Are Colorado Setback ’Contagion’ Fears Overhyped?

摘要

Much has been made about the potential for a Colorado ballot initiative that threatens future drilling in the state to spread elsewhere in the US. Industry has stepped up its warnings of a contagion effect that could take hold in other oil and gas-producing states after the news last week that Ballot Initiative 97, which expands setbacks for new drilling, made it on the Nov. 6 ballot (OD Aug.30’18). But a combination of factors could temper that effect, some energy attorneys have said, including voter laws in other states, Colorado’s unique politics and the prevalence of drilling near residential areas.