Parker Waichman LLP

EPA Considers Regulations Requiring Disclosure of Hydraulic Fracking Chemicals

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken a step toward requiring drilling companies to disclose chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing (fracking). On Friday, the agency issued an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR). A public comment period of 90 days will begin when the ANPR is published in the Federal Register, Law360 reports. The […]

Disclosure_of_Hydraulic_Fracking_ChemicalsThe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken a step toward requiring drilling companies to disclose chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing (fracking).

On Friday, the agency issued an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR). A public comment period of 90 days will begin when the ANPR is published in the Federal Register, Law360 reports. The EPA is considering both mandatory and voluntary measures under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). “This mechanism could be regulatory (under TSCA Section 8(a) and/or Section 8(d)), voluntary, or a combination of both,” the agency notice said.

A coalition of environmental organizations including the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and Earthjustice petitioned the EPA in 2011 to issue TSCA rules that would require toxicity testing for fracking chemicals, and in July 2013, the EPA announced its intention to publish an ANPR. The EPA said it wants information about fracking chemicals “provided to the public in a transparent fashion,” according to the ANPR. Data that would have to be disclosed could include the identity and quantities of chemicals used, and the circumstances of use, as well as health and safety studies, according Law360.

Fracking is a drilling technique in which large amounts of highly pressurized water, sand, and chemicals are injected underground to fracture the shale layer and release oil and natural gas reserves. Fracking is controversial because it carries the risks of air, water, and soil contamination. According to the EPA, fracking makes heavy demands on the water supply, and companies must arrange for the safe disposal of the chemical-laced water.

The NRDC calls for full mandatory disclosure of fracking chemicals. An attorney for the organization argues, “For too long, the oil and gas industry has been allowed to keep their chemical cocktails a secret, while injecting them underground alongside drinking water sources, storing them in families’ backyards and transporting them through neighborhood streets,” according to Law360. “Even emergency room doctors have been refused answers necessary to treat patients who have been exposed to fracking chemicals,” he said.

 

 

What Our Clients Say About Us
We have worked with thousands of clients and we appreciate them and their positive reviews. Here are just a few recent client reviews...
5 Star Reviews 150
I signed with Parker Waichman LLP in December of 2018. In 2019 I started working with Christina (Tina) Morace. In my 44 years of working in the Financial Services Industry in NYC, I had never met such a competent and professional legal assistant. Since the beginning she has continually demonstrated exceptional client service skills. She has taken both my wife and myself by the hand and provided us with guidance and reassurance each step of our process. Tina you have been a Godsend. Rodriguez Family
Ismael Rodriguez
a month ago
5 Star Reviews 150
I worked with Shelly Davis for the past few years regarding my Dad’s 911 claim. My Dad passed away from being at ground zero on 911 due to cancer he developed while working in construction there. Shelly provided the quickest and most efficient information while working with me on this claim. She was quick to get back to me and was always there when I had questions. She was courteous and professional, I highly recommend using Shelly Davis from Parker Waichman.
Lauren Bertman
2 months ago
5 Star Reviews 150
excellent lawyers, I recommend them, thank you very much for helping me, I trusted you without knowing you Parker Waichman LLP, thank you, lawyer Maryann.
Marinita Hermosa
4 months ago

Why Choose Us to Help You?

We Take Care of Everything
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
No Recovery = No Legal Fees
We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning that we only get paid from a portion of your settlement or jury award. If you don't get compensation, you owe us nothing.
Decades of Experience
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
Respected by Our Peers
Judges, insurance adjusters, and fellow attorneys all speak highly of our skills, and we've earned numerous accolades, including a flawless rating from AVVO.
We Have Many Locations To Serve You
We have the experience and the skilled litigators to win your case. Contact us and speak with a real attorney who can help you.
Long Island – Nassau
Parker Waichman LLP
6 Harbor Park Drive
Port Washington, NY 11050
Long Island – Suffolk
Parker Waichman LLP
201 Old Country Road – Suite 145
Melville, NY 11747
New York
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Queens
Parker Waichman LLP
118-35 Queens Boulevard, Suite 400
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Brooklyn
Parker Waichman LLP
300 Cadman Plaza West
One Pierrepont Plaza, 12th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201
New Jersey
Parker Waichman LLP
80 Main Street, Suite 265
West Orange, NJ 07052
Florida
Parker Waichman LLP
27299 Riverview Center Boulevard
Suite 108
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Nationwide Service
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038