For Immediate Release
August 29, 2007
Contact:  Lisa Landis
Legislative Assistant
717-787-6709
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A Conversation with Senator Brubaker

Senate set to begin special session on energy

The General Assembly has many important topics and pieces of legislation to work on when we return to session this fall, including a special session to discuss energy policy and related issues.

Pennsylvania has already taken major steps to produce and use cleaner energy sources and to develop renewable fuel sources such as ethanol and biodiesel. As a member of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, I will have the opportunity to look at ways we can be proactive and continue to encourage the generation and use of these alternative sources. The Committee has already scheduled two hearings in September to review the Governor's proposal to set mandatory thresholds for the production of biofuels in Pennsylvania.

Further, we will be examining other related matters, including electricity costs. Rate caps are scheduled to be lifted over the next several years and price increases are on the horizon, so we will be working to find ways to effectively address consumer concerns and also ensure that we are using our electricity in an efficient manner.  

I believe Pennsylvania has a very promising future, one that includes a healthier environment and healthier communities. I encourage you to share your thoughts with me as we move through the special session this fall.

Hunter-Trapper education courses set for fall

In anticipation of the coming hunting season, the Pennsylvania Game Commission is conducting Hunter-Trapper Education Courses.

All first-time hunters and trappers must complete the training, although many people also repeat the course as refresher safety training since the courses cover topics such as firearm safety, basic techniques, and hunter responsibility. As of this writing, five sessions remain open in Lancaster County throughout September:

• Sept. 10-13 at the Milton Grove Sportsmen's Club. Pre-registration is required; contact Tim Helm at 361-9886.
• Sept. 13 at the Strasburg Sportsmen's Association. Pre-registration is required; contact the Association at 687-6921.
• Sept. 20-22 at the PPL Inc. Environmental Center in Holtwood. Contact Carl Warfel at 786-4864.
• Sept. 27-29 at the Solanco Sportsmen's Association. Contact Fred Fisher or John Strawser at 464-4147 or 284-2022.
• Sept. 29-30 at Lititz American Legion Post 56. Pre-registration is required; contact Barry Lieberman at 627-7070.

Cable restraint certification, required to use such devices to capture foxes and coyotes, is available Sept. 30 at the Conewago Rod and Gun Club; contact Ralph Wagner at 367-7973. More information about these courses is available at www.pgc.state.pa.us. You can also obtain pocket guides on the major hunting seasons for 2007-08 at my district office at 301 W. Main Street in Lititz, or by calling 627-0036 or toll-free 866-738-1601.

Road tour of the 36th District

On August 20, I had the opportunity to tour the 36th District and speak with local officials to learn more about road and bridge conditions in the area.

During this tour, I saw projects in all phases of development, and the discussions I had with officials helped me to understand the issues local governments are facing right now in keeping the roadways safe and in good condition. I also had the opportunity to meet the new executive director of PennDOT's District 8 office, Scott Christie.

Also, on August 28, PennDOT released the list of sufficiency ratings for more than 25,000 bridges statewide, and I am currently reviewing the condition of those in the 36th District. This is a very important matter that I will be paying close attention to in the weeks and months ahead.