DeGette Statement on EPA Announcement of Hydraulic Fracturing Study

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), Vice Chair of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, praised EPA's announcement today that it is re-allocating $1.9 million for a comprehensive study of hydraulic fracturing.

"I applaud EPA's decision to undertake a comprehensive study of the potential environmental impacts of hydraulic fracturing. Such an effort has never truly been done. In 2004, EPA conducted a review of the issue that stopped short of the full scientific assessment and independent analysis that is required. This study may be a challenge, given that companies are not currently required to disclose the chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing fluids. But it will be a significant step in ensuring that our nation's drinking water supply is protected. I look forward to working with EPA to provide the resources it needs to conduct a full evaluation of this important issue."

Rep. DeGette's FRAC Act would reverse a 2005 exemption removing hydraulic fracturing from the Safe Drinking Water Act, and would require disclosure of the chemical constituents used in the fracking process.

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