Lawmakers' spending jumps, boosting reserves during pandemic

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HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — The Pennsylvania Legislature’s spending grew by more than 8% last year, adding some $28 million to its own reserves. The increase came as the state’s deficit ballooned and many residents struggled to pay bills during the pandemic. The Legislative Audit Advisory Commission on Thursday voted to approve the legislative branch’s spending report for the 2019-20 year that ended in June. Total spending reached $392 million, up from $362 million the prior year. Payroll costs grew by about $29 million. Lawmakers boosted their own budgetary reserve from $172 million to just over $200 million.