Sign of Spring - Roundleaf Hepatica. Contributed by Karen Hohman, PA CleanWays. Print your own copy from the file on this webpage.

Legislative action in the next three voting days by the Senate and House will determine whether all or part of Gov. Rendell’s $800 million Growing Greener II environmental bond issue proposal makes it to the May Primary ballot.

Ideas and notes on where to go with the environmental spending bond issue were exchanged by various parties in discussions this week, but no firm conclusions were drawn.

In response to concerns raised by some environmental groups about a Senate Republican proposal to earmark a portion of the Growing Greener II money to counties, Sen. Mary Jo White (R-Venango), Majority Chair of the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, responded by saying,

“Senate Republicans have endorsed the concept that a portion of any increased (Senator’s emphasis) government spending on the environment should be allocated to reflect county priorities and needs. We believe those closest to the problem are best able to prioritize their needs, and should be able to choose from a menu of permissible uses as outlined by law.”

The Senator also reminded the groups, “The details of spending will be developed when implementing legislation is considered. I would anticipate a healthy, vibrant and productive discussion involving the General Assembly, Governor, environmental and conservation communities and county/local governments would help to shape this legislation.”

At a press conference this week, Gov. Rendell said he’s pushing to get the bond issue on the ballot before the 2006 election. But if it doesn’t make it, “I will bring that to the attention of the voters.”

NewsClip: Absentee Ballot Being Sent Despite Gaps

Session Schedule

Both the House and Senate will be in voting session the week of April 11.

The House will then be off until May 2.

The Senate will be in session April 18, 19, 20, then returns May 2.

Budget Clock Ticking

23 voting days are scheduled between now and the June 30 budget deadline in the House

26 voting days in the Senate

Contents – On the Hill

· On the House and Senate Agenda for Action

· Wonderling Spotlights Save-A-Tree, Plant-A-Tree Program, Arbor Day April 29

· Legislative Action Last Week- Stormwater

Other News

· U.S. Senate Acts Extend Federal Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund

· Six “Green Region” Environmental Projects Selected for Funding By PECO

· DEP Schedules Water Resources Management Public Meetings

· Farmers Encouraged to Sign Up for Conservation Security Program

· $11.4 Million in Farm Bill Clean Energy Funds Now Available

· EPA Designates Non-Attainment Areas for Fine Particulate

· Workshop on Composting Mortalities and Slaughterhouse Residuals

· 35^th Anniversary of Earth Day—Celebrating with Special Digest Publications

· Environment Ed Center Newsletter Features Training, Resources and More

· Students Invited to Enter “Celebrate Conservation” Poster Contest

· Comments Invited on Laurel Run TMDL, Fayette County

· Pennsylvania's 2005 River Sojourn Paddling Events Announced

· First Presque Isle Hawk Watch Set for April 16

Watershed Feature

· Kettle Creek Newsletter Praises Volunteers, Touts Projects, Tells What’s Next

Taking Positive Action

· PA National Guard Facility Wins National Recognition, After State Honors

· Philadelphia Group Wins EPA Children’s Health Award

· Farmers Recognized for Protecting the Chesapeake Bay

Calendar of Events – Check out all the new items!

· Go To: PA Environment Digest Calendar Page

4/8/2005