Lehigh Times

State Sen. Jarrett Coleman (R-16) issued a statement criticizing Gov. Josh Shapiro's corporate welfare strategy during the governor's visit to Bethlehem. The program, which involves using borrowed funds to clear and upgrade specific sites in Pennsylvania with the aim of attracting businesses, has been expanded from a $10 million pilot program to a $500 million initiative.

Coleman expressed concerns about the lack of evaluation of the pilot program before its expansion. "Pennsylvania went from a $10 million pilot program to spending a half-billion dollars on this without ever examining the results of the pilot program," he said. He also highlighted the financial implications for taxpayers, stating, "The fact that the commonwealth is borrowing the money to finance this corporate welfare makes it even worse. Taxpayers deserve to know their tax dollars are being used effectively. Expanding a program from $10 million to $500 million without any evidence of success is irresponsible."

Residents interested in learning more about Coleman can visit his website at www.SenatorColeman.com, follow him on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SenatorJarrettColeman, and sign up for email newsletters at www.SenatorColeman.com/eNewsletters.

CONTACT: Leo Knepper