On April 27, Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming), Majority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, announced plans to introduce legislation to take the word “Protection” out of the name Department of Environmental Protection.

He proposes to replace it with the Department of Environmental Services.

“The word “protection” carries a law enforcement or security connotation rather than that of an environmental resource and partner to the citizens of Pennsylvania. 

“Unfortunately, enforcer has become the prevalent view of the department, overshadowing other work which is detrimental to an open relationship between the citizenry and their government regarding environmental issues.  

“Emphasizing that this department is focused on “services” will be a huge step forward in instituting a needed culture change. 

“This name change will have no effect on the jurisdiction or enforcement obligations of the department. 

“Please join me in establishing the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Services.”

Click Here for a copy of the co-sponsor memo.

[Don’t take the bait.]

Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming) serves as Majority Chair of the Senate Environmental Committee and can be contacted by calling 717-787-3280 or sending email to: gyaw@pasen.gov.

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[Posted: April 27, 2023]

5/1/2023