U.S. Rep. Mark Critz of Johnstown helps form Marcellus caucus

The boom in Marcellus Shale gas drilling has created an abundance of economic opportunities.
But it also has spurred questions about technology, regulation and environmental impact.

Now, several members of Congress are banding together in a new Marcellus Shale Caucus. Co-founded by Democratic U.S. Rep. Mark Critz of Johnstown, the caucus will serve as a “bipartisan educational forum” that also could provoke discussion about potential federal regulation.

“Our goal is to have a conversation so we can discuss and learn about the effects that developing the Marcellus Shale will have on each of our congressional districts,” Critz and U.S. Rep. Tom Reed wrote in a letter to House members.

Critz said he and Reed, a New York Republican, first discussed the idea in January. They issued their joint letter last month.

So far, nine other representatives have signed up. The caucus’ membership now includes eight Republicans and three Democrats from four states – Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York and West Virginia.

Critz stressed the educational aspect of the caucus, saying members want to hear from the drilling industry, environmental groups and governmental representatives.

Field hearings could be held in some congressional districts, though no such sessions have been scheduled at this point.

“We’re going to try to move it along quickly,” Critz said.

The congressman, who is serving his first full term, has talked often about gas drilling’s economic potential. During his campaign last year, Critz said coal mining and Marcellus Shale drilling could help make western Pennsylvania the “energy capital of the world.”

But in a Monday interview, Critz also noted the need for “balance between industry and the environment.” And he said members of the new caucus could talk about regulating the drilling industry.

“What is the best way forward?” Critz said. “When do we need to regulate?

“When do we need to not regulate?”

The letter from Critz and Reed notes that “concerns do exist regarding the development of the Marcellus Shale, particularly over groundwater contamination.”

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives Marcellus Shale Caucus:

Jason Altmire, D-Pa.

Lou Barletta, R-Pa.

Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va.

Mark Critz, D-Pa.

Richard Hanna, R-N.Y.

Bill Johnson, R-Ohio

David McKinley, R-W.Va.

Tom Reed, R-N.Y.

Tim Ryan, D-Ohio

Bill Shuster, R-Pa.

Steve Stivers, R-Ohio

March 15, 2011
Mike Faher
mfaher@tribdem.com
http://tribune-democrat.com/local/x977550329/Critz-helps-form-Marcellus-caucus