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The U.S. government has unveiled new regulations for hydraulic fracturing operations taking place on federal or Indian lands, according to multiple news outlets.
Access the official ruling here
The policies will require companies to disclose the chemicals being used in the frac fluid as well as further requirements pertaining to well construction and waste disposal. The rules also states that boreholes must be reinforced to prevent leakage.
Despite the government claiming the compliance costs will be 'minimal', the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) estimates that the new policies will cost ~$11,400 per well. Total costs associated with the new policies could run up an annual tab between $30 million and $2.7 billion (access the BLM's report here).
Multiple organizations have already voiced their opposition to the policies.
According to CBS, the state of North Dakota is considering challenging the new fracking rule. State Governor Jack Dalrymple noted that the new policies may affect North Dakota's Water Commission and Health Department procedures.
During a March 24 meeting, North Dakota Governor Jack Dalrymple commented: "We need to take action."
Additionally, two lawsuits against the ruling have been filed by the Independent Petroleum Association of America and the Western Energy Alliance.
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