Critics Find Gaps in State Laws to Disclose Hydrofracking Chemicals
Five states have adopted rules requiring drilling companies to disclose what’s in hydraulic fracturing fluids, but critics say they don’t go far enough to protect public health and the environment.
Exxon Ad Makes Gas Drilling Seem Simpler—and Safer—Than It Really Is
Exxon's full-page ad illustrates how well pipes are protected with casings of steel and cement. But the picture's not as pretty as the company paints it.
Reports Detail More Drug Industry Ties to Medical Societies
Recommendations made by two medical societies give at least the appearance of a conflict of interest.
PA Officials Issue Largest Fine Ever to Gas Driller
Chesapeake Energy is fined more than $1 million after contaminating water supplies in Bradford County.
Despite Rhetoric, Cutting Oil Subsidies Would Have Little Effect on Gas Prices
Congress is once again debating the pros and cons of cutting tax subsidies for oil and gas companies.
PA Oil and Gas Inspectors Free to Issue Violations Without Approval From Top, Enviro Chief Says
Officials say oil and gas inspectors do not need approval from DEP Secretary Michael Krancer to issue violations to companies drilling for gas in the Marcellus Shale, contradicting earlier reports and leaked emails.
Response to Pa. Gas Well Accident Took 13 Hours Despite State Plan for Quick Action
A Texas emergency response team was flown in to deal with a recent Pennsylvania gas well accident, even though the state arranged last year for a local team to be available.
Fracking Chemicals Cited in Congressional Report Stay Underground
A new report by congressional Democrats lists 750 chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing, including 14 known or possible carcinogens. Drawn from industry sources, the report provides the most comprehensive listing to date of the chemicals and compounds drillers are injecting underground.
PA Senate Confirms Controversial Job Czar Nominee
C. Alan Walker, a former coal baron and prominent Republican donor, gained unanimous support to oversee the PA's Department of Community and Economic Development.
Deteriorating Oil and Gas Wells Threaten Drinking Water, Homes Across the Country
Oil, gas and tainted water can seep through abandoned gas and oil wells into drinking water sources and sometimes into septic systems. But most states don't have enough money to plug them.