Today, PEC reiterated support for a state House bill that would help protect Pennsylvania property owners and communities from landslides caused by increasingly frequent severe weather events. Its lead sponsors, Rep. Valerie Gaydos and Rep. Emily Kinked, spoke about the proposal last summer on PEC’s Pennsylvania Legacies podcast.
July 9, 2025
Dear Representatives:
On behalf of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC), I want to express our support for House Bill 589 (P.N. 2096). This legislation creates a landslide and sinkhole insurance program while also providing informational resources to local governments and the public to better prevent and plan for these risks.
Changing weather patterns with heavier rain events and flooding are increasing the frequency of these hazards across the Commonwealth. Speaking personally as a member of my local planning commission, I have seen firsthand how landslides impact residents and communities. From safely routing school buses and emergency vehicles around road closures to long-term impacts to homes and business, the resources provided through this legislation are needed. We thank Representatives Kinkead and Gaydos for their sponsorship.
We respectfully ask that you approve this bill. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
John Walliser
Senior VP, Legal & Government Affairs
Pennsylvania Environmental Council