Dear Representatives:
In advance of the House Game & Fisheries Committee meeting on April 7th, I would like to convey the Pennsylvania Environmental Council’s strong support for both Senate Bill 1166 and Senate Bill 1168. This legislation allows the Game Commission and the Fish & Boat Commission, respectively, to establish their own fees.
As independent agencies not supported by General Fund revenues, it is vital that both Commissions have sufficient ability to support their important service to the people of the Commonwealth. Not only do they help maintain one of the cornerstones of our Commonwealth’s economy – recreation and tourism – they perform vital conservation work that increases quality of life for all Pennsylvanians.
Both Commissions submit annual reports to the House and Senate Game & Fisheries Committees, and are subject to periodic audits by the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee. Further, it is in the inherent best interests of both Commissions to maintain a fee structure that accommodates our state’s active and diverse recreational community.
We commend the sponsors of this legislation, and your Committee, for supporting the important work of the Commissions. We ask that you support this legislation.
Thank you for your consideration.
John Walliser
Senior Vice President
Pennsylvania Environmental Council