House lawmakers are considering a bill that aims to cut down on the impact of natural gas drilling by allowing for longer horizontal drilling laterals across multiple units.
Sponsored by Rep. Donna Oberlander (R-Clarion), HB 247 would allow for cross unit drilling, given that drill operators secure valid leases for the land on which they drill. Supporters of the bill say it would create a less disruptive environment, limiting the amount of drills, well pads, access roads and pipelines necessary for the drilling of natural gas.