December 10, 2011

Join Us Monday to Call for Strong Marcellus Shale Regulations

Late yesterday, Governor Tomblin announced that he will issue a proclamation calling the members of the Legislature into special session, beginning at 5 p.m., Sunday, December 11, 2011.  Marcellus Shale regulation will be the highlight of the agenda, according to a press release from the Governor's office, although the official call and details of the Governor's bill are not yet available. 

There will be no better time to have a presence in Charleston to make our concerns known.

We’re asking those who can make it to Charleston to join us at the Capitol on Monday, December 12. WV-SORO and other citizen groups will hold a noon press conference in in the lower rotunda (near the Information Desk).  The press conference will focus on the urgent need for strong regulation of Marcellus Shale drilling and on what should be included in a regulatory bill. We have also heard that the House may hold a public hearing that day.

We need action now for strong regulation and enforcement!

It is important to have citizens there who have been adversely affected by Marcellus drilling. Each of you has a story and that exemplifies the need for legislation to protect our land and our water from Marcellus Shale and other gas well drilling. If you would like to briefly share your personal story at the press conference, please contact julie@wvsoro.org and plan to arrive by 11:30AM.

A concern at this point is what will be in the Governor's bill. The Governor controls the special session agenda, and the bill he will propose will not be the same bill recommended by the Select Committee on Marcellus Shale.

It’s important that Legislators know that we need an even stronger bill than the one adopted by the Select Committee. We cannot and will not support a weaker bill.

If you can't make it to Charleston on Monday, make sure the Governor and your legislators hear from you.

Please contact Governor Tomblin and your legislators and urge them to support stronger rules and tougher enforcement. Tell them we deserve more, not less.

Call Governor Tomblin at (304)-558-2000 or toll-free at 888-438-2731.  Click here to contact your legislators.