West Central PA News

HARRISBURG – Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-41) has issued a statement emphasizing the importance of energy policy in Pennsylvania. Pittman highlighted the need to address the challenges faced by consumers and the workforce in the state.

Pittman expressed his concerns about the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and its impact on job losses and electricity costs for consumers. He called for the removal of RGGI and urged Governor Shapiro to drop the appeal to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, stating, "Detrimental job losses and increased electricity costs imposed directly on consumers necessitates immediately closing the chapter of RGGI."

Referring to the governor's stance on a cap-and-trade program for electric generation, Pittman noted, "any cap-and-trade program applying solely to electric generation in Pennsylvania and not our competitors, does not fit the bill." He emphasized the importance of prioritizing electric generation, grid reliability, and consumer affordability in energy policy decisions.

Pittman highlighted the strain felt by families due to inflation and increased household expenses, stressing the need to consider consumer affordability when implementing energy policy changes. He reassured that the Senate Republican Majority will continue focusing on initiatives to promote investment and innovation in Pennsylvania.

For further information, contact Kate Flessner at kflessner@pasen.gov or 717-787-8724.