Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1164

Introduced
4/7/25  

Caption

Authorizing the Department of Environmental Protection to conduct a public comment process on and submit to the General Assembly a measure or action intended to abate, control or limit carbon dioxide emissions by imposing a revenue-generating tax or fee on carbon dioxide emissions; and abrogating regulations.

Impact

If passed, HB 1164 would significantly alter how Pennsylvania manages carbon emissions, essentially laying the groundwork for potential taxation or regulatory measures. The bill aims to address the state's ability to participate in regional greenhouse gas initiatives like the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). By mandating a structured process for public input and legislative review, the bill aims to ensure transparency and stakeholder engagement in developing carbon emission regulations, which is critical given the contentious nature of environmental policy changes. The proposed public hearings would allow various interests, including industries likely to be affected, to voice their opinions and concerns about these regulations.

Summary

House Bill 1164, also referred to as the Pennsylvania Carbon Dioxide Cap and Trade Authorization Act, seeks to grant the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) the authority to initiate a public comment process regarding the regulation of carbon dioxide emissions. The bill envisions a mechanism by which the DEP can propose measures to implement a tax or fee on carbon dioxide emissions. This legislative initiative arises from the absence of statutory or constitutional authorization for the DEP to regulate such emissions, emphasizing the need for the General Assembly's involvement in this regulatory area. Essential stakeholders, including the Environmental Quality Board and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, are also identified as key players in establishing this framework.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1164 is likely to be mixed, reflecting varying opinions on environmental regulation. Proponents of the bill view it as an important step toward addressing climate change and reducing carbon emissions in Pennsylvania, a goal increasingly aligned with global environmental standards. Conversely, opponents may express concerns regarding the economic implications of implementing a carbon tax, fearing it could lead to increased costs for consumers and businesses. The discourse surrounding the bill is expected to highlight the balance between environmental sustainability and economic viability, as stakeholders weigh the benefits of reducing emissions against the potential financial burdens.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1164 center on the specifics of how carbon dioxide emissions will be regulated and the economic impact of such measures. Critics may argue that imposing a tax or fee could place a financial strain on businesses, particularly those in the energy sector, potentially hindering their competitive edge. Additionally, the ability of the DEP to regulate emissions without clear authority has sparked debates on the limits of regulatory power and state governance. The requirement for extensive public engagement through hearings and discussions signifies an attempt to address these concerns, yet skepticism remains about the effectiveness of such measures in balancing environmental goals with economic realities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB195

Authorizing the Department of Environmental Protection to conduct a public comment process on and submit to the General Assembly a measure or action intended to abate, control or limit carbon dioxide emissions by imposing a revenue-generating tax or fee on carbon dioxide emissions; and abrogating regulations.

PA SB831

Providing for the injection of carbon dioxide into an underground reservoir for the purpose of carbon sequestration, for the ownership of pore space in strata below surface lands and waters of the Commonwealth, for conveyance of the surface ownership of real property; imposing duties on the Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Hearing Board; and establishing the Carbon Dioxide Storage Facility Fund.

PA HB2275

Establishing the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction Program; imposing powers and duties on the Environmental Quality Board, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission and the Department of Environmental Protection; and establishing the Consumer Protection Account, the Pennsylvania Energy Transformation Account, the Workforce Enhancement Fund, the Workforce Enhancement Fund Board and the Low-income Support Account.

PA SB1191

Establishing the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction Program; imposing powers and duties on the Environmental Quality Board, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission and the Department of Environmental Protection; and establishing the Consumer Protection Account, the Pennsylvania Energy Transformation Account, the Workforce Enhancement Fund, the Workforce Enhancement Fund Board and the Low-Income Support Account.

PA HR172

Urging the Congress of the United States and the United States Environmental Protection Agency to take action and end regulations relating to vehicle emissions testing.

PA HB1344

Providing for limitations on certain additional expenses of the General Assembly; and abrogating rules and regulations.

PA HR45

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing a low-emission and zero-emission vehicle program in this Commonwealth and to issue a report of its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly.

PA HB1978

Providing for the abrogation of regulations relating to the Pennsylvania Heavy-Duty Diesel Emissions Control Program and for the applicability of Federal standards.

PA HB1740

Providing for transition to renewable energy; imposing duties on the Department of Environmental Protection and other Commonwealth agencies relating to energy consumption and renewable energy generation; establishing the Renewable Energy Transition Task Force, the Just Transition Community Advisory Committee, the Renewable Energy Center of Excellence, the Council for Renewable Energy Workforce Development and the Renewable Energy Workforce Development Fund; providing for interim limits on energy produced from nonrenewable sources and for wage requirement for energy producing systems.

PA SB422

Providing for transition to renewable energy; imposing duties on the Department of Environmental Protection and other Commonwealth agencies relating to energy consumption and renewable energy generation; establishing the Renewable Energy Transition Task Force, the Just Transition Community Advisory Committee, the Renewable Energy Center of Excellence, the Council for Renewable Energy Workforce Development and the Renewable Energy Workforce Development Fund; providing for interim limits on energy produced from nonrenewable sources and for wage requirement for energy producing systems.

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