Counties Urge Timely Passage of the Pennsylvania State Budget

HARRISBURG, Pa. – The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) is urging the General Assembly and the Shapiro Administration to reach a timely agreement on the FY2026–27 state budget. Counties are encouraged by legislative leaders’ recognition of progress in ongoing negotiations and the possibility of a finalized budget shortly after the Fourth of July holiday. However, as county leaders know all too well, each day without a completed budget increases financial uncertainty and puts essential county services at risk. 

Pennsylvania's counties administer a wide range of state-funded programs and local services. "Passing a timely and responsible budget is critical to ensuring counties have the resources needed to serve their communities without disruption" said Dr. Kyle Kopko, CCAP Executive Director.  

In addition to urging the timely passage of the state budget, counties continue to advocate for its top legislative priorities of 2026: 

• Increase the 911 surcharge from $1.95 to $2.20 to ensure the long-term sustainability of Pennsylvania's 911 system.  

• Provide $40 million in county mental health funding to stabilize and expand community mental health and crisis services.  

• Establish a fair, predictable, and sustainable framework for county property reassessments. 

Pennsylvania's counties remain ready to work collaboratively with state leaders to finalize a budget that provides counties with the resources they need to continue serving residents across the Commonwealth.