Landmark Hydraulic Fracturing Legislation Filed Today In The Texas House Of Representatives

NEWS RELEASE

Contact:
Matt Smelser, (202) 572-3272, msmelser@edf.org
Mica Odom, 512.619.8453, modom@edf.org

(Austin, Texas – March 11, 2011) Today Chairman Jim Keffer of the House Committee on Energy Resources filed House Bill 3328 calling for the disclosure of the composition of hydraulic fracturing fluids used in hydraulic fracturing treatments. The bill will require natural gas service companies and operators to disclose the chemicals used in the process of hydraulic fracturing. The bill protects confidential business information while still disclosing the information needed for research, regulatory investigations, and medical treatment.

A statement from EDF’s Scott Anderson on the filing of HB 3328:

“Industry has opposed mandatory disclosure for far too long. EDF supports full disclosure of all chemicals used in natural gas hydraulic fracturing and believes that Chairman Keffer’s HB3328 is truly a win-win for industry, environmental groups, legislators, and the public at large. Disclosure of the fluids used in hydraulic fracturing is key to gaining an understanding of the impact this process has on the environment and human health. Progressive natural gas developers are already proving that it is possible to abide by disclosure and other responsible drilling practices and still maintain a profitable and sustainable business.”

Scott Anderson, Senior Policy Advisor, Environmental Defense Fund

With more than 3 million members, Environmental Defense Fund creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships to turn solutions into action. edf.org