(WHTM) - Pennsylvania lawmakers are "progressing" on the state budget with less than a month until its due date, says State Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny).

Costa says he believes the state is "well-positioned resource-wise" heading toward the June 30 deadline. During his appearance on This Week in Pennsylvania, Costa told Dennis Owens that the state will likely have more than $800 million in excess surplus just for this fiscal year.

He hopes some of that money can be returned to residents through the budget process.

Senate Republicans have called for an income tax cut from 3.07% to 2.8%. Costa says that while that's one option lawmakers can look at, they're also looking at a "one-time lump sum payment" that people can use right away. Another option may be similar to the child care/independent care tax credit.

"We think that's more appropriate, I think it's more impactful return of resources to folks. That's why we're looking at that," said Costa. "But that has to be coupled with investments and that's what we're looking and talking about."

Costa pointed toward education as an area for possible investment after the state's Supreme Court ruled the system for funding schools is unconstitutional.

Also joining the show this week is Steve Loney, a lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union, to discuss a lawsuit filed over date requirements on Pennsylvania's mail ballots.

The ACLU had sued arguing those who put the incorrect date on their mail ballot envelope should still have their votes counted instead of being tossed.