Bill > HB514

This bill amends Pennsylvania's oil and gas laws by establishing new regulations for the use of brine, which is a salty wastewater byproduct from oil and gas drilling. Specifically, the bill allows municipalities to spread brine from conventional (non-unconventional) oil and gas wells on roads within their boundaries for dust suppression and road stabilization purposes. Municipalities can also designate another entity to spread the brine on their behalf, but only in a manner they instruct. The bill prohibits state agencies from requiring additional authorization or approval for brine spreading under these conditions. An important environmental protection in the bill mandates that brine cannot be spread within 150 feet of any stream, creek, lake, or other body of water. This provision appears to balance local infrastructure needs with environmental safety by providing a controlled method for reusing drilling wastewater while preventing potential water contamination. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=514