Governor Shapiro's Budget for FY 2023-2024

Governor Shapiro presented his budget priorities for fiscal year 2023-2024 in a joint session of state legislators in Harrisburg on March 7, 2023. The $44.4 billion budget proposal contained increases to $66.7 million increase to Child Care Works; $30 million increase to Pre-K Counts and $3 million increase to the Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program. 

Governor Shapiro cited the results of the February Start Strong PA survey in which over 1,000 child care providers noted nearly 4,000 teacher vacancies and nearly 36,000 children on waiting lists as a result. However, no resources were directed to address the child care workforce crisis. 

The $30 million Pre-K Counts proposal would raised full-time rates by $1,000 a child and part-time rates by $500 a child. It should be noted that all Pre-K Counts contracts are up for rebid this year. 

The Governor also proposed a three-year tax incentive of up to $2,500 a year for newly certified teachers, nurses, and police officers. Questions are circulating as to whether that applies to early childhood teachers.

PACCA's Education and Policy Committee will meet March 17, 2023 for a budget review.