Governor Corbett’s proposed 2012-13 state budget continues the practice begun under Governor Rendell of funding DCNR’s general operations through Oil and Gas Lease Fund revenues rather than through the state’s general fund.

Historically, the Oil and Gas Lease Fund revenue had been dedicated for improving state park and forest infrastructure and acquiring lands important to the integrity and quality of the state parks and forests. Act 50 of 2009 provides $50 million for an annual appropriation from the Oil and Gas Lease Fund to DCNR. Governor Corbett’s budget will mean an additional $19.5M of the Oil and Gas Lease Fund to be allocated for state parks operations. The budget proposal does not indicate a transfer of excess funds going to the state’s general fund.

Oil & Gas Lease Fund Budget Sheet (2012-13)