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Energy & the Law

Category Archives: Local Ordinances

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Portions of Pennsylvania’s Act 13 Declared Unconstitutional

Posted in Energy Policy, Local Ordinances

In a victory for local control of oil and gas activity, or for environmentalists hoping to ban gas drilling altogether, or both, a Pennsylvania court struck down two major provisions of that state’s new oil and gas statute as unconstitutional. Act 13 of the Pennsylvania legislature, signed into law in February 2012, significantly amended the Pennsylvania Oil… Continue Reading

Taxes, Taxes, and More Taxes

Posted in Local Ordinances

John Maynard Keynes is no favorite of fiscal conservatives (There is more to like from Friedrich Hayek), but Mr. Keynes did have it right when he said, “The avoidance of taxes is the only intellectual pursuit that carries any reward”. In two separate Texas suits, oil and gas producers are attempting to live out Mr…. Continue Reading

Dallas Task Force Recommends Drilling Ordinance

Posted in Local Ordinances

The Dallas Gas Drilling Task Force has issued recommendations for regulation of hydraulic fracturing.  The task force focused on zoning requirements, permitting requirements, air quality issues, and water-related issues.  A few highlights: Locations will be more difficult to find. Wells must be 1,000 feet from residences, churches, schools and other community buildings.  Setbacks of 500… Continue Reading