Rep. Jenne Introduces Fracking Ban Bill in Florida House

Statement by Food & Water Watch Executive Director Wenonah Hauter

Tallahassee, FL — “Yesterday, Florida Rep. Evan Jenne introduced legislation calling for a ban on fracking in Florida. By prohibiting “well stimulation treatments for exploration or production of oil or natural gas,” the bill prohibits hydraulic fracturing, acid fracturing and acid matrix fracturing. Food & Water Watch, along with its allies in the fight against fracking, applauds Rep. Jenne’s initiative in introducing legislation to protect Florida and its citizens from the dangers associated with drilling and fracking.

“Coming on the heels of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s decision to ban fracking in New York that was based on New York Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker’s assessment that fracking is inherently unsafe, Floridians are asking their legislators to exhibit the same level of concern for the health and safety of Floridians. Earlier this month, State Senators Soto and Bullard introduced similar legislation in the Senate. We commend these efforts to stand up to the oil and gas industry by protecting the state’s residents and environment.”

“We urge our elected officials to follow New York’s lead and to protect all Florida families by banning fracking.”