Libous Will Fight Proposed Fracking Moratorium

The New York State Assembly has approved a two-year moratorium on fracking until more scientific information is available on potential environmental and health risks.

A proposed moratorium won't be adopted unless the Senate agrees to such a move.

While one of the Senate leaders, Bronx Democrat Jeff Klein has indicated he might back a moratorium, Senate Republicans appear unified against a further delay.

Senator Thomas Libous, a Binghamton Republican, says he'll fight efforts to impose a moratorium.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Libous said he will work to convince his colleagues that's "not a smart thing to do."

Libous said the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Health Department should be allowed to complete their assessments on the potential impact of fracking.

Libous said he's confident the agencies will prove Governor Cuomo all the information needed to make a decision as to whether high-volume hydraulic fracturing should be permitted in New York.