EDF statement on natural gas drilling in NC

(Raleigh, NC - May 16, 2012) Today the NC Legislative Research Commission gave its approval to a proposal that would legalize hydraulic fracturing and pave the way for natural gas development in North Carolina. The proposal imposes a two-year moratorium on drilling. The following statement may be attributed to Jane Preyer, North Carolina director of Environmental Defense Fund. Contact Jane at jpreyer@edf.org or 919-740-6727.

“The proposal brushes aside laws that have protected drinking water supplies and private property rights for generations. The proposal makes sure that drilling can begin in two years, whether or not adequate safeguards for families, communities and the environment are in place. This is a bad idea.”

“The proposal shifts significant responsibilities away from state environmental and public health experts to a new oil and gas industry board. The proposal is a dangerous precedent for North Carolina and a recipe for conflict.”