The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission could soon reconsider a controversial pipeline expansion in Western Massachusetts.
FERC can now reach a quorum after filling two of four open seats. That means it could begin considering rehearing requests – including Kinder Morgan’s Connecticut pipeline expansion.
The area’s state and federal representatives and several citizen groups have sent requests to FERC to rescind its approval of the natural gas pipeline that cuts through Otis State Forest.
Lawmakers say FERC lacked a quorum to authorize the approval, and it was granted without proper consideration of the region’s energy needs.
Demonstrators say 66 protestors have been arrested by Massachusetts State Police since the tree felling began in Otis State Forest.
