 budget, visit pabudget.com/.

The 48th Legislative District in Washington County covers the city of Washington; Amwell, part of Carroll (Districts 3, 4 and 5), East Finley, Fallowfield, Morris, North Franklin, part of North Strabane (Districts 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5), Nottingham, Somerset, South Franklin, South Strabane and West Finley townships; and the boroughs of Donora, East Washington and Green Hills.

Representative Tim O’Neal
48th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tracy Polovick
717.260.6358
tpolovick@pahousegop.com
RepONeal.com / Facebook.com/RepTimONeal