Gaydos Stands Firm for Fiscal Responsibility, Votes ‘No’ to Adding More Debt to PA’s Pension System
HARRISBURG - Rep. Valerie Gaydos (R-Allegheny) voted “no” on
House Bill 411, legislation that passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives on Wednesday. The bill, which would provide a cost-of-living adjustment to state employees and teachers who retired before July 1, 2001, would add $1.5 billion to the Commonwealth’s debt on top of the current $60 billion owed.
Gaydos, a consistent advocate for fiscal responsibility, issued the following statement:
“While I respect the service of our retired public employees, this bill places an unsustainable financial burden on our citizens. A ‘yes’ vote would mean higher taxes for working families already struggling with rising property taxes and economic uncertainty. Tough decisions must be made to protect taxpayers and future generations. It’s a commitment I made to my constituents and all Pennsylvanians.”
During debate on the House floor, Gaydos outlined her objections to the bill before being twice interrupted by the Speaker Pro Tem. She remained unwavering in her position:
“I may have been silenced in that moment, but I will never back down from defending taxpayers. This bill increases our pension debt by $1.5 billion without any plan to pay for it. That’s not just irresponsible; it’s unfair to future generations who will be left to shoulder the cost. Pennsylvania’s public pension systems – the Public School Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS) and the State Employee Retirement System (SERS) – already face a $60 billion unfunded liability. House Bill 411 would push that number even higher, without identifying a funding source.
“Voting for this bill is voting to spend money we know we don’t have,” Gaydos added. “It’s reckless, it destabilizes our economy, and it deepens an already serious crisis that threatens core services and economic stability.”
Gaydos also emphasized her broader efforts to restore accountability in government spending including her own paycheck. As a co-sponsor of legislation to eliminate automatic cost-of-living increases for state legislators, Gaydos underscored her belief in leading by example.
“I promised to stand for fiscal discipline and responsible budgeting. A ‘no’ vote on this bill is a vote to keep that promise. Before we commit to new spending, we need a sustainable and honest plan to pay for it.”
House Bill 411 now moves to the Senate for consideration.
To view Rep. Gaydos’ comments prior to the vote of House Bill 411,
click here.
Representative Valerie Gaydos
44th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Rick Leiner
717.260.6437
rleiner@pahousegop.com
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