State Rep. Hagan says Ohio deep-injection well ban sidelined

COLUMBUS (AP) — State Rep. Robert Hagan of Youngstown, D-60th, who is pushing to temporarily ban deep-injection drilling in Ohio, says he and others concerned about a series of earthquakes in the Youngstown area are being disrespected in Statehouse hearings.

Hagan said in a statement today that testimony on the moratorium bill he proposes was pushed to past 9:30 p.m. Wednesday. He said Republicans, who control the chamber, were largely given preference in testifying first.

House Agriculture Chairman David Hall at one point gaveled Hagan out of order.

Hagan said the late hour prevented the public and news media from attending. He said only a handful of environmental activists who participated in a rally earlier Wednesday could stay for the hearing.

A message was left with Hall’s office seeking comment.