State Sen. Lisa Boscola said in a release June 30 she voted yes to the bipartisan passage of the 2017-18 state appropriation bill, which must now go to the House for approval.

She said, “I voted for this budget bill [House Bill 218] because it makes key investments in education and successful economic development programs and will make our state government run more effectively and efficiently.

“Even though financial resources are limited, I was pleased that this bipartisan spending plan increases education funding by $175 million. It also wisely invests in successful economic development programs including: Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority, PA First, Keystone Communities, Industry Partnerships and state manufacturing incentives. This bill also protects resources for Pennsylvanians in need of home and community based services, such as our seniors and individuals with disabilities, by reducing waiting list backlogs.

“I was pleased the legislature was able to maximize revenue by implementing state government efficiencies and streamlining operations. Merging the Department of Corrections with the Board of Probation and Parole bolsters criminal justice efforts as we work to further decrease prison recidivism. Also, unifying the departments of Health and Human Services will provide smoother service coordination for our citizens.

“Like all budgets, there was a great deal of give-and-take negotiation. However, I am satisfied by this frugal and targeted approach to appropriating limited state funds.”