Polluters Pay for Education Programs

When someone is caught polluting in Pennsylvania, a percentage of the fines and penalties goes toward environmental education. It’s a good idea that, hopefully, will make the next generation more aware of the consequences of pollution.

Last week, the Department of Environmental Protection announced more than $600,000 in environmental education grants to 147 schools, universities, non-profit organizations and conservation districts.

Among the local winners were Carmichaels School District and Washington School District which received $3,000 each.

Grant recipients are permitted to use the funding for various projects, including environmental field trips, environmental education curriculum at schools, purchasing new recycling containers to reduce waste, developing workshops on how to build rain barrels and planting community gardens.

Coming Up...

Policy Hearing Webcast - When Pennsylvania legalized casinos at racetracks nearly eight years ago, one of the main purposes was to revive our struggling horse racing industry. The law created the Race Horse Development Fund using 11 percent of slots revenue and the impact has been dramatic.

On Wednesday, the Senate Democratic Policy Committee will hold a hearing in Harrisburg to examine the impact of the Horse Racing Development Fund and what proposed cuts in funding would mean for the economy. The hearing will begin at 10 a.m. and will webcast live through my website.     

Business-to-Business Expo - The Tri-County Oil and Gas Expo Committee is hosting a Business to Business Expo from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 19 at the Washington County Fairgrounds. The group is also hosting a Marcellus Mingle on from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday May 18.  

The events are great opportunities to see how the growing energy industry could benefit your business or get your business in front of energy executives.

Registration is easier than ever and just a click away.  For more information, click  HERE.