Reply #7: Obama's fracking panel recommends fracking industry be self-regulating [View All]

[Divernan]

More from
http://www.desmogblog.com/scientists-say-obama-fracking...

Food and Water Watch, in a statement released today, condemns the (Obama fracking committee) report for leaving the important task of overseeing hydraulic fracturing and gas production to the industry itself. The report, according to the release, “downplays the concerns of those affected by fracking - communities that have been turned into sacrifice zones at the expense of the natural gas industry’s desire to turn a profit.”

http://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/

“We know that industry has gone to great lengths to influence local governments, and even greater lengths to avoid culpability at a nation level. Why should we let the industry police itself while leaving localities to fight for themselves?” writes Wenonah Hauter, Food and Water Watch executive director.

The report suggests that funding at the federal level could help the gas industry develop the kinds of ‘best practices’ needed to avoid unnecessary social or environmental side effects of gas drilling. “The federal government should be taking an active role in protecting consumers and the environment from hydraulic fracturing, not throwing money at a destructive and unprofitable industry,” says Hauter.

The panel’s report is only the first installment of its project. The full Committee report will be released mid-November. Comments on the draft report will be received until noon August 15.
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Well, isn't that special - the first installment/report is completed, but will not be released until AFTER the November election, i.e, mid-November!