Activists outside the office of Rep. Ellis in Butler. Photo: Shadbush Collective

Economics. As the gas industry deals with the current slump in the price of natural gas, a recent article titled ‘Show me the money’ suggests that ‘boom and bust’ behavior is to be expected for this extractive industry; so those relying on royalties and impact fees, beware!

Court Action Over Health Issues. In what might be the first case in Pennsylvania, three families have filed suit against a drilling company, claiming health problems due to nearby fracking. The suit was brought in Washington County Common Pleas Court against Range Resources and their sub-contractors.

Activists ‘Occupy’ Rep. Ellis’ Office. On May 18 members of Marcellus Outreach Butler and others ‘occupied’ the offices of Rep. Brian Ellis (Butler) to demand justice for Connoquenessing families deprived of drinking water by the fracking operations of Rex Energy (State College, PA). See photos of the ‘occupation’.

Municipalities Oppose Zoning Ordinance Restrictions. Municipal authorities around the state are awaiting the outcome of the March 30 suit contesting the restrictions placed in Act 13 on the right to regulate zoning in their areas. The suit is scheduled to be heard in Commonwealth Court June 4-8.