Summary of Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 Budget Proposals (Housing & Infrastructure)
This document outlines key proposals from Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 budget, focusing on housing affordability and critical infrastructure investment. Here’s a breakdown:
I. Housing Initiatives:
The Shapiro Administration recognizes housing as foundational to economic possibility and is addressing rising costs and aging housing stock. Key initiatives include:
* Building on Existing Progress: Expanding the Pennsylvania Housing affordability and Enhancement Fund (PHARE) which has already supported over 1,000 projects creating/repairing 8,200+ housing units. Also continuing a Right-to-Counsel initiative and a middle-market housing progress pilot.
* Protecting Renters & Promoting Stability:
* Rental Request Fee Caps: Limits fees to actual screening costs and prohibits fees before property viewing.
* Domestic Violence Protections: Allows lease termination without penalty for victims of domestic violence.
* Eviction Record Sealing: Seals records for those not actually evicted.
* Fair-Chance Housing: Limits use of criminal history in rental decisions.
* Supporting Manufactured Homeowners: Caps lot rent increases and requires advance notice.
* Preserving generational Wealth: Authorizes “transfer-on-death” deeds for primary residences to simplify inheritance and avoid probate.
* Strengthening coordination: Creates a Deputy Secretary for Housing to improve policy coordination, resource access, and local government support.
* Modernizing Planning & Permitting: Updates the Municipalities Planning Code to reduce barriers to residential development.
II. Critical Infrastructure Investment:
The budget proposes a $1 billion Pennsylvania Program for Critical Infrastructure Investment funded through general obligation bonds. This program aims to:
* Provide Flexible Funding: Support large-scale projects including energy generation, housing, and school/municipal facility upgrades.
* Unlock Economic Growth: Attract investment, retain talent, and improve quality of life.
* Address Key Needs: Focus on affordable energy, modern facilities, and increased housing supply.
Overall Goal: The budget aims to expand housing supply, lower costs, strengthen communities, and position Pennsylvania for economic growth and competitiveness.
Related reading