HARRISBURG – Senator Camera Bartolotta (R-46) issued the following statement today regarding bipartisan passage of legislation that would prevent Pennsylvania from joining the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) without legislative approval:
“It is unconscionable to think that the governor could enact a tax on Pennsylvania employers without the consent of the General Assembly. Joining RGGI would inevitably cost thousands of hardworking Pennsylvanians their jobs and cost the state hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity. It is encouraging to see a bipartisan majority of lawmakers take a strong stand on behalf of our state’s energy industry – and to restore the balance of power in state government.
“The power to create new taxes is vested in the General Assembly for a reason. It is our responsibility to weigh the pros and cons of proposed tax hikes, gather input from our constituents and make the best decision possible given the circumstances. House Bill 2025 lays the groundwork to ensure the people’s voice is heard on any proposal or interstate compact that could negatively impact our communities.
“I am hopeful that Governor Wolf does the right thing and signs this bill into law.”
CONTACT: Colleen Greer (717) 787-1463