Bronx, NY – Assemblyman Dinowitz (D-Bronx), co-sponsor of legislation to place a moratorium on hydrofracking in New York State, praised New York State’s decision to ban the practice following a report by the New York State Department of Health that raised numerous concerns about the safety of the drilling procedure.

Assemblyman Dinowitz said, “I am thrilled that, after thorough research, the Department of Health prioritized the health and well-being of New Yorkers by recommending that hydrofracking be banned in New York State. I have always maintained that until fracking can be done in a way that is absolutely safe, we simply should not be doing it. When it comes to the safety of New Yorkers, especially children, we cannot and must not put profits before people!”

Assemblyman Dinowitz continued, “Given rising rates of cancer, developmental disabilities, and other diseases, particularly among children, it makes no sense to release chemicals into the environment that threaten to pollute our water supply for many generations. I am pleased that Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker and Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Joseph Martens came to a decision based on scientific evidence and the long-term interests of New York State.”

“Right now, the risks fracking poses to our communities and our environment are simply too great. Until the day comes that this procedure can be carried out safely, I firmly believe that this ban should remain in effect,” concluded Assemblyman Dinowitz.