By Jamie Brackman, Contributing Writer

Yesterday the PA House Republicans released a new budget plan.  This budget looks like good news for university students, because it will repeal Tom Corbett’s unpopular cuts to PA higher education.  The House budget maintains many of the governor’s cuts, notably those concerning younger children as reported by WHYY NewsWorks.  

Democrats suggested that the entire $500 million surplus should be used to eliminate Corbett’s cuts.  The Democratic plan is explained in detail in Capitol Ideas.

“We are focused on a bill that is fiscally responsible, that does not raise taxes, that does not do any borrowing, and that is on time, this is about prioritized spending . . . and living within our means.” House Majority Leader Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny).

The GOP plan doesn’t change the principal amount of spending that Governor Corbett laid down, but instead redistributes the money, most notably reducing cuts to Pennsylvania Universities like Penn State,  Lincoln, Temple and Pittsburg as well as K-12 public education.  

House democrats are far from satisfied with the plan, “It’s simply not right. . . . It’s nothing more than robbing Peter to pay Paul.” House Minority Leader Frank Dermody (D-Allegheny).

Democrats point to the surplus from April as a way to avoid cuts.  Governor Corbett had projected a $78 million surplus for April, the actual surplus was $506 million.  “This budget hurts, and it’s not going to be made a whole lot easier, even if we add that little bit more of money.” Corbett said.  He discouraged changing the principal amount of the budget.  

The budget is reviewed in further detail in the Philadelphia Inquirer.