WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced a delay to the  proposed rule for hydraulic fracturing with an extension deadline for public comments. Following the news of the announcement, U.S. Congressman Bill Flores (R-Texas) issued the following statement:
 
“I commend the Bureau of Land Management for extending the public comment period and delaying the proposed rule. The rule, as originally proposed by BLM, would have significant negative consequences for American energy security and job growth. Currently, there are about a dozen different federal agencies that are studying, considering, proposing regulations, and/or regulating hydraulic fracturing. Our states have long and successful histories in regulating oil and natural gas operations, including hydraulic fracturing, well construction, and management of produced water. The federal government does not need to add additional regulations to a system that is working. Technology improvements in horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing have had a significant positive on America's energy supply and security. Actions that inhibit hydraulic fracturing are causing increased expenses and uncertainty for oil and gas exploration and production, which results in higher energy prices for consumers.”
 
Last week Congressman Flores authored a letter, signed by 57 additional members of Congress, to Interior Secretary Ken Salazar requesting that the public comment period be extended to allow for additional consideration of the BLM’s proposed rule for “Oil and Gas; Well Stimulation, Including Hydraulic Fracturing, on Federal and Indian Lands”. The BLM has issued a 60 day extension for the comment period.
 
To view a copy of the letter CLICK HERE.

Congressman Bill Flores represents the 17th District of Texas and is an entrepreneur, former energy executive, Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and member of the House Budget, Natural Resources and Veterans’ Affairs Committees.