The Pennsylvania Budget Impasse and Workforce Development

The Pennsylvania Budget Impasse & Workforce Development

On August 3, 2023, Pennsylvania resolved its budget impasse.

During the impasse, we were proud to work with our partners, stakeholders, and members to make sure their voices were being heard in Harrisburg. We worked with our members, the administration, the legislature, and the treasury to release federal carryover funding for PA CareerLinks® including WIOA and TANF dollars that would allow for the continued operation of PA CareerLinks®.

As we monitor the impacts of the budget impasse, we will continue to stay in touch with our members and partners to make sure they are getting the funding and resources they need and no resources are caught in budgetary limbo.

Read PWDA’s July 19 Letter to Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy Walker here

Budget Impasse Timeline


Early July

Senate and House Pass appropriations bill without associated code bills, prompting a budget impasse.

July 19, 2023

PWDA requests the Release of funding for PA CareerLink® including WIOA and TANF, along with other workforce programs.

July 20, 2023

Shapiro Administration notifies the legislature of intent to distribute workforce funding including WIOA and TANF Youth.

July 23, 2023

Senate President Pro Tem, Kim Ward indicates to media that the Senate will come back in August for the procedural vote to pass the budget.

July 25, 2023

Dept. of Education Sec. Kahlid Mumin sent a letter to educators outlining the immediate education funding impacts during the budget impasse.

July 31, 2023

Department of Labor and Industry notifies LWDBs that they can draw WIOA and other workforce funding.

August 2, 2023

Senate President Pro Tem, Kim Ward announces the Senate will sign the Appropriations Bill for the Governor’s Signature on August 3.

August 3, 2023

Governor Shapiro signs the Appropriations Bill.

Mid-Late September

House and Senate Scheduled to Return to Voting Session