Rendell Pushes for ‘Lame Duck’ Session to Pass Gas Tax

Governor threatens moratorium on drilling on State Forest land

HARRISBURG – Gov. Rendell, who is expected to enact a ban on future leasing of State Forest land, called for Senate Republicans on Monday to hold true to their previous commitment to compromise on a Natural Gas Severance Tax.

Earlier in the year legislative Republicans committed to a tax in writing in a trade to pass the State’s budget.

Rendell said Monday he was willing to work ‘night and day’ if Senate Republicans are willing to hold a ‘lame duck’ session after the November 2 election.

Senate leaders however have said they will not participate, and Rendell is expected to ban State Forest land leasing in response.