Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35) issued the following statement regarding Governor Wolf’s decision to begin the regulatory process in order for Pennsylvania to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI):
This morning, the Governor turned his back on the hardworking men and women of the 35th senatorial district by his announcement calling on Pennsylvania to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. The Governor’s Executive Order essentially proposes a new energy tax on Pennsylvania energy producers and residents.
The 35th senatorial district is home to three coal refuse power plants which remove coal refuse resulting in cleaner land, cleaner air and cleaner waterways, while also providing a beneficial source of alternative electricity and thousands of family sustaining jobs. In fact, with my full support the General Assembly enacted a considerable tax credit that recognizes both the environmental and economic value these plants provide to the Commonwealth. If this industry falters and ceases to exist, the responsibility for this cleanup effort will fall solely upon taxpayers.
The imposition of a new tax will have a major impact on the Commonwealth and its residents. It is essential that the General Assembly be involved in this decision. To make such a move by executive order is a major over-reach of authority and not in the best interest of our state and its residents.
Contact:
Gwenn Dando
(717) 787-5400
gdando@pasen.gov