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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| State Rep. Mike Sturla Chairman, Democratic Policy Committee | State Rep. Bill DeWeese D-Greene/Fayette/Washington Hearing Co-Chairman |
HDPC continues examination of Marcellus Shale issues
WAYNESBURG, Aug. 2 – The House Democratic Policy Committee today held a public hearing at the Waynesburg Central High School about Marcellus Shale issues, according to Chairman Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster.
State Rep. Bill DeWeese, D-Greene/Fayette/Washington, requested the hearing and served as the co-chairman. The hearing focused largely on the recently released report of the Governor’s Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission.
Sturla said: "The Policy Committee continues to hold public hearings around Pennsylvania to gain firsthand knowledge of how Marcellus Shale drilling is affecting local communities. I commend Representative DeWeese for hosting this hearing because his constituents are on the front line and their input today was valuable.”
DeWeese added: “As we collectively march forward to develop sound fiscal and environmental policy regarding the modern-day Gold Rush known as the Marcellus Shale, having a broad-based education for the public and elected officials is key. Today’s Policy Committee hearing brought many voices to the table. We all leave here with a better understanding of the unique challenges – and the unique opportunities – that extraction of this abundant natural resource presents."
Those testifying at the hearing included: Gary Slagel, director of government affairs, Consol Energy; Pamela Snyder, chairwoman, Greene County Commissioners; Dr. Jerome Bartley, superintendent, Central Greene School District; Shirl Barnhart, supervisor, Morgan Township; Ken Dufalla, president, Greene County Chapter of the Izaak Walton League; Martin Niverth, former manager, Greene County Conservation District; and Pamela Judy, Carmichaels resident and property owner. The hearing concluded with a public comment period from the audience.
For more information about the Policy Committee and hearing materials, visit www.pahouse.com/PolicyCommittee.
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