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HB 1495

An Act repealing the act of May 11, 1921 (P.L.479, No.225), entitled "An act imposing a State tax on anthracite coal; providing for the assessment and collection thereof; and providing penalties for the violation of this act."

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Barger and 12 co-sponsors

HB 1495 repeals Pennsylvania's 1921 anthracite coal excise tax, eliminating a century-old revenue source amid the state's declining coal industry.

Referred to Finance
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1495

Legislative bill overview

HB 1495 proposes to repeal Pennsylvania's 1921 anthracite coal tax, a state excise tax that has been in effect for over a century. The bill would eliminate the statutory authority to assess and collect this tax along with its associated penalties.

Why is this important

The anthracite coal tax represents a long-standing revenue source for the state, though modern collections are likely minimal given the decline of Pennsylvania's anthracite industry. Repealing it could affect state finances and signals a policy shift regarding the coal sector, while potentially reflecting current economic realities in coal-producing regions.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: Even if collections are small, eliminating any tax requires offsetting budget adjustments or represents foregone revenue that must be addressed elsewhere
  • Industry signaling: Repealing a coal tax may be viewed as favoring fossil fuel interests or conversely, as outdated policy cleanup with minimal real-world effect
  • Historical precedent: Removing a 104-year-old statute raises questions about why now and whether other obsolete taxes should similarly be reviewed

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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