Report shows heavy lobbying efforts, campaign contributions by pro-fracking interests
By MATTHEW DONDIEGO
A new report released Monday shows pro-fracking interest groups have spent a staggering $64.3 million on campaign contributions and lobbying efforts in recent years to pressure state lawmakers to allow high-volume hydraulic fracturing in New York.
Hydraulic fracturing, otherwise known as "fracking," is a natural gas extraction process that blasts high volumes of water, sand and chemicals into gas-rich rock formations to release the natural gas.
The report, titled "Deep Drilling, Deep Pockets in New York State," was prepared by Common Cause/NY and details the vast amount of money spent in the state on behalf of both fracking proponents and anti-fracking activists. The report is a more detailed version of information released on pro-fracking lobbying efforts last summer and shows a great disparity in the amount of money spent by pro-fracking organizations compared to anti-fracking advocacy groups, with supporters of the controversial drilling process outspending opponents 9 to 1.
"Hydraulic fracturing has been one of the most polarizing issues in recent history, with no shortage of political money invested by pro-fracking interests to achieve a favorable outcome. The persistent and accelerated spending is cause for concern as lawmakers weigh this key decision. Yet despite being outspent by nearly 9 to 1, organized people have managed to overcome the advantage of organized money to make their voices heard. Nevertheless New York State needs comprehensive campaign finance and lobbying reform to assure New Yorkers that public policy is based on their interest, not the special interests," said Executive Director of Common Cause/NY Susan Lerner.
http://www.legislativegazette.com/Articles-Top-Stories-c-2014-01-14-86386.113122-Report-shows-heavy-lobbying-efforts-campaign-contributions-by-profracking-interests.html
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