Two committees hold joint hearing on climate initiative

The Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee and the Senate Transportation Committee recently held a joint public hearing on the potential impacts of Pennsylvania’s participation in the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI).

TCI requires motor fuel distributers to purchase carbon dioxide emissions allowances at auction with the cost passed onto consumers at the gasoline/diesel pump. Proceeds would be used for electric buses, electric-vehicle charging stations, bike lanes, and other green investments.

Proponents say participating in TCI would promote clean transportation alternatives and help reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Opponents are concerned participating in TCI would have minimal impacts on fuel emissions, take money out of the pockets of working families, and hurt businesses.

Many of those testifying said states need to work together to reduce emissions. That technology could improve vehicle efficiency, but some worry the benefits of joining TCI will never be realized.

Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland County), Transportation Committee chairwoman, expressed concern joining TCI would disproportionally affect rural residents by requiring a new “gas tax” of up to 17 cents per gallon.

Pennsylvanians pay the second-highest gas tax in the United States.

Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming County), Environmental Resources and Energy Committee chairman, said he is committed to hearing all viewpoints.