HB 347 Pennsylvania House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act providing for the leasing of subsurface rights on State forest and park property for oil and natural gas development; establishing a restricted account within the Oil and Gas Lease Fund; making an appropriation; and abrogating an executive order and other orders and administrative policies.

HB 347 allows oil and gas companies to lease subsurface rights beneath Pennsylvania's state forests and parks for drilling, provided the drilling originates outside these areas. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) must review applications, with disapproval possible for environmental violations or projects causing significant harm, and companies can appeal denials to court. All lease revenue goes into the Oil and Gas Lease Fund, with upfront payments specifically directed to a restricted account funding stream maintenance and clearing projects. The bill also cancels prior executive orders and policies restricting such leasing on state lands.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 27, 2025 Last action Jan 27, 2025
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1
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Committee
1
Jan 27, 2025
Committee
Referred to Environmental & Natural Resource Protection
lower
1 primary · 12 co-sponsors

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