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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2013 - 2014
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | January 3, 2013 10:46 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Ron Miller |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Amending Act 217, known as the Conservation District Law, imposing a surcharge on certain fines and penalties - Former HB168 |
| I plan to introduce legislation that will provide additional funding to the State Conservation Commission and ultimately to our local County Conservation Districts. My proposal would amend Act 217, known as the Conservation District Law. This proposed legislation would direct the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), to add a 10% surcharge on all fines and penalties assessed against violators of our Commonwealth's various environmental laws. These would include, but not be limited to violations under the Clean Streams Law, the Air Pollution Control Act, and the Solid Waste Management Act. The aggregate amount of the surcharges collected would be transferred to the Conservation District Fund and used to help fund County Conservation District operations. Today's Conservation Districts have evolved to provide expertise in almost every area of natural resource conservation. They provide landowners with trusted advice and assistance in implementing State law and regulatory requirements on their land and in agricultural operations. Unfortunately, State funding has not kept pace with the Conservation Districts increasing and varied roles and responsibilities. The legislation I am proposing would be a positive step in providing much needed financial resources to maintain this valuable statewide presence. Former co-sponsors: MILLER , BOYD , FLECK , GINGRICH , GRELL , GROVE, ROSS , SCAVELLO and SWANGER |