Anti-fracking win in N.Y. court may deal blow to industry

New York’s cities and towns can block hydraulic fracturing within their borders, the state’s highest court ruled, dealing a blow to an industry awaiting Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s decision on whether to file a 6-year-old statewide moratorium.

The case, closely watched by the energy industry, may invigorate local challenges to fracking in other states and convince the industry to stay out of New York even if Mr. Cuomo allows drilling.

Pennsylvania’s highest court issued a similar ruling last year, striking down portions of a state law limiting localities’ ability to regulate drillers.

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