HARRISBURG – Gov. Edward G. Rendell has asked leaders of the GeneralvAssembly to return to Harrisburg today, a state holiday, so that they can “get to work” in order to pass a severance tax on natural gas extraction.
When finalizing the budget over the summer, legislators agreed to pass a severance tax by Oct. 1.v“We made a promise to the people of Pennsylvania, and I intend to honor it,” Rendell said. “Legislators are shirking their duty and breaking their promise. The commitment to enact a severance tax is now a week past due, and it’s essential that we honor that commitment.”
The Governor has invited legislative leaders to meet with him and industry officials today, when state offices will be closed for Columbus Day.
The Governor commended the House of Representatives for passing a “reasonable” severance tax bill, but said the measure generated nothing but “carping and criticism” in the Senate. He noted the Senate has thus far refused to offer a counter-proposal.
“The time for posturing is over; the time to get to work on passing a serious bill is Monday at 1:30,” the Governor added.
