The state Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, chaired by Sen.

Mary Jo White, R-21st, met Wednesday for a briefing on Marcellus Shale safety issues.John Hanger, Department of Environmental Protection secretary,

briefed committee members about recent events associated with natural gas development in the state.Discussions included the June 3 blowout at a well pad in Lawrence Township, Clearfield County."As we develop this important clean energy resource, we must ensure that the safety of workers and local residents, as well as the protection of the environment and natural resources, is a top priority for all involved in the process," White said.Also addressing the panel were two representatives of the Pennsylvania Marcellus Shale Coalition: David Spigelmyer, vice president for government relations with Chesapeake Energy, and Ralph Tijerina, director of health, safety, security and environment for Range Resources.White said the committee awaits the report to be delivered by the DEP in three weeks on the Clearfield County incident and is ready to work with the department on ensuring drilling activity is done safely.All testimony, video and audio of the meeting will be posted online at www.senatormjwhite.com on the "Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee" page.—-—-—The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday passed legislation co-sponsored by Rep.

Jason Altmire, D-4th, that would require federal agencies to regularly report on their programs' progress in meeting clearly defined performance goals.The Government Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Performance Improvement Act, Altmire said, will help Congress identify and end ineffective federal programs.The measure now must be approved by the Senate.Under the legislation, federal agencies would be required to submit quarterly, public reports evaluating their programs' progress, strengths and weaknesses.Altmire said Congress would use these reports to identify and eliminate duplicative programs and to help improve agencies' overall performance.