Gov. Ray Shafer

Gov. Ray Shafer (R), who served as Pennsylvania’s Governor from 1967 to 1971 passed away this week from complications caused by a stroke.

"Ray Shafer was one of the most dedicated public servants in the commonwealth's history," said Gov. Rendell. "His dedication to the public good continued long after his service as governor and throughout his life. Less than three months ago, he successfully persuaded me to give a capitol redevelopment assistance grant to his beloved alma mater, Allegheny College, in Meadville.

"Pennsylvania has lost one of its finest sons."

Gov. Shafer's administration is perhaps best known for reforms that were made to the Commonwealth's antiquated 1874 constitution and state government reorganization that better accommodated programs and policies that reflected the times.

Several major environmental initiatives were signed into law during Gov. Shafer’s tenure, including:

· The creation of Pennsylvania’s first modern environmental protection agency in the form of the Department of Environmental Resources;

· Passage of the Environmental Rights Amendment to the state’s Constitution which was ratified by voters in 1971;

· Project 500 which provided $500 million to finance abandoned mine reclamation and purchase of farmland and open space;

· The first modern law - Solid Waste Management Act - regulating the disposal of waste;

· Creation of the Susquehanna River Basin Commission; and

· Passage of Act 442 to provide counties with more tools to preserve open space.

Gov. Shafer was born March 5, 1917, in New Castle, Pa.

12/15/2006