WILLIAMSPORT, PA -- The bipartisan Congressional Natural Gas Caucus, which is chaired by U.S. Representatives Glenn "GT' Thompson (R-PA), Gene Green (D-TX), Tom Reed (R-NY) and Jim Costa (D-CA), today convened a congressional field hearing at the Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, Pa. The Caucus received testimony from state and local officials and community and business leaders on the economic impacts of natural gas production and related industry development in the Marcellus Shale region.
U.S. Representative Glenn "GT' Thompson (R-PA): "Today's hearing offered this Caucus and the broader public an insightful look at how natural gas production is having a hugely positive economic impact upon local communities across Pennsylvania. I want to thank all of the state and local officials and leaders for offering perspectives on how our communities have managed the challenges associated with rapid economic growth. The work being done by our communities to leverage these opportunities and maximize the economic benefit to local populations is truly impressive. I also want to thank the Pennsylvania College of Technology for hosting this event and offering us the opportunity to have this important dialogue."
U.S. Representative Gene Green (D-TX): "These issues are important, and I am glad that our Caucus takes its role seriously. I look forward to having more of these educational events in the future."
U.S. Representative Tom Reed (R-NY): "Today's testimony and discussion from the Natural Gas Caucus hearing further highlights the economic benefits local communities are seeing in Pennsylvania as result of natural gas development. While some benefits have been felt in New York, the full weight of the positive impact will not be seen until the moratorium is lifted. In addition to the Natural Gas Caucus, I also Co-Chair the House Manufacturing Caucus and see domestic natural gas as a major driver for manufacturers in revitalizing our economy. Natural gas development will mean jobs in the precise area of the state where they are needed most."