Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Rural Development, Agriculture, & Natural Resources Committee |
SB 5145
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning the use of hydraulic fracturing in the exploration for and production of oil and natural gas.
Sponsors: Senators Salomon, Nguyen, Dhingra, Rolfes, Frockt, Hunt, Billig, Darneille, Palumbo, Kuderer, Saldaña and Van De Wege.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/13/19
Staff: Robert Hatfield (786-7117).
Background:
Hydraulic fracturing is an oil and gas well development process that typically involves injecting water, sand, and chemicals under high pressure into a bedrock formation via the well. This process is intended to create new fractures in the rock as well as increase the size, extent, and connectivity of existing fractures. Hydraulic fracturing is a well-stimulation technique used commonly in low-permeability rocks like tight sandstone, shale, and some coal beds to increase oil and/or gas flow to a well from petroleum-bearing rock formations.
Summary of Bill:
The use of hydraulic fracturing in the exploration for, and production of, oil and natural gas is prohibited.
"Hydraulic fracturing" is defined as the process of pumping fluid into or under the surface of the ground in order to create fractures in rock for the purpose of the production of recovery of oil or natural gas.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.