EPA Seeks Public Comment on Fracking Chemicals

The U.S. environmental protection agency EPA has announced it will seek public comment on the possible hazards of chemicals and mixtures used in hydraulic fracturing, or fracking.

Specifically, what the agency wants to know is, what information could be reported and what approach should be taken to obtain such information, including non-regulatory approaches.

EPA is also soliciting input on incentives and recognition programs that could support the development and use of safer fracking chemicals.

"This announcement represents an important step in increasing the public's access to information on chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing activities," said James Jones, EPA's assistant administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.

"EPA looks forward to hearing from the public and stakeholders about public disclosure of chemicals used during hydraulic fracturing, and we will continue working with our federal, state, local, and tribal partners to ensure that we complement but not duplicate existing reporting requirements," he added.

In a public process, through an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR), will launch a list of questions for stakeholders and the public to consider.

Following the 90-day comment period, the agency will evaluate the submitted comments as it considers appropriate next steps, which could be either non-regulatory approaches or a proposed rule.