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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State Rep.
Camille "Bud" George |
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Rep. George: House approves bill reviving State Energy Office
HARRISBURG, June 23 – State Rep. Camille "Bud" George, D-74 of Clearfield County, said the state House today approved his legislation that would enable a State Energy Office to take the reins on energy matters affecting the Commonwealth.
"House Bill
786 would enable a State Energy Office to forge consistent energy policies on
virtually all matters related to energy," Rep. George said. "We cannot afford
to continue our scatter-gun approach to energy prices, shortages, development
and conservation."
The energy office would:
● Promote development of the state’s natural and renewable energy resources.● Be in charge of energy policy development and implementation and heating assistance.● Monitor energy prices and supplies and develop responses to emergencies.● Encourage the development of a strategic heating oil and diesel fuel reserve in the mid-Atlanticregion to counter price spikes and fuel shortages.
Under House Bill 786, the secretary of the state Department of Environmental Protection would appoint an executive director of the State Energy Office while the governor would appoint an advisory council representing business and transportation interests and the public.
"Pennsylvania had an effective energy office from 1983 until 1995 before its responsibilities were scattered among various state offices, agencies and departments," Rep. George said. "It’s time to refocus our efforts."
The legislation, approved on a 111-83 vote, now goes to the state Senate for consideration.
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CONTACT: Matthew Maciorkoski |