State House Backs Tax Credit To Boost Methane In Manufacturing

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) – Legislation to cut taxes for manufacturers who use methane to make fertilizer or petrochemicals is on its way to Pennsylvania’s Senate after a positive vote in the state House of Representatives.  House members voted 139 to 46 on Thursday in favor of the proposed Energy and Fertilizer Manufacturing Tax Credit program.  The bill would provide a nickel-per-gallon credit for methane purchased and used by large facilities located within Pennsylvania, the nation’s No. 2 natural gas-producing state behind Texas. The measure targets production of ammonia, methanol and urea.  Supporters describe it as a way to fuel economic development, create good-paying jobs and attract customers for the state’s natural gas industry.  Opponents framed it as a taxpayer giveaway to the fossil fuels industry.