Paterson Puts Halt On Natural Gas Drilling
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Governor David Paterson has issued an executive order prohibiting natural gas drilling in New York State until at least July.
The hydraulic fracturing process, also known as hydrofracking, uses chemicals to blast into rock and access natural gas below the surface.
Paterson also vetoed a bill temporarily banning general natural gas drilling, saying it would negatively affect the state's economy.
The moves are seen as efforts to balance the concerns of environmentalists and business groups.
Paterson issued a statement saying, in part, "We in government must also focus on protecting the well-being of those whom we represent and serve, but we also have an obligation to look to the future and protect the long-term interests for our State and residents."
For more on the controversial issue, be sure to watch NY1's special report, "Hydrofracking: The Pressure to Drill," tonight at 6:30 p.m.