Cambria Times

Rep. Jim Rigby and the House Republican Policy Committee, led by Chairman Josh Kail, held the fourth hearing in a series to discuss House Bill 2388. This bill proposes significant tax cuts, aiming to return $3 billion to Pennsylvanians by reducing the Personal Income Tax rate from 3.07% to 2.8% and eliminating the Gross Receipts Tax on electric bills.

The hearing, titled "Historic Tax Cuts," included testimonies from Elizabeth Stelle of The Commonwealth Foundation, Robert Sloan of PJ’s Tavern, and Ray Lenz, a retired resident of Loretto.

Pennsylvania's economy faces challenges with an aging population and lack of incentives for young workers. Businesses are moving to states with better tax conditions, and inflation is making basic necessities unaffordable for many residents.

Ray Lenz shared personal stories about financial struggles among seniors, highlighting issues like high drug costs. Rigby thanked Lenz for his insights, stating that such discussions help communities care for seniors.

Rigby emphasized the need for economic growth through tax relief: “We need to grow our economy and create family-sustaining jobs... If we don’t, Pennsylvania will remain at the bottom of the competition.”

Gov. Josh Shapiro has been criticized by some Republicans for not prioritizing returning money to citizens. Kail stated, “Harrisburg needs to get out of the way... We need to give money back to the people so they can invest in things that matter to them.”

The final hearing in this series is scheduled for June 21 in Allegheny County.