DENVER (AP) - The Latest on a Colorado bill affecting oil and gas production (all times local):
12:10 p.m.
Colorado’s House has approved a bill to emphasize public safety, health, and local control when it comes to regulating oil and gas drilling.
The bill, whose prime sponsor is Democratic House Speaker KC Becker, passed on a 36-28 party line vote on Friday.
It awaits approval of amendments by the Democrat-led Senate before going to Gov. Jared Polis, who supports the overhaul.
The initiative would mandate that state regulators prioritize public safety and health in overseeing the industry. The current mission of the state’s Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission is to treat production as a primary goal.
The bill also empowers local municipalities with a say in where drilling can occur.
Republicans and the industry argue the overhaul will harm oil and gas production and the tax revenue it generates.
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9:10 a.m.
Colorado’s House has advanced legislation to bolster local control over oil and gas drilling and change the mission of state regulators of the industry.
Colorado Politics reports lawmakers approved the bill late Thursday. Another vote will send it to the Senate to consider House amendments.
The bill, supported by Gov. Jared Polis, is expected to pass. Democrat supporters control both legislative chambers.
Republicans failed to add a clause to allow petitions for a statewide vote to overturn the initiative if it becomes law.
That would delay possible enactment until after the November 2020 election.
House Speaker KC Becker, the bill’s prime sponsor, says that’s too long to wait.
The bill would let local governments regulate the location of wells. It would also mandate that state regulators emphasize public safety over promoting oil and gas production.
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