Written by Frerichs Staff Tuesday, 12 April 2011 17:53
"Hydraulic fracturing can be a very effective means of accessing natural resources, but the potential dangers make transparency and oversight necessary to protect the public," said Senator Frerichs. "I hope to put in place a framework by which drillers can do their job without sacrificing public safety." Hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking," is a process used to extract natural gas from shale deep underground. In order to access the resources, stimulation fluids are injected into underground rock formations, causing them to fracture and release the natural gas within. The stimulation chemicals used in fracking pose many potential dangers including the threat of contaminated groundwater. Senator Frerichs’ SB 664 requires oversight and regulation of fracking by DNR. Specifically, the bill limits and regulates the use of certain hazardous chemicals, like benzene and other BTEX compounds, in the extraction process. SB 664 also requires that drillers report to DNR on the reuse and disposal of these stimulant fluids. Senator Frerichs commented, "We must use caution when pumping chemicals into the ground. With the common-sense protections in this bill, we can effectively access our natural resources and still protect our groundwater." The measure passed the Illinois Senate with a 56-0 vote and now moves to the House for further consideration.
SPRINGFIELD, IL –A measure passed by State Senator Michael Frerichs (D – Champaign) would put the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in charge of overseeing hydraulic fracturing. If signed into law, Senate Bill 664 would move Illinois one step closer to safely implementing the practice known as "fracking".
Senator Frerichs Menu
52nd District
Years served: 2007 - Present
Committee assignments: Higher Education (Vice-Chairperson); Agriculture and Conservation (Chairperson); Licensed Activities; Commerce; Education; Committee of the Whole; Subcommittee on Animal Welfare (Sub-Chairperson); Subcommittee on Coal Mining (Sub-Chairperson).
Biography: Full-time legislator; born July 28, 1973, in Gifford; B.A., Yale University; former Champaign County Auditor and Champaign County Board Member; Certified Public Finance Officer; married (wife, Laura), one daughter.