California proposes ban on new oil and gas drilling near schools, homes and hospitals
California’s oil and gas regulator on Thursday proposed that the state ban new oil drilling within 3,200 feet of schools, homes and hospitals to protect public health in what would be the nation’s largest buffer zone between oilwells and communities.
It’s the latest effort by Democratic governor Gavin Newsom’s administration to wind down oil production in California, aligning him with environmental advocates pushing to curb the effects of climate change and against the powerful oil industry in the nation’s seventh-largest oil producing state.
State officials called it as one of the most aggressive steps in the nation, and perhaps the world, to protect public health and safety from the dangers of oil and gas drilling.
Studies show living near a drilling site can elevate risks of birth defects, cancer, respiratory problems and other health problems. More than 2 million Californians live within 3,200 feet (975 meters) of oil drilling sites, primarily in Los Angeles county and the Central Valley.
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