E.P.A. Seeking Public Review on Enhancing Transparency for Chemicals and Mixtures Used in Hydraulic Fracturing

WASHINGTON -- E.P.A. announced today that it will seek public review on what information could be reported and disclosed for hydraulic fracturing chemicals and mixtures and the approaches for obtaining this information, including non-regulatory approaches. E.P.A. is also soliciting input on incentives and recognition programs that could support the development and use of safer chemicals in hydraulic fracturing. A public process through an Advance Notice of Suggested Rulemaking (ANPR) will help inform EPA's efforts to promote the transparency and safety of unconventional oil and gas activities while strengthening protection of our air, water, land and communities.

"Today's 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."

EPA's ANPR includes a list of questions for stakeholders and the public to consider as they develop their comments. Following the 90-day review period, the agency will evaluate the submitted comments as it considers appropriate next steps. Advance Notice of Suggested Rulemakings are intended to engage the public and solicit comments and/or information from the public for EPA's consideration in addressing a particular issue, including information that E.P.A. could consider in developing non-regulatory approaches or a Suggested rule .

Read EPA's ANPR: http://www.epa.gov/oppt/chemtest/pubs/prepub_hf_anpr_14t-0069_2014-05-09.pdf

More information on hydraulic fracturing: http://www2.epa.gov/hydraulicfracturing

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