Proposal Unveiled For PA To Help Pay For Your July 4 Cookout Costs

PENNSYLVANIA — How many hot dogs and hamburgers can you purchase for $250?

You might be about to find out.

State Rep. Eric Davanzo, a Westmoreland County Republican, is preparing to introduce what he calls the "$250 for America's 250th Act."

The bill would give Pennsylvania families a one-time $250 payment to help defray the cost of this year's Independence Day festivities.

"July 4th and barbecues are an American tradition like no other," Davanzo said in a memo to colleagues seeking support for the proposed legislation.

"This year, as we celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, our celebration takes on a special meaning. We also know that all Pennsylvanians are feeling the squeeze of high energy prices, leaving less money in their wallets for hot dogs, burgers, and beverages at those July 4th celebrations.

"Meanwhile, tax collections in Pennsylvania are well above the previous fiscal year and exceed the official estimate by more than $900 million.

"The primary driver of healthy tax collections is personal income tax. Returning some of that money back to the taxpayers who paid it just makes common sense. "

If the House approves the upcoming bill, it then would go to the state Senate for consideration. If the Senate approves the legislation, it then would go to Gov. Josh Shapiro to sign it into law.