Harrisburg, PA – Today, Office of Administration (OA) Secretary Neil Weaver delivered remarks at OA’s first annual IT Day in PA to highlight how the 2026-27 budget signed last month by Governor Josh Shapiro is investing an additional $10 million in the Commonwealth’s cybersecurity infrastructure.
This year’s $10 million investment in cybersecurity builds on a multi-year modernization strategy to strengthen the Commonwealth’s cyber defenses and will further reduce the risk of technological disruption to ensure Commonwealth data and systems are safe and secure when Pennsylvanians need them. OA has previously leveraged funding in past budgets to enhance monitoring across networks and applications, while improving real-time detection capabilities.
“Modernizing and safeguarding the Commonwealth’s digital footprint requires continuous investment and this year’s budget delivers on Governor Shapiro’s commitment to providing accessible, responsive, and secure technology that works for everyone,” said Secretary Neil Weaver. “This additional funding will help us better protect sensitive data, maintain public trust, and accelerate our digital transformation initiatives. By investing in our digital infrastructure and fortifying our cybersecurity defenses, we continue to ensure that Pennsylvanians can access necessary services online safely and efficiently.”
The 2026-27 budget also includes $3.7 million for the Commonwealth Office of Digital Experience (CODE PA) to modernize permitting processes, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This project builds on previous efforts to speed up permitting, improve efficiency, and increase transparency, including the PAyback money-back guarantee system and DEP’s Track Your Permit Application.
Governor Shapiro created CODE PA in 2023 to improve online experiences for Pennsylvanians by creating simple, seamless, and secure digital tools and platforms that make it easier to access Commonwealth services. Through this work, OA and CODE PA have saved a combined $37 million on information technology spending during the Shapiro Administration by modernizing outdated systems, leveraging in-house staff and resources, and practicing sensible financial management.
In 2025 alone, CODE PA earned five national awards for technology innovation and leadership, including a redesign of PA.gov with state agencies to create a unified website presence for the Commonwealth.
Governor Shapiro understands the importance of investing in technology to keep state government digital services cutting edge, easy to use, and safe from digital threats. His continued commitment to strengthening the Commonwealth’s digital footprint lays the foundation for a government that meets people where they are, works for everyone, and allows all Pennsylvanians the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed.
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