On Tuesday, May 7th, the New York State Assembly’s Environmental Conservation committee passed a vital piece of legislation in the fight to protect New York from the potential dangers of hydraulic fracturing, or “hydrofracking.” Bill A3561, sponsored by Assembly Member O’Donnell, will prohibit the use of hydrofracking “flowback” water on our roads and highways. In Pennsylvania, the toxic, salty brine left over from hydrofracking has been used to prevent icing on roads, exposing the nearby land and water to the contaminated mixture. Assembly Member O’Donnell’s bill would prevent this practice and stop it from endangering New York’s water supply.

Following the committee meeting, Assembly Member O’Donnell stated,

I am proud to see this common sense bill pass the Environmental Conservation committee. As the leader on the Upper West Side against the risky process, I know there is much work to do. I continue to believe that we must push for action, rather than simply talking about the problem. As this bill and others move forward, I will continue to do all that I can to protect our environment and health.

Assembly Member O’Donnell is the proud sponsor or co-sponsor of seven bills designed to combat the risks of hydrofracking and protect New Yorkers, as well as a veteran of numerous hearings and conferences on the subject. At a hearing recently referenced in Sunday’s Albany Times Union, Assembly Member O’Donnell argued that the gas industry continues to put profits over science. When confronted by the Assembly Member, the executive director of the New York State Petroleum Council responded that there was simply a “difference of opinion.” O’Donnell does not believe this to be the case, and will continue to fight against this practice. A video of the exchange can be found here .