Harrisburg – The Senate Majority Policy Committee, chaired by Sen. Ted Erickson (R-26), held a public hearing Wednesday exploring the local impacts of Marcellus Shale drilling.

The committee discussed issues that communities must address when dealing with the impact of drilling. Testifiers included county government officials, statewide local government organizations, county conservation districts, emergency management agencies, industry representatives and others.

“Marcellus Shale drilling will affect all aspects of local government, ranging from impacts on our local water authorities, to increased demand for services from local recorder of deeds offices, and to new challenges for our 911 and emergency operations centers,” said Erickson. “The impacts of drilling extend beyond the environment, roads and economic development. We need to enter the next phase with our eyes wide open.”