California Moves to Prevent New Oil Drilling Near Communities

LOS ANGELES — As the state works to phase out fossil fuels, the Department of Conservation’s Geologic Energy Management Division or CalGEM Oct. 21, released a proposed regulation that would prohibit new wells and facilities within a 3,200-foot exclusion area — or setback — from homes, schools, hospitals, nursing homes and other sensitive locations.

The state proposes a 3,200-foot setback to protect public health. A 15-member public health expert panel selected by University of California, Berkeley and Physicians, Scientists, and Engineers or PSE for Healthy Energy concluded when oil and gas developments are within 3,200 feet, there is a strong connection to higher rates of adverse birth outcomes, respiratory diseases such as asthma and heart disease, among other health impacts.

CalGEM will accept public comment on the draft rule for 60 days and then it will begin a comprehensive economic analysis of the rule.

Public comments can be submitted via email to CalGEMRegulations@conservation.ca.gov or by mailing comments to 801 K Street, Sacramento, California (ATTN: Public Health Regulations) by Dec. 21, 2021.

Details: www.conservation.ca.gov/calgem/Pages/Public-Health.aspx