The House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee reported out legislation making changes to requirements for oil and gas well royalty payments, but did not consider legislation authorizing the state to set standards for the construction of drinking water wells.

The Committee approved House Bill 1414 (Everett-R-Lycoming) providing for more transparency in deductions from oil and gas well royalty checks-- summary.

No action was taken on House Bill 343 (Miller-R-York)-- authorizing the Environmental Quality Board to establish well construction standards by regulation consistent with standards established by the National Groundwater Association. 

Rep. Ron Miller (R-York), Majority Chair of the Committee, said the bill will be considered at the Committee’s next meeting on June 11.

Rep. Greg Vitali (D-Delaware) serves as Minority Chair.

6/10/2013