Press Release
Title: New Bill Aims to Ban Oil and Gas Drilling Under Public Lands in Ohio
COLUMBUS, OH – In a bold move to protect Ohio’s public lands, Democratic Representatives Christine Cockley and Tristan Rader have introduced House Bill 399, which seeks to prohibit drilling for oil and gas beneath state parks and the bed of Lake Erie. Despite the bill’s well-intentioned goals, it faces an uphill battle for support, as Republican lawmakers largely back increased drilling activities.
The legislative push comes on the heels of a 2023 law signed by Governor Mike DeWine, designed to streamline the process for drilling companies to acquire leases on public lands. This legislation, aimed at enhancing natural gas availability and increasing tax revenue, has faced significant opposition from environmental advocates and concerned constituents.
Rader emphasized the historical significance of preserving land for public enjoyment, echoing sentiments attributed to President Theodore Roosevelt, who championed the conservation of natural spaces. “There’ll be no commercial activity on that land… it is for everybody to use and to enjoy,” Rader stated, sharing his concerns about the proximity of drilling infrastructure to cherished natural areas.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) stands to benefit from an estimated $30 million in revenue from drilling permits; however, recent budgetary adjustments have redirected these royalties away from enhancing state parks. Legislative cuts have further strained the parks and recreation budget, raising alarms about the future of Ohio’s natural resources.
Aside from HB 399, Rader plans to advocate for additional measures that may appeal to bipartisan support, aiming to mitigate the potential adverse effects of drilling on Ohio’s landscapes.
As the discourse continues, environmentalists and conservationists are closely monitoring developments while rallying to ensure the protection of Ohio’s invaluable natural heritage.
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