White Encourages Drillers to Adopt 'Marcellus Shale Principles'

is asking Marcellus Shale drillers to pledge their commitment to creating local jobs and protecting communities through a resolution he recently introduced in the state House.

White's H.R. 593 would encourage Pennsylvania natural gas drilling companies to adopt the "Marcellus Shale Principles," which "include providing family-sustaining jobs for local, Pennsylvania workers; being responsible stewards of the environment; and building open communications with the community on its actions," the representative said in a release.

"We more than welcome the economic growth that is already spreading throughout western Pennsylvania, we just want to make sure it's done responsibly," White, D-Cecil said. "This is an opportunity for natural gas companies to stand up and say, 'Yes, we will build a true partnership with the residents of this Commonwealth in developing this valuable natural resource.'"

White said that by adopting these principles, "natural gas drillers would demonstrate their commitment to those core values and ultimately, the reasons most people welcome drilling in their community."

"Drilling for gas in the Marcellus Shale has created thousands of jobs, and has the potential to create thousands more at a critical time in our economy, and in areas that have historically suffered from high unemployment rates for many years," White added. "It's an incredible opportunity, and one from which everyone should gain. However, we can’t simply hand free reign over without any forethought to consequences and how our local communities could be affected for generations to come." 

A similar resolution was recently adopted unanimously by the West Virginia State Senate. White’s resolution could be considered for passage when the Legislature reconvenes in mid-March.