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Cuomo, Albany Take Cash In Hydrofracking Lobbying Bonanza
By
Christopher Robbins
Published Nov 26, 2011
Modified Nov 26, 2011
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Chesapeake Energy
By
Christopher Robbins
Published Nov 26, 2011
Modified Nov 26, 2011
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Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo recently responded to the contentious hydrofracking issue by acknowledging that "the temperature is high. We have a process. Let's get the facts. Let the science and the facts make the determination, not emotion and not politics." But what about money? With $3.2 million spent by industry lobbyists in Albany last year so far dwarfing the $800K spent by environmental groups, it would appear that the gas companies are controlling the temperature. Who needs Indian Point, anyway?
The Times reports that as Cuomo's administration decides whether or not to issue fracking permits, a "cottage industry" for energy company lobbying has emerged in Albany. Pro-drilling interests have donated $403,000 to New York candidates and parties since the start of last year, and over $100,000 to Governor Cuomo himself. Chesapeake Energy, the same company responsible for contaminating Pennsylvanian water supplies due to hydrofracking, now employs 11 advocates in Albany and has spent $1.6 million on lobbying over the last three years.
If you're opposed to the possibility of getting billions to drink fire water and possibly tainting the city's water supply, you can attend the last of the four public hearings the state is holding in Tribeca on Wednesday. From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. every citizen may speak their mind on the subject for three minutes, or you may submit your comments in writing. Or stay at home, open a Sixpoint and eat a Bark dog while yelling at this trailer of Gasland.
Tagged
Albany
andrew cuomo
energy companies
energy lobbying
fracking
governor cuomo
hydrofracking
pollution
Christopher Robbins
Christopher Robbins is a New York City reporter covering transportation, affordable housing, local politics, and criminal justice. His work has also appeared in New York Magazine, The Village Voice and The New York Times. Chris is a graduate of Patrick Henry High School in Roanoke, Virginia, and enjoys biking to Fort Tilden in the summertime.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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