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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. David Kessler |
  
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Kessler wins approval on homegrown fuel, taxpayer-protection proposals
Today, the House of Representatives and Senate passed my proposal to kick-start production of biodiesel in Pennsylvania. As part of a bipartisan budget agreement, my legislation is expected to be signed into law soon as part of a multi-year, $650 million alternative-energy initiative that also includes wind and solar energy.
Homegrown biodiesel can be used in place of increasingly expensive home heating oil, and it burns 80 percent more cleanly and is more efficient. Increasing our biodiesel supply is also important because current and future diesel and diesel-electric hybrid cars will probably replace many of today's gasoline-powered cars. Also, the price of this homegrown fuel is projected to become lower than what petroleum-derived diesel costs today. (Learn more about this initiative here.)
In addition, the House and Senate have unanimously passed two bills I introduced to save taxpayers money. The governor is also expected to sign these bills into law.
I introduced these bills because a 2006 decision by the state Supreme Court has threatened to impose an overwhelming burden on taxpayers. The court tilted the playing field heavily in favor of companies that can finance long, drawn-out lawsuits against local governments. (Learn more here.)
While I had to miss Independence Day celebrations and events in the 130th Legislative District, I felt it was more important to achieve progress in these areas and to wrap up the state budget. I wish you and your loved ones a happy Fourth of July.
As always, if you have a question or concern about a state-related issue, please contact me.