The Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee scheduled an informational meeting on Tuesday on oil and gas resource leasing policies by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

DCNR Secretary Michael DeBerardinis is expected to provide an overview of the agencies policies and the status of oil and gas leasing on state forest land.

Sen. Mary Jo White (R-Venango), Majority Chair of the Committee, introduced Senate Bill 1127 that would require the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to hold a competitive public auction for oil and gas resources and take other steps to develop domestic energy resources.

Rep. Hutchinson (R-Venango) introduced similar legislation in the House— Special Session House Bill 32.

Sen. Ray Musto (D-Luzerne) serves as Minority Chair of the Committee.

Link: Joint Committee Releases Report on Oil and Gas Leasing Operations

3/28/2008