Intro to the PA Budget Process

Guides
Written By Elizabeth Randol

LEVEL: 101

RESOURCE: Guide

UPDATED: 5/2025

Resource Summary

This guide is targeted to those who are responsible for lobbying/engaging legislators on behalf of their organization and offers strategies and tips for providing effective stakeholder (organizational) feedback on legislation, including:

If the state budget seems overwhelming and confusing, you’re not alone! This guide reviews the basics of the PA budget process and how to navigate budget season, including:

  • Overview of the budget timeline—from preparation to adoption

  • Role of the Governor, state agencies, and the General Assembly in the budget process

  • Distinctions between different types of budget bills

  • Opportunities for advocacy during peak budget stages

Related Resources

Resources
How to Read a PA Bill
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Decodes the elements and markings in proposed PA legislation.

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How to Read PA Legislative Calendars
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Decodes the structure, markings, and terminology of PA House and Senate legislative calendars.

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PA Legislative Lingo Glossary
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Glossary of commonly used legislative terms.

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PA Legislative Quick Links
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One-page list of links to commonly used PA legislative resources and sites.

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PA Legislative Rules Cheat Sheet
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Differences between parliamentary rules in the PA House and PA Senate.

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PA Lobbying Disclosure Requirements
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Overview of PA lobbying disclosure requirements.

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PA Capitol Maps
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Maps of the PA capitol.

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Elizabeth Randol
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Strategies for Providing Effective Stakeholder Feedback