Budget Bill Passes State House, Moves on to Senate

After nine hours of debate, the state House on Tuesday night passed a $27.3 billion state budget by a vote of 109-92.

Now the bill goes to the Senate for further action.

All Democrats and two Republicans voted against the spending plan, which does not raise taxes but cuts spending for various programs.

State Rep. Mark Mustio, R-Moon, who voted for the budget, said its provisions reflect the fact that Pennsylvanians face a "really tough budget time." House Majority Leader Mike Turzai, R-Bradford Woods, also spoke in favor of the GOP budget proposal.

Rep. Jesse White, D-Cecil, who spoke against the bill on the House floor,  said, "This is a terrible budget for Pennsylvanians."

Editor's Note: Check back for a story on the reaction to the House vote on the budget.