“John Buffone, spokesperson for the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania, confirmed county officials received the letter. He said the commonwealth’s 67 counties are “bracing for missed payments that fund essential programs such as mental and behavioral health services, child protective services, intellectual disability supports, drug and alcohol treatment, and assistance for individuals experiencing homelessness.”
Each county’s ability to manage shortfalls brought on by a state funding lapse varies significantly, he added. Some may have sufficient reserves to temporarily cover costs by “redirecting funds from other priorities, delaying projects, or missing out on investment earnings.”
But if the impasse continues, “counties may face the prospect of taking out loans or tax anticipation notes, passing along interest and borrowing costs to local taxpayers,” Buffone said.
“While we’re hopeful for a timely resolution, counties are preparing for escalating challenges the longer the delay continues,” he concluded.”