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For Immediate
Release
11/20/07
Contact:
Tom Golden
717-787-1350
Senate Approves Erickson's "PA Climate Change
Act"
Panel will advise state on climate change, target "green" economic
opportunities.
Harrisburg – The state Senate today approved the Pennsylvania Climate Change
Act, sponsored by Sen. Ted Erickson (R-26).
Senate Bill 266 would create a stakeholders group to advise the state on
climate change issues and identify green economic opportunities in Pennsylvania.
The bill was sent to the House of Representatives.
Under Senator Erickson's bill, the advisory committee will be made up of
members appointed by the governor and the General Assembly. The committee will
issue a report on scientific predictions regarding changes in temperature and
precipitation that could result from climate change, as well as the potential
impact of climate change on health, the economy, wildlife, agriculture and
tourism.
The bill requires that the predictions reflect the diversity of views within
the scientific community.
"This measure brings together representatives of business, environmental
groups, farmers and others to develop strategies for studying and responding to
climate change. It provides a sound, science-based roadmap for action," said
Erickson.
The measure also requires the state Department of Environmental Protection to
annually create an inventory of greenhouse gases in Pennsylvania. Within 15
months of the bill becoming law, DEP and the advisory committee will submit a
climate change action plan that identifies greenhouse emission trends and
evaluates cost-effective strategies for reducing or offsetting emissions.
"Climate change is presenting a myriad of challenges as well as
opportunities, and Pennsylvania must be prepared to deal with both," said
Erickson. "Senate Bill 266 provides the best framework to study climate change
in Pennsylvania, and incorporate a diverse range of views that will allow the
Commonwealth to reduce greenhouse gases through cutting edge, jobs-producing
technologies and innovative thinking."
Additional Information:
Environment and Energy
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