Skip to main content

New York to Ban Fracking, Citing Health Concerns

CBN

Share This article

New York is moving forward with plans to ban fracking after a report concluded the practice poses health risks.

Fracking is the practice of removing oil from shale by using a method known as hydraulic fracturing. Two state agencies cited adverse health effects in communities where it's practiced.

"I've never had anyone say to me 'I believe fracking is great' in those communities," New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Wednesday.

"What I hear is 'I have no alternative but fracking.' And 'I own a farm and have to pay a mortgage' and 'I have to pay these taxes and there are no economic opportunities,'" he said. 

The report by New York State Health Department also raises concerns about the long-term effects of fracking, saying more research is needed to prove it's not harmful to air and water.

"The potential risks are too great, in fact not even fully known, and relying on the limited data presently available would be negligent on my part," acting state Health Commissioner Howard Zucker said.

The report also says fracking will not provide an economic boom because there's too little shale available.

Share This article