Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowksi co-sponsored legislation passed by the Assembly on Wednesday that will place a moratorium on natural gas drilling permits until May 15, 2015. Zebrowski said the bill will prevent any hydraulic fracturing until the information necessary to protect the environment and public health is available. Additionally, the bill requires a SUNY school of public health to perform a full health impact study before permits are issued for hydrofracking.
Zebrowski issued a statement saying, "New York will only have one chance to do this process correctly. Prior to issuing any permits we must ensure that all health concerns are addressed and there is absolutely no threat to our public water supply."
Senator David Carlucci introduced similar legislation to put a hold on any hydrofracking approvals until several ongoing studies are completed.