Bill > A01932

This bill amends the Environmental Conservation Law to add a new Title 15 that requires oil and gas drillers or producers who affect a public or private potable water supply through pollution or diminution to restore or replace the affected supply with an alternate source of adequate quantity and quality. The bill establishes a presumption of liability for pollution or diminution within 1,000 feet of drilling or alteration activities, which can be rebutted by proving certain defenses. The bill also allows landowners, water purveyors, or other affected persons to request an investigation by the Department of Environmental Conservation, which must make a determination within 45 days. The bill further provides for temporary replacement of water supply where the pollution or diminution may be of limited duration.