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FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE Senate Approves Erickson's "PA Climate Change Act" 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."
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