House adopts Matzie resolution celebrating PA’s natural gas utility workers
Rep. Robert F. Matzie March 19, 2025 | 1:40 PM
HARRISBURG, March 19 – The Pennsylvania House of Representatives today adopted a resolution introduced by state Rep. Rob Matzie honoring the work of the commonwealth’s natural gas utility workers.
Matzie, who is chairman of the House majority caucus, said he introduced H.R. 85 – designating March 18, 2025, as “Natural Gas Utility Worker Appreciation Day” in Pennsylvania – to recognize these employees for the labor-intensive, often-hazardous work they perform and the essential role they play on behalf of residents and businesses.
“Natural gas utility workers are first responders, technicians, heavy equipment operators, construction workers, safety investigators and troubleshooters all rolled into one,” Matzie said. “They go out in all hours and all weather – often to work amidst noise, fumes and other hazardous conditions – to safely maintain our vast natural gas infrastructure.
“They keep our houses warm, our showers hot, our gas stoves cooking and our gas-powered businesses running smoothly. Thanks to their efforts, we have a safe, abundant supply of cleaner energy and the peace of mind that goes with knowing that there are dedicated, safety-minded workers on the job 24/7. I’m grateful for the work they do.”
Natural Gas Utility Workers Day is recognized nationally on March 18 because this is the anniversary of the New London, Texas, school explosion in 1937, which led to the widespread odorization of natural gas and an increased emphasis on safety.