"Governor Shapiro Ends PA Budget Impasse, Signs $45.5 Billion Budget into Law"

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has signed the state's main budget bill into law, allowing funds to flow to school districts, counties, and nonprofits. However, without accompanying code bills, the state cannot spend at least $1.1 billion on programs such as public legal defense, housing, and aid for poorer school districts. The budget includes an over 8% increase in education funding, but some advocates argue it falls short in areas such as early childhood programs and special education. The budget also lacks funding for adult mental health programs. Legislative leaders will continue negotiating the code bills, and the state Senate and House are expected to reconvene in September.