Shapiro Announces Tightened Fracking Regulations in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Attorney General, Josh Shapiro, has announced new regulatory measures aimed at tightening the state’s fracking industry. The move comes after a two-year grand jury investigation into the environmental and public health impacts of the industry.

Grand Jury Investigation Leads to Regulatory Changes

The two-year investigation by a grand jury has led to tighter regulations in Pennsylvania’s fracking industry. The investigation was prompted by numerous complaints about contaminated water, health problems, and inadequate regulation. The jury made eight recommendations, including stricter rules on reporting spills and leaks, increased setback distances, and stronger enforcement of regulations.

The Impact of the New Regulations

The new regulations are set to have a significant impact on the fracking industry in Pennsylvania. They are expected to increase costs for companies, but also offer more protection for the environment and public health. Companies will now be required to report all spills, not just those that have the potential to pollute waterways.

Industry Response to Regulatory Changes

While some industry representatives have criticized the regulations as being too stringent, others have welcomed them as a necessary step towards ensuring public safety and protecting the environment. CNX Resources, one of the companies involved in the investigation, has agreed to make significant changes to its operations to comply with the new rules.

The new regulations are a significant step towards ensuring the safety of the public and protecting the environment in Pennsylvania. While they are likely to increase costs for companies in the fracking industry, they also provide a more comprehensive approach to regulation, ensuring all spills are reported and managed effectively.