HARRISBURG – Legislation that would help reduce the use of fresh water in oil and gas drilling operations was approved by the Senate today and sent to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law.
Senate Bill 875, sponsored by Senator Camera Bartolotta (R-46), clarifies legal liabilities associated with the use of treated mine water in oil and gas operations. The use of treated mine water holds the potential to significantly decrease the use of fresh water in the natural gas extraction process, reducing the withdrawal demand on Pennsylvania rivers, lakes and streams.
Bartolotta, who serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, emphasized that her legislation would not weaken any existing environmental safeguards designed to protect public health. It would only clarify parties that could be held responsible if the mine water is not treated or utilized properly.
“Using treated mine water in natural gas operations is an innovative and environmentally responsible practice,” Bartolotta said. “Clearing up this gray area in terms of liability will pave the way for more companies to explore this alternative.”
CONTACT: Katrina Anderson, (717) 787-1463