HARRISBURG – The state Senate approved legislation preventing a new electricity tax by repealing Pennsylvania’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), according to Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23), sponsor of the measure.
RGGI, a multi-state compact, would increase electricity rates for consumers, cut energy and manufacturing jobs and lead to the closure of Pennsylvania power plants. Senate Bill 186 formally repeals Pennsylvania’s participation in RGGI, ensuring that any decision to impose electricity taxes or emissions programs must go through the legislative process rather than being enacted unilaterally by the executive branch.
“It is time for Pennsylvania to take charge of its own energy future,” Yaw said. “We must close this chapter and move forward with responsible policy that strengthens grid reliability, incentivizes development, creates jobs and protects consumers from higher costs.”
Despite bipartisan opposition from the General Assembly, the Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Quality Board pressed ahead with regulations to establish a CO₂ Budget Trading Program – effectively imposing a tax on electricity generation.
In 2023, the Commonwealth Court ruled that RGGI qualifies as a tax and cannot be implemented without legislative approval. However, the Wolf Administration’s decision to appeal this ruling to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court has prolonged uncertainty for workers and businesses across the commonwealth and deepened concerns about grid reliability and affordability.
The repeal of RGGI is part of Yaw’s ongoing work related to responsible energy development and protecting the reliability of the PJM electric grid. Yaw has introduced a number of other measures aimed at addressing grid reliability, including legislation establishing the Grid Stabilization and Security Act, legislation to protect the power grid from purposeful damage and legislation to place decisions regarding energy restrictions within the purview of the state. Yesterday, the Senate approved Yaw’s bill establishing an Independent Energy Office in Pennsylvania.
Senate Bill 186 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or follow him on Facebook and X @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT:
Elizabeth Weitzel
717-787-3280