HARRISBURG — State Rep. Scott Hutchinson, R-Butler/Venango, Wednesday was reappointed Republican chairman of the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee for the 2009-10 legislative session.

Hutchinson was first appointed as the committee chairman last session. He also serves as the chairman of the Joint Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committee.

Hutchinson stated in a news release there should be more focus on home-grown, proven resources to fuel the energy needs of Pennsylvanians, including responsible energy production on state-owned land.

He also wants to find ways to lessen the impact that the lifting of electricity rate caps will have on state residents.

Hutchinson was recently elected to his ninth term serving Butler and Venango counties.