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Oil and gas bill advances in Colorado House

Posted at 4:55 AM, Mar 19, 2019
and last updated 2019-03-19 09:03:20-04
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FILE – In this photograph, tanks sit near housing development off state highway 119 near Firestone, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

DENVER – A bill that would create sweeping changes for Colorado’s oil and gas regulations has advanced at the state capitol.

The House Energy and Environment Committee voted 7 to 4 in favor of  SB19-181 Monday night.

The bill would prioritize health and safety, and change the makeup of the Colorado Oil and Gas Commission, giving more power to local governments over oil and gas development.

The bill will next be considered by the House Finance Committee.

Supporters say the legislation will shift the focus from profits to health and safety, but opponents say it will have a severe negative impact on the state’s economy.

Follow the bill and read the full text for yourself – here.