North Carolina lawmakers introduce bill to reduce air pollution from natural gas drilling

(RALEIGH, NC – March 9, 2015) A bill introduced in the North Carolina House of Representatives could help reduce dangerous air pollution from natural gas development and do a better job of protecting communities and families. House Bill 172 would direct the state’s Environmental Management Commission (EMC) to establish requirements and practices that minimize equipment leaks and harmful air emissions from natural gas development. In 2014, state lawmakers voted to allow drilling permits to be issued as early as this spring.

Rep. Gary Pendleton, who represents part of Wake County, is the lead primary sponsor of House Bill 172. Also joining as primary sponsors are Wake County Representatives Nelson Dollar and Chris Malone.

“Current rules to oversee natural gas development fail to address equipment leaks and harmful air pollution caused by the natural gas industry. This bill provides clear direction to the EMC to develop rules that can help protect our communities and families from dangerous air pollution.

“With permitting set to begin soon, state decision makers must waste no time developing rules to protect the air we all breathe. This bill helps to address one of several gaps in the state’s natural gas rules.”

• David Kelly, Senior Analyst, EDF Ecosystems Program