May 25, 2009

Opinion is divided on the new tax, which would take effect Oct. 1 if approved by the Legislature. Many Democrats and environmentalists like it, saying other states already have such levies. They urge using some of the money to fix any environmental damage caused by the drilling. But Republicans and business groups say there's something wrong when state officials want to whack a new golden goose just as it's starting to lay its eggs.

Read more