Living in North Dakota, Oil has become a way of life. The Environmental Protection Agency is now considering measures that could potentially have a major impact on our state. 

The agency said it's seeking comments on whether companies should publicly disclose the chemicals it uses to help extract oil and gas from underground rock formations. This is a preliminary step toward possible regulations in the future. James Jones, EPA’s assistant administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, said in a press release

“Today’s announcement represents an important step in increasing the public’s access to information on chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing activities. The EPA looks forward to hearing from the public and stakeholders about public disclosure of chemicals used during hydraulic fracturing, and we will continue working with our federal, state, local, and tribal partners to ensure that we complement but not duplicate existing reporting requirements.”

The EPA isn't committing to any new regulations at this time, but wants as much feedback from the community, businesses, health care professionals, and energy industry experts on whether such a rule is needed, and the extent of the disclosure needed.

Anyone seeking to comment can find information on how to do it on the EPA Website.

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