Mehaffie Named Co-Chair of PA Nuclear Energy Caucus
HARRISBURG – As state lawmakers work toward a solution that preserves nuclear energy as a clean power source, Rep. Tom Mehaffie (R-Dauphin) today announced he will have a seat at the head of the table, having been invited to serve as co-chair of Pennsylvania’s Nuclear Energy Caucus.
The Nuclear Energy Caucus is a bipartisan, bicameral group which researches and holds discussions relating to nuclear energy’s economic and environmental value, as well as its electric power reliability, affordability and safety.
Pennsylvania is home to five nuclear stations, making it the second largest nuclear capacity state in America. The electricity produced from Pennsylvania’s nuclear sources represents nearly 37 percent of the Commonwealth’s total power production, helping make the state a top net exporter of electricity.
“Nuclear power is considered one of the cleanest, safest, most reliable sources of electricity today,” Mehaffie said. “In addition, our nuclear power stations, including Three Mile Island, employ thousands of Pennsylvanians and contribute millions to our communities. I’m excited to hit the ground running to help educate the General Assembly on the benefits of nuclear energy and develop inclusive energy policies that value the contributions of all of our resources.”
Mehaffie’s legislative district borders Three Mile Island, which announced it will close in fall 2019.
“The facility’s closure would have a very negative effect on our communities. The plant employs 675 people. It would also negatively impact many local businesses, and we would lose the more than $1 million in revenue that TMI pays in taxes, which goes to our local schools and social services,” Mehaffie said. “This isn’t an isolated issue. Plants across Pennsylvania are struggling and have limited time to do something about it.”
Formed in spring 2017, the Nuclear Energy Caucus has more than 70 members. Sen. Ryan Aument (R-Lancaster) currently chairs the caucus, along with other co-chairs Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne/Carbon) and Rep. Rob Matzie (D-Beaver/Allegheny).
“I’ve been an active member of the caucus for the past two years, and I look forward to joining the other co-chairs and members of the caucus in searching for and supporting a solution that keeps these plants operational, because the positive impact they have on our communities is irreplaceable.”
Representative Thomas Mehaffie
106th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
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