A fracking evaporation pond
A measure which supporters say would provide a framework to regulate hydraulic fracturing — or fracking — in Florida, but opponents denounce as a welcome mat for the high-risk industry was rejected Thursday by a key Senate panel.
The Appropriations Committee killed the measure (SB 318) after three hours of debate. But a procedural move kept the bill alive — and the prospect it may gain another review by the committee in the Legislature’s scheduled closing two weeks.
A similar bill (HB 191) has already cleared the full House. But the Senate has loomed as an obstacle to the pro-fracking campaign, having rejected a drive to approve the technique last year.
Two-dozen counties, including Palm Beach County, have either banned fracking or support a statewide ban.
The legislation would bar local governments from enacting prohibitions on the practice, which involves drilling deep below ground and the introduction of toxic chemicals that destroy rock, freeing oil or gas reserves.
Fracking currently is not regulated at the statewide level in Florida. Supporters of the legislation say it would set some standards for the industry.
“The ability to frack exists today,” said Sen. Garrett Richter, R-Naples, sponsor of the measure. “This bill establishes a moratorium until a number of conditions are met.”
But dozens of citizens and representatives of environmental groups argued argued against the legislation, saying they don’t trust state regulators and that Florida’s fragile waterways and close-to-the-surface aquifer made fracking especially risky.
“This is not a good bill for the people of Florida,” said Sen. Arthenia Joyner, D-Tampa.
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http://postonpolitics.blog.palmbeachpost.com/2016/02/25/fracking-stopped-in-florida-senate-for-now/