To: Members of the House Appropriations Committee

Re: Concerns with Amendment A04930 to Senate Bill 327 (P.N. 1436)

It has come to our attention that the House Appropriations Committee is poised to consider, among other legislation, Senate Bill 327. An amendment to that bill has been filed – A04930 – that would freeze any new spending from a targeted list of special funds until emergency disaster declarations related to COVID-19 are terminated.

While more than 100 state special funds exist, only 16 are impacted by this amendment. The majority of those 16 appear to focus on agriculture, conservation, and community development.

We understand that Pennsylvania and the nation are operating in a crisis situation and that there will be tough economic times ahead. Targeting these funds does not mitigate that crisis and, in fact, could add to it.

Revenues from these funds permit state agencies to address imminent threats to public health, address infrastructure needs, and leverage private and federal funds. Revenues help to create jobs through the projects that are funded and the entities that are supported. The ability to access these funds may also permit Pennsylvania to be shovel-ready on infrastructure projects should a federal infrastructure bill pass … making federal investments more likely and attractive.

Now, more than ever, Pennsylvanians are turning to our community and state parks and forests for stress relief, family time, and fitness. This heavy use is occurring at a time when staff and volunteers are limited. Our public lands, the property of all Pennsylvanians, cannot absorb this heavy use without funds to mitigate damage and to be ready for when we can be back to “business as normal.”

Further, these funds are also used to address issues that communities across the state are struggling with every day, such as flooding, drinking water protection, and more.

It is unclear why only these funds were targeted, yet it is hard to deny that the bill will have a significant impact on economically vital environmental programs.

We urge you to reconsider this amendment and to consult with the Administration and the impacted agencies to fully understand the impact of this action.

Thank you for your consideration.

Marci J. Mowery, President