On behalf of a bipartisan group of more than 635 local elected officials from all 62 counties across New York, we agree with the Times Union's editorial in support of a moratorium on fracking. Wisely, the Times Union cited a growing majority of New Yorkers who question the safety of fracking: "Safe? Prove it. We can wait."
We can — and must — hold off. Elected Officials to Protect New York, whose signatories represent more than 13.5 million New Yorkers, has long been calling for Gov. Andrew Cuomo to maintain the moratorium on fracking. An informed decision cannot be made until analyses have evaluated the health, economic and cumulative environmental impacts on local communities.
The facts and science are not in. New concerns arise weekly.
We are hearing a growing chorus of concern about the potential impact of fracking on our water and health, our communities and economies, and the climate with which our futures are so closely tied.
Our constituents' questions and worries stem from careful examination of the available evidence and science on fracking and the many potential irreversible impacts of drilling.
Now more than ever before, New Yorkers need strong leadership to protect our state.
To Gov. Cuomo and our state representatives: Let's uphold our responsibility to those we are elected to serve by maintaining the moratorium on fracking until and unless the drilling method is proven safe for all New Yorkers.
Dominic Frongillo Caroline's Deputy Town Supervisor
Leah Golby Albany Common Council
Elected Officials to Protect New York