How Odd - Gov. Corbett Isn't Touting New State Law That Overrides All Local Laws On Gas Drilling

HARRISBURG -- The House Republican-drafted gas-drilling bill that got a speedy panel vote last week includes a controversial component that the governor lobbied for -- but you won't be hearing that from him.

"This bill contains many of the provisions contained in our proposal, and I am pleased to see the Legislature working toward a final bill," Gov. Tom Corbett's office proclaimed after the House Finance Committee ushered through a Marcellus Shale impact fee and regulation measure on Wednesday.

As he applauded that action, lawmakers were defending themselves against backlash to an administration-drafted provision stating that, under the measure, all local rules for oil and gas operations would be superseded by state regulations.

Township officials decried that section as a harmful move, and activists in dozens of communities that have adopted ordinances governing drilling activity immediately fired off emails to legislators and reporters. Calls to the governor's office regarding the shale measure mostly drew a reiteration of Mr. Corbett's previous statements on the issue: He supports uniform, consistent applications of the rules throughout the commonwealth.

EDIT

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11310/1187864-454.stm