Supporting Safe and Responsible Development of Unconventional Domestic Natural Gas Resources
Apr 17, 2012
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Apr 13, 2012
Published on: Apr 17, 2012
Apr 17, 2012
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Apr 13, 2012
Published on: Apr 17, 2012
Summary
Creates a government group to make sure that getting natural gas from the ground is done safely and responsibly.
What problem does this solve?
The U.S. wants to use more natural gas, but many government agencies work on this without coordinating, which can risk public health and the environment. This order creates a working group to get all the agencies to work together and share information to ensure natural gas is developed safely.
What does this order do?
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Interagency working group to support safe and responsible development of unconventional domestic natural gas resources.
Establishes an interagency working group
Creates a new group to coordinate government efforts for the safe and responsible development of domestic natural gas.
Defines working group members
Includes top officials from 14 departments and offices, such as the Departments of Energy and Interior, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Outlines working group duties
Requires the group to coordinate policy, share scientific and technical information, plan for the future, and communicate with the public and industry.
Who does this affect?
- Federal agencies
- Natural gas industry
- State governments
What is the real world impact?
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Coordinates federal agency efforts
Ensures that all federal agencies involved in natural gas development work together efficiently, share information, and create consistent policies to support safe energy production.
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Promotes fossil fuel development
Focuses on expanding natural gas use to reduce oil dependence and boost the economy, which some may criticize for not prioritizing a faster transition to renewable energy sources.
When does this start?
This executive order takes effect on April 13, 2012.