Jun 26, 2015 2 min read

State Sen. Camera Bartolotta’s bill to clarify rules regarding the use of treated mine water in fracking operations passed through the Senate Friday.

The Beneficial Use of Treated Mine Water bill, which was approved by a 34-15 vote, will head to the state House for review. The industry-backed bill aims to reduce the amount of fresh water used in fracking operations by clarifying rules pertaining to liabilities, and in turn, allowing treated mine water to be used.

The bill stipulates that natural gas drilling companies would be liable once they take possession of the water.

“It holds the potential to significantly reduce the withdrawal demand placed upon our waterways,” Bartolotta, R-Carroll, said while presenting the bill in Harrisburg. “Currently, any uncertainties regarding the transfer of liabilities between coal and drilling operators have prevented companies from utilizing this innovative approach.”

Bartolotta said acid mine water would not be used, and the bill would not override any current environmental regulations.

“The legislation does not change any environmental safeguards designed to protect public health, and existing water treatment standards ensure that this water is safely treated before it is being transported or used in any natural gas drilling process,” she said.

Dave Spigelmyer, president of the Marcellus Shale Coalition, called the bill a “commonsense approach” when it was first introduced.

The state Department of Environmental Protection uses a formula to monitor the withdrawal of fresh water from state waterways.