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For Immediate Release
April 12, 2004
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White Introduces Bill to Strengthen Pennsylvania
Center for Environmental Education
Statewide resource is based at Slipper Rock
University.
Harrisburg – State Sen. Mary Jo White (R-21) is introducing
legislation to strengthen a successful statewide environmental education
program based at Slippery Rock University.
Administered by the State System of Higher Education, the
Pennsylvania Center for Environmental Education serves as a statewide
environmental education resource for state agencies, county conservation
districts, educators and nonprofit organizations.
The PCEE was established by Executive Order 1996-7. Senator White's
legislation, Senate Bill 1040, would amend the Environmental Education
Act to establish the PCEE in statute, strengthening its status among
state programs and ensuring more stable funding.
"At a time when we are trying to teach young citizens the importance
of responsible environmental stewardship, the Pennsylvania Center for
Environmental Education is an extremely valuable resource," said White,
who chairs the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. "The
Pennsylvania Center for Environmental Education makes learning tools
available to teachers, home-school parents and students via the Internet
and newsletters. This legislation is designed to make sure such
information continues to be available."
Among its various duties, PCEE inventories and generates
environmental education related research; maintains an Internet-based
environmental resources network; and provides training and education
opportunities for educators and citizens. White's legislation includes
provisions to prevent duplication among groups in providing such
services and materials.
Senate Bill 1040 also would establish an Environmental Education
Advisory Committee to assist the Center, and increases the portion of
environmental fines dedicated to fulfilling the purposes of the
Environmental Education Act from 5 percent to 15 percent. Under the
bill, a minimum of $500,000 of these funds would be devoted annually to
the functions of PCEE.
"A vital area such as environmental education deserves a stable
funding source," said White. "Every day, we learn more about the
environment and how we impact it. It's a learning process that never
ends. Establishing the Pennsylvania Center for Environmental Education
in statute would reflect a commitment to ensuring that young
Pennsylvanians understand how their communities interact with nature,
and how to be responsible stewards of the environment."
Senate Bill 1040 is part of a package of environmental measures being
unveiled to bolster environmental protection in Pennsylvania.
CONTACT: Patrick Henderson (717) 787-9684
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