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Sen. Pileggi: Local Communities To Receive Fair Share Of Air Pollution Fines
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Calling the bill's passage "a significant victory for communities across Pennsylvania," Sen. Dominic Pileggi (R-Delaware) this week announced his legislation-- Senate Bill 151-- to give local communities a share of air pollution fines to be used for environmental projects has been sent to the Governor.

            Senate Bill 151 would provide one-quarter of any fine under Pennsylvania's Clean Air Act above $50,000 to the municipality in which the violation occurred for local projects designed to reduce air pollution, to improve parks and trails, or to create open space. Under current law, all fines levied under the Clean Air Act go to the state.
            "This bill represents a significant victory for communities across Pennsylvania," Sen. Pileggi said. "The impact of air pollution is felt locally, and local residents should derive some benefit from the fines that are imposed. Providing funding for local environmental projects is a great way to do that."
            The legislation was developed in response to several situations in the Ninth Senatorial District. In Marcus Hook Borough, the site of an oil refinery, the state has levied more than $7.4 million in fines since November 2000.
            Senate Bill 151 would also require the Department of Environmental Protection to notify the municipality in which a violation occurs within five business days. It was amended by the House to allow counties to apply for funding if the municipality chooses not to. The bill also contains provisions designed to protect the ongoing viability of the Clean Air Fund.
            Gov. Tom Corbett is expected to sign Senate Bill 151 into law.

7/4/2011

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