Tagged: fracking

A key court ruling this week could have far-reaching effects for the future of hydrofracking in New York. WAMC’s Ian Pickus spoke with Gannett capitol reporter Jon Campbell for the latest.

Opponents of hydro fracking are charging there’s a potential conflict of interest with a consultant to Governor Cuomo’s environmental agency. They are asking that the years-long review of fracking in New York be restarted. The controversy caused the consultant in question to sever all ties with a gas industry lobby group.

On Earth Day lobby day at the capitol, whether or not to allow hydrofracking in New York continues to be the dominant issue.

The Senate and Assembly Environmental Committee Chairs both take a dim view of the controversial gas drilling process, but they differ over what’s the next step.

Assembly Environmental Chair Bob Sweeney believes in a clearly legislated moratorium. In fact, the Assembly has already passed one.

“I think it is pretty clear that this is a bad deal not only environmentally,” said Sweeney. “But it’s a bad deal economically too.”

A town in New York’s Southern Tier has rescinded a gag order on public discussion of fracking during town board meetings. Two groups had sued the town, alleging violation of First Amendment rights. The Town Board denies liability.