Federal Legislative and Administrative Regulation of Hydraulic Fracturing Operations

Abstract

Explains the role of the federal government in regulating hydraulic fracturing operations has yet to be defined. Ongoing EPA studies are not expected to be completed for several more years at the earliest. The EPA's critical role in the immediate future appears to be focused on scientific investigations into the potential for hydraulic fracturing operations to create public health issues. Reviews the future of an active federal regulatory role in dealing with hydraulic fracturing operations is problematic at best, but one should not simply ignore the potential for federal regulation.