Contacts:

Matt Dempsey Matt_Dempsey@epw.senate.gov (202) 224-9797

Katie Brown Katie_Brown@epw.senate.gov (202) 224-2160                                 

Inhofe Comments on EPA's Release of Final Plan on Hydraulic Fracturing Study

Washington, D.C.-Senator James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, commented on EPA's hydraulic fracturing study plan, which was finalized today. 

"As EPA finalizes the scope of its plan to study hydraulic fracturing, I am concerned that the Agency is again cutting corners on the process," Senator Inhofe said. "When EPA announced that it would be conducting this study, I said that in order for it to be credible, it must be based on the best available science, and follow a legitimate, objective peer-review process, as well as rely on data and expertise from state oil and gas regulatory agencies, and independent groups such as the Ground Water Protection Council. 

"EPA has failed to follow these reasonable guidelines.  In fact, even before the study was finalized today, EPA was already collecting data samples at undisclosed fracking sites across the country.  Because these samples were obtained without adhering to a publicly available final study plan or testing procedures, the validity of this data is called into question.  EPA should not have begun conducting the study without ensuring that the process is fully transparent, and in accordance with sound science.  I will continue to watch this process closely. 

"As EPA goes forward with this study, it is important to remember that, according to a Congressional Research Service (CRS) report, we have enough natural gas to meet American demand for 90 years; but we can't get to those vast resources without hydraulic fracturing.  The first use of hydraulic fracturing occurred near Duncan, Oklahoma in 1949.  It has been regulated by states and used safely for decades, while playing an important role in strengthening America's energy security and creating millions of good-paying jobs.  We should be expanding, rather than hindering this development, especially at a time when we most need an economic boost."

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