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For Immediate Release
June 29, 1999

Harrisburg State Sen. Mary Jo White (R-21) will play a key role in developing key state and federal policy initiatives as a member of a national legislative assembly.

The National Conference of State Legislatures today announced White will serve on the Assembly on Federal Issues Environment Committee. AFI directs NCSL’s efforts in Washington, D.C. and develops official positions that guide those activities. NCSL opposes unfunded federal mandates, unnecessary preemption of state laws, and intrusion on state revenues.

The senator will be working with other legislators to promote maximum flexibility for state officials in crafting solutions to the nation’s problems.

"One of my priorities will be prying some of the acid mine drainage funds out of the designated federal account so that we can accelerate our efforts to improve our streams and watersheds. We also need to inject some common sense and fairness in our clean air regulations," said White.

AFI holds three meetings each year, providing an exchange of information through timely and relevant work projects and a networking of legislators and staff.

"NCSL’s committees provide our organization with valuable information and direction," said NCSL Executive Director William Pound. "We look forward to working with Senator White in this important capacity."

White said she expects the Environment Committee’s agenda to be full. Its primary responsibility is developing policy positions on federal issues regarding protection, preservation and restoration of the nation’s natural resources. The issues under the committee’s jurisdiction include abandoned mines, air quality, water quality, pollution prevention, radon and other important concerns.

NCSL, founded in 1975 and composed of all legislators and legislative staff in the nation, is a bipartisan organization representing the interests of states.