Fracking legislation critical to protecting Pennsylvanians

As a young person who grew up in Pennsylvania, I always dreamed of raising my children in this beautiful state. I want my children to grow up appreciating and enjoying the natural wonders of Pa. But this dream relies entirely on the climate decisions we make today.
Many state legislators are not looking out for Pennsylvania’s future, because they support fracking. We know that fracking causes severe pollution, health risks like cancer and asthma, birth defects, and even radioactive pollution.
Last year, a Pa. grand jury found that Pennsylvania’s leaders had failed to protect the public from the health risks associated with fracking and had sided with the industry over the public. Why would young Pennsylvanians stay to raise their children in a state that does not care about their health or the climate?

The report recommended a list of common sense ways to limit the worst damages of fracking. These recommendations include keeping fracking away from homes and closing loopholes that allow radioactive waste to jeopardize drinking water.
Fortunately, state Sen. Steve Santarsiero and other lawmakers in the state Senate have proposed a package of bills to implement these recommendations. Other leaders should follow Sen. Santarsiero’s lead and support taking these critical steps to protect Pennsylvanians from the worst impacts of fracking.
Margaret Craggs, New Britain

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