Our state’s natural environment is one of its greatest resources, providing opportunities for recreation and beautiful scenery to millions of people. To protect this environment, our state agencies and departments employ conservation officers, such as game wardens, waterways conservation officers, and park rangers, to ensure our laws governing these areas are followed. However, these positions are paid much less than other law enforcement officers, resulting in many of our conservation officers leaving their positions for similar jobs in other states.
 
Our conservation officers deserve to be compensated fairly for the work they do protecting our state. That is why I plan to introduce a resolution directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study on the salaries and benefits of conservation officers in Pennsylvania compared to conservation officers in neighboring states.
 
This study will provide insight into what actions can be taken to encourage our conservation officers to continue serving our state. Further, it will also serve as the first step to showing these individuals much needed appreciation for the critical work they do.
 
As a state where the natural environment plays such a vital role in our culture, Pennsylvania has a duty to support those that help preserve it. Show your support to our conservation officers by co-sponsoring this important resolution.