The Business Council Backs Shale Development Plan That Creates Jobs and Economic Growth

ALBANY, NY (07/01/2011)(readMedia)-- "The economic advantages of developing the Marcellus Shale are significant - New York would see thousands of new private-sector jobs, new private sector investments, an expanded and diverse tax base and leasing and royalty payments to landowners. New York can not simply stand on the sidelines while Pennsylvania other states see the employment and economic benefits from shale exploration."

"The release of the new Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement is an important step by Commissioner Martens and appears to strike the right balance. It will build on DEC longstanding experience overseeing the natural gas production in New York State. Under these rules, development of the Marcellus Shale in the Southern Tier can move forward and create economic opportunity in the region while ensuring a responsible approach to the environment," said Briccetti.

"I'm confident that DEC will put the appropriate framework in place, allowing New York to unlock this natural gas resource in a manner that will provide a much-needed boost to New York's economy, while conserving the precious and unique ecological assets of the state," added Briccetti.