Governor Corbett Tours Kurt J. Lesker Company in Clairton, Talks Jobs and Economic Growth

CLAIRTON, Pa., April 7, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today toured Kurt J. Lesker Company, a family owned international manufacturer and distributor of vacuum products, highlighting his commitment to growing the state's economy and helping businesses create jobs for hardworking Pennsylvanians.

"My budget is a commitment to Pennsylvania's workers. It supports our future by making sure that workers, whether they own their business or work for someone else, have a share in the economy we are looking to build," Corbett said.

Corbett's proposed budget contains no tax or fee increases and cuts government spending by 3 percent, mostly by consolidating programs, targeting inefficiencies and reducing or eliminating discretionary financial grants.  

The budget plan refocuses and streamlines the state's support of free enterprise by supporting programs that will encourage economic growth and job creation while encouraging incentives for new and creative ideas to improve business and industry.

"My budget is targeted to real growth, job creation in the private sector, a lean-but-agile Department of Community and Economic Development, and a tax structure that doesn't scare off new industries," said Corbett. "It supports programs such as the Job Opportunity Grant Program, Job Creation Tax Credits, and the Liberty Loan Fund. Where the state can help, we're here to help. And where we can keep out of the way, we will."

The Kurt J. Lesker Company is a privately held, family owned corporation. Its products are shipped worldwide and are used in a variety of high-tech applications, including the manufacture of semiconductors, solar panels, night-vision devices and LEDs. In 2010 Lesker hired more than 30 people in Pittsburgh, added 45,000 square feet and invested over $2.5 million in new equipment and technology.

"My proposed budget supports companies -- like Lesker -- that are evolving and innovating in response to our changing economy. Advocating the careful use of tax money will come back to our residents in the form of a growing economy," said Corbett.

Media contact: Kelli Roberts, 717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor