February 29, 2012
MCARE Ruling Reversed By PA Supreme Court
Also today, the PA Supreme Court reversed a Commonwealth Court ruling which would have required the General Assembly to return about $800 million to the MCARE Fund used to pay the malpractice insurance of some doctors. The money instead was used to balance the state budget in FY 2009-10. A copy of the decision is available online.
PA Supreme Court Orders House Special Elections
In a 4-3 decision, the PA Supreme Court ordered House Speaker Sam Smith to hold six special elections for vacant House seats on Primary Election day April 24. In their opinion, the Court also waived the usual 60 day waiting period before special elections can be held.
The vote again put Chief Justice Ron Castille on the side of the three Democratic members of the Cour, just like the decision to reject the House and Senate redistricting plan developed by the Legislative Reapportionment Commission.
The vote again put Chief Justice Ron Castille on the side of the three Democratic members of the Cour, just like the decision to reject the House and Senate redistricting plan developed by the Legislative Reapportionment Commission.
Wednesday NewsClips
Public Welfare Secretary Goes Under The Budget Microscope
Welfare Secretary Grilled On Required Cuts
Welfare Cuts Get Scrutiny
Welfare Secretary Defends Proposed Funding Cuts
Corbett's Welfare Cuts Draw Anger From Democrats
State System Schools Make Their Budget Case
14 State-Owned Universities Fear Impact Of Budget Cuts
Editorial: Powerful GOP Senator Opposes Higher Ed Cuts
Editorial: Let's Call State-Related Universities' Bluff
LCB Launches App For Wine, Spirits
Veon Trial To Shift To Defense Today
Judge Upholds Charges In Veon Case
3rd Democrat Emerges In Attorney General Race
Sen. Folmer Back To Work After Cancer Treatment
AG Launches Prescription Drug Abuse Program For Kids
Receiver's Plan For Harrisburg Not Much Different
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Welfare Secretary Grilled On Required Cuts
Welfare Cuts Get Scrutiny
Welfare Secretary Defends Proposed Funding Cuts
Corbett's Welfare Cuts Draw Anger From Democrats
State System Schools Make Their Budget Case
14 State-Owned Universities Fear Impact Of Budget Cuts
Editorial: Powerful GOP Senator Opposes Higher Ed Cuts
Editorial: Let's Call State-Related Universities' Bluff
LCB Launches App For Wine, Spirits
Veon Trial To Shift To Defense Today
Judge Upholds Charges In Veon Case
3rd Democrat Emerges In Attorney General Race
Sen. Folmer Back To Work After Cancer Treatment
AG Launches Prescription Drug Abuse Program For Kids
Receiver's Plan For Harrisburg Not Much Different
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 28, 2012
House Appropriations Committee Changes DEP Budget Hearing To March 6
House Appropriations Committee changes DEP budget hearing to March 6 at 3:00.
Tuesday NewsClips
Corman Wants To Retain Higher Ed Funds
Corman: I Want To Restore All Higher Ed Funding
Corman Advocates Against Higher Ed Funding Cuts
California U President Fears Effects Of More Cuts
Leaders Gather Support To Change HACC Funding
Op-Ed: Where's The Return On Higher Ed Investment?
Op-Ed: Tuition Increases Could Price Students Out Of College
Op-Ed: Stop The School Cuts
House, LCB Talk Modernization, Not Privatization
Editorial: Lottery Sales In Private Wine Stores
Blake Outlines Local Sale Tax Option Bill
PA Inmates To Return From Virginia By End Of March
Editorial: Health Secretary's Breakfast Tiff Costs Taxpayers Money
Six Jurors Selected In Orie's Corruption Trial
Jurors Selected For Orie's Second Corruption Trial
Prosecution Moves To Withdraw Some Veon Charges
Prosecutors Wrapping Up Veon's 2nd Corruption Trial
LaValle: Veon Rarly Consulted Him About Nonprofit Operations
Veon Defense On Deck
Latino Activists Rally Over Redistricting Maps
Sen. Costa To Seek Fifth Term
Gay Candidates Run Openly For State House
Op-Ed: Politicians Who Make, Keep Promises Rare Breed
Westmoreland Dems Endorse Altmire For 12th
Editorial: Santorum's Throw-Up
Impact Of Philly Refinery Closure Detailed
Report: Fuel Markets Significantly Impacted By Refinery Shutdown
Editorial: PA Also Has An Anti-Abortion Bill Ready
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Corman: I Want To Restore All Higher Ed Funding
Corman Advocates Against Higher Ed Funding Cuts
California U President Fears Effects Of More Cuts
Leaders Gather Support To Change HACC Funding
Op-Ed: Where's The Return On Higher Ed Investment?
Op-Ed: Tuition Increases Could Price Students Out Of College
Op-Ed: Stop The School Cuts
House, LCB Talk Modernization, Not Privatization
Editorial: Lottery Sales In Private Wine Stores
Blake Outlines Local Sale Tax Option Bill
PA Inmates To Return From Virginia By End Of March
Editorial: Health Secretary's Breakfast Tiff Costs Taxpayers Money
Six Jurors Selected In Orie's Corruption Trial
Jurors Selected For Orie's Second Corruption Trial
Prosecution Moves To Withdraw Some Veon Charges
Prosecutors Wrapping Up Veon's 2nd Corruption Trial
LaValle: Veon Rarly Consulted Him About Nonprofit Operations
Veon Defense On Deck
Latino Activists Rally Over Redistricting Maps
Sen. Costa To Seek Fifth Term
Gay Candidates Run Openly For State House
Op-Ed: Politicians Who Make, Keep Promises Rare Breed
Westmoreland Dems Endorse Altmire For 12th
Editorial: Santorum's Throw-Up
Impact Of Philly Refinery Closure Detailed
Report: Fuel Markets Significantly Impacted By Refinery Shutdown
Editorial: PA Also Has An Anti-Abortion Bill Ready
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 27, 2012
Monday NewsClips
Corbett Budget Cuts Funding For Libraries
Corbett's Budget Could Cost Municipalities Fine Revenue
State Treasurer Eyes Comprehensive Financing Changes
Republicans Back Changes To Delaware Loophole
John Baer: Watching PA Politics Is Capitol Punishment
Jury Selection To Begin Today For Orie Trial
She Made A Legislative Map And Sense
Population Shift Causes Need For New District Lines
Crime Scene Training Center To Open At NCC
Millions Of Pennsylvanians Using Health Care Reform Benefit
Editorial: Anti-Abortion Bill Ultra Unsound
Sunoco, PA Officials Clash Over Marcus Hook Refinery
Sunoco Chief Meets With Local Officials
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Corbett's Budget Could Cost Municipalities Fine Revenue
State Treasurer Eyes Comprehensive Financing Changes
Republicans Back Changes To Delaware Loophole
John Baer: Watching PA Politics Is Capitol Punishment
Jury Selection To Begin Today For Orie Trial
She Made A Legislative Map And Sense
Population Shift Causes Need For New District Lines
Crime Scene Training Center To Open At NCC
Millions Of Pennsylvanians Using Health Care Reform Benefit
Editorial: Anti-Abortion Bill Ultra Unsound
Sunoco, PA Officials Clash Over Marcus Hook Refinery
Sunoco Chief Meets With Local Officials
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 26, 2012
Sunday NewsClips
GOP Eyes Tax Provisions After Blocking Dems
Editorial: Primary Confusion, Right To Keep Same Districts
Santorum Tied To Specter
Voters Say Santorum Can't Beat Obama
Cong. Kelly: Pace Of DC Politics Frustrating
PA Manufacturers Assn. Leader Has Cout With GOP Hierarchy
More On Line For Sen. Orie In Second Trial
Bumsted: Trying John Gallo At Veon Trial
John Micek: Politics As Usual
Agencies Supporting Seniors Learning To Do More With Less
PennDOT: Rural Roads Subsidized More Than Transit
Casinos Work To Improve Quality Of Communities
Erie Casino Celebrates 5 Years, Prepares For Ohio Competition
Pennsylvania Works Hard To Woo Businesses
Editorial: Exemptions Are Fouling Workplace Air
Rank And File Among The Best Paid In State Prisons
Op-Ed: Patient Safety Must Be Priority For Insurers
Op-Ed: Could Politicians Be As Accountable As Public Schools?
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Editorial: Primary Confusion, Right To Keep Same Districts
Santorum Tied To Specter
Voters Say Santorum Can't Beat Obama
Cong. Kelly: Pace Of DC Politics Frustrating
PA Manufacturers Assn. Leader Has Cout With GOP Hierarchy
More On Line For Sen. Orie In Second Trial
Bumsted: Trying John Gallo At Veon Trial
John Micek: Politics As Usual
Agencies Supporting Seniors Learning To Do More With Less
PennDOT: Rural Roads Subsidized More Than Transit
Casinos Work To Improve Quality Of Communities
Erie Casino Celebrates 5 Years, Prepares For Ohio Competition
Pennsylvania Works Hard To Woo Businesses
Editorial: Exemptions Are Fouling Workplace Air
Rank And File Among The Best Paid In State Prisons
Op-Ed: Patient Safety Must Be Priority For Insurers
Op-Ed: Could Politicians Be As Accountable As Public Schools?
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 25, 2012
Saturday NewsClips
Witness: Veon Nonprofits's Office Was Empty, Idle
Staff Worked Alone In Veon Nonprofit Office
DeWeese's Petition To Have Name On Ballot Challenged
Poll: PA Voters Take Another Look At Santorum
Specter Says Santorum Not Telling Truth About Political Deal
Pitt Trustees Remain Critical Of Corbett's Budget Cuts
Lottery Sales Discussed For Liquor Stores
PA Court: Uninsured Drivers Can Sue For Injuries
Debt Watch To Hold Forum On Fiscal Plan For Harrisburg
Op-Ed: Harrisburg Business Community Goes Forward
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Staff Worked Alone In Veon Nonprofit Office
DeWeese's Petition To Have Name On Ballot Challenged
Poll: PA Voters Take Another Look At Santorum
Specter Says Santorum Not Telling Truth About Political Deal
Pitt Trustees Remain Critical Of Corbett's Budget Cuts
Lottery Sales Discussed For Liquor Stores
PA Court: Uninsured Drivers Can Sue For Injuries
Debt Watch To Hold Forum On Fiscal Plan For Harrisburg
Op-Ed: Harrisburg Business Community Goes Forward
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 24, 2012
Feb. 27 PA Environment Digest Now Available
Feb 27 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.
DEP Secretary: I'm Bullish About This Budget And In Our Ability To Deliver
Secretary of Environmental Protection Michael Krancer told the Senate Appropriations Committee Wednesday DEP has the resources and personnel to properly regulate and protect pubic health and safety and the environment in all areas of the department, including Marcellus Shale. "I'm bullish about this budget and in our ability to deliver."
Secretary of Environmental Protection Michael Krancer told the Senate Appropriations Committee Wednesday DEP has the resources and personnel to properly regulate and protect pubic health and safety and the environment in all areas of the department, including Marcellus Shale. "I'm bullish about this budget and in our ability to deliver."
A copy of Secretary Krancer's formal budget statement is available online and a summary appears below. Video of the Senate budget hearings for the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources and Department of Environmental Protection are available online.
Friday NewsClips
Corbett Criticizes Rendell Bid For Philly Papers
Corbett Blasted Rendell For Capitol Renovations, Now He Does It
Auditor General Again Says Turnpike Carrying Too Much Debt
Editorial: Baby Steps To Help Distressed Municipalities
Bullet Breaks Window At State Capitol
Sen. Mike Folmer Has Treatable Cancer
Allentown's House Seat Uncontested
Democrats Step Up Attacks In U.S. House Race
Toomey Speaks Up In GOP Presidential Campaign
Veon Gave Harrisburg Law Firm $4,000/Month
Aide Says He Secured Salary For Veon's Brother
Feds Conducting Separate Sandusky, Penn State Investigation
Hospital Infection Rates Inch Lower
Hospital Infections Fewer, But Still Costly
Harrisburg Gasoline Prices Likely To Rise
Gasoline Expected to Rise This Weekend
Motion Filed To Prevent Implementation Of HBG Recovery Plan
Editorial: Harrisburg Could Use Some County Gaming Money
City Council To Seek Distressed Status For Altoona
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Corbett Blasted Rendell For Capitol Renovations, Now He Does It
Auditor General Again Says Turnpike Carrying Too Much Debt
Editorial: Baby Steps To Help Distressed Municipalities
Bullet Breaks Window At State Capitol
Sen. Mike Folmer Has Treatable Cancer
Allentown's House Seat Uncontested
Democrats Step Up Attacks In U.S. House Race
Toomey Speaks Up In GOP Presidential Campaign
Veon Gave Harrisburg Law Firm $4,000/Month
Aide Says He Secured Salary For Veon's Brother
Feds Conducting Separate Sandusky, Penn State Investigation
Hospital Infection Rates Inch Lower
Hospital Infections Fewer, But Still Costly
Harrisburg Gasoline Prices Likely To Rise
Gasoline Expected to Rise This Weekend
Motion Filed To Prevent Implementation Of HBG Recovery Plan
Editorial: Harrisburg Could Use Some County Gaming Money
City Council To Seek Distressed Status For Altoona
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 23, 2012
Thursday NewsClips
New Maps For House, Senate Districts Delayed Again
No Agreement Yet On Legislative District Maps
Senate GOP Leader: No Change In District Lines For Primary
Redistricting Plan Changes Not Likely To Change Primary
Editorial: One More Strike Against Gerrymandering
State-Related Universities Decry Proposed Budget Cuts
State-Related Universities Defend Getting State Funding
Universities Urge Lawmakers To Limit State Funding Cuts
State-Related Universities Make Their Case On Budget
Editorial: Will Penn State Make Strides To Transparency
Corbett Proposes $55 Million In Capitol Complex Repairs
Philly: State Budget Health Cuts A Recipe For Disaster
Editorial: Corbett's Foster Care Plan Would Be Win-Win
Witness: Veon Nonprofit Had Office For State Employee
No Agreement Yet On Legislative District Maps
Senate GOP Leader: No Change In District Lines For Primary
Redistricting Plan Changes Not Likely To Change Primary
Editorial: One More Strike Against Gerrymandering
State-Related Universities Decry Proposed Budget Cuts
State-Related Universities Defend Getting State Funding
Universities Urge Lawmakers To Limit State Funding Cuts
State-Related Universities Make Their Case On Budget
Editorial: Will Penn State Make Strides To Transparency
Corbett Proposes $55 Million In Capitol Complex Repairs
Philly: State Budget Health Cuts A Recipe For Disaster
Editorial: Corbett's Foster Care Plan Would Be Win-Win
Witness: Veon Nonprofit Had Office For State Employee
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 22, 2012
DEP Secretary: I'm Bullish About This Budget And In Our Ability To Deliver
Secretary of Environmental Protection Michael Krancer told the Senate Appropriations Committee Wednesday DEP has the resources and personnel to properly regulate and protect pubic health and safety and the environment in all areas of the department, including Marcellus Shale. "I'm bullish about this budget and in our ability to deliver."
A copy of Secretary Krancer's formal budget statement is available online. Click Here for the complete summary of the hearing.
Wednesday NewsClips
Redistricting Panel Meets Over House, Senate Maps
People In Unrepresented House Districts Want Special Elections
Senate To Drop High-End Health Coverage
Revenue Secretary Sidesteps Closing Tax Loopholes
Revenue Secretary Outlines Internet Sales Tax Strategy
LCB Works To Increase Revenue, With Privatization Bleak
Corbett Plan To Cut Pension Watchdog Questioned
Penn State, Other Colleges To Make Pitch For More Funding
School District Approves Ads Inside Buses
Philly Takes $42 Million Hit In Corbett Budget Plan
PA Docs Oppose Mandatory Ultrasound Anti-Abortion Bill
Veon Nonprofit, Legislative Funds Were Intertwined
Critz Challenges Altmire Petition Signatures
Click Here for today's Environmental News
People In Unrepresented House Districts Want Special Elections
Senate To Drop High-End Health Coverage
Revenue Secretary Sidesteps Closing Tax Loopholes
Revenue Secretary Outlines Internet Sales Tax Strategy
LCB Works To Increase Revenue, With Privatization Bleak
Corbett Plan To Cut Pension Watchdog Questioned
Penn State, Other Colleges To Make Pitch For More Funding
School District Approves Ads Inside Buses
Philly Takes $42 Million Hit In Corbett Budget Plan
PA Docs Oppose Mandatory Ultrasound Anti-Abortion Bill
Veon Nonprofit, Legislative Funds Were Intertwined
Critz Challenges Altmire Petition Signatures
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 21, 2012
Tuesday NewsClips
Town May Lose Ticket Revenue Under Corbett Budget
Officials: Privatizing Prisons Not An Option In PA
Editorial: Cobett's Austere Budget Hurts College Students
Changes In PA Food Stamp Program Draw Ire
PA Lags Behind Other States In Online Lottery Sales
Analysis: PA In Play For Presidential Primary
Veon Trial To Resume Tuesday
Convict Files Anew To Run For House Seat
Abortion Bills Stirs Up Tempest
Op-Ed: Child Protection Task Force Must Produce More Than Report
Highmark, Verizon Pair Up On Medical Records
Rendell's Vow Of Silence On Newspapers Lasts 2 Days
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Officials: Privatizing Prisons Not An Option In PA
Editorial: Cobett's Austere Budget Hurts College Students
Changes In PA Food Stamp Program Draw Ire
PA Lags Behind Other States In Online Lottery Sales
Analysis: PA In Play For Presidential Primary
Veon Trial To Resume Tuesday
Convict Files Anew To Run For House Seat
Abortion Bills Stirs Up Tempest
Op-Ed: Child Protection Task Force Must Produce More Than Report
Highmark, Verizon Pair Up On Medical Records
Rendell's Vow Of Silence On Newspapers Lasts 2 Days
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 20, 2012
Monday NewsClips
State Offices, Capitol Closed For Presidents' Day
State Commission To Meet This Week On Redistricting
Casey No Longer Seen As Quite So Vulnerable
John Baer: Santorum? Really? Are They Nuts?
With LCB, Modernize Replacing Privatize
Op-Ed: Where's Pennsylvania's Transportation Plan?
Not Enough In Corbett Budget To Help Distressed Municipalities
School Workers Challenge Background Checks
Editorial: Prison Reform, Lockup Logic
PA Among Safest States to Fall Behind On Credit Cards
Rendell: From Now On, No Comment On Philly Papers
Op-Ed: What If Powers-That-Be Own Philly Newspapers?
Op-Ed: How Is Harrisburg Going To Find A Qualified COO?
Click Here for today's Environmental News
State Commission To Meet This Week On Redistricting
Casey No Longer Seen As Quite So Vulnerable
John Baer: Santorum? Really? Are They Nuts?
With LCB, Modernize Replacing Privatize
Op-Ed: Where's Pennsylvania's Transportation Plan?
Not Enough In Corbett Budget To Help Distressed Municipalities
School Workers Challenge Background Checks
Editorial: Prison Reform, Lockup Logic
PA Among Safest States to Fall Behind On Credit Cards
Rendell: From Now On, No Comment On Philly Papers
Op-Ed: What If Powers-That-Be Own Philly Newspapers?
Op-Ed: How Is Harrisburg Going To Find A Qualified COO?
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 19, 2012
Sunday NewsClips
Map Mania: Ruling Roils 2012 Politics
Democrats Increase Pressure For Special Election
LCB On Course To Modernize Instead Of Privatize
Editorial: Liquor Control, Kill The Beast
Editorial: Parallel Tracks On Liquor Reform Risks Derailment
Editorial: Higher Education Turf Politics Must Go
Bumsted: Veon? The Political Prisoner?
Editorial: Update, Fix Campaign Law
Editorial: Ethics Law Needs To Be Tightened
Schools: Games Of Chance Will Burden Booster Clubs
Right-To-Know Law Could Get Costly If New Fees Added
Bill Would Help Track Prescription Drug Use
Federal Investigators Take Look At Highmark's Acquisition Plans
Rendell Says Bid For Papers Still On
Western PA Rates Well In Job Creation, Economy
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Democrats Increase Pressure For Special Election
LCB On Course To Modernize Instead Of Privatize
Editorial: Liquor Control, Kill The Beast
Editorial: Parallel Tracks On Liquor Reform Risks Derailment
Editorial: Higher Education Turf Politics Must Go
Bumsted: Veon? The Political Prisoner?
Editorial: Update, Fix Campaign Law
Editorial: Ethics Law Needs To Be Tightened
Schools: Games Of Chance Will Burden Booster Clubs
Right-To-Know Law Could Get Costly If New Fees Added
Bill Would Help Track Prescription Drug Use
Federal Investigators Take Look At Highmark's Acquisition Plans
Rendell Says Bid For Papers Still On
Western PA Rates Well In Job Creation, Economy
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 18, 2012
Saturday NewsClips
Governor Fires Back At Dems Over Transportation Funding
Corbett: Gripes About Transportation Funding Ballsy
Corbett Defends Budget
Editorial: Corbett's Welfare Cuts Could Be Too Drastic
Editorial: LCB Bill Sounds Like Private Sector
House Dems Wants To Move Ahead With Special Elections
Voters File Lawsuit To Force House Special Elections
It's A Lonely Primary For Many Lawmakers
Report: Health Care For Women In Jail Varies Widely
Editorial: County Jails Neglect Female Inmates' Health Care
Editorial: Dead People Left On Voter Rolls
Attorney General: Kane Calls On Murphy To Take Bar Exam
Rep. Smith Failed To Disclose Debts As Required
Court: New DNA Analysis Accepted Statewide
PA Casinos Work To Broaden Appeal
Health Secretary Moves Egg Sandwich Dispute To Federal Court
LCCC Officials Near Deadline To Meet Standards
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Corbett: Gripes About Transportation Funding Ballsy
Corbett Defends Budget
Editorial: Corbett's Welfare Cuts Could Be Too Drastic
Editorial: LCB Bill Sounds Like Private Sector
House Dems Wants To Move Ahead With Special Elections
Voters File Lawsuit To Force House Special Elections
It's A Lonely Primary For Many Lawmakers
Report: Health Care For Women In Jail Varies Widely
Editorial: County Jails Neglect Female Inmates' Health Care
Editorial: Dead People Left On Voter Rolls
Attorney General: Kane Calls On Murphy To Take Bar Exam
Rep. Smith Failed To Disclose Debts As Required
Court: New DNA Analysis Accepted Statewide
PA Casinos Work To Broaden Appeal
Health Secretary Moves Egg Sandwich Dispute To Federal Court
LCCC Officials Near Deadline To Meet Standards
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 17, 2012
Feb. 20 PA Environment Digest Now Available
Feb 20 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.
State Parks: In spite of budget constraints, Secretary Allan said, DCNR anticipates being able to keep all State Parks open and available for residents, but acknowledged there may be some changes in some services offered, such as the hours in some parks.
DCNR Budget Hearing: No New Drilling Leases Planned For State Forests
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee Thursday for a little over an hour answering questions about DCNR's proposed FY 2012-13 budget.
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee Thursday for a little over an hour answering questions about DCNR's proposed FY 2012-13 budget.
As usual, the Committee dispensed with Secretary Allan's prepared remarks. Here are some of the highlights from the questions asked--
Drilling Leases: There are no plans to lease additional State Forest Land, but if they would, they would follow the recommendations of the Governor's Marcellus Shale Commission to only do leases where they leave little or no surface impact.
Of the 812 well permits have been approved by DCNR on State Forest land, 778 Marcellus Shale wells have been permitted by DEP, 442 wells have been drilled and there are 152 producing wells.
DCNR anticipates receiving $65 million in FY 2012-13 in royalties and rents from drilling, Secretary Allan said. He said there may be some decrease in drilling revenues in the next year or so with lower natural gas prices.
In response to a question, Secretary Allan said the agency professionals are constantly monitoring drilling companies to make sure they comply with their leases and agency best management practices. He said so far, the drillers have been good stewards and have minimized their impacts on State Forest lands.
Drilling In State Parks: DCNR has a policy that there will be no drilling in State Parks where the state owns the mineral rights, Secretary Allan said. Unfortunately, he said, the state owns mineral rights on only 20 percent of the land in State Parks and on 80 percent in State Forests. He said DCNR will look to enforce their guidelines and best management practices on drillers on State Park land and other areas where they don't own mineral rights to make sure any surface impacts are minimized.
State Parks: In spite of budget constraints, Secretary Allan said, DCNR anticipates being able to keep all State Parks open and available for residents, but acknowledged there may be some changes in some services offered, such as the hours in some parks.
Secretary Allan said an updated economic study shows for every dollar invested, State Parks bring in $12 for a total of $1.1 billion of economic activity annually and they support over 13,000 jobs in and around the parks.
Keystone Fund: The proposed transfer of all DCNR revenues from the Keystone, Parks and Conservation Fund to the General Fund, Secretary Allan said, will require the agency to look to other sources of monies to support their operations, like the Oil and Gas Fund, the Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund and the new drilling fee revenue.
He said he advised the Governor's Office the reduction in funding will require the agency to put off some maintenance projects and reduce the funding going for grants.
Secretary Allan said he believes in the future there will be more revenue in the Oil and Gas Fund and from the new drilling fee to replace at least some of the Keystone Fund monies. Click Here for more....
Friday NewsClips
PA April Primary Ballot Taking Shape
NE Legislative Races Will Have Contests
Mundy Only Area Rep With Primary Opponent
3 Veteran Midstate Legislators Face Challenges
Candidates Abound For Legislative Seats
Raja To Run Again, Seek Pippy Senate Seat
Elections Sought For House Vacancies
House Democrat Wants To Move Ahead With Special Elections
LCB Privatization Gets Short Shrift At Budget Hearing
State Police Commissioner: Some Barracks Could Close
25 More State Troopers In NE Shale Region
Editorial: Capital Budget Funds Must Be Kept Under Control
Prosecutor: Veon Used Public Money For Private Purposes
Veon: Nonprofit Checks Meant Trouble
Prosecutors Portray Veon As Greedy Politician
Is Mike Veon A Crook Or A Victim?
Auditor General To Probe Contracts With State Hospitals
Prescription Monitoring System Eyed
PA Slips To 14th In Union Membership
Click Here for today's Environmental News
NE Legislative Races Will Have Contests
Mundy Only Area Rep With Primary Opponent
3 Veteran Midstate Legislators Face Challenges
Candidates Abound For Legislative Seats
Raja To Run Again, Seek Pippy Senate Seat
Elections Sought For House Vacancies
House Democrat Wants To Move Ahead With Special Elections
LCB Privatization Gets Short Shrift At Budget Hearing
State Police Commissioner: Some Barracks Could Close
25 More State Troopers In NE Shale Region
Editorial: Capital Budget Funds Must Be Kept Under Control
Prosecutor: Veon Used Public Money For Private Purposes
Veon: Nonprofit Checks Meant Trouble
Prosecutors Portray Veon As Greedy Politician
Is Mike Veon A Crook Or A Victim?
Auditor General To Probe Contracts With State Hospitals
Prescription Monitoring System Eyed
PA Slips To 14th In Union Membership
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 16, 2012
Thursday NewsClips
Department Of State Lists 2012 Primary Candidates
All Major Presidential Candidates Will Be On PA Ballot
House Capital Budget Bill Debate Focuses On Jobs
Editorial: No Thanks Grover, Officials Wrong On No-Tax Pledge
Auditor General: Proposed Budget Would Force Layoffs
Analysis: Taking Baby Steps On Fixing Roads, Bridges
PA Jails Provide Limited Health Care To Women
Dauphin County: Cuts Would Cripple Mental Health Programs
Op-Ed: Public Universities In PA Must Be Supported
Special Report: Paying For Education By The Numbers
Struggling Pittsburgh Schools Pay Lobbyists $400,000
Analyst: Schools' Budget Options Scarcer
Anti-Gun Control Bill Speeding Through Legislature
Veon's 2nd Corruption Trial To Start Today
Defense Lawyer Compares Veon To Nelson Mandela
Veon's Lawyer Calls Him Political Prisoner
Pretrial Motions Delay Start Of Veon Trial
PA Foreclosure Filings Jump 24 Percent In Year
Click Here for today's PA Environmental News
All Major Presidential Candidates Will Be On PA Ballot
House Capital Budget Bill Debate Focuses On Jobs
Editorial: No Thanks Grover, Officials Wrong On No-Tax Pledge
Auditor General: Proposed Budget Would Force Layoffs
Analysis: Taking Baby Steps On Fixing Roads, Bridges
PA Jails Provide Limited Health Care To Women
Dauphin County: Cuts Would Cripple Mental Health Programs
Op-Ed: Public Universities In PA Must Be Supported
Special Report: Paying For Education By The Numbers
Struggling Pittsburgh Schools Pay Lobbyists $400,000
Analyst: Schools' Budget Options Scarcer
Anti-Gun Control Bill Speeding Through Legislature
Veon's 2nd Corruption Trial To Start Today
Defense Lawyer Compares Veon To Nelson Mandela
Veon's Lawyer Calls Him Political Prisoner
Pretrial Motions Delay Start Of Veon Trial
PA Foreclosure Filings Jump 24 Percent In Year
Click Here for today's PA Environmental News
February 15, 2012
Wednesday NewsClips
Corbett Signs 3 Energy Sector Bills
Corbett Defends Higher Ed Cuts
Op-Ed: Corbett's Budget Is A Welcome Change
Op-Ed: Corbett To State: Pick Your Poison
Prevailing Wage Bill Collapses In House
Governor Approves KOZ Extension
Editorial: Unemployment Compensation Fraud Priority
Valley Forge Casino Set To Open March 31
Orie Sisters To Be Tried Separately
Orie Sisters To Be Tried Separately Judge Rules
Judge Denies Request For Orie Special Prosecutor
Veon Trial Could Begin Wednesday
12 Jurors Selected In Veon Case
Veon Lawyer Calls Case Pure Politics
Veon, Aide Facing Corruption Trial
Man Charged With Threatening Eastern PA Judge
Candidates File To Run In PA Primary
GOP Questions Timing Of Rep. Hornaman's Retirement
NE Congressional Races Will Have Contests
DEP Hopeful Buyer Will Emerge For ConocoPhillips Refinery
Gasoline Could Reach $5 By July 4
Court To Hold Hearing On Harrisburg's Fiscal Plan
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Corbett Defends Higher Ed Cuts
Op-Ed: Corbett's Budget Is A Welcome Change
Op-Ed: Corbett To State: Pick Your Poison
Prevailing Wage Bill Collapses In House
Governor Approves KOZ Extension
Editorial: Unemployment Compensation Fraud Priority
Valley Forge Casino Set To Open March 31
Orie Sisters To Be Tried Separately
Orie Sisters To Be Tried Separately Judge Rules
Judge Denies Request For Orie Special Prosecutor
Veon Trial Could Begin Wednesday
12 Jurors Selected In Veon Case
Veon Lawyer Calls Case Pure Politics
Veon, Aide Facing Corruption Trial
Man Charged With Threatening Eastern PA Judge
Candidates File To Run In PA Primary
GOP Questions Timing Of Rep. Hornaman's Retirement
NE Congressional Races Will Have Contests
DEP Hopeful Buyer Will Emerge For ConocoPhillips Refinery
Gasoline Could Reach $5 By July 4
Court To Hold Hearing On Harrisburg's Fiscal Plan
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 14, 2012
Tuesday NewsClips
Pileggi: Primary May Be Moved
Redistricting Mess Has Some In Limbo
Corbett Signs Marcellus Shale Fee Into Law
Corbett Not Afraid To Exercise Muscle On Penn State Board
CCAC Presidents Says He'll Donate Bonus
CCAC President To Give $20K Bonus To Help Charities
Federal Funding Would Help Community Colleges
Pittsburgh Students Ask Governor To Make Education Priority
PA Hopes To Collect $50 Million In Internet Sales Tax
Corbett Would Bank Unanticipated Revenue, Not Spend It
Corbett Combines Social Services Spending To Save Money
NE Senators Tangle Over Budget Priorities
Prevailing Wage Bill Advances In House
Orie Attorney Asks For Special Prosecutor
Orie Wants Alleged Leaks Probed
Jury Selection Begins In Second Trial For Veon
Penn State Spent $3.2 Million On Sandusky Case So Far
Raja Considers Running For Pippy's Senate Seat
Allegheny County Democrats Choose Altmire For Congress
Lancaster Judge Accused Of Dismissing Own Tickets
Click Here for today's Environmental News
Redistricting Mess Has Some In Limbo
Corbett Signs Marcellus Shale Fee Into Law
Corbett Not Afraid To Exercise Muscle On Penn State Board
CCAC Presidents Says He'll Donate Bonus
CCAC President To Give $20K Bonus To Help Charities
Federal Funding Would Help Community Colleges
Pittsburgh Students Ask Governor To Make Education Priority
PA Hopes To Collect $50 Million In Internet Sales Tax
Corbett Would Bank Unanticipated Revenue, Not Spend It
Corbett Combines Social Services Spending To Save Money
NE Senators Tangle Over Budget Priorities
Prevailing Wage Bill Advances In House
Orie Attorney Asks For Special Prosecutor
Orie Wants Alleged Leaks Probed
Jury Selection Begins In Second Trial For Veon
Penn State Spent $3.2 Million On Sandusky Case So Far
Raja Considers Running For Pippy's Senate Seat
Allegheny County Democrats Choose Altmire For Congress
Lancaster Judge Accused Of Dismissing Own Tickets
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 13, 2012
Corbett Signs Marcellus Shale Drilling, Fee Bill Into Law
Gov. Tom Corbett Monday signed House Bill 1950 (Ellis-R-Butler), the Marcellus Shale bill, into law. The bill enhances protection of our natural resources through stronger environmental standards, authorizes counties to adopt an impact fee, and builds upon efforts to help move Pennsylvania toward energy independence.
The historic measure is the first comprehensive re-write of the state’s Oil and Gas Act since 1984. It contains much of what Corbett outlined in his Marcellus Shale proposal last October. His plan followed the work of the Governor’s Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission. House Bill 1950 contains 24 of the legislative recommendations offered by the advisory commission.
“This growing industry will provide new career opportunities that will give our children a reason to stay here in Pennsylvania,” Corbett said. “Thanks to this legislation, this natural resource will safely and fairly fuel our generating plants and heat our homes while creating jobs and powering our state’s economic engine for generations to come.”
The new law enhances environmental standards by:
-- Increasing well-setback distance from 100 feet to 300 feet for streams, rivers, ponds and other water bodies, and from 200 feet to 500 feet from buildings and private water wells and to 1,000 feet for public drinking water systems;
-- Expanding an unconventional operator’s “presumed liability” for impairing water quality from 1,000 feet to 2,500 feet from a gas well, and extends the duration from 6 months to 12 months;
-- Enhancing water quality replacement standards to meet Safe Drinking Water Act standards;
-- Enabling DEP to revoke permits in a more efficient manner to deal with imminent safety or environmental concerns;
-- Increasing blanket bonds from $25,000 up to $600,000;
-- Providing for strong, uniform and consistent statewide environmental standards – building upon and incorporating the best practices used by industry leaders; and
-- Enhancing hydraulic fracturing disclosure, including online posting through FracFocus.org.
This law also authorizes counties within the shale regions to adopt an impact fee, which will be used by local communities experiencing the actual impacts of unconventional shale gas development.
To recognize the tight economics associated with low natural gas prices, the fee amount can fluctuate annually and is based on the average price of natural gas for the preceding year.
If all eligible counties adopt the fee, estimates for revenue are approximately $180 million in 2012, climbing to $211 million in 2013 and $264 million in 2014.
State agencies with a role in mitigating shale gas impacts, such as the Department of Environmental Protection, the Public Utility Commission, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, State Fire Commissioner and the Fish and Boat Commission, will receive fixed dollar amounts off the top of the revenues collected from the fee.
After that, 60 percent is directly distributed to impacted counties. A significant percentage of the remaining 40 percent will also be distributed to those counties through either population- or road-mileage-based formulas, or through the awarding of competitive grants.
The new law also provides long-term regulatory predictability for job-creators and capital investors, and helps businesses succeed by providing increased uniformity and fairness of local regulations while preserving local government’s traditional zoning authority. Upon petition, the Public Utility Commission is authorized to review ordinances to make sure they comply with state law.
Finally, the law creates a Natural Gas Energy Development Program, which will provide incentives to convert fleets with vehicles weighing at least 14,000 pounds to compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, or bi-fuel vehicles. At least 50 percent of the funds must be used for grants to local transportation organizations, including mass transit agencies.
The law’s provisions authorizing counties to adopt ordinances imposing an impact fee go into effect immediately. The majority of the law takes effect in 60 days.
A detailed summary of House Bill 1950 from the Governor's Office is available online.
Monday NewsClips
Higher Education Could Face Significant Changes
CCAC Hikes Fund Goal
Burden Of College Falling More On Students
Horse Tracks Deride Plan To Shift PA Fund
Race Horse Owners Feel Let Down
Corbett Raiding Special Funds
Corbett Proposes Flat Judiciary Funding
Guards Question Prison Savings
Op-Ed: PA Must Regain Its Compassionate Backbone
Editorial: Welfare Cuts Raise Concern
Op-Ed: PA Makes It Too Hard To Start Charter Schools
Editorial: An Amateur Redistricts Better Than Politicians
In Prison For Bonus Scandal, Veon Faces New Trial
Enforcing Texting Ban Presents Challenge
Fluoride Program Targets Needy Kids In Allegheny
Click Here for today's Environmental News
CCAC Hikes Fund Goal
Burden Of College Falling More On Students
Horse Tracks Deride Plan To Shift PA Fund
Race Horse Owners Feel Let Down
Corbett Raiding Special Funds
Corbett Proposes Flat Judiciary Funding
Guards Question Prison Savings
Op-Ed: PA Must Regain Its Compassionate Backbone
Editorial: Welfare Cuts Raise Concern
Op-Ed: PA Makes It Too Hard To Start Charter Schools
Editorial: An Amateur Redistricts Better Than Politicians
In Prison For Bonus Scandal, Veon Faces New Trial
Enforcing Texting Ban Presents Challenge
Fluoride Program Targets Needy Kids In Allegheny
Click Here for today's Environmental News
February 12, 2012
Sunday NewsClips
Can Pennsylvanians Survive Under Another Corbett Budget?
As Roads, Bridges Deteriorate, Governor Silent
Editorial: Must A Bridge Fall Down?
Editorial: Eggs Specter, An Illegal Grant
Bonusgate: How The Case Unfolded
Column: DeWeese Conviction Caps String Of Villains
Lessons Of PA Corruption Probe May Be Short-Lived
Editorial: DeWeese: State Of Denial
Editorial: State Convention Our Best Hope
Car Sales Background Helps Cong. Kelly Gain Prominence
Editorial: Stew Over Egg Sandwich Could Be Costly
Editorial: Lawmakers, Stop Shilling For Gun Lobby
Are PA Child Abuse Laws Failing Children?
Click Here for today's Environmental News
As Roads, Bridges Deteriorate, Governor Silent
Editorial: Must A Bridge Fall Down?
Editorial: Eggs Specter, An Illegal Grant
Bonusgate: How The Case Unfolded
Column: DeWeese Conviction Caps String Of Villains
Lessons Of PA Corruption Probe May Be Short-Lived
Editorial: DeWeese: State Of Denial
Editorial: State Convention Our Best Hope
Car Sales Background Helps Cong. Kelly Gain Prominence
Editorial: Stew Over Egg Sandwich Could Be Costly
Editorial: Lawmakers, Stop Shilling For Gun Lobby
Are PA Child Abuse Laws Failing Children?
Click Here for today's Environmental News
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