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Oil & Gas Coordination bill passes Senate
March 2, 2011
SB 265 would:
1) Provide new definitions for active, operating and workable coal mines and seams
2) Allows for the creation of well pads, and provides for the spacing of well pads at least 2,000 feet from each other. Current law fails to recognize the efficiencies and reduced environmental impact that can be achieved from drilling multiple wells from a single well pad.
3) Sets out a process whereby coal and gas operators work to coordinate their development plans and provides a process for an operator to object to a development plan. A mediation process would be utilized in certain situations to resolve disputes and, in certain situations, permit wells or well pads to be spaced closer together.
4) Requires a pillar support study to be done by independent experts chosen by DEP. This updates a 1956 study currently used by DEP, and ensures that modern data is utilized by DEP in establishing criteria for support pillars. Any costs associated with the study will be borne by the industry, not taxpayers. To read the co-sponsorship memo, click here.
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