Most of the EPA’s proposed revisions to the NSPS/NESHAP rules for oil and gas extraction will protect human health and the environment. There is one provision however that allows drillers not to be held responsible for air pollution emitted during what they call a “malfunction.” Under this provision, EPA will not fine a company if its emissions were from an “unavoidable and unforeseeable” failure of the company’s equipment.

The PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is ready to approve an application from Central New York Oil & Gas, LLC to construct a compressor station in Davidson Township, Sullivan County, PA. This will lead to an increase in emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxide, particulates and hazardous pollutants. Since most of Davidson Township is in a valley, the toxins are more easily trapped in these low lying communities, negatively impacting human health.