Archive: Opinions

I am beyond disappointed that the Senate and the Governor have refused to join the Assembly Majority in providing a modest amount of funding for a much needed health study of hydraulic fracturing. Serious concerns have been raised in studies by the EPA and Duke University, and it is impossible to say that we have a clear understanding of the true ramifications of chemical-laced water on our drinking supplies, air quality impacts and the effects of these compounds on the human body over time.

I’ve heard some say that we have 'studied' high-volume hydrofracking effects in great depth. That is simply not true. We have yet to see a comprehensive health study, and the DEC’s SGEIS has failed to address these concerns. The EPA has urged since 2009 that the New York Department of Health be a partner in the development of gas drilling policy. This hasn’t happened.

Now the Senate and the Governor are, in essence, saying that it is appropriate to bring large-scale heavy industry into the backyards of New Yorkers without doing due diligence first. We’ve seen media reports of health issues from drilling in Pennsylvania, and I have personally met with a victim of barium poisoning after drilling occurred over 1000 feet from her home. And yet, the response from the DEC  has been -- not to worry- that we’ll do a better job and there won’t be problems in New York.

This is an astounding abdication of responsibility by the Governor and Senate which causes me grave concern for the welfare of my fellow citizens if hydrofracking goes forward. To those who have blocked this study and give assurances that high-volume hydrofracking poses no health risk, I ask you: ‘Then why don’t you want a real study’?

Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton

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