Pennsylvania Game Commission faces 72% royalty revenue decline

Pennsylvania Game Commission officials reported a significant drop in gas and oil lease royalties for the fiscal year 2023-24. The royalties fell by 72% compared to the previous year, bringing in a total of about $86 million. This amount is much lower than the approximately $307 million collected the year before. Executive Director Stephen Smith explained that the prior year’s high revenue was unusual and linked to fluctuating commodity prices and global demand. The report indicated that lower energy prices led to fewer wells being opened and less extraction from existing ones, negatively impacting this year's revenues. Looking ahead, the commission expects royalties to range between $60 million and $70 million for the current fiscal year. Lawmakers are concerned about how the drop in revenue might affect the Game Fund, which currently stands at about $460 million. Some representatives questioned if these funds could support the state's general fund, but Smith clarified that the Game Fund is restricted to activities related to hunting and wildlife. In the past year, the commission spent about $215 million from the Game Fund, which is up slightly from the previous year. A large portion of this spending was on natural resources and rights of way. The commission is also investing in new hunting facilities and supporting programs to attract more hunters in Pennsylvania. State Rep. Anita Astorino Kulik has called for another meeting to further discuss the commission’s finances and ensure transparency for hunters and trappers in the state. The commission's annual report is available on its website for public viewing.