Press Release

PUC Seeks Comments on Impact Fee Collection, Distribution Rulemaking

Published on 10/17/2013

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today issued for comment a proposed rulemaking on the collection and disbursement of the impact fee for unconventional natural gas well drilling.

The Commission voted 4-0 to receive comments on the proposed rulemaking, which codifies the procedures the PUC has been using to implement, collect and distribute the impact fee as directed by Chapter 23 of Act 13. Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer abstained from voting. The Commission issued its Implementation Order on May 10, 2012. Interested parties will have 30 days to comment on the proposed regulations. Instructions on how to file comments are contained in the Commission’s Order.

The proposed rulemaking addresses:

• The imposition of an unconventional gas well fee;
• Wells subject to the fee;
• Producer reporting;
• Calculation of the fee; and
• Fee collection and distribution.

Due to uncertainty surrounding pending litigation, the Commission did not address the provisions of Chapter 33, which governs local ordinances that impose conditions, requirements or limitations on oil or gas operations.

On Feb. 14, 2012, Governor Corbett signed into law Act 13 of 2012, the Unconventional Gas Well Impact Fee Act, which amended Title 58 (Oil and Gas) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes.  The PUC is responsible for implementing the provisions contained in Chapters 23 and 33 of the Act. Chapter 23 provides for the imposition, collection and distribution of an unconventional gas well fee (also called an impact fee). Chapter 33 governs local ordinances that impose conditions, requirements or limitations on oil or gas operations. The PUC has created a page on its website for Act 13 information.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility.  “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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Docket No. L-2013-2375551

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722