NC governor issues order to develop fracking rules

Associated Press

RALEIGH, N.C.

Gov. Beverly Perdue sought recently to set the table for how North Carolina would seek to permit shale-gas exploration and production with an executive order directing a workgroup to make regulatory recommendations.

Perdue, a Democrat, issued the order as the Republican-led Legislature soon will begin to debate its own proposed pathway to allow certain forms of shale-gas exploration, including hydraulic fracturing — also known as fracking.

The General Assembly still would ultimately decide whether to remove the ban on this type of drilling, or even whether to agree to her framework to develop the regulations.

Perdue has said she believes the drilling method for natural gas can be performed safely in North Carolina if the right regulations are in place — a view that falls in line with a study performed by the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The governor said the workgroup, led by the state Division of Energy and the state environment department, should ensure precautions are in place to protect the state’s drinking water and the health and safety of all citizens.

The workgroup would report to the governor every six months with its findings or recommendations.

“If done safely, fracking can be part of a larger energy solution to create jobs and help lower energy costs,” Perdue said in a prepared statement. “Before we permit anyone to frack in North Carolina, however, we must hear from all sides, address all issues, and develop a robust set of rules.”

Perdue also said the “high standards” she wants also would require studies about long-term health effects of those living in shale-gas production areas and focus upon worker safety, public input and protections on landowners who may agree to lease their land for drilling.