New Shale Gas Drilling Legislation Coming in Ohio

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Ohio Gov. John Kasich is planning to introduce new energy legislation in the next few weeks that will impact Utica and Marcellus Shale drilling in the state.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich plans a complete overhaul of the state’s energy policies and is working with lawmakers to prepare legislation to make changes in 10 key areas. Kasich and his top policy experts outlined the plans to about 50 of the Cleveland area’s heaviest energy users and producers, which cover everything from the future of shale gas, to maintaining power plants, and increasing energy efficiency, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

The new energy legislation is expected to be introduced in mid-March, and will be up for a vote by June 30, the governor said.

The rules cover well construction; mandatory disclosure of chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing; and payments gas and oil producers will be required to make to communities and counties. The policy package also include plans for electrical generation and transmission, power co-generation and alternative fuels.

Kasich also plans to push for the use of alternative fuels. For example, his administration is considering converting all or part of the state vehicle fleet to natural gas.*

*Newsmax (Mar 1, 2012) – Gov. Kasich Seeks Ohio Energy Policy Overhaul