Pa. environmental group calls on lawmakers to reduce oil dependence

PennEnvironment has a few items on its wish list. Chief among them is a higher fuel economy standard, so that by  2025 the average car in the U.S. is getting 62 miles per gallon.

Democratic state Representative Greg Vitali of Delaware County says the issue falls outside of the commonwealth’s domain, but other things are well within the control of the General Assembly.

“We certainly can do things as a state–perhaps giving sales tax benefits to high mileage vehicles. And you can do things like creating those high occupancy vehicle lanes,” said Vitali.

PennEnvironment has released a report in light of the White House’s negotiations with automakers over a fuel economy standard.

The administration is expected to set a figure by the end of September.

At the state level, PennEnvironment is calling on lawmakers to support the adoption of so-called clean fuels, like non-corn-based biofuels.

The group also wants to see additional funding for more traditional approaches like public transportation, and alternative options like biking and walking.