Pennsylvania Senate President Pro Tem Kim Ward says budget negotiations have resumed and that lawmakers could return to the capitol this month. The Republican leader also has remarked that Governor Josh Shapiro could smooth the process by signing the budget passed by both chambers in July. However, the governor says he can’t sign the budget until the Senate sends it to him. He also has pledged to use a line-item veto to remove a school voucher provision when it does reach his desk. Under currently announced schedules, the Senate is set to return September 19th and the House would return September 26th.