Statehouse Democrats on Tuesday blocked an effort to delay implementation of the state’s controversial new rules for oil and gas drilling.
Senate Bill 4, which would have delayed for one year the implementation of the rules, died on a party-line vote in the Senate Local Government and Energy Committee. The rules are scheduled to go into effect this spring, though lawmakers from both parties have vowed to make changes to them this session before they do.
Supporters say the rules create important protections for air, water and wildlife. Energy companies and some residents in drilling-heavy areas say the rules hurt businesses and will further depress the economy.
“Why am I a demon?” asked Jimmy Walker, whose Petron Development operates dozens of small wells in eastern Colorado. “We have been demonized. I’m proud of what we do for the community.”
Michael Freeman, a staff attorney with Earthjustice, said any decline in oil and gas production in Colorado is the result of the dropping price of natural gas and the limited pipeline capacity in the state.
“It’s not because of the rules,” he said.
After the bill was killed, its sponsor, Sen. Greg Brophy, R-Wray, said he was frustrated.
“My side gave a compelling argument for the passage of the bill,” he said.
John Ingold: 303-954-1068 or jingold@denverpost.com
