Philadelphia senators refuse pay raise

Yesterday, Pennsylvania’s senators representing Philadelphia declined a 1. 7 percent pay increase. The decision, led by Sen. Shirley Kitchen, was based upon the struggles of families who are trying to make ends meet.

“We are constantly hearing from people who are doing everything they can to find work, pay the bills and feed their families. Many of those who are lucky enough to have jobs have not received a boost in pay,” said Kitchen, who represents Fox Chase and Lawncrest in addition to other neighborhoods in the city.

The delegation refused the automatic cost-of-living pay raise in the face of a state budget deficit.

“Pennsylvania faces a budget deficit, which could climb upwards of five billion dollars,” added Kitchen. “We are going to have a tough road ahead and be forced to make some difficult choices. Returning this money was something we all agreed we should do.”

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