Last week, Pennsylvania Governor Corbett passed controversial amendments to the state Oil and Gas Act. The amendments known as the Marcellus Shale Act put much of the control over where fracking will occur, and how it will occur, in the hands of the state government rather than local authorities. Local ordinances must allow for reasonable development of oil and gas resources, according to the amendments.

While there is a nod to safety in that fracking companies will have to complete a chemical disclosure form (in accordance with regulations that are not yet promulgated), there is a lot of concern over whether Pennsylvania has overstepped its authority and potentially put communities and individuals in a position to accept a risk that they do not want.

At least one town, Robinson Township in Washington County, has indicated that it might legally challenge the Marchellus Shale amendments.

If you have been hurt in a fracking accident or, if you have become ill after fracking has occurred near your home, please contact a Pennsylvania fracking accident lawyer today to learn more about your rights.