Capitol Update by Rep. Martin Causer

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Capitol Update Friday, February 14, 2014 The latest news from the State Capitol 2013 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program Forms Available Applications for the 2013 Property Tax/Rent Rebate program are now available at my offices in Bradford and Coudersport. The program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians who are 65 years or older, widows and widowers 50 years or older, and those 18 years or older with permanent disabilities who meet certain income guidelines. Renters may earn up to $15,000 annually and qualify for the program, while homeowners may earn up to $35,000. Exclude 50 percent of Social Security, Supplemental Security Income and Railroad Retirement Tier 1 benefits when calculating income. For additional information or to obtain claim forms, visit my website at RepCauser.com or contact my offices in Bradford (78 Main St., First Floor; 814-362-4400) or Coudersport (107 S. Main St., Room 1; 814-274-9769). Assistance with filing the Property Tax/Rent Rebate forms is available from my offices at no charge.   Final Hearing on Oil, Gas Regulations Draws Crowd in Warren The state’s Environmental Quality Board (EQB) held its final hearing on proposed oil and gas regulations Wednesday evening before a crowd of several hundred people at the Warren County Courthouse.     I was among dozens of citizens who stood to testify before the board as it considers sweeping changes to regulations that will impact both conventional and unconventional drillers in Pennsylvania. A number of independent oil producers shared their concerns about the regulations, which are geared primarily toward large-scale unconventional wells. They explained why they believe the regulations are unnecessary for shallow well drillers and how the regulations, if enacted, could drive them out of business and cost many people their jobs. Although no additional hearings are planned, the board will continue accepting public comment through March 14. For more information about how to submit testimony online or by mail, click here.   Reminder: Town Hall Meetings Feb. 26, 28 Please join me later this month for one of the following town hall meetings to discuss the state budget and other issues of interest to you. Kane Senior Center Joint meeting with Rep. Kathy Rapp 100 Fraley St., Kane Wednesday, Feb. 26, 6 p.m.  Charles Cole Memorial Hospital Wellness Center 1001 East Second St., Coudersport Friday, Feb. 28, 8 a.m. Refreshments will be served, and RSVPs are requested but not required. To register your attendance, please visit my website or call my office toll-free 1-866-437-8181.