Rep. Boback Calls for Return of Local Oversight for Gas Drilling Site Permits - 8/31/2010
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In response to concerns about water quality in Pennsylvania, lawmakers are moving to ensure local governments will have a say in the permitting processes required for locating gas drilling sites in the state. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia, Luzerne & Wyoming) has announced that she plans to introduce legislation to restore the authority of county conservation districts in approving erosion and sediment control plans for the hundreds of proposed Marcellus Shale gas wells. Mike Davies reports – story and bite available.
State Capitol Roundup - Administration Presents Transportation Funding Plan - 8/27/2010
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House and Senate members were briefed this week on Gov. Ed Rendell’s plan to fund Pennsylvania’s transportation infrastructure needs during a joint meeting in Harrisburg. The governor’s proposal would generate $1 billion in new taxes and fees for road and bridge repair by enacting an 8 percent tax on oil company profits and instituting 64 driving fee increases. While acknowledging that the state’s infrastructure is in need of repair, some House Republicans have questioned the lack of cost-saving initiatives in the governor’s plan.
State Capitol Roundup - Policy Hearing Examines Firearm Background Check Systems - 8/27/2010
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Members of the House Republican Policy Committee, joined Rep. Tim Krieger for a public hearing in Westmoreland County to examine the effectiveness of the Pennsylvania Instant Check System (PICS) and National Instant Check System (NICS). Both systems provide licensed gun dealers with instant access to background information to determine if an individual is legally capable of acquiring a firearm or a license to carry a firearm.
State Capitol Roundup - Bill Would Protect County Conservation Districts in Marcellus Shale Region - 8/27/2010
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Since county conservation districts have acted as the primary local government unit responsible for the conservation of natural resources and protection of the environment, Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) has authored a bill that would give such districts the authority over erosion and sediment control in the Marcellus Shale region. In 2009, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection assumed some of these responsibilities, significantly diminishing the role of conservation districts in the process.
Rep. Martin Causer Weekly Radio Report/Podcast - 8/27/2010
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The weekly Legislative Report Program/Podcast with Rep. Martin Causer (R-McKean, Potter & Cameron) is now available for download. You may use this brief public affairs report in its entirety or edit it down for actualities to use in state government news coverage.
Rep. Reichley Weekly Radio Report/Podcast - 8/27/2010
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The weekly Legislative Report Program/Podcast with Rep. Doug Reichley (R-Berks & Lehigh) is now available for download. You may use this brief public affairs report in its entirety or edit it down for actualities to use in state government news coverage.
Rep. Pickett Comments on Governor's Attempts to Promote New Gas Severence Tax - 8/27/2010
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On a quest to find another source of revenue for state government, Governor Rendell visited Wellsboro, Tioga County, on Friday to promote his proposal for a new state tax on Pennsylvania's growing natural gas industry. Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna) said she feels that the Governor's effort to impose new taxes on the state's only economic bright spot is the wrong move for the northern tier counties now benefitting from the Marcellus Shale drilling boom. Mike Davies Reports - Story and Bite available.
Rep. Evans Weekly Radio Report/Podcast - 8/27/2010
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The weekly Legislative Report Program/Podcast with Rep. John Evans (R-Crawford & Erie) is now available for download. You may use this brief public affairs report in its entirety or edit it down for actualities to use in state government news coverage.
Rep. Stern Radio Report/Podcast - 8/27/2010
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The weekly Legislative Report Program/Podcast with Rep. Jerry Stern (R-Blair) is now available for download. You may use this brief public affairs report in its entirety or edit it down for actualities to use in state government news coverage.
Republican Leader Sam Smith Says New Mining Reclamation Grants to Benefit Local Economy - 8/26/2010
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A number of new abandoned mine reclamation projects were recently announced in Harrisburg that will benefit both Jefferson and Indiana Counties. House Republican Leader Sam Smith (R-Jefferson & Indiana) said the grants are positive news for the area’s economy and environment. Mike Davies reports... story and bite available.