With the state budget finalized, and lawmakers not expected back into Harrisburg until September, the halls of the state Capitol have been quiet over these past few days. But that does not mean political news has not been occurring. To get caught up on all the latest political news from around the state as one heads into the weekend, please see the articles below.

Projects put Pennsylvania taxpayers on hook for $963 million - Brad Bumsted, Pittsburgh Tribune Review

Feds appeal sentence of powerful ex-Pa. Sen. Fumo - Mary Claire Dale, Associated Press

Up to $100 million in grants part of budget - Brad Bumsted, Pittsburgh Tribune Review

Toomey, Sestak stake out small-business mantle - Thomas Fitzgerald, Philadelphia Inquirer

Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner calls Department of Public Welfare’s untimely use of stimulus money ‘unacceptable’ - Kari Andren, The Patriot News