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For Immediate
Release
1/27/11
Agenda, Testimony, Watch and Listen
Senate Majority Policy Committee Examines Local Impacts of
Marcellus Shale Drilling
Harrisburg – The Senate Majority Policy Committee, chaired by Sen. Ted
Erickson (R-26), held a public hearing Wednesday exploring the local impacts of
Marcellus Shale drilling.
The committee discussed issues that communities must address when dealing
with the impact of drilling. Testifiers included county government officials,
statewide local government organizations, county conservation districts,
emergency management agencies, industry representatives and others.
"Marcellus Shale drilling will affect all aspects of local government,
ranging from impacts on our local water authorities, to increased demand for
services from local recorder of deeds offices, and to new challenges for our 911
and emergency operations centers," said Erickson. "The impacts of drilling
extend beyond the environment, roads and economic development. We need to enter
the next phase with our eyes wide open."
Testifiers shared their experiences with drilling to date. Many spoke of the
steps they have taken to address issues resulting from the growth attributed to
drilling, such as increased needs for affordable housing and for additional
emergency responder training and manpower. Speakers also asked for an
opportunity to have more input in state government decisions that affect natural
resources in drilling areas.
The senator noted that drilling also affects state laws and regulations, many
of which may need to be updated or amended to address the new issues that
accompany gas extraction in the Marcellus Shale regions.
"Clearly, there is a need for some sort of consistent funding mechanism to
help local governments address the issues that arise when wells are built in
their area, as well as funding for the Commonwealth for its activities related
to monitoring, inspecting and updating regulations," said Erickson. "By working
with all levels of government and the industry, we have the opportunity now to
address many of these issues."
CONTACTS:
Michele Hansarick
(717) 787-1350
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